Hi Michael ...

Yes, ViaCad does look like a workable option.

It seems that MoI, ViaCad and possibly Draftsight would make a very inexpensive modeling and drafting combination.
Add one of the lesser expensive rendering programs and 3d PDF and one would have a pretty complete tool box.

I personally have a bunch of more expensive programs but am always on the lookout for workable solutions
for people getting started with low budgets.

And, if a few hundred dollars will produce professional results why spend thousands?

thanks for the information.
cheers,
eric

Hi eric,

> Add one of the lesser expensive rendering programs and 3d
> PDF and one would have a pretty complete tool box.

Yup, and maybe Simlab Composer would fit in well for those tasks, I think their "Rendering Edition" version handles both rendering and generation of 3D PDF files as well, and it's $149: http://www.simlab-soft.com/

- Michael

""""""""I think their "Rendering Edition" version handles both rendering and generation of 3D PDF files as well""""""""""

It's also the Luxon render engine... Which is basically hypershot/keyshot renders!

Yes, the Sim Lab renderer is good and the 3d PDF is awesome ... a great way to present a project to a client.
The last house I designed I did a construction and framing detail plan with lots of 'layers' or 'styles' and the client could turn them on or off at will to better understand the construction process. Good stuff.
cheers,
eric

I use Moi to make 2d stuff all the time, it's easier and faster at on many levels.

Object management with styles is faster than any other I know.
Some examples:

Click on text description to select all in this style, ctrl+click to subtract one style
Right-Click the Eye to isolate the style, Ctrl+click to lock.
Swipe to rapidly on the eyes to turn on or off a bunch of styles.

I use other programs to dimension.

There is a script to transfer curves to dxf:
http://kyticka.webzdarma.cz/3d/moi/converter/3dmCurves2DXF/3dmCurves2DXF.zip


Marc

Hi, I agree with the ones that say MoI is great for 2d drawings! I have tried 2 methods for exporting MoI files to Autocad: 1. Export as SAT. This option doesnt let you export the styles. 2. Use the rhino dwg exporter, it does allow you to export styles!

Yes, I use MoI for a lot of 2d work. It's my favourite drawing program, for 2d and 3d.

(I make art for my games in it)