Inexpensive 2D software - easy to learn

I have read a few comments here about the need for a drawing package. I just came across QCAD by Ribbonsoft started out as a project from SourceForge I get a lot of free software (mostly under development). QCAD was a free product, but has gone private.

First, QCAD is a 2D drawing product; if you are familiar with AutoCAD, this is very similar. You can draw full scale, and print at any scale. You can be as detailed as you need, or just use it to calculate what you can get out of a board. The menus and buttons are very clear and intuitive. All the bells and whistle that most of us need are present. There is some issues, and a forum to discuss them. Also, there is a new version about to come out (included in the current price) that fixes issues and improves scripting (that’s programming automatic individual features – like drawing box joints).

Now here’s the best part: The software, and the manual cost about $55 (the price is in Euros, and is bought through PayPal). All is delivered via download, so there is no waiting, in fact you can download a trial version to tryout (highly recommended).

The only negative I see is that there is no 3D rendering, but then for the money, this is still an outstanding value.

-- chas