RealCADD is native macOS, Windows and Linux 2D CAD system that has been around since the earliest days of Architosh. Developed by French software developer Eric Pousse, a distinguishing aspect to RealCADD is that it is developed using the cross-platform development originally known as RealBasic by Real Software, Inc., a Austin, Texas, based software company. In 2013 Real Software changed its name to Xojo, Inc., to better represent its mission and truly own a unique name.
Xojo as an acronym stands for “x-platform object orientation,” meaning x as in variable or many platforms. The IDE (integrated development environment) is well known for its ease-of-use and for rapid app development and counts Apple, NASA, Google and other tech giants among its customers.
RealCADD — Works like MacDraw
RealCADD being based on Xojo means that it runs on all three major desktop operating systems (mac, Windows, Linux). It is the only CAD system we know of built using Xojo. The developer says that RealCADD essentially works like the most famed of all graphics apps on the Mac—MacDraw.
01 – RealCADD version 4.8 is now available. Low-cost 2D CAD system works across all three major desktop OSs.
The difference is that unlike MacDraw it has many more functions than MacDraw ever had, including working with Autodesk DXF files (import/export) and working in higher degrees of accuracy befitting of a true CAD program. RealCADD is also a true WYSIWYG application, unlike AutoCAD of the past.
No Paper Space and Model Space
Like the canvas environments of true old-school Mac graphics software, RealCADD doesn’t feature the AutoCAD-like paper-space/model-space model. You draw like you would on paper at the scale you want to draw at.
We will not give a complete run-down of RealCADD’s features but it bears noting that RealCADD allows its users to create their own tools using a scripting language. (see image 02).
New in Version 4.8
RealCADD version 4.8 is now optimized for Apple Retina displays or high-resolution support. There is a new menu “Config Layers” that is also accessible in the context menu (right-click) of the drawing, to more quickly configure layer combinations.
02 – Users can create custom tools in RealCADD by scripting them.
There is also a new Paste Special function to place objects in relation to the drawing, and a new option for the selection rectangle (arrow tool) to allow selection “In” or “In/Cut” functions. Also when creating a line, you can directly edit the length by starting to type a number (or, =, +, -, /, etc keys). And when creating circles and ellipses you can switch the mode from “enclosing rectangle” to “center and radius” mode on the fly.
These and some other small adjustments and optimizations round out the updates to version 4.8 of RealCADD.
Language Support and Costs
RealCADD is available in English, German, and French for macOS, Windows, and Linux. Its files are fully compatible with iPocketDraw, a sister CAD product for iPad and iPhone.
RealCADD can be demoed prior to purchase here and its cost is $75.USD.
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