CAD
Buying instead of renting
With the new version of the CAD system ZWCAD 2018 from ZWSOFT, encee CAD/CAM-Systeme GmbH offers an alternative to AutoCAD: With similar user guidance, data compatibility and a suitable range of functions, users benefit financially from the purchase of a permanent license in the first year, according to the manufacturer. The new 2018 version includes numerous improvements and an ergonomically enhanced screen display.
ZWSOFT is less well-known in Germany, but serves a large and loyal customer base that has acquired around 550,000 customers in 80 countries in the CAD industry over the last 20 years. The flagship product ZWCAD is available in two versions: The PRO version has basic 3D modeling capabilities as well as 3D rendering, while the STD version does not include these features. The main benefit corresponds to a 2D drawing program - if you want to model, you should find out about the provider's 3D modeler ZW3D. The software is available in different versions for architecture and mechanics.
Like AutoCAD, ZWCAD focuses more on design, construction and documentation than on 3D modeling and finite element analysis (FEA). It welcomes users with the classic ribbon interface, tool palettes and many familiar commands and symbols. The changeover is therefore possible without any retraining time. The interface includes a command line, drawing area, property bar and - in the new 2018 version - a calculator. ZWCAD is compatible with file types such as DWG, DXF, DWF and DWT. You can also import DGN files to make them compatible with MicroStation.
Other new features in the current ZWCAD package are the "SmartMouse" function, which allows commands to be executed using mouse gestures, and the "SmartVoice" function, which allows voice notes to be added to drawings. The notes are played back in the drawing after clicking on the voice icon. A useful new feature is the software's API, which includes LISP, VBA, ZRX, SDS and .NET. This allows you to create and customize your own commands or command series. The API is compatible with AutoLISP, VBA, ARX, SDS, .NET, so that existing applications can be easily ported to ZWCAD.
encee CAD/CAM-Systeme GmbH provides a free demo version of ZWCAD for 30 days so that interested parties can test all functions: http://encee.de/cadcam/zwcad/zwcad-download
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