Google Sketch up now available for Windows and Mac
Written by Ayush Jain
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Google on Monday released the latest version of its 3D modeling software SketchUp 7 (download from here) along with its premium counterpart, SketchUp 7 Pro.
Using some predefined templates you can model anything you want. Once a template is chosen you can create circles, squares or any other shape. An option for free hand design is also provided. An instruction window is also provided to help the novice users. Aside from drawing you can also access Google’s 3D warehouse, which allows you to search for 3D models while in the software and place them in your creation, and trust me the number of models are sheer in number.
The best part of it is that its normal version is free although for its Pro version you may have to pay around $495 which adds the Dynamic components to it. Dynamic Components gives each object self-awareness. In other words, if you design a staircase, it will know what it is and by using the Scale tool, it automatically adds or removes steps as you make it larger or smaller. Generally, the Dynamic Components tool works well, but at times it may fail to maintain proper scaling, which proved troublesome during the modeling process.
If you're a novice modeler, SketchUp 7 is ideal. Its free version will teach you how to perform simple tasks and you can eventually choose to graduate to its Pro version to enhance your skills. And although it's just a gateway to more capable software on the market, it's certainly worth downloading and trying out for yourself. So go on…. It may be fun!!!
