What CAD application for a newbe

[lum]

DXF is a file type I've run into while prowling for woodworking plans. And a quick Google suggests I come to y'all for some guidance. Since I have no CAD experience nor a friend who does, I'll be starting from scratch.

What's a new kid to do? To begin with I need to print plans, rather than develop them.

Thank you for your thoughts, folks.

Liam

[Tom Slick]

.dxf and .dwg are autocad standards for files. this viewer should help you out.
http://www.solidworks.com/pages/prod...eDrawings.html

[Uncle Cracker]

DXF stands for Drawing Exchange Format, which is a generic format developed to move drawings from otherwise incompatible proprietary graphics sorftware platforms, like Microstation to AutoCad. Although improvements have been made through the years, much imbedded information is usually still lost in the translation. If you are just starting out, invest in a scaled-down version of a popular mainstream CAD program, such as AutoCad LT, or if you are a student and can verify it, you could even go for the full educational version of AutoCad 2008. HOWEVER, with progress comes pain. There is a sizable learning curve that goes along with AutoCad or other frontline production CAD packages. Be prepared for it, or get a layman's CAD package without the bells and whistles. Your decision should include a well thought-out assessment of exactly what kind of work you're going to be doing.

[Scottydont]

If I remember right MS Visio can open DXF formats. You can download a free Visio viewer from MS.

[cork58]

My wife has done CAD since it was first started and she says "if you don't havn't been to school for raster and the newest versions" GOOD LUCK! You will need alot of help and probably be confused. If you really want to do this try some very basic programs first. I'm sure that other members will give some good advice on your question.

[siliconbauhaus]

I can convert your files and send them back to you as a pdf if it helps mate

[BasementDweller]

I'm no wiz for sure, but I've been really impressed with a free program from Google called SketchUp. I just checks and it claims it can "import" DXF files. Not sure how well or anything but the option is there.

I've been amazed how fast you can go from knowing nothing to making some pretty nice drawings with this software. You can also find several different online tutorials for it to get you started.

Enjoy, hope it helps!

- BD

[lum]

Thank you all for the pointers, offers of conversion, and cautions. For openers, I've installed "eDrawings" ... which is a reader ... and will look at "SketchUp" for an intro to CAD creation.

For now it is enough to be able to import files as it appears there is a gold mine out there and some or much of it is not PDF'd.

The primary goal is to see some examples of good construction approaches that don't require a full suite of tools ... like biscuit making tools ... just a TS, jointer, router. I've blown the budget on the new 21829.

Perhaps a jointer will get blown in with the 70 MPH gusts forecast for the next 24 hours or so for the Oregon coast.

Liam