Used Civil 3d License 1

[jab1776]

First, let me say that I tried to post this earlier, but for some reason it did not go through (I'm sure it was user error as this is the first post I have ever made).

Anyway, I am looking into buying a copy of AutoCAD Civil 3D for my home use and I was wondering if it was possible to buy a used version of it. I do not want to spend $7500 for a new license of Civil 3D 2009 and I am perfectly OK with using 2007 or 2008 (or older) if the cost is significantly less. My question is, are there any issues with the license if I buy it used? Can I buy it used? If so, about how much would a used copy run?

The reason I am looking into a version for my home is that I am planning to start my own civil site design company within the next year and half or so (if everything goes OK) and I would like to start looking at CAD set up. I would like to start setting up CAD templates, pin tables, and other styles so that on Day One of my business I can get going. I realize it is a bit early, but if I have time now I would like to get this part out of the way at least. Also, I do not want to use my current employer's software as I feel this is unethical.

Thank you for any help.

 

[malaycobra]

Autodesk's licence agreement doe not allow the selling of older versions. There has been quite a lot of discussion about this over the web.

There are even stories of companies getting legal warnings just for asking if they can donate, yes donate, older versions to schools etc.

There used to be vendors on Ebay who would sell you a CD then "throw in" Acad for free. Autodesk went after them too.

Your only option other than buying a "lite" or LT version is to look at some of the other commercially available CAD products. I haven't used any myself, but I hear there are very capable alternatives out there at a fraction of the price of Acad.

 

[blutfort]

While I can't specifically address AutoCAD civil. We use Inventor and the license permits an installation on a home machine for professional use while employed with the employer. Provided the same license isn't used at both locations at the same time.
You wouldn't be violating any EULA. You will need to uninstall the software when you quit your job. And shell out the $$ for your own copy. You'll need to decide for yourself if this is unethical to use the software at home, when allowed by EULA. It is however a legal option.

 

[Zapster]

I know of only one way to purchase a used version of an AutoCAD program that does not violate the sales/copyright agreement. If the purchase of the software is incidental to the purchase of a business, the software ownership can be transferred to the new owner.

Some folks that buy software from Autodesk are independent contractors working out of their homes. These guys typically have a business license that allows them to deduct their software expenses and hence, the software is licensed to their business name. If one of these guys decides to pursue other ventures, you can purchase their company for $1.00 and other considerations. Provide a copy of this sales agreement to Autodesk, and they will allow you to transfer the ownership of the software. As I recall when I did this a few years back, it is important to follow the letter of the law/contract. Keep in mind that software needs to be incidental to the sales. Example: If you buy a business for $3000 that includes the “business name” and customer list for $2900 and the other $100 for incidental supplies, software etc. Autodesk will have to transfer the license to you as the new owner. Now you may wonder how a business name can be so valuable and the software it owns is worth almost nothing when replacement costs can be in excess of $10,000. The software is worth nothing because Autodesk does not allow you to sell the software. The business name is worth a considerable amount because of name recognition or any other reason you might invent.

The reason I wrote this lengthy explanation is that I think a lot of people that try to start their own business that requires Autodesk products, get double screwed if their business plan fails. I disagree on a moral basis the way Autodesk handles the licensing of their products. When I started my engineering business, I purchased a “company name” and incidentally their software for less than 50% of the replacement cost of the software. This was a few years ago, and yes, Autodesk did allow me to reregister the product to the new owner “myself.” If you intend to try this method, make sure you read Autodesk’s fine print carefully regarding transfer of ownership and copyright laws.