BillyJack, I've worked with both for about 3 years [ 6 total] Since we've purchased SolidWorks and I took the re-seller courses, I haven't used AutoCad except for some very simple 2 minute sketch's. If your taking a course, you should be able to buy the whole SolidWorks Package [student edition] including all the FEA and motion add-on products,for like $300-400. I wouldn't buy AutoCad at this point. IMO that would kinda be like buying a NEW 1995 BMW off the lot today in 2006, for only $1000 less than the price of a new 2006 BMW, your starting off behind before you ever get it off the lot! Solidworks/3D design is the future!! AutoCad can do 3D stuff [ so they say] but when you compare it to Parametric solid modeling possible with Solidworks, Autocad looks like 3D design via tooth-picks and glue in comparison
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Btw.. I'm NOT Bias....
( ok.. maybe I am
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Jerry