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Updates for 3D CAD, collaboration
tools
By James Murdock and Deborah Snoonian, P.E.
This tiny projector by Mitsubishi
packs big presentation power. |
Mini-Mits
XD60U
Mitsubishi Digital Electronics
America
www.mitsubishi-presentations.com
Windows and Mac
Although it’s smaller than a three-ring binder and weighs
less than a half-gallon of milk, Mitsubishi’s Mini-Mits
XD60U packs powerful projection capability for on-the-road
presentations and slide shows.
The compact projector accepts analog, digital, and HDTV signals
from laptops, desktops, and TV sets. Its bright, long-life
lamp and high native resolution allow users to see crisp,
sharp images and details. A password-protected security lock
prevents unauthorized use at public presentation venues. At
3.3 pounds, the projector is the smallest, lightest model
offered by the company.
Aerial images covering more
regions, such as Boston’s Fenway Park (above), are
now available at Terraserver.com. |
Terraserver
Terraserver.com
www.terraserver.com
Windows and Mac
Gain a bird’s-eye view with this online imaging service.
TerraServer.com has relaunched its Web site with an expanded
array of aerial photographs and an improved user interface.
The new content, which includes different image sizes and
formats, is a result of the company’s expanded alliances
with photography providers. The revamped site also offers
more efficient purchasing options.
Graphisoft has created a specially
tailored software program for the residential construction
market. |
ArchiCAD Residential
Graphisoft
www.graphisoft.com
Windows and Mac
This new application is geared to the U.S. homebuilder market
and based on ArchiCAD’s existing modeling technology.
The company has designed the software so that model floor
plans for homes, which are common in residential construction,
can be easily adapted, annotated, and saved for individual
client needs. Key features include an option manager so that
users can create and present variations on a single floor
plan with just one click of the mouse, and a wall framing
tool that simplifies the design of frames and construction
schedules. A notes area lets architects and homeowners
keep track of comments and changes during reviews.
Realtime visualization software
is based on gaming technology. |
Realtime
Arup Research & Development
www.arup.com
Windows only
Conceived by Arup Research & Development, this software
allows users to model and explore 3D environments. It can
adapt existing CAD data and 3D models, as well as create new
models from 2D drawings, hand sketches, photographs, and a
range of other source materials. Based on gaming technology,
the software has been used to evaluate everything from appearance
to issues such as ergonomics, access, and construction.
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