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Publication Review

Title: Goggle SketchUp (Link to website for free download)
Author: Sketchup and Google
File: Free CAD Program, EXE 19.1 MB
System Requirements: Windows XP, 2000 or Mac OS X
Audience: For advanced homeowners, builders and designers.

Review
3D CAD program, very good for free. Google purchased the company and has generously provided a free verson of the program. Allows the user to create 3D drawings from scratch or build up from 2D plans imported into the program. Free version appears to have enough functionality to explore home designs in 3D. Supports DWG 2D drawing import from AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT. The free version is licensed for personal use only.

Google has started a large library of 3D images like trees and furnature that can easily be downloaded into the program. Many 3D building models are also available for download.

The $500.00 pro upgrade has not been reviewed but appears to have added fuctionality for importing and exporting files.

One down side is the program seems to reset the screen size on buildwise.org's computers to fit a predetermined area. This problem is not permanent as the old settings are easily restored.

Issues covered include:

  • 3D CAD and computer aided drafting and design


Related Links

SketchUp