What software (s) are the best for beginner cad/cam hobbyist? ? ?

Q. I want to learn how to make simple 3d molds using 3d software, cad, cam software, and a cnc machine. Am just trying to figure out where to begin....What software Tools should I start with?

A. tools and software may depend on design product ,

Google Sketchup free version may be best to try and start with ,
http://sketchup.google.com/

http://www.societyofrobots.com/member_tutorials/node/70
http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/woodnews/2009october/sketchup.html
________

SolidWorks - 3D CAD
http://www.solidworks.com/
Ascon Kompas 3d
http://ascon.net/solutions/kompas_3d/
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5-axis CNC Software
http://www.mastercam.com/
Vectric Aspire
http://www.vectric.com/WebSite/Vectric/aspire/whats_new/aspire_v3/whats_new_overview.htm
BobCAD Cam
http://www.bobcad.com/products/cad

NextEngine 3D Scanner
http://www.nextengine.com/
Handyscan Handheld 3D Scanners
http://www.creaform3d.com/en/handyscan3d/default.aspx
..

Original Question

What software (s) are the best for beginner cad/cam hobbyist? ?

Q. I want to learn how to make simple 3d molds using 3d software, cad, cam software, and a cnc machine. Am just trying to figure out where to begin....What software Tools should I start with?

A. For 3d modeling, Blender is awesome.
http://www.blender.org/

For cad, you might want to try TurboCad.
http://www.turbocad.com/
Not free, but much cheaper than AutoCad.
TurboCad also does 3d modeling, and Cam/cnc.

And for CNC try here:
http://www.cnc-simulator.com/

http://www.machinetoolhelp.com/Software/CNCSoftware.html

Original Question

What is the most commercial or common used design software?

Q. I've been wondering what are the most common software used in industry for CAD/CAM. I'm a college student trained in AutoCAD 09, Solid Works & Feature Cam, but the more i learn the more I realize that there are a lot of softwares. And since I am in college, this is a good way to support myself. And i just wanted to see what programs are the best to learn while i can so i can have more options

A. Depends on the industry. Best is to search job listings.

The most common by far is AutoCAD
Solidworks, Inventor, Pro Engineer, IDEAS, ANSYS, Unigraphics are all useful programs

Original Question

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