ZWCAD CAD Software Review
Features:
ZWCAD 2009 is very similar to Auto CAD 2009 in that it provides almost all of the same features as Auto CAD and a few extras options that Auto CAD does not offer. I will list a few features and finally a short review.
1) DWG support allows importing and editing Auto CAD files without losing data.
2) The interface is completely customizable, so if you are used to Auto CAD then you can arrange the toolbars, etc to your fit your preferred style of work.
3) Programming is easy using SDS (a language similar to C++), Microsoft VBA, and LISP (a light programming language used to assist in expanding the functions for ZWCAD).
4) Drawings can be exported in bmp, wmf, emf, svg, dwf, eps, pdf, and sat formats.
5) Drawing and Editing are very similar to Auto CAD so anyone familiar with that software should be able to use ZWCAD with a miniscule learning curve.
6) Unlimited undo and redo functionality which can save time in editing steps.
7) Publish allows you to print or print to file a series of drawings to be viewed by anyone want. Saving you time printing one at a time then having to sort out your drawings from everyone else in the office printings and putting them in order.
8 ) Pop ups display next to the cursor providing you with help, labels, or command line prompts.
9) Mtext is a window that can display multiple languages which can help to bridge the gap between you and your overseas clients.
10) The quick Calculator provides standard calculator functions as well as more advanced functions such as geometric, scientific, and/or unit’s conversion.
Con’s:
1) Not a user friendly interface.
2) Some have had a hard time opening drawings without some level of conversion.
3) Some have complained that the API’s are not advanced enough yet, but I think 2009 has fixed that.
4) No dynamic blocks, tables, or fields.
5) It is very difficult to find out the price.
Review:
ZWCad is extremely affordable, and that is it’s single greatest feature. Add its affordability to its similarity to Auto CAD software and you have a very nice product. Is it as powerful and robust as Auto CAD? No, but it is a LOT cheaper. Some designers have said its 2D functionality is excellent, but its 3D needs to be more stable and easier to use. Each new release is fixing more bugs and many designers feel that it will be competition to be reckoned with when the bugs are worked out. ZWCad needs to be more open about their price or even start selling it at retail stores would be ideal. That is probably the biggest complaint out there. I would recommend it in one or two more releases.