Punch! Software CAD Software Review
Features:
1) The 3D kernel has been updated and should improve blending, chamfering, shelling, Booleans, direct face editing etc. This should fix those well known bugs in previous versions.
2) Some 2D drafting tools have been added to fix some of the known bugs (e.g. being able to cut out the floor, but not the ceiling) when you’re trying to design.
3) Multiple Viewports allow you to open multiple views of any given component. Allowing you to analyze from all different angles.
4) New Using Wizard allows you to create new components and keep all your settings. It’s always quicker to complete a task once rather than over and over again.
5) Local Face Modeling allows you to rapidly make changes to components imported from other CAD software.
6) Powerful 2D architectural tools to create precise, healing walls quickly and easily. Also fixing a known bug.
7) Pro version includes more powerful tools like tangent lofting, G1/G2 surface matching, surface analysis and Booleans, and much more.
8 ) Intelligent Design allows you to consider all possible scenarios (e.g. what if my component does blank?)
9) Punch CAD is very affordable and should be seriously considered before trying other brands.
Con’s:
1) Some have reported no support for Mac, but that should be fixed in the most recent version.
2) Some have had a hard time with instillation until they updated their video drivers (simple fix if you know going in to it).
3) Punch does not include a user guide, the one you can download from support doesn’t explain clearly for a novice, and it is in PDF format so there isn’t help on specific items or components.
4) Some have said they have a hard time figuring out the software because they are not experts, and since the user guide isn’t helpful they get stuck.
5) Some have reported that the software isn’t compatible with Windows Vista.
Review: There are a lot of bad reviews of Punch software, however, I believe the new version (Punch Professional Home Design and Landscaping Suite) should satisfy those who are not able to find the tools they want and the annoying bugs. The 3D preview function allows you to see your finished product without spending money on prototypes or completed work. The drag and drop feature saves design time since some basic objects are already created for you, and there are many other features that make this product very usable. The biggest issue most people have is that the trial version doesn’t allow you to use the most important features that differentiate Punch CAD software from AutoCAD, Solid Works, Smart Draw, etc. Many have commented that if you can’t try it before you buy it then they aren’t buying….