Mechanical Desktop vs AutoCAD

[TDevil]

I am a big AutoCAD fan and LOVE the functionality of express tools and models for updating and standardizing drawings. How much of the functionality translates to the mechanical desktop?
The Autodesk website says "some of the base features" I'm concerned with the commands like layer isolate, layer on/off, Osnap Tracking, etc.
I am supporting an engineering department that uses 2005lt (and not very well) so I change alot of layers and text and center alot of objects, so these functions are crucial to me.
Does anyone have any experience with Mechanical/Inventor 9?
Thanks!

 

[borgunit]

If you draw in 2D, Mechanical (not MDT) may be nice for you because it enforces layer standards and entity creation within AutoCAD. We have found that drawings within our company are very consistent, even though we have plants in Germany, Brazil, and the United States.

"Everybody is ignorant, only on different subjects." — Will Rogers

 

[cfee]

If you're moving to 3D, MDT6 was good years ago, but Iv-9 is far superior. Direct compatibility with 2D ACAD dwgs is not emphasized in Iv-9, however. Keep your ACAD (or-LT) running, for access to your existing database.

Use Iv-9 for your forward-reaching work. Don't lose time and money integrating old versions of MDT into your work processes.

2D ACAD-Mechanical is also VERY strong. I've used it with GREAT success in hybrid 2D/3D ACAD situations where I needed to do 3D modeling built upon existing 2D drawings (and connect with them). YES you can directly connect 2D dwgs to your std ACAD-3D modeling including components and assemblies.

However, if your company is seriously looking at upgrading, don't even fool with half-steps. Get a GOOD CAD software vendor, and include MAINTENNANCE, SUPPORT, AND TRAINING in the upgrade budget. Too many well meaning managers have attempted the upgrade without some of these steps, and have lost BIG in the process. I even know DIRECTLY of an Engineering Manager who was "Laid Off" after a spectacular failure because he tried to "save" money on his upgrade. Either budget to do it right, or maximize your existing implementation and move forward. There's no way to shorten the process.

Good Luck !

C. Fee