Software Recommendation Request

[KootK]

I'd like to get my hands on a software package that would allow me to do two things:

1) Draw over a PDF file and;
2) Allow me to precision draw. For example, I could set the drawing scale and then draw a 4"x4" rectangle that would actually be 4"x4"

AutoCAD can do this but it's expensive and a little clumsy. Bluebeam would be great but I don't believe that it can precision draw. Sketchup is a bit of a pain for 2D.

Thanks for the help.

KootK

The greatest trick that bond stress ever pulled was convincing the world it didn't exist.

 

[AndrewCisco]

I used a tool called "pdf2cad" to convert my venders pdf drawings into editable dwg/dxf files. I then use a free program called Draftsight, a autocad clone, to draw over them.

 

[EngineeringEric]

I work with AutoCAD and Bluebeam, they make a great duo. I believe Bluebeam has a "grid" function that you can use but it will never be close to what AutoCad drafting is but can be great for quick sketches and though sharing.

 

[SLTA]

have you tried draftsight? there's a whole forum on here about it.