Solid works program

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ThatGuy88

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Not sure if the right area to post and apologize if it is not. But was wondering if anyone here has or used a good solid works program that isnt going to **** me on price or need doctorate to run.
 

SilverBack

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Solid works is the name of a 3D modeling program. So are you looking for a 3D modeling program or a 2D for drawings and blueprints?
What exactly are you trying to do?
Autocad is what I use for any basic 2D drawing and blueprints Autocad also has 3D modeling capabilities but I find 3D modeling on Autocad a bit of a pain. Solid works is much nicer and easier in my opinion but I hear it's pretty expensive.
I would also recommend taking a class at your local community college to learn how to use any of the programs.
 

Trick.Raptor

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+1 with @SilverBack on going to local community college.

We run both AutoCad and SolidWorks in our labs and students are allowed to obtain a copy. Not all colleges have this ability but I would think most do.

I don't actually use the programs as all I do is build the image that has them both to roll out the labs. From what I hear though AutoCad is the preferred program in class.

Have you tried Sketchup? It's not as powerful as the others but it's free...
 

t_j

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Depending on how much you need auto desk fusion 360 may be a good free option
 
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ThatGuy88

ThatGuy88

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Sorry bout the mix up guys, but I am looking for a 3d modeling program. Nothing insane just so I could mock up a bumper roll bar, fender small singl3 projects. Will definitely check out the freebies first
 

Yukon Joe

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Didn't Google come out with a 3d modeling program that is free? I thought I remember someone here posting that.

Yukon Joe :baby: :baby:
 

jschell1309

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I use CAD software daily for work. Started with SolidWorks and have now moved to NX and Catia. Would highly recommend SolidWorks if you are ever looking to purchase. However a single license will run north of $5k.

If you are looking for free 2D software the Draftsight is the best free version out there. It is made by Dassault Systemes (makers of SolidWorks) and has great support. However this is just 2D drafting and layouts.

There is about only one decent 3D CAD program and that is sketchup. It may be difficult to get the hang of to start with but youtube and google will really be the best teachers. Hell I been designing in CAD for 5+ years and still refer to google or youtube to figure out a better or faster way to draft almost daily.
 

Door Ding

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Solidworks offers a deeply discounted watermarked version to teachers and students. It is a VERY versatile program and much easier to use than most cad programs. The downside is that the files created on the watermarked version are not fully compatible with the full version.
 
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