A/V Design Software

[bruin22anton]

I was wondering what everyone uses for A/V design software? I am a major Apple user so I am looking for something that can work on the mac OSX platform. I know a lot of people use AutoCad, but I'm a little intimidated by the software. I would like to import .pdf plans and add in speaker, tv, volume control, keypad, etc locations so the owner and builder have an idea of my plans. My vision is that there is a program that I can simply insert an 8" or 6" ceiling speaker, a 47" Flat Panel TV on a wall, a volume control, etc. Maybe have those as a template that I can easily import onto the drawing.

Any suggestions?

[David Vaughn]

I use graph paper and a ruler...I'm old school

[mrhookup]

Dave, are you also still using your typewriter?

[Tracy Rainwater]

Dave, are you also still using your typewriter?

We still use a typewriter at the office. Insurance companies and the Federal Government, aren't quite up to using digital documents just yet.

As for the software, I am no help. Good to have you on the forum, though.

[David Vaughn]

Dave, are you also still using your typewriter?

Printing press. I just replace my stone tablet and ping hammer last year.

[Jerry Del Colliano]

I think AutoCad is the way to go.

[mrhookup]

Yeah Jerry; but I need a course or more to learn how to use it (Auto Cad).

David: Do you still have your abacus also?

[David Vaughn]

I only use that when I run out of fingers and toes.

[bruin22anton]

I downloaded Visio, but the problem I am having is getting AV components for the floor plans. Bidmagic sells an add on for another $200 but there isn't a trial version.

[Tracy Rainwater]

Have you tried contacting the manufacturers of the equipment you plan on importing into the software? I bet some of them already have the files available, and hopefully they are willing to share.

Is this just for your personal enjoyment, or a potential business? Just curious.