The Architectural software comes in many different types, prices, features, and quality. CAD is used in engineering drawing, construction and architecture and also used for other purposes. There are various flavours of CAD available today and there are different methods of classifying them.
CAD may be used to design curves and figures in two-dimensional (2D) space; or curves, surfaces, and solids in three-dimensional (3D) space. Most architects and architectural firms are using CAD software for a more pleasant and cost-effective experience when planning new buildings. Computer Aided Drafting is used for conceptual design and layout of products and can ultimately eliminate the high costs of testing and manufacturing.
CAD Software mostly used creating construction, architectural and building plans for contractors, planning out electrical or mechanical layouts for manufacturers and builders and many other tasks.
Types of CAD Software
2 Dimensional CAD (2D CAD)
Two-dimensional, or 2D CAD allow you to create flat drawings of products and structures. Objects created in 2D CAD are made up of lines, circles, ovals, slots and curves.
3 Dimensional CAD (3D CAD)
3D Computer Aided Design is a step up from the 2D CAD software of yesteryears. As the processing power of computers increased, and the graphic display capabilities improved, 3D CAD has become an increasingly popular design tool.
3D CAD can be further classified as:
Wire-frame models – they create skeleton like models with lines and arcs. Since they appear to be made of wires, and everything in the background is visible, they are called wire-frame models. They are not very popular anymore.
Surface models – unlike wire frames, these models are created by joining 3D surfaces. Since nothing in the background is visible, the surface models are quite realistic.
Solid models – they are considered to be the most useful CAD models. Although they appear to be the same as surface models, they also have additional properties like weight, volume and density, just like actual physical objects.
Most Popular CAD Software
1. AutoCAD
AutoCAD is probably the most popular commercial CAD software today. This software was developed by Autodesk, and the first version was made back in 1982. AutoCAD is one of the first CADsoftware programs to run on personal computers because, during that time, CAD software had to run on specialized computers like mainframes. Today, AutoCAD is capable of creating full plans like blueprints or even models of other objects. It is capable of either 2D or 3D designs that are very detailed. Professionals and amateurs alike often use this software. Download Link
2. ArchiCAD
ArchiCAD is a complete design suite with 2D and 3D drafting, visualization and other functions for architects, designers, and planners. A wide range of software applications integrated in ArchiCAD to cover most of the design needs of an architectural office: Download Link
3. 3D Max
Autodesk 3ds Max, formerly 3D Studio MAX, is a modeling, animation and rendering package developed by Autodesk Media andEntertainment. It has modeling capabilities, a flexible plugin architecture and is able to be used on the Microsoft Windows platform Download Link
4. MicroStation
MicroStation is a CAD software product for 2- and 3-dimensional design and drafting developed and sold byBentley Systems. it generates 2D/3D vector graphic objects and elements. The current version is MicroStation V8i. Download Link
5. ChiefArchitect
ChiefArchitect is a professional 3D architectural home design software. Automated building tools make home design, remodeling, interior design and kitchen &bath design easy. Discover why Chief Architect is the home design software product of choice for 2D and 3D design. Download Link
6. TurboCAD
TurboCAD is a CAD software application for 2D and 3D design and drafting running on the Macintosh andMicrosoft Windows operating systems. Download Link