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A free, easy to use alternative for computer aided drafting software

A free, easy to use alternative for computer aided drafting software

Vote: (168 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Dassault Systemes

Version: 2020

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac

Vote:

Program license

(168 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Dassault Systemes

2020

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac

DraftSight is a free 2D CAD tool that presents an affordable alternative to aging legacy 2D CAD programs. It provides the basic functionality that CAD users need for their legacy DWG files.

Two dimensional computer aided drafting has made a significant impact on the world of manufacturing, art, construction and many other fields. However, with the onset of new 3D CAD systems, many companies find themselves stuck between having to maintain various legacy files created in programs that are no longer supported by new operating systems, and being able to move forward using the latest technology.

Maintaining 2D CAD legacy software can become expensive. Yet, failure to do so can lead to compliance violations and inability to utilize legacy product designs and drawings. The aging DWG format used by AutoCAD and other similar legacy programs are often the only electronic archive that many companies have of their legacy products. This is valuable data that may not be needed every single day, but certainly is still important.

DraftSight attempts to resolve many of the problems associated with maintaining these legacy files. One common obstacle is operating system compatibility. Windows XP, 8, 9 and 10 often cannot use older Windows 95 2D CAD programs. Instead of opting for trying to maintain an old computer with one of these obsolete operating systems, companies can use DraftSight for the rare occasion that they need to access their legacy files. DraftSight is community driven and fully compatible with all versions of Microsoft Windows and Linux.

The free version allows users to try out its functionality and see how it works with their legacy files. While it may not handle all extended functionality that AutoCAD and other legacy programs have, most companies find that it at least gives them a way to view and print their 2D DWG files. Upgrading to the enterprise or professional version unlocked additional functionality such as batch printing, industry-standard symbols and item libraries and network support. Give this excellent program a try today.

Pros

  • Allows users to access legacy DWG files on modern operating systems
  • Free to try
  • Community driven and maintained

Cons

  • May not contain all functionality and extended DWG properties of legacy systems
  • Free version has limitations that may not meet all users’s needs