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CAD: Computer Aided Design, Software, Drawings, Programs And AutoCAD

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Published: November 26, 2007

CAD is short for computer aided design, although historically, it was originally known as computer aided drafting. The change from computer aided drafting to computer aided design was adopted because modern versions have been created to do other things apart from drafting.

In any case, CAD is often synonymous with drawings mainly because the data involved includes lines, arcs, dimensions, coordinates and the like. However, unlike in standard drawings, CAD is designed to enable its user to alter the data with great ease. This is because in CAD drawings are entered not on a sheet of paper, but rather into a specially-designed data base. This allows users to make changes even when the drawings have been completed.

Since CAD essentially makes use of computers, it is but natural that programs for computer aided design are consequently created. In the field of engineering, CAD has been particularly useful since programs enable engineers to carefully plan their work from mere conceptual design down to the actual layout of materials. The programs also enable many users to create their designs from a computer and, if they happen to have the appropriate software, they can have their work printed out or perhaps even saved so they can get this edited in the future.

In similar fashion, CAD has also become a vital tool for many architects since most software is highly-specialized and usually contains 3D graphics. This makes the drawings of many architects more realistic, and at the same time, easy to accomplish since the software can correct any flaw. This is particularly important for architects whose business is creating house designs which often require several revisions. With CAD as a major tool, this particular aspect of their job generally becomes easier.

Other areas where CAD has seen extensive usage are in the construction business and in animation. With the former, the benefits CAD provides are generally similar to those received by architects and engineers who also use it rather extensively. These benefits include design efficiency, a more organized work flow, and improvement of job skills.

In the field of animation, CAD has also become quite popular, largely because animators find the two basic types, namely, the 2D and the 3D, highly useful when they make drawings. The 3D programs are particularly helpful since it is known for its graphics which allows animators to create powerful visualizations of animated characters in films.

Technically, though, most animators find AutoCAD to be more appropriate when making 3D drawings. AutoCAD is special software often used by people when creating drawings of the graphics variety. Introduced during the early 80s, AutoCAD quickly rose to prominence owing to its unique design formats. At present, this software that enjoys worldwide recognition, with most its programs available in 18 different languages.


Sources:
"Computer-Aided Design." Wikipedia -- The Free Encyclopedia. 23 Nov. 2007. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CAD.

"What is CAD?" Afe Graphics. MACH9 Technologies Inc. 23 Nov. 2007. http://www.afegraphics.com/mach9/cadis.htm.

Chastain, Sue. "What is Graphics Software?" About, Inc. 23 Nov. 2007. http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/findsoftware/a/in trographicssw.htm.

Finkelstein, Jonathan."Careers in AutoCAD." Jidaw Systems Limited. 23 Nov. 2007. http://www.jidaw.com/certarticles/autocadcareer.ht ml.
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