Mac aficionados,
I am looking for recommendations for basic 2D CAD software that is suitable for scientific and electronic design. Over the past 25 years, I have used Claris CAD, then MiniCAD, then Vectorworks for this purpose. However, Mavericks has finally broken the dongle driver for my old version of Vectorworks, and their lousy Mac support and exorbitant pricing structure make upgrade a non-viable option. I have no need for 3D or rendering, but I would like to be able to read dxf so that I can use manufacturer-provided schematics in my designs. Also, it would be great to be able to read all of my old libraries (screws, flanges, electrical components, etc.), but I realize this may be impossible.
My needs are quite straightforward -- just 2D drafting + dimensioning with tolerances, ideally with support for object libraries. MiniCAD was perfect for my needs. I recently got my old version of Claris CAD running under Mavericks via Basilisk II. If I could find my old copy of MiniCAD and license info, I would be sorely tempted to try this route.
ViaCAD 2D seems to rise to the top in a cursory web and MacRumors search. TurboCAD may also be a possibility; however, there are a number of negative comments about its non-Mac-like interface.
I would be willing to spend a few hundred dollars (academic pricing) if I found a well-established product that did what I need; however, I absolutely will not buy anything that requires a dongle.
Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
Melissa
I am looking for recommendations for basic 2D CAD software that is suitable for scientific and electronic design. Over the past 25 years, I have used Claris CAD, then MiniCAD, then Vectorworks for this purpose. However, Mavericks has finally broken the dongle driver for my old version of Vectorworks, and their lousy Mac support and exorbitant pricing structure make upgrade a non-viable option. I have no need for 3D or rendering, but I would like to be able to read dxf so that I can use manufacturer-provided schematics in my designs. Also, it would be great to be able to read all of my old libraries (screws, flanges, electrical components, etc.), but I realize this may be impossible.
My needs are quite straightforward -- just 2D drafting + dimensioning with tolerances, ideally with support for object libraries. MiniCAD was perfect for my needs. I recently got my old version of Claris CAD running under Mavericks via Basilisk II. If I could find my old copy of MiniCAD and license info, I would be sorely tempted to try this route.
ViaCAD 2D seems to rise to the top in a cursory web and MacRumors search. TurboCAD may also be a possibility; however, there are a number of negative comments about its non-Mac-like interface.
I would be willing to spend a few hundred dollars (academic pricing) if I found a well-established product that did what I need; however, I absolutely will not buy anything that requires a dongle.
Any suggestions would be much appreciated.
Melissa