progeCAD 13.0.14.11 Update Released on CADDIT

CADDIT has released another important update for progeCAD 2013 Professional on caddit.net. progeCAD is CAD design software for building and landscape design, civil and structural drafting. Features include PDF printing, DWF, STL file for 3D printing of drawings & full 3D modeling and 3D rendering. progeCAD will edit complex AutoCAD files with xrefs, blocks, hatching, mtext and more at very low cost.

progeCAD 2013.0.14.11 update fixes and enhancements include:

 

• Added PUBLISH command
• Fixed several crashes
• Fixed paper size order in print dialog
• Restored name of block in QSELECT list
• Fixed localization of some sentence in Recover manager dialog
• LISP: Added vl-cmdf function to VLISP project
• LISP: Added layoutlist lisp function
• Inserted error message for conversion PDF to JPG
• Upgraded PDF and JPG driver from version 4.5.3.3 to version 4.5.3.5
• Fixed missing uninstall part for pdf printer
• Fixed UCS toolbar, button ORIGIN.
• PDF2CAD: set tickness to 0 for all entities converted
• PDF2CAD: removed request to open files
• PDF2CAD: fixed some messages
• Fixed creation of PC3 with specific option in HP Djet 500 plotter
• Fixed esnap NEAR to circle with little radius (0.1)
• Fixed OFFSET error of 2Dpolyline
• Fixed import of PGP files with tabs
• Fixed icad.fmp file to remove substitution of fonts
• Fixed crash opening drawing with password and scrollbars activated
• Global linetpe scale - Property dialog not working
• Fixed crash using Explorer->blocks
• VBA: The method AddAttributeDef doesn't assign current layer to entity
• VBA: fixed several VBA methods
• VBA: Block.Delete method is not supported
• Restored default settings: User can restore only Menu or Toolbar
• Removed message prompt for searching missing references
• Added SNAPGRIDLEGACY variable to constrain cursor movement to GRID also when no command or selection active (default is off)
• Added CTRL+ENTER to press OK button to close EATTEDIT dialog
• Improved selection of attributes in EATTEDIT dialog directly on double clicked
• Fixed crash pressing OK in print dialog
• Fixed crash using property palette
• Improved ability to cancel search of closed boundary in hatch dialog
• Improved closed area recognition fixing various deadlocks and improved algorithm
• Changed CH alias to ENTPROP command
• Fixed filter names after creation in LAYERS dialog
• Fixed paths tab in options dialog
• VBA: Fixed property closed on object LWPolyline.
• Added progressbar in hatch area compute and increased ESC management (also analyzing sub paths)
• Added Autocad 2013-2014 clipboard format to allow PASTECLIP in autocad recent versions
• Added check to avoid crash on COPYCLIP+PASTECLIP in another application
• Fixed LAYFRZ command with dimension
• Fixed crash on ESC on print preview
• Fixed EXTRUDE command with large coordinate
• Fixed direction of extrusion
• Fixed search order for SHX files, now pcad first searches in drawing folder then in other search paths
• Changed plot header and footer separator char from "," to "|"
• Fixed API to set overridden plotting configurations
• Fixed crash when dimassoc = 0 dimlinear doesn't work.
• Fixed DWFOUT command, now uses dialog to choose filename and uses parameters in dialog
• Fixed VIEWPOINT command removing ESNAP when user type coordinates on keyboard
• Fixed display of RECOVER message loading a corrupted file with double click
• Removed plot length limit from paper size
• Fixed attribute edit during INSERT command
• Fixed INSERT with NWUCS
• Fixed margins for plotters with large paper size (A1 etc.) removed PRINTAUTOROTATE variable behavior

progeCAD 2013 Released - AutoCAD 2013 & Windows 8 Support

Sydney, Australia 30 October 2012 - The long awaited progeCAD 2013 has been released on the CADDIT.net website. Since 2006 progeCAD has offered high-quality CAD software with distinctive AutoCAD-like features - like native AutoCAD DWG read/write (no conversion) and similar commands and toolbars. Engineers, architects, surveyors, builders, landscape designers, manufacturers and other hobbyists and professionals alike prefer progeCAD as the affordable AutoCAD alternative. progeCAD 2013 is a major new release, and the first version to include IntelliCAD 7 source code into its product.

progeCAD pricing will continue at the low $400+ level (as opposed to AutoCAD's full $6000 license cost plus Autodesk maintenance subscription, etc). progeCAD 2013 continues to offer features used in previous versions, like DWG-to-PDF and PDF-to-CAD support, the free EasyArch add-on for architectural drawing, 3D solids and rendering, advanced hatching, text and dimensioning commands, thousands of free symbols and more. progeCAD 2013 also adds new features including:

PC3 plotter configuration file support

New Print Style Manager Interface

New Printing / Plotting Interface

AEC visualization (AutoCAD Architectural Desktop objects)

STL (mesh) and DAE file export

New Dimension Style Manager Interface

Advanced Spline Editing

New wireframe "HELIX" command

New ACIS Solid "LOFT" command

CAD Underlays of PDF, DWF and DGN files

Microstation DGN File Import (selected versions, as underlay)

New LMAN (Layer Manager)

Improved Purge command

Multigrip editing

New overall GUI style

Windows 8 Support

AutoCAD DWG 2013 file format support

AutoCAD and progeCAD users alike are invited to download progeCAD 2013 free at: http://www.caddit.net/progecad/progecad.php

This is a free full version 30 day trial which will allow you to save, print, etc and experience the cost savings benefit of CADDIT progeCAD for yourself. progeCAD 2013 licenses will be available as progeCAD single, mobile USB, network NLM, academic and corporate solutions.

Please contact CADDIT International for more information about progeCAD HERE: http://www.caddit.net/store/index.php?main_page=contact_us

For technical questions and user experiences about progeCAD, visit our forum HERE:
http://www.caddit.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=3

progeCAD 2011 Released with New Architectural Options

progeCAD 2011 Professional has been released on CADDIT, with a twist: three new modules for architects. progeCAD is already a low-cost design tool of choice by architects and designers for its reliability and strong compatibility with the well-known AutoCAD solution from Autodesk in the USA. For years progeCAD software has supported advanced AutoCAD-like drafting commands for layouts, blocks, rendering, 3D boolean modelling, PDF and XML publishing and more.

Experienced progeCAD users will immediately notice that progeCAD's former 10000 block symbol library ALE has been replaced with the new iCADlib manager which has been extended to over 20,000 CAD symbols. iCADlib includes integrated keyword-category search and access to dozens of up-to-date CAD symbols via online access to a new progeCAD/Traceparts library.


Specific to architectural design, progeCAD is introducing two new products. EasyArch is a free collection of editable 2D macros for doors, windows, walls, stairs and other architectural elements commonly used in house and building design. EasyArch features the ability to dynamically insert and trim walls with common predefined blocks of architectural symbols such as windows and doors with parameters for easy dimensioning and attribute definition. Here is an example of the dialogue box for editing a staircase drawn with EasyArch:

Also in testing at CADDIT is also progeCAD Architecture - a complete 3D parametric BIM building design package for progeCAD. Some YouTube demonstrations of progeCAD architecture have been made available at http://www.youtube.com/user/pCADArchitecture. We are currently evaluating its suitability for Australian design requirements and would welcome individual requests to give the test version a go.

progeCAD 2011 Professional can be downloaded from CADDIT for a full 30 day trial at THIS LINK.

CADDIT is offering a 15% discount to all progeCAD upgrades purchased in the next 30 days until 1 September 2011. Our 15% upgrade discount includes all progeCAD Professional, progeCAD USB and progeCAD Network licenses. CADDIT is an international CAD/CAM/PLM software partner based in Sydney Australia. CADDIT can be contacted via any of the details posted at THIS LINK.

progeCAD Free to Schools

progeCAD is a powerful but low-cost architectural or mechanical design package, somewhat similar to AutoCAD from Autodesk. progeCAD features include Autodesk's DWG format read/write for all versions of AutoCAD from 2010 and as far back as R11. Most of the basic commands are the same, workflow and interface all follow a similar logic. For years CADDIT Australia has been offering progeCAD Professional annual licenses to schools free of charge. One school in the New South Wales TAFE system wrote of progeCAD:

I personally consider that your company’s provision of this program for academic purposes, free of charge is the best thing that has happened to the CAD industry for a long time... I teach across a number of campuses in the Hunter and am trying to convince other sections to switch over from AutoCAD to ProgeCAD for teaching purposes. The benefits of allowing students to download the program and develop their skills at home at no cost cannot be underestimated, apart from the ethical aspect of positively discouraging the use of pirated AutoCAD software.

CSTC in Queensland Australia writes:

It is an exceptional program in the standards it allows students to apply to drawing - variety of linetypes, lineweights, hatchs patterns etc. We are enjoying using it, our trainees and apprentices appear to like the feel of it. Great program.

A few of CADDIT's academic program subscribers are from outside Australia. One school from overseas writes:

Since we only have a single, one-semester course that uses CAD, this offer CADDIT makes to license ProgeCAD to schools at no charge is a wonderful effort supporting education. Our students are able to gain experience with professional software and several have applied these skills in internships and subsequent educational experiences in vocational/technical programs and college. Without ProgeCAD's support, we would be forced to use some consumer-level software, as it would be extremely difficult to justify spending thousands of dollars to license professional CAD software for a lab that will be used with a single class of students.

Another student used the opportunity to submit a new concept for a local highway intersection to local planning authorities..
progeCAD can be downloaded free of cost HERE. For more information about how progeCAD can be used in your school, visit http://www.caddit.net/progecad/educational.php

CAD Software Update for progeCAD 2010 Users

CADDIT.net has released a new update of progeCAD 2010 10.0.10.8 for immediate download on their website. progeCAD is a low-cost compliment for AutoCAD from Autodesk, offering similar commands and editing AutoCAD DWG files but costing thousands less to buy. The progeCAD 10.0.10.8 update is free to all licensed progeCAD 2010 users and offers several key fixes that our users have requested, including these listed below:

For End Users:
Gradient hatch: improved visualization in printing
Improved performance when layouts have hidden or shaded viewports
ICAD.LSP continues loading even when reading ICAD.SDS fails
Fixed active layout in status bar opening a drawing on paper space
Last path used to open drawings is saved correctly
Fixed save of Dynamic blocks of DWG 2010 version
Fixed save of drawings containing Multileader and improved plot settings extraction
Fixed change of active DIMSTYLE in dialog
Changed reopen of property palette after print, to avoid conflict between print dialog and property palette
Fixed isolated crashes caused by certain entity displays
Fixed isolated crashes on Trim/Extend commands
Fixed problem of command typing with Windows 7 (Chinese Version)

For Developers:
Fixed 'send of message' to VBI workspaces

New Features:
Added Beta version of LispDefender (Lisp protection)
Added Proxy capability for both updater and registration

AutoCAD LT users are especially invited to try this latest release of progeCAD 2010. progeCAD offers several important features that AutoCAD LT does not, including 3D modelling and rendering, full programmability (C++, VBA, AutoLISP), multiple profile support, Network Licensing, DWG 14 export, Express Tools, Image Tools, advanced PDF printing and more. A free no-obligation trial of progeCAD Professional can be downloaded HERE.

New progeCAD 2010 10.0.8.9 Released from CADDIT; Automatic Upgrade for Current Users

progeCAD 2010 Professional 10.0.8.9 is available from CADDIT with several more small bug fixes for issues reported from our forum, customer and user feedback. These fixes include:

- Fixed "copy as block" when name is already defined in the destination drawing
- Fixed a hatch display regen bug
- Fixed polar Lisp function
- Wblock file format now uses system DWG default version (2007)
- Fixed point dragging when ORTHO and ESNAP are On
- Occasional crash on auto-save issues have been addressed
- Fixed memory leaks found with the MIRROR command
- Fixed some issues with display of some non-Latin characters
- Fixed graphics visualization issue after REDO

Current progeCAD 2010 users also having an Internet connection will be upgraded automatically if the automatic update tool is enabled. No manual download will be necessary when the update works in that case. On some systems it may be necessary to first login as administrator before this update can be performed.

Other CAD users are encouraged to download this latest as a version free trial. progeCAD 2010 Professional will run for 30 days before users can choose to license it or not. Current license options for progeCAD include single-seat, floating network licenses, mobile USB, large office licenses and more. SME small and medium enterprise may also inquire as to our quantity discounts for 5- 10- and 20-license packs. progeCAD is free for schools who join the CADDIT progeCAD educational program in Australia and New Zealand. Other questions about progeCAD software can be directed to our support office in Liverpool, Australia.

progeCAD 2010 Released. AutoCAD Clone Reads AutoCAD 2010 Files, Windows 7 Compatible

Sydney, Australia - CADDIT and progeSOFT are happy to announce the milestone software release of progeCAD 2010. Also to be known as "progeCAD CLASSIC", this will be the final and best release ever available on the established IntelliCAD 6 platform (future versions will be based on new IntelliCAD 7 DRX technology). AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT software compatibility has been a priority. This unique "bridge" release delivers many features users have requested:

AutoCAD 2010 DWG file read/write
Windows 7 compatibility
PDF import & export with layers support
Brand New Property Palette, with hide & fly-out.
Brand New Boundary Hatch Interface, including gradient hatching
Advanced CTB (Greyscale print and Screening)
Polygon Layout Viewport Boundaries in Paper space
SOLPROF - 2D profile image extraction from ACIS solids
Improved Selection Windows with Dynamic Entity Highlighting

progeCAD 2010 now supports export to the following file formats: PDF, 3DS (Autodesk 3D Studio MAX), POV (Povray raytracer), Lightwave, ACIS .SAT, SVG (XML format), O2C, GoogleEarth KML, DWG and DXF (also a number of raster image formats).

Performance & stability improvements have been made throughout progeCAD. Real time pan, zoom, file operation, printing, 3D shading while rotating 3D models (via "shade" command + CTRL-Right Mouse Button), 3D operation has improved, paper space operation - all these aspects have been improved upon as well. The greatest advantage remains Windows 7 and AutoCAD 2010 support.

Why called "progeCAD CLASSIC"? While it is a new product, progeCAD 2010 represents the final version based on time-proven IntelliCAD 6 technology, a few parts of which evidently still trace back to the very early days of IntelliCAD. Future progeCAD releases will use a new DRX technology from the completely rewritten IntelliCAD 7. So from a certain historical point of view, progeCAD 2010 is perhaps the greatest direct realization of a software design that started fourteen years ago. To salute this long-standing achievement, CADDIT has dubbed progeCAD 2010 a "CLASSIC".

Interested to try it out? Here is a link to download the full version of progeCAD. progeCAD offers Professional, Stand-Alone, USB Dongle, Network NLM and Full Office Licenses. Free support for all versions of progeCAD is offered directly from CADDIT technicians on the CAD forum.

P.S. We will begin notifying customers who took advantage of our free upgrade offer about their new licenses as soon as perhaps next week.

CAD Training Course 28 January 2010 Near Sydney

A special one-day progeCAD CAD training course will be held Thursday, 28 January 2010 in Newcastle, NSW Australia. Special pricing for this event in Australia should especially appeal to small businesses on the Australian East Coast. All materials needed for participating in the class will be provided upon arrival. The class will be divided into four sessions on basic and advanced design. Lunch will be catered for.

progeCAD is a powerful tool for AutoCAD-compatible CAD drawing. progeCAD offers most of the same commands and DWG file format support, but at a much lower cost compared to AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT software. Recent years have also seen many customer-driven improvements in speed and flexibility. In 2009 progeCAD added in-place text editing, paper space sheet size display and 3D Google Earth model export. New buyers are now also enjoy a free upgrade to the 2010 version upon release. A 30 day trial version can be downloaded from CADDIT.

Newcastle Computer Training is centrally located on Wood Street, Newcastle NSW not far from major highways and public transportation. A wide choice of accommodation is also available. All software, hardware and needed training materials will be provided on site.

Specific questions about next class content material are being answered by CADDIT on (02) 8777 5588. Registration for progeCAD Training 2010 can be completed by phoning or by registering online at HERE at CADDIT.

Press Release: The Open Design Alliance (ODA) today announced the availability of a new enhancement request system

Phoenix, AZ, October 26, 2009 – The Open Design Alliance (ODA) today announced the availability of a new enhancement request system designed to improve communication between ODA Sustaining and Founding Members and ODA development.

As a member-driven organization, the ODA has consistently delivered technology that stems directly from the focus set by members through long-term development relationships and close communication. The newly implemented enhancement request system further strengthens the role of members within the organization by enabling them to enter and vote on new requests for ODA platform components, enhancements, and features. Members will also be able to collaborate on requests with each other and with ODA development.

ODA Chief Technical Officer Neil Peterson stated, “The ODA has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. As the size of our organization and the sophistication of our platform increases, we need to adopt infrastructure tools which are better suited to handling the increased communication load. The new enhancement request system will play a key role in future growth by providing an organized framework for expressing and prioritizing new ideas and development goals. It’s a strong addition to the membership infrastructure of the ODA.”

More information about the ODA and its members is available at http://www.opendesign.com/.

AutoCAD Compatibility Improves with progeCAD 9.0.28.10 Product Release from CADDIT.net

Sydney, Australia - CADDIT announced today the Australia / New Zealand international release of progeCAD Professional 2009 9.0.28. This important upgrade offers several requested performance, reliability and DWG-compatibility enhancements. Over two months in development and testing has been invested in the release of 9.0.28. This upgrade is free to all progeCAD Professional 2009 stand-alone, network, USB and office license customers.

progeCAD is CAD design software offering many features found in Autodesk AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, at much lower cost. This includes AutoCAD DWG™ / DXF™ / DWF™ 2009 editing, 3D Google Earth Export, Spell Checker, Quick Dimension, Polar Tracking, eSnap (like oSnap™), PDF import / export, ACIS 3D solid modeling, raster to vector conversion and advanced hatching using a similar interface to AutoCAD. progeCAD has become very popular in Australia as one of the most reliable alternatives to AutoCAD for small to medium business - especially in the Australian architectural design and large mining industries.

CADDIT offers IT professionals optional direct access to local installation and technical support for their design CAD software from their Liverpool-Sydney offices in New South Wales. The latest free update for current progeCAD users was over two months in development, and includes many enhancements requested locally in Australia, including:

• Improved SAVE performances
• Fixed Text Style combo
• Fixed Layout print settings recording
• TRIM options selection fixed
• Fixed CopyClip and PasteClip between progeCAD<->AutoCAD
• Fixed block insertion point set in the BLOCK dialog
• Disabled BLOCK command during REFEDIT mode
• Fixed UNDO option in TRIM and EXTEND command, used after FENCE and CROSSING option

progeCAD 2009 users who have direct internet access and the progeSOFT autoupdate feature enabled should be notified of the upgrade automatically. progeCAD users with limited or no direct internet access to their progeCAD workstation can download the new version and install it directly over their existing 2009 installation.

Previous version IntelliCAD and AutoCAD LT users are also encouraged to try the latest progeCAD 9.0.28 release free for 30 days in full-function trial mode. German progeCAD users can visit progeCAD Deutschland for information about the latest version.

International users may download progeCAD directly from CADDIT.net and many other sites.

Joy of progeCAD 2009 under Wine in Debian Linux

At CADDIT we are always trying new things, sometimes just for the sheer fascination. This article outlines some updated steps to running progeCAD without buying a Windows license (although some free libraries will be needed). Understand that progeCAD is at this time not officially supported on Linux, either using Parallels or WINE emulation layer. So don't try this at home unless you are really brave and have lots of time to waste (not to mention progeCAD licenses).

We were able to accomplish several things following these steps: install progeCAD, activate progeCAD (online method), load a file, etc. Our test involved using a stand-alone license key (although NLM client might also work). progeCAD runs stable but slow (depending on your core(s) speed and OpenGL acceleration). Here we go:

1) Update to the latest WineHQ (1.1.x). Debian users can add the following line to /etc/apt/sources.list:
deb http://wine.budgetdedicated.com/apt etch main
2) apt-get install libwine wine wine-dev
okay you really don't need wine-dev development packages, but like isn't that the whole point of Linux .. whatever .. okay next step...
3) Install IE6. No joke. A platform like progeCAD often connects to a lot of the same dependencies as the world's most favorite web browser ..okay ..whatever.. we use ies4linux for this. Please visit the site for download directions specific to your favorite distro and get lovely IE6 and friends rocking in your local .wine profile.
4) Install VBA. This is possible now because ies4linux already set up DCOM libs for us. Winetricks is probably the best trick for this:
wget http://www.kegel.com/wine/winetricks
and run the ./winetricks GUI and pick what you want, but at least pick the VBA6 runtime. Winetricks should do the rest for you.
5) Install progeCAD. You can download progeCAD HERE.
6) progeCAD install seems to go well right up to the VBA installation at the end it flops (so far - we are working on it). But no matter, you can always reinstall Windows VBA for progeCAD IntelliCAD by sorting into your local subdirectory:
~/.wine/drive_c/Program\ Files/progeSOFT/progeCAD\ 2009\ Pro\ ENG/vba/
and installing VBA manually:
msiexec /i VBAOF11.MSI

WINE actually sets up a KDE icon on the desktop for you to launch progeCAD, we didn't try GNOME or XFCE. Otherwise you may have to create an action leading to the icad.exe executable in your .wine profile. So progeCAD should work now as so...


Some comments, progeCAD is a lot less demanding on system resources than AutoCAD, so it was actually possible for us to still work with progeCAD under this emulated environment. Real time pan and zoom function using the mouse buttons worked too but was so slow on the machine with on board graphics it could hardly be called real time anymore. The command interpreter disappeared once while minimizing / maximizing the progeCAD Window in KDE, but moving the window a bit around somehow brought it back again. Go figure..

progeCAD German Version Offers AutoCAD Compatibility in German

This announcement is in English and German languages. See German version below.

Como Italy, 26 May 2009 – progeSOFT in partnership with CADDIT and N.W.S. Germany announced the German translation release of progeCAD 2009 Professional CAD design software. Designers, engineers and architects accustomed to AutoCAD, Auto CAD LT or IntelliCAD can compare the cost-for-feature value free for 30 days. Unlike most AutoCAD compatible CAD software, progeCAD 2009 far exceeds simple DWG file compatibility with special features like Google Earth export, PDF conversion, Quick-Dimensioning (“QDIM”) and even an updated spell checker. Now German users enjoy the convenience of using progeCAD design commands in native German language. The progeCAD German version can be downloaded HERE.

progeCAD German CAD software translation was supervised by progeSOFT, located near beautiful Lake Como in Italy. progeCAD in German is available from numerous authorized progeCAD distributors around the world including progeSOFT ( http://www.progesoft.com/ , http://www.progecad-deutschland.com/ and CADDIT ( http://www.caddit.net/progecad/progecad-deutsch.php ). A german language support forum for progeCAD is also available: http://www.caddit.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=6

##########

Como-Italien, 26.Mai 2009 – progeSOFT in Zusammenarbeit mit CADDIT und N.W.S Deutschland gibt hiermit die Freigabe der deutschen Übersetzung von progeCAD 2009 Professional bekannt. Designer, Konstrukteure und Architekten, die mit AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT oder IntelliCAD vertraut sind, haben die Möglichkeit den Nutzwert der Software für 30 Tage kostenlos zu testen. Im Gegensatz zur meisten AutoCAD ähnlichen CAD-Software übertrifft progeCAD 2009 einfache DWG-Dateiformat Kompatibilität mit speziellen Funktionen wie Google Earth Export, PDF Konvertierung, Quick-Dimensioning(„QDIM“) und eine verbesserte Rechtschreibprüfung bei weitem. Deutsche Benutzer haben jetzt auch den Komfort progeCAD Designbefehle in Ihrer deutschen Muttersprache zu verwenden. Benutzter können jetzt die deutsche Version direkt herunterladen - HIER.

Die Software Übersetzung von progeCAD wurde von progeSOFT, mit Firmensitz am idyllischen Comer See in Italien, betreut. progeCAD Deutsch ist weltweit erhältlich bei zahlreichen progeCAD Vertriebspartnern, einschließlich progeSOFT ( http://www.progesoft.com/ , http://www.progecad-deutschland.com/ und CADDIT ( http://www.caddit.net/progecad/progecad-deutsch.php ). Zur Verfügung steht auch ein deutschsprachiges progeCAD Forum unter http://www.caddit.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=6

Free Second Grabowski eBook "tailoring progeCAD" Available

progeSOFT and partners have released the second bonus for progeCAD users form AutoCAD book author Ralph Gabrowski entitled "tailoring progeCAD". "tailoring progeCAD" is a more in-depth examination of the powerful interfaces progeCAD offers developers and CAD specialists for customization. progeCAD is a low cost compliment to AutoCAD for editing Autodesk DWG files and using a similar interface, but just costing 10% of full version AutoCAD RRP. This free eBook can be downloaded HERE ( $50 value).

"tailoring progeCAD" is the second Grabowski eBook written in partnership with progeSOFT and progeSOFT US. This free CAD eBook is 200 pages and pre-formatted for USA binder printing on A-size paper. Topics covered include customizing the progeCAD user interface, changing progeCAD settings for text, fonts and colors, setting keystroke aliases, writing menus, macros and scripts, DCL, DIESEL and AutoLISP programming and more.

"tailoring progeCAD" is a follow-up for advanced users to the previously announced "inside progeCAD" which together become a powerful tool in unlocking the full potential of progeCAD.

Publication of "tailoring progeCAD" was funded by progeSOFT as an educational project and may be freely re-distributed among organizations and on the Internet as long as content and copyright remain unchanged.

Free Ralph Grabowski eBook "inside progeCAD"

This year's progeCAD user bonus arrives early with the release of "inside progeCAD", a free PDF eBook for all progeCAD users. This eBook is written by Ralph Grabowski, well known author of books like "THE ILLUSTRATED AUTOCAD 2008 QUICK REFERENCE". progeCAD is a low cost substitute for AutoCAD for editing Autodesk DWG files and using a similar interface, but just costing 10% of full version AutoCAD RRP. The free eBook can be downloaded HERE completely free ($50 value).

Editing and approval for the publication of "inside progeCAD" was a team effort between Mr. Grabowski, his team, progeSOFT North America and progeSOFT Italy. This free CAD eBook is 200 pages and pre-formatted for USA binder printing on A-size paper. This eBook makes a good follow-up to the mechanical drafting to CAD migration eBook published by CADDIT last year. Topics covered in this eBook includes A Guided Tour for beginners and newbies, extensive lessons on User Input and the progeCAD Interface, sample projects and advanced tips. There is also a full section entitled "progeCAD for AutoCAD Users" which notes many of the differences between the interface of these two CAD systems.

Publication of "inside progeCAD" was funded by progeSOFT as an educational project and may be freely re-distributed among organizations and on the Internet as long as content and copyright remain unchanged.

progeCAM CNC Milling Lathe Wire EDM for progeCAD IntelliCAD

progeCAM CNC Software for progeCAD 2009 has been released on CADDIT. progeCAM is an affordable CNC manufacturing package for progeCAD designers who would like to use a CNC mill, lathe or wire EDM machine for cutting their designs. The CADDIT progeCAM CNC package links progeCAD Professional to PartMaster CAM with a small plugin which adds several new machining commands directly to the progeCAD interface: pcamMILL, pcamTURN, pcamEDM - along with a pcamOPTION and pcamHELP command. Commands are enabled depending on the manufacturing license chosen. There is also a small progeCAD toolbar which can call these functions without typing.

The progeCAM manufacturing package including progeCAD 2009, Dolphin CNC PartMaster and the CADDIT module is priced at a combined discount of more than 10% plus including the module software and support for free.

New progeCAD Professional 2009 Video Tour

progeCAD Professional 2009 offers a powerful new CAD interface - similar icons, commands and interface. Raster image editing, raster-to-vector software included. DWF, SVG, O2C and Google Earth KML export, IntelliCAD AutoLISP, VBA & DIESEL, ACIS 3D Solids modelling, temporary point snap (oSnap), layers, blocks. Hatch and xref editing. 3D shading and rendering options. approx. 11000+ CAD symbols library. progeCAD Professional can be downloaded for a thirty day trial HERE or register your full license online HERE.

New progeCAD 2009 Professional Offers Serious Performance

Como Italy, 12 January 2009 – progeSOFT announced the worldwide release of progeCAD 2009 Professional DWG CAD software. progeCAD 2009 now offers Google Earth export, "Quick Dimensioning" commands and an improved CAD drawing interface.

Architects, engineers, designers and drafters using AutoCAD, Auto CAD LT, or IntelliCAD will be impressed with progeCAD 2009's overall unique performance for price combination. Unlike most AutoCAD compatible CAD programs, progeCAD 2009 Professional goes far beyond mere DWG file compatibility with dozens of extra features like an updated spell checker, DIESEL expression support and the addition of over 1000 new CAD symbols organized by the included ALE block manager. Nevertheless, progeCAD’s most inviting feature continues to be its incredibly low price compared to AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT.

Google Earth has become very popular since its release, used by professional surveyors and architects to visualize their projects in a realistic setting. Many people spend hours in fascination discovering new far off places using the tool. progeCAD 2009 Professional now allows users to send their drawings directly to Google Earth via the KML format - minus the rusty auto parked in the neighbors front yard of course.

progeCAD 2009 sports powerful interface updates like right-mouse click context menus, improved speed and reliability. AutoCAD LT users should be especially interested in continued support for PDF import, true ACIS 3D modeling, AutoLISP, VBA, and SDS (C++) program extensions – features not supported by AutoCAD LT. progeCAD 2009’s new "Advanced Data Extraction" wizard guides users in easily sending entity and block information to applications like Microsoft Excel. Other interface enhancements include new "one-click" text editing, an interactive "purge" command dialog, and "one-click" entity grouping.

progeCAD's new layout "print area visualization" feature shows you exactly how drawings will appear on paper. An "AutoCAD like" interface for properties modification has been added making modifying entity properties similar to AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT.

Other features and bonus software include photo realistic rendering, eTransmit, PDF, ECW, O2C, JPG, SVG XML image file support and basic raster-to-vector conversion software. Polar tracking, eTrack, and a new eSnap-From mode help entity creation and placement.

progeCAD's "Express Tools", easy-to-use attribute editing, DWG redlining, in place external reference editing, and "Find and Replace" text and attribute search make progeCAD 2009 Professional a truly "professional" platform that is still unbelievably affordable – less than USD $400.00 suggested retail price. The release of progeCAD 2009 Professional comes at a time when just such an affordable yet robust AutoCAD-compatible drawing program is really needed.

Current progeCAD users are reminded that they can upgrade to the latest version at a significant discount to the already-low full version price. progeSOFT has improved the progeCAD software registration and activation interface making licensing progeCAD 2009 simple and reliable. Network NLM, USB mobile, and corporate licensing options for the 2009 version are available.

Users are encouraged to download or buy progeCAD in English from the closest of over 120 local authorized progeSOFT resellers world wide. Refer to progeSOFT North America (http://www.progesoft.us) for local resellers in United States, Canada or Mexico. CADDIT (http://www.caddit.net/) serves Australia, New Zealand and Asia Pacific. Others may refer to http://www.progesoft.com/?page=shop_listino .

progeCAD 8.0.22 Upgrade Released with Improved AutoCAD Compatibility

Sydney, Australia – In partnership with progeSOFT CADDIT announced today announced the worldwide release of progeCAD Professional 8.0.22. This important upgrade offers several minor performance, reliability and DWG-compatibility enhancements. Over five months in development and testing has been invested in the release of 8.0.22. This upgrade is free to all progeCAD Professional 2008 stand-alone, network, USB and corporate customers.

progeCAD is used loyally by many professional architects, designers, mechanical and civil engineers, surveyors, builders and landscape artists around the world. progeCAD Professional offers important design features like robust AutoCAD DWG™ / DXF™ / DWF™ 2008 editing, Polar Tracking, eSnap (like oSnap™), PDF import / export, ACIS 3D solid design, raster to vector conversion and advanced hatching using a similar interface to AutoCAD - all at a small fraction of AutoCAD’s cost. Now progeCAD 2008 8.0.22 fixes several issues including:

• A known problem was fixed involving "create as new layout" with certain AutoCAD DWG files and "copy layout" commands, possibly causing the loss of existing layouts.
• Fixed progeCAD ETRACK behavior for entering the distance from command line
• Resolved issues around the progeCAD Express Tools "Copy M" in 2D regions
• "Copy quick" issue with "paste as a block" has been fixed.
• A bug regarding UNDO when used with REFEDIT has been addressed
• Print files extension is now ".plt"
• Solved a crash related to double-click with multiple entities selected
• Many other small improvements in performance and reliability...

A full version of this update in functionality can be downloaded from http://www.caddit.net/auto-cad/AutoCAD.php . There is also a smaller patch executable that will update a currently existing installation using the built-in progeCAD Professional update function. progeCAD Standard and progeCAD Smart upgrades will be released at a later date.

CADDIT Pty Ltd, an Australian owned company, locally supports progeCAD and many other CAD CAM CAE products. Their head office is located in the Liverpool Fairfax Building in western Sydney. They can be contacted via their website at http://www.caddit.net/ . The full version of this article can be found here.

progeSOFT Como, Italy has been specializing in CAD for the last 20 years and is an executive member of the IntelliCAD® Technology Consortium. They can be contacted via their website at http://www.progesoft.com/ .

IntelliCAD 7 Release Announced by ITC at Athens Conference

October 29, 2008 Athens, Greece - Today the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium (ITC) announced the release of IntelliCAD 7 to its members in Athens, Greece. The IntelliCAD 7 code base has been rewritten from the ground up to include objectARX-DRX compatibility, faster graphics and better maintenance. Apparently the goal is to start having end-user releases shipped to the public by June or July 2009.

The rewrite of the original IntelliCAD code base has been long in coming. Stability and speed issues have plagued some of the vendor releases. Additional support for ODA DRX will also mean more vertical applications for architecture, electrical, HVAC, land survey and engineering. An additional tool for porting legacy SDS applications to DRX was announced by the ODA just prior to the ITC conference.

For a while now the new IntelliCAD 7 code base will still need to run through an end-user testing cycle before it can be considered by many to be robust for commercial use.

Users can download and trial a current tested end-user release of IntelliCAD here.

CADDIT is a professional CAD and CAM software consulting company based in Sydney Australia. The full version of this article can be found here.

CADDIT Marketing Receives Praise from a Competitor

We don't normally do this. But I had to laugh when I saw the newest content ad from ailing Chinese IntelliCAD vendor, ZWCAD. Maybe because they targeted a market outside Australia, they thought we wouldn't see it here in Sydney?

Some background: CADDIT Asia-Pacific has been successfully raising awareness about a robust, low-cost AutoCAD Clone Software called progeCAD. One of the messages they have been doing this with for several months now is a paid image ad. This is our ad in question:

They say that imitation is the greatest flattery? Well, here is the new ad from Chinese competitor ZWCAD (RM stands for Malaysian Ringgit, btw):

We first saw this ad at http://www.neofame.com.my/store291007/index.php . It looks like movies, software and patents aren't the the only thing the Chinese like to pirate :). Judge for yourself.