To purchase SOLIDWORKS through MECAD Systems, simply hover over the Products option in our navigation bar and click on the Shop SOLIDWORKS button. From there, you can choose to purchase SOLIDWORKS Standard, which is available as a 3-month subscription, billed monthly.

If you’re interested in another SOLIDWORKS product, visit our Products page and navigate to the specific SOLIDWORKS product you’re looking for. Once you’re on your preferred product landing page, fill in the contact form, and someone from our sales team will reach out to discuss your requirements and provide a personalised quote.

Don’t forget to check our website regularly for promotions, as we often run special deals and discounts to help you save on your SOLIDWORKS purchase!

MECAD Systems provides a variety of comprehensive training programs for SOLIDWORKS, catering to different skill levels and specific needs within the engineering and design industries. Here are the main SOLIDWORKS training programs offered by MECAD Systems:

1. SOLIDWORKS Essentials Training Course

Overview: The SOLIDWORKS Essentials training course teaches users the foundational skills necessary to use SOLIDWORKS effectively. It covers everything from basic modeling techniques to advanced assembly and drawing creation, providing participants with a solid understanding of the software’s capabilities and features.

Key Topics:

• Introduction to the SOLIDWORKS interface and basic operations
• Sketching and creating 2D and 3D models
• Basic and advanced part modeling techniques
• Assembly creation and management
• Generating detailed drawings and annotations
• Applying design intent and using configurations
• Introduction to SOLIDWORKS tools such as simulation and sheet metal
  

2. Advanced Part Modeling Training Course

Overview: This course delves deeper into the advanced modeling techniques of SOLIDWORKS. It is designed for users who have completed the Essentials training or have equivalent experience and want to further enhance their modeling skills.

Key Topics:

• Advanced sketching techniques
• Multibody part design
• Advanced feature creation (e.g., lofts, sweeps, and boundaries)
• Working with complex surfaces
• Using design tables and configurations for parts
• Advanced pattern and mirroring techniques
  

3. Assembly Modeling Training Course

Overview: The Assembly Modeling course focuses on advanced techniques for creating and managing complex assemblies in SOLIDWORKS. This course is ideal for users looking to improve their skills in handling large and detailed assembly structures.

Key Topics:

• Advanced mating techniques
• Assembly configurations and design tables
• Managing large assemblies and improving performance
• Assembly visualisation and analysis tools
• Using assembly features and components
• Top-down assembly modeling
  

4. Drawing and Detailing Training Course

Overview: This course is designed to teach users how to create detailed and accurate drawings from parts and assemblies in SOLIDWORKS. It covers a wide range of drawing tools and techniques to ensure clarity and precision in technical documentation.

Key Topics:

• Creating detailed views (e.g., section, auxiliary, and detail views)
• Adding and managing annotations
• Using layers, templates, and formats
• Applying geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
• Managing drawing revisions and updates
• Creating BOMs (Bill of Materials) and tables
  

5. SOLIDWORKS Simulation Training Course

Overview: The Simulation training course is aimed at users who want to learn how to perform structural analysis using SOLIDWORKS Simulation. It covers the basics of setting up and running simulations to evaluate the performance and strength of designs.

Key Topics:

• Introduction to FEA (Finite Element Analysis) concepts
• Setting up static studies and defining material properties
• Applying loads and boundary conditions
• Meshing and solving simulation studies
• Analysing results and optimising designs
• Introduction to thermal and frequency analysis
  

6. Sheet Metal Design Training Course

Overview: This course focuses on the specific tools and techniques used for designing sheet metal parts in SOLIDWORKS. It is suitable for users involved in industries where sheet metal design is prevalent.

Key Topics:

• Sheet metal basics and terminology
• Creating base, edge, and miter flanges
• Working with bends, hems, and jogs
• Converting solid parts to sheet metal
• Generating flat patterns and DXF files for manufacturing
• Using forming tools and designing with sheet metal features

MECAD Systems provides these and other specialised SOLIDWORKS training programs to ensure users can maximise their productivity and proficiency with the software, ultimately enhancing their design and engineering capabilities.

MECAD Systems provides robust support to ensure our clients can fully leverage their software tools. Our support includes technical assistance, troubleshooting, software updates, and best practice advice.

Clients can reach our support team via phone, email, or through our online support portal. We are committed to providing timely and effective solutions to any issues our clients may encounter.

Yes, MECAD Systems offer customisation and consulting services tailored to the unique needs of our clients. Our consulting services include workflow optimisation, custom software development, and implementation support.

We work closely with our clients to understand their specific requirements and deliver solutions that improve efficiency and productivity.

MECAD Systems stands out due to our comprehensive range of services, deep industry expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

We provide not only top-tier software solutions but also exceptional training, support, and consulting services. Our personalised approach ensures that we meet the specific needs of each client, helping them achieve their business goals efficiently.

SOLIDWORKS offers free trials for evaluation and free or discounted licenses for educational institutions. For commercial use, a paid subscription or perpetual license is typically required.

SOLIDWORKS is renowned for its 3D modeling, simulation, and product design capabilities, making it ideal for engineering and manufacturing. AutoCAD is more suited for 2D drafting. Many professionals prefer SOLIDWORKS for advanced design needs.

SOLIDWORKS pricing varies by package and licensing model. For example, MECAD Systems offers SOLIDWORKS Standard billed monthly for R3650,00 excl. VAT per month for a 3-month period. For detailed SOLIDWORKS pricing and tailored quotes, please contact MECAD Systems.

While SOLIDWORKS has a learning curve typical of professional-grade 3D CAD software, many users become proficient quickly with the right training. MECAD Systems offers expert SOLIDWORKS training to help you master the software efficiently.

For beginners, the standard SOLIDWORKS package is recommended as it includes essential tools for 3D design and simulation. MECAD Systems can guide you to choose the best SOLIDWORKS solution for your needs.

Absolutely. SOLIDWORKS is a standalone 3D CAD platform that does not require prior knowledge of AutoCAD. Specialised SOLIDWORKS training courses are available to help you learn from scratch.

SketchUp is user-friendly for basic 3D modeling, but SOLIDWORKS offers a comprehensive suite of tools for professional engineering and product design. For detailed, high-quality design work, SOLIDWORKS is preferred.

SOLIDWORKS licenses are available as either perpetual licenses (with annual maintenance fees) or subscription-based models. Permanent ownership is an option with the perpetual license model.

It depends on your career goals. For 3D product design and advanced engineering, SOLIDWORKS is generally more powerful. For 2D drafting, AutoCAD might be suitable. Overall, SOLIDWORKS is highly recommended for comprehensive design work.

The best CAD software depends on your specific needs. SOLIDWORKS is widely regarded as one of the top CAD programs for its advanced 3D modeling, simulation, and design capabilities.

Yes, SOLIDWORKS is resource-intensive. A powerful computer with a high-performance processor, ample RAM, and a professional-grade graphics card is recommended to handle complex SOLIDWORKS designs efficiently.

The time it takes to learn SOLIDWORKS varies by individual and training method. Many users become proficient within a few weeks to a few months, especially when supported by structured SOLIDWORKS training from experts.

SOLIDWORKS does not generally offer free licenses for startups, though special pricing or trial options may be available. Contact MECAD Systems for the latest SOLIDWORKS offers and discounts.