You can now choose from an unlimited number of colors. Non-rendered 2-D and 3-D elements in VectorWorks 2008 are no longer limited to the Mac’s system colors (or my favorite technique: mixing colors using the foregrounds and backgrounds in fill patterns). You can configure the floating data bar so that it’s visible all of the time, none of the time, or only when you call for it, and it can provide various levels of basic or detailed information. This allows you to focus on your drawing without having to refer back to a palette or display on another part of the interface. In a wide-reaching interface overhaul, VectorWorks 2008 debuts a new floating data bar (also known as a heads-up display) that shows the dimensions and angles of your drawing in a floating display that moves with your cursor. A VectorWorks screen showing three externally referenced files.

VectorWorks Designer combines all of the modules into one huge package. RenderWorks, a high-end rendering module, can be added to and used with any VectorWorks module. VectorWorks Machine Design is aimed at mechanical engineers. VectorWorks Spotlight targets the entertainment industry, including theater, event planning, and exhibition. VectorWorks Landmark is designed for landscape architecture and planning. VectorWorks Architect, aimed at architects and similar design professionals, has loads of specialized tools such as space planning, door, wall, and window tools. VectorWorks Fundamentals includes most of the program’s core 2-D and 3-D CAD functions, but leaves out advanced rendering capabilities as well as many profession-specific features. The slate of professionally targeted modules in the latest version is the same as in years past, but for each module, numerous enhancements make the program more user-friendly and powerful. VectorWorks comprises six modules aimed at specific types of professional users. VectorWorks 2008 improves on and expands this already impressive array of capabilities.

Combining a powerful 2-D drafting environment with integrated 3-D modeling functionality, VectorWorks can take your project from planning to simple drafting to complex, photorealistic rendering.

VectorWorks has been one of the premiere CAD (computer-aided design) programs for the Macintosh for many years.

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