Solid Edge Offers Monthly Subscription for 3D Modeling Software

[Brian_Krassenstein]

3D modeling software is expensive, and for companies or individuals that rarely use it, a yearly subscription is hardly worth the investment. Solid Edge is appealing to those periodic users by offering a monthly subscription that customers can license on an as-needed basis. The plan has worked wonderfully for designers like Rick Chapman, who temporarily licensed the software to design a new snowmaking pump that is saving ski resorts lots of water and money. Read more at 3DPrint.com: http://3dprint.com/121375/solid-edge-monthly-service/

[Geoff]

3D modeling software is expensive, and for companies or individuals that rarely use it, a yearly subscription is hardly worth the investment. Solid Edge is appealing to those periodic users by offering a monthly subscription that customers can license on an as-needed basis. The plan has worked wonderfully for designers like Rick Chapman, who temporarily licensed the software to design a new snowmaking pump that is saving ski resorts lots of water and money. Read more at 3DPrint.com: http://3dprint.com/121375/solid-edge-monthly-service/

It would have to be a pretty special bit of software I think, there is a wealth of free modelling programs out there it would be hard to justify for me. I can't state strongly enough how versatile Blender is, and the fact it is 100% free makes it all the more worthwhile.

[Mlombard]

It would have to be a pretty special bit of software I think, there is a wealth of free modelling programs out there it would be hard to justify for me. I can't state strongly enough how versatile Blender is, and the fact it is 100% free makes it all the more worthwhile.

Blender, and many other free 3D packages, are great at what they do - 3D cgi geometry using mesh subd type data. CAD software uses mathematically based NURBS surfaces and works to make sure you have viable 3D solids, as well as creating assemblies of parts, drawings, and presenting other information in a manufacturing business sort of way. Plus, it is more focused toward data that can be used downstream in other downstream processes, for example simulations for stress, fluid flow, temperature, sheet metal for bending, and solids for machining. Dimensioned 2D drawings are most often a part of the engineering/manufacturing process as well.

So it's not just about making 3D geometry, but making data that supports manufacturing. Solid Edge is professional 3D CAD software and has been around for 20 years. Check out a free trial: http://www.plm.automation.siemens.co...ION=1189811524

[Sebastian Finke]

I have to echo what Mlombard says. There is no comparison between pro software like SolidEdge and freeware. None. Strange though that SE opted for this route. SE is not easy or straightforward to use. I can't see someone purchasing a one month license and getting their project done with much training. Especially since the trial is 45 days. I speak under correction though as the last time I used it they had V14, now they're on S6...