Could anyone recommend a CAD or similar software package?

[blusky]

To lay down the blueprint for an equatorial mount... Preferably freeware/gpl/open source. Thanks.

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I am here: http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=51.505600,-0.020725

[magic612]

I believe many people have used Blender for this sort of thing, though it has a rather steep learning curve, I think.

blender.org - Home

[lukebl]

You could try Sketchup. I used it to create this template for my pier mount, which was used by a local engineering firm. Possibly not technical enough for your purposes? You could download a trial version of Autocad or Turbocad, although they are very complex if you've never used them before. I use Autocad professionally on a daily basis and am still learning after 12 years at it.

[Digz]

I think Sketchup would be the way to go. Im not overly familiar with it as I use other CAD software at work, but my mates who use it say its quite quick and intuitive to pick up, plus you can model your stuff in 3D!!

[Cornelius Varley]

You could try DraftSight or ProgeCad Smart 2009. both are free and are very good alternatives to AutoCad.

Peter

[steelfixer]

My vote is for google sketch up.

I run an engineering company and I use it every day for designing stuff.

Once you get into it you will be suprised what it will actually do.

[umadog]

I like sketchup too. I've only used it for one project, but it was very easy to learn.

[blusky]

Thanks all!