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CAD upgrades, new hardware, and more
By Deborah Snoonian, P.E.

MicroStation V8
Bentley Systems
www.bentley.com
(for Windows only)

Bentley’s latest version of MicroStation can handle DWG files.

This updated CAD package forms the basis for a significant upgrade of all of Bentley’s design software, which was demonstrated last spring on an extended road show, culminating in the annual user’s conference last May. MicroStation and its related products, such as the 3D modeling software TriForma, are intended to work together for creating, editing, and publishing of design and engineering information. A main selling point is full interoperability with DWG files, a feature that may help the company win over some of Autodesk’s customers. Architects considering an upgrade or platform change should consider this alternative to the AEC market leader.

DesignJet 100 and 120 Printer Series
HP
www.designjet.hp.com/supplies
(for Windows and Macintosh)

HP’s DesignJet 120 is best for occasional large-format color prints.

HP has aimed this new line of color printers at companies that occasionally need to print large-format documents but can’t justify the cost of purchasing a machine. Starting at under $1,000, the DesignJet 100 model is a color multiformat printer targeted to the AEC market. It can print 4-color documents ranging from letter-size to D-size (24 inches by 36 inches), at a speed of up to 11 pages per minute for letter-size paper in draft mode. Modular ink supply cartridges can be replaced individually, simplifying maintenance and upkeep. Starting under $1,300, the DesignJet 120 (pictured at right) has six-color capability and can be equipped with an optional roll feeder. Though it is targeted to the graphic-design market, architects who need to print highly accurate color renderings and presentation photographs will find it useful. Both devices work with HP’s Printing for AEC service.

Architectural Studio 3
Autodesk
www.autodesk.com
(for Windows only)

Architectural Studio 3 now has tools for creating 3D objects.

Autodesk has released updates of much of its product suite this year, including this popular conceptual-design package, which debuted in 2001. The uncluttered interface is designed to replicate a desktop one might find in any architectural office, from pens and markers to translucent trace paper that can be laid over existing photos or drawings for idea development.

The work space has a graph-paper pattern, with icons for drawing, and editing tools lined up along its sides. Working in 2D, a user can either sketch freehand or work with shape and line tools for more accurate drawing. New to this version are tools for creating 3D solids, walls, extruded shapes, and cutouts; the resulting design, however, lacks the data needed for true building information modeling. All of the drawing objects are vector-based, so they can be selected and modified throughout the work cycle. Users praise a snapshot tool that lets them select portions of other files, such as CAD drawings or photos, for mark up or further work in Studio. Built-in collaboration abilities let designers work on the same project together in real time.

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