Recommendations for a simple 2D program to edit dxf/dwg ?

Question

Occasionally I have to open & edit a DXF or DWG drawing sent in (in millimetres). Or I would like to edit a solidworks generated dxf/dwg drawing.

I find the Solidworks drawing interface too 'clunky' and so slow for this ?because its more designed to detail up Solidworks views of models. I have tried Visio and Sketcher as supposedly simple 2D CAD editors ? but found them lacking particularly as they are set up to default to inches and importing scaling dxf/dwg in mm seems to be very complex, although editing line etc. not too bad.

I used to use a brilliant program by engineered software called PowerCAD (or PowerDraw) ? simple, elegant etc..... BUT only for the Mac. Does anyone have any suggestions, especially the lower cost/simple variety as this for occasional use.

It would be a bonus if such a program was also 2D parametric too !! but I guess that's too much to ask.

How do others get round / work with these issues - Thanks in anticipation ? Mark, UK

Devon T. Sowell · Accepted Answer

Hello Mark-I use AutoDesk's AutoSketch. $98.00 US.Best Regards,Devon T. Sowell

Markku Lehtola · Answer

I'm using FelixCAD LT with large layouts, you can propably still get it free (can't save DWG/DXF) from: just have to measure things, so I can manage with the free version.

Dale Dunn · Answer

If you're on subscription, check out some of the new tools for dealing with dwg files in the 2005 beta. They might be significant enough to let you hang on to your cash.

DesignSmith · Answer

IMSI TurboCAD 10 andCadopia IntelliCAD 2004 are both capable DWG editors for cheap.FYI,DesignSmith

KCS Development · Answer

BobCAD/CAM has a nice 2D editor but also is pretty decent for 3D even back to version 17. An added bonus, you can program CNC machines (CAM)... I could give you a good discount since I'm a BobCAD dealer and sitting on an inventory of v17. If anyone wants a copy I am willing to sell v17 at zero profit. I have 9 copies available. E-mail or call for details.

Kent KCS Development

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Mark Sanders · Answer

Thanks Guys thats really helpful - will check out all (especially swks2005 beta editor !)Mark

jj · Answer

Rhino3D! about $600, free support, no subscriptionsYou get the bonus of more surfacing power than SW and go can export /importbetween very easily, Rhino is super Easy but no a good dimensioning tool.Very easy for 2d as well as a 3 D surfacer

Recommendations for a simple 2D program to edit dxf/dwg ?

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