Mike G wrote:I have QCAD loaded onto my computer, and will move over to using it as my primary drawing programme.
I’ve no experience of Autocad and have been using QCAD for 4 months. I’m probably not using all its features - I use layers for different components (colour and line type) but haven’t so far grouped things together or tried to import symbols/components (I’m a “simple” user). I’ve no previous experience of CAD and bought and used the QCAD book - it’s a PDF that’s frequently updated. I found it useful to get the concepts and then be shown exactly how to use these in the program (but your experience may be different).
In my mind the book should really be included with the product as it’s an extension of the Help System. The program wasn’t expensive even with the book - I use it on my Mac but I could use it on a PC too. Now that I have learned it’s use, I’m more likely to use the Help System now. Not sure what the free version misses out on, but I’m happy to support the Developer especially as he accepts suggestions and continues to move the product forwards.
I want to emulate my first attempts in engineering to draw in 2D. For home use, I mostly need a drawing with one view or at most two and don’t have a need to render or spin 3D objects etc. It’s helped me draw out circular objects that are constructed from rectangular stock (wood) without the need for any maths e.g. making an octagonal ring to be wood-turned round from limited width of material with minimal waste.
The book is for learning basic concepts so doesn’t attempt to cover more difficult tasks like designing and implementing a script. The scripts run within the program, they are not needed to import other drawings as this (in theory) is provided in the import/export in the paid for version.
One thing I don’t like are the templates. They are not necessarily in English which relates to their open source origin and should really be “managed” and translated as the product installs. The license includes updates for a year but continues afterwards. Seems fair enough, the rate of change means it’s not going to be immediately out of date. For me it’s like using Word or Excel - for exacting drawings it does a really good job and as my knowledge increases it seems useful and logical. I have started using it to print selective layers at 1:1 to take “one part” direct to the bandsaw etc. so no need for CNC (and 3D) for me.
Never try to teach a pig to sing, it only wastes your time and annoys the pig.