Expert: Bob - 12/6/2006

Question
Hi Bob,
Thanks for being available on the help line!
I use AutoCad 2006 to do window elevations for glazing sub-contractors. Basically they are just line drawings with details from the vendors. Some floor plans. I would like to get into 3D one of these days but don't think I have the creative mind for it (I digress.)

My question is this: I have a chance to get ADT 2007. Would you recommend that over AutoCad for what I do?

Thanks for your time. I appreciate it!
Aloha,
Jim
Honolulu, HI

Answer
Hi -- ALOHA!!
Briefly, my answer is very simple for most people: get ADT.
If you never use the 3D, the Details Module is great for 2D details.
You may not know that by selecting a Custom Installation, and checking the box marked "create AutoCAD profile" you can use ADT as plain AutoCAD until the day comes you want to poke into it more. You will have a desktop icon that reads "ADT as AutoCAD".
Note that ADT is over a gig, counting Vizrender, which you might best not install, since you do not mention visualizations.  ACAD 2007 (thus ADT as well) has an amazing improvement in 3D solids, which I love, but realize you will have to save your drawings in 2004 or 2000 format for some vendors, since the new stuff meant a new file format was needed.
If you get interested in 3D, there are good books. Revisions, even floor plans, are faster when you use ADT walls, windows, and doors. Of course, if you made a 3D model for the floor plan and stick a roof on it, your elevations already exist.
Good luck!
BOB