Parky mentioned that he made a mistake on the name; it's actually called A9cad. If you're familiar with the older Autocad interface, check out this video to see how closely A9cad resembles it. I have recently downloaded A9cad, despite encountering numerous ads and prompts for other downloads. After scanning for viruses (all clear!) and noticing its impressive speed, I have decided to stick with this upgraded version. However, I will continue to use ACLT for now. It seems like your OCD kicked in, keeping you up all night bothered by the error. I can relate to that feeling of frustration when trying to remember something. Thank you for the clarification.
For those who use AutoCAD, consider exploring NanoCad as an alternative. You can choose between a free (older) version or a $249/year subscription for the latest full version, which is more affordable than Autodesk licensing. While the free version is fully functional, it lacks features such as publish (batch plot) and has limited find and replace capabilities. I have been using the full version for approximately seven years and have found it to be a cost-effective solution compared to other options on the market.
Having used Autocad for over 30 years, I have extensive experience in developing custom LISP programs to increase efficiency in day-to-day tasks. Through continuous learning and development, I specialized in Electrical Engineering, Instrument Engineering, and DCS engineering. In my later years, I transitioned to using Autocad LT at workplaces with dedicated designers. In my retirement, I have found NanoCad to be a valuable and cost-effective alternative, with a similar interface to Autocad that eases the learning process. NanoCad offers a one-year free license, which requires annual renewal.
There are times when I lose sleep pondering various issues, although not in this particular instance. Before retiring, I often found myself wrestling with problems related to projects. I would attempt to find solutions while lying in bed, and on several occasions, I would even get up and solve them, ensuring everything was ready for the next day's site visit. This often involved consuming the complimentary coffee in my hotel room and requesting more from the night porter.
Parky, Should we contact a professional for assistance?
Parky shared that he occasionally loses sleep pondering various matters. Before retiring, when faced with challenges on a project, he would try to work out solutions even while in bed. Sometimes, his brainstorming sessions were so effective that he would get up in the middle of the night to resolve the issue, often utilizing the hotel room's complementary coffee. This unique method has led to some of his most creative breakthroughs while in a semi-dream state. Such moments of inspiration have proven invaluable in problem-solving.
Hello everyone, I want to express my gratitude for the valuable contributions you have made. Your recommendations and insights have been immensely helpful. I will carefully evaluate the software options that were suggested to find the best fit for my requirements. Thank you once again for your assistance!
Maybe individuals in white lab coats laughing out loud.
Although SkyCad's user interface may be unconventional, this free software offers numerous features that are beneficial for creating electrical schematics, such as one-line drawings. I have been experimenting with it lately and have found it helpful. The paid versions also come with additional features like panel layout tools. It's important to note that the UI may take some getting used to. Proceed with caution.
Rootcad Pro is a unique and valuable software program that offers a range of features for CAD enthusiasts. While the basic version is free, many advanced features are only accessible through a subscription. By investing $130 for a 2-year subscription, users can unlock the ability to export files to DWG for Autocad, making it a convenient tool for professionals and hobbyists alike.
If you're searching for electrical design software, consider giving QElectrotech a try. Although it may have some quirks and slow updates, it still performs quite effectively for a free tool. For those looking for an alternative, we transitioned to CMS Intellicad with CADprofielectrical addon. The CMS version 12PE+ is available for a reasonable cost of around $330 for a perpetual license. If you'd like, I can provide you with an example project to showcase its capabilities.
- 20-07-2024
- WhinnieThePooh
If you have experience with AutoCAD but find the price too high, ProgeCAD is a cost-effective alternative that mirrors the features of AutoCAD. Priced at $399 with no yearly fees, ProgeCAD offers a similar look and feel to AutoCAD. I used ProgeCAD while working on substation control projects at a local utility, and it proved to be a reliable tool after our team switched from AutoCAD due to licensing issues. The software offers a 30-day free trial for users to test its functionality. Another remarkable free software option is QElectroTech, which operates similarly to Eplan with its drag-and-drop components and automated wire labeling features. QElectroTech provides strong support and performance for a free software tool.
Regrettably, free electrical design software often lacks DWG support, as it is proprietary in nature. Instead, many options offer DXF compatibility. I've been experimenting with QElectrotec for my project, and I'm impressed by its capabilities as an open-source tool.
Consider purchasing a previous version of AutoCAD LT to save money and avoid the drawbacks of newer versions. Older versions can often be more efficient and less bloated. Additionally, compatibility is not an issue as drawings can still be easily exchanged between users of different versions - they can view yours and save theirs in the AutoCAD 2000 format.
ryangriggs shared his experience with SkyCad, noting its quirky user interface but also highlighting its extensive features for creating electrical schematics, including one-line drawings. The software is available for free, with paid versions offering additional features like panel layout capabilities. While the UI may be unconventional, SkyCad is praised for its simplicity and helpful video tutorials. Some users opt to use other software like F360 for layout tasks.
After using AutoCAD 2D LT 2007 for quite some time, I made the switch to a subscription and now work with either AutoCAD LT 2023 or 2024. Although the upgrade wasn't significant, one particular challenge I faced with the older version was batch plotting to PDF, which resulted in oversized documents that were difficult to navigate. However, with the newer version, such as AutoCAD LT 2023, I can easily produce a set of 60-70 page prints and navigate through them seamlessly without any lag, even on layout pages. I am extremely pleased with this improvement. I am currently looking to purchase an older version of LT, such as 2010 or 2012, for personal use at an affordable price, similar to what Robertmee mentioned earlier. Can you suggest where I can find these older versions for sale?
Everyone loves a good deal, but when it comes to electrical drawings, using the right software can make all the difference. While programs like AutoCAD can technically be used, they often require a lot of manual management and time-consuming tasks. Investing in tailor-made software designed specifically for electrical prints can save you time and hassle in the long run.
One such software we recommend is Capital Electra, now owned by Siemens. Originally developed by a small Chinese software company, it has since improved significantly and offers a wide range of components for electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic layouts. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to create and manage prints without a steep learning curve. Plus, the software automates processes like bill of materials creation, component management, and wire numbering, saving you time and effort. Overall, investing in the right software pays off in increased efficiency and productivity.
While Bluebeam has been utilized in the past for as-built redlines and print construction, it is recommended to use software specifically designed for electrical work. The electrical department currently utilizes Autocad for their projects.
User bill4807 shared their experience with using an older version of AutoCAD LT 2007 before upgrading to a subscription-based plan for the 2023 or 2024 versions. They noted the challenges faced with batch plotting to PDF in the older version, resulting in large document sizes that made scrolling difficult. However, with the newer versions, handling sets of prints with 60-70 pages is smooth and efficient, even on layout pages.
Expressing interest in purchasing older versions like AutoCAD LT 2010 or 2012 for personal use, bill4807 is exploring options. However, a recent discovery from Autodesk forums revealed the termination of licensing for versions before 2017, regardless of original ownership. This development has raised concerns about the company disabling previously purchased perpetual licenses, leading to frustration among users. Despite this, some users, like bill4807, have found ways to preserve their older versions through virtual machines.
Robertmee discovered through research on Autodesk's forums that the company has stopped supporting licensing for versions prior to 2017. This means that even original owners may no longer be able to use older versions, such as the 2005 boxes Robertmee has. This practice may seem unfair, as these products were initially advertised as perpetual licenses. However, this trend is becoming common in the software industry, as seen with Siemens and their product Capital Electra. Despite potential issues with reinstalling software, Robertmee recognizes the benefits of upgrading to newer subscription models, such as the time saved when using programs like AutoCAD LT on projects.
It is important to consider the technology preferences of your customers to anticipate future demand for compatible files. This foresight can help you determine whether investing in a cheaper software brand is a wise decision. Opting for a lower-priced option may seem cost-effective initially, but if a major project for a significant client requires software like Eplan or AutoCAD Electrical, you may end up having to make an additional investment. This can result in unexpected costs and inefficiencies in your workflow.
It's important for me to inform my clients that their PLC code will need to be renewed annually to avoid potential disruptions, unless they choose to compensate me for ongoing maintenance.
In the world of electrical design software, it's crucial to have the capability to work with DWG files. While there are many software options available with automation features for creating drawings, editing existing DWG files can be a challenge. Some popular programs like AutoCAD Electrical, EPlan, and PC Schematic may lack the ability to efficiently edit DWGs.
For those looking for a cost-effective alternative to AutoCAD's subscription model, BricsCAD is a highly recommended option. Their basic 2D drafting software offers all the functionality of AutoCAD at a fraction of the cost. Investing time in learning BricsCAD will easily transfer to using AutoCAD in the future.
Although EPlan is gaining traction in certain industries, its high cost will likely prevent it from becoming the standard in North America. For professionals in the field, having the ability to work with DWG files is essential, making software compatibility a top priority.
I highly recommend using SkyCAD for all your CAD design needs.
My experience with A9Cad was that it could easily handle DWG files, allowing for editing, saving, and exporting to DXF formats commonly used in CAD systems. While A9Cad may lack some of the automated features found in Autocad, its functionality is still impressive. Although it has been some time since I last used it, I know that it has continued to evolve with support from the freeware community. This makes it a valuable tool for CAD users looking for a cost-effective solution.
Robertmee discovered after conducting research that Autodesk has discontinued licensing for versions prior to 2017, regardless of ownership. Even if one is the original owner, earlier versions like 2005 will no longer work if reinstalled. Robertmee finds it unethical for a company to limit a product that was sold as perpetual and paid for by customers. Fortunately, Robertmee's installation is on a virtual machine, ensuring its longevity. The use of a virtual machine proves to be advantageous in this scenario.
For several years, I utilized DraftSight for creating electrical drawings. While it may not have as many features as AutoCAD Electrical, it still allows for the creation of professional-grade drawings that are equally high in quality, albeit requiring more time. Priced at $300 per year, DraftSight is developed by Dassault Systèmes and continuously receives updates with additional features, though the cost also increases accordingly. For me, this software served as a middle ground between free programs and the more advanced AutoCAD Electrical.
Parky mentioned a software called A9CAD, which is similar to the older version of AutoCAD. Despite some advertisements and prompts to download other software, A9CAD proved to be fast and virus-free upon download. While impressed with the upgrade from previous versions, Parky plans to stick with ACLT for the time being. Additionally, there is also another software option called NanoCAD.
In the world of electrical drawings, it's essential to invest in software that is tailor-made for the task at hand. While tools like AutoCAD may seem like a cost-effective solution, the reality is that using generic software can lead to a lot of manual managing and time-consuming tasks. When it comes to electrical prints, it's worth considering specialized software that can streamline the process and save time in the long run.
One popular option in the market is Capital Electra, now a product of Siemens. Originally developed by a small software company in China, this software has evolved into a robust solution for electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic layouts. With a wide range of out-of-the-box components and the ability to create custom ones, Capital Electra is user-friendly and efficient. It automates tasks like managing BOM, components, wire numbers, and cables, making it a valuable tool for small OEMs looking to streamline their workflow.
While Capital Electra may come with a higher price tag compared to other options, its user-friendly interface and time-saving features make it a worthwhile investment for those in the electrical design industry. The software's ease of use and efficiency in managing complex tasks make it one of the top choices for electrical engineers and designers.
- 20-07-2024
- kriskizlyk_kite
DesignSpark Electrical is a powerful software tool comparable to SolidWorks Electrical, offering a project limit of 15 pages. Give it a try and see the difference in features and capabilities for your electrical design projects.
Progecad software: A powerful tool for drafting and design tasks
I rely on Microsoft Visio Professional along with its electrical engineering toolkit for my projects. The software performs efficiently and meets my needs.
I am a Nanocad free user. While it shares the same keyboard commands as AutoCad, it lacks some mentioned features. However, it doesn't take long to adapt if you're familiar with AutoCad. Purchasing an older version of Cad is no longer a viable option, as Autodesk has restricted access to activation codes for versions older than 2020. Additionally, most older versions are incompatible with Windows 10 or 11. Setting up a virtual machine is an alternative for running older versions with the activation code, but it can be cumbersome and not worth the trouble in my opinion.
Once in a while, I find myself in need of a drawing tool. A few years ago, I came across SkyCad and initially found it promising. However, I was also using Visio back then. Recently, I revisited SkyCad and gave it a thorough try, especially since I no longer have access to Visio. I must say, I am impressed with the results this time around. Considering it's a free software package, SkyCad offers great value. I would highly recommend it to anyone in need of an Electrical CAD software solution. I wouldn't hesitate to make a donation or purchase the upgraded version if needed. It is always wise to stick with a tool that works for you, but if you are on the lookout for a new software, look no further than SkyCAD. This high-end electrical drawing software is perfect for industrial automation projects and requires no training. In just 20 minutes, I was able to create a simple yet professional-looking drawing that met my needs perfectly. Don't miss out on this incredible tool for your next project! Visit skycad.ca now.
- 20-07-2024
- geniusintraining
I used Visio before it was known as Microsoft Visio, but I was not a fan of the new version that was released. I then switched to Draftsight until they started charging $99 annually for their formerly free version. Upon receiving a suggestion, I transitioned to NanoCad and have been satisfied with its performance. Although I have explored SkyCad, I have not made the switch yet, but it is on my agenda - particularly if NanoCad adopts Draftsight's marketing strategy.
I_Automation mentioned that they have looked into SkyCad but have not switched over yet. However, they are considering it, especially if NanoCad adopts Draftsight's marketing strategy. It might be a good idea to wait and see how SkyCad develops. The free version may potentially be discontinued once they reach a certain number of users. However, it's always good to keep an eye on emerging CAD software trends.
- 20-07-2024
- WhinnieThePooh
Our company utilizes DraftSight by Dassault Solutions, which offers a cost-effective alternative to AutoCAD LT at a significantly lower annual expense.
In my previous workplace, we transitioned to Draftsight for creating 2D drawings. Now, at my current job, we use BricsCAD instead. In my opinion, BricsCAD seems to offer slightly better features compared to Draftsight, although both programs are comparable to AutoCAD.
Hey there! Have you checked out Qelectrotech? It's a free software that allows you to do numbering and more. One issue I've encountered is the renumbering of cables can be a bit tricky. It also has the capability to export to PDF and AutoCAD.
When it comes to daily drawings, efficiency is key - choose ACADE. While EPLAN is highly praised, I personally prefer KiCAD for its free use. Though primarily for PCB design, KiCAD's title-blocked-drawing theme is reminiscent of eagle and offers similar wire types and references to ACADE. Now that schematics take up less than 5% of my time, KiCAD gets the job done effectively.
A few years ago, I utilized Promise E while working at a company before transitioning to using Autocad Electrical for a customer project. However, I found both software programs to be cumbersome and time-consuming to set up properly. Despite their time-saving capabilities, I felt that I spent more time adjusting settings than actually working on the projects. These programs may be more suitable for individuals without prior training or experience in creating drawings. Personally, I prefer using Autocad LT, which I access through a subscription plan costing approximately $440 per year. This plan allows me to stay updated on the latest versions and features. I have customized blocks that I use frequently and often duplicate entire sections of drawings from past projects.
In my opinion, AutoCAD Electrical may not be the best choice for inexperienced designers. While it can save time once properly set up, the initial setup process can be time-consuming. It is a powerful tool that comes with a steep learning curve and a high price tag. However, for those who are willing to invest the time and money, it can be worth it in the long run. Personally, I prefer AutoCAD LT, which I subscribe to for around $440/year. This subscription keeps me up to date with new versions and features. I have also customized blocks to my liking and often reuse sections of drawings from past projects.
According to Rson, EPlan is attempting to gain traction in certain industries, but its high cost is a barrier to becoming widely adopted as the industry standard in North America. This has led to limited awareness and acceptance of EPlan and its files in the region. As a result, I have decreased my involvement in General Motors design projects due to the costly EPlan requirements. However, there have been murmurs of other Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers transitioning to EPlan, possibly influenced by GM's support. Recently, some customers have been requesting mechanical designs in Solidworks for their projects.
jstolaruk mentioned that he has not been involved in General Motors design projects recently due to the high cost of their Eplan requirement. There have been talks of other Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers transitioning to Eplan, possibly due to GM's funding influence. Additionally, there is a trend among customers in the industry towards utilizing mechanical designs in programs like Solidworks.
Furthermore, individuals interested in working at GM facilities now need to complete a GM course at Macomb County Community College in Detroit to obtain a certificate for access. It is worth noting that Eplan was developed by a former GM executive and was later mandated by his colleagues still within the company. The pricing for Eplan, including necessary add-on modules, starts at $13,000 for the base program and goes up to over $25,000 for the complete package.
I have experience working on GM plc and hmi templates in machine builder's shops, but found them to be quite confusing and difficult to follow. However, the Fanuc template has remained consistent over the years, so I have mainly focused on GM robot work. Recently, some customers approached me about doing their GM plc-hmi work and offered to pay for certification, but I did not have the time to familiarize myself with it. I recommended a competitor with certified employees instead.
Regarding Eplan, I am aware of a service that can convert other formats to GM standards, reducing the need for extensive training. If the cost was more affordable, I would consider investing in it.