possible new user

[Michael Hall]

I see VW does not have "trial versions" available, so I will ask existing users for their comments. I have been using TurboCAD pro, but my work is 99.9% 2D Residential Architecture. IMO, TurboCAD is ignoring 2D capabilities and only improving 3D. At the same time, their improvements in 3D actually cause trouble with some 2D tools and program response which impacts my time. I would really like to get more involved in 3D visualization, but I cannot ignore my booming business with 2D work, and I MUST have efficient CAD software in that regard. I would really like to have CAD software that would allow me to work "efficiently" in 2D while I can always experiment and try 3D applications. I have often thought of at least creating some 3D "hidden line render" views of typical details that I could include on my 2D drawings (24"x36" paper). I live and work in Central Florida so canned symbols and other details are of little use to me. I must create my own "blocks". Is VW software for me? Any comments/guidance appreciated.

[alanmac]

VW does have demo versions available, of course with no save or print restrictions, so you could try it out that way.

Alan

[Michael Hall]

I see "updates" but no demo or trial downloads. Interested in "Fundamentals" version.

[Robert Anderson]

If your work is residential architecture, I'd like to recommend (strongly) VectorWorks Architect. Also, one of the reasons our demo version is not stressed is that we offer a 90 day no-questions-asked money back guarantee. This is as far as I know unique in the industry. Generally, what you describe above is straightforwardly done in VW Architect. Please feel free to ask further questions or email me directly.

[Michael Hall]

Thanks for your reply. I was thinking "Fundamentals" instead of VW Architect. That implies a good reason I need to see a demo/trial version to help me decide. Your product fees are not a problem, but I feel I should try before I buy. What I describe above might be straightforward for VW, but that may not be so for our unique building environment in Central Florida and/or the Gulf Coast - not to mention my unique style and self created blocks/groups/symbols. Could you direct me to demo/trial versions? I will start with Fundamentals. If that suits me, I will try Architect. If one or the other passes my test, I will buy.

[Travis]

Michael,

I think what Robert is trying to point out is that NNA offers a trial period rather than a trial version. I'd encourage you to take advantage of that offer. You get the full program, all the features, drive it and go. The learning curve is not insignificant, so post whatever questions come up and someone will likely help out.

You might simply start with the Architect version. It includes all the features found in Fundamentals. . .so you'll be "test driving" both at the same time. You'll only need to draw a few walls and add a roof to be convinced which will serve your purposes best.

You might find the following threads to be useful:

http://techboard.nemetschek.net/cgi/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=16;t=001325

http://techboard.nemetschek.net/cgi/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=12;t=004567

http://techboard.nemetschek.net/cgi/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=12;t=004541

Good luck,

[Jershaun]

Hi Michael

TurboCAD for its price is extremely good and if I was productive with it I with stay with it. Prior to VW12 I would have also encouraged you to stay with TC however VW12 puts a user almost in the same ballpark as archicad and revit (from what I have read).

So, although I haven't used VW12 yet (I have ordered my copy), I would suggest you go the VectorWorks route. Fundermentals should be OK for you cause it has most of the essential tools for an architect but if you can afford it, go for the Architect version. BUT, I would also wait cause TC always comes out with updates and new versions. Maybe they will have live sections and so forth.

Hope this helps.

[Michael Hall]

quote:

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Originally posted by Chris Manus:

quote:

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Originally posted by Michael Hall:

I live and work in Central Florida so canned symbols and other details are of little use to me. I must create my own "blocks". Is VW software for me? Any comments/guidance appreciated.

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LOL... Canned Symbols,I think you mean canned Blocks..I think youll find PIOs,Scripting,Symbols and intuiative editing,is what makes this program unique-HTH

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[Michael Hall]

No, I meant canned symbols OR canned blocks or any other group.