Re: More Cad Programs from Ebay

[protek@shreve.net]

    Since I suggested the CAD software idea, let me add to the thought.
First, AutoCad is an excellent package but if you buy it legally it will
cost you thousands and consume more memory, disk space, and time than most
people have to offer.  I do not know much about what is offered but I do
not believe that you could obtain a package for under $100 that would work
for all concerned.  Another solution that would probably work well is to
use Adobe Acrobat.  This is not a design program but a method of packaging
complex documents into a single (.pdf) file that can be sent via Email.
Anyone can download the Acrobat reader free of charge off the Net.  If the
design team opts for AutoCad or a cheaper version of CAD and can put the
output information into a .pdf file all can see it.  Ray may be able to
create a design plan page so as to allow instant download of the latest
plans.  The full Adobe Acrobat package (needed to form the .pdf files) is
reasonable in price but not necessary to read the plans.
    I do not believe that you need a package with the power of AutoCad to
do this job.  Like driving a tack with a sledge hammer.  I do also believe
that if Psubs members are going to use a CAD program, all should use the
same identical package so that any drawings can be sent from anyone to
anyone else on the list.  Lets not get into compatability problems like so
many have done in the early stages of microcomputers.

Gary Boucher