VariCAD is distributed on CD’s or as downloadable files from our FTP or website. To install VariCAD, follow the installation instructions. When installing in Windows, VariCAD uses InstallShield routines, and for Linux the installation is created according to Linux distribution. To uninstall VariCAD, use the functions of your operating system. See also Trial Versions, Online Purchasing.
Upgrades for one year are included in a maintenance package. After the upgrade period expires, you can purchase another one-year upgrade within another maintenance package. During the upgrade period, you can simply install the new version over the old one, and all system files will be upgraded properly. Your own 2D/3D model files will either remain unchanged or will be automatically upgraded when you start the upgraded version of VariCAD. If you attempt to upgrade after the upgrade period has expired, the installation routine will not work.
For Windows users, we recommend Windows XP Professional over older versions. For Linux users, we recommend RedHat, Fedora Core, SuSe, Mandrake, Ubuntu or Debian distributions.
The minimum recommended RAM is 128 MB for working in 2D, and 256 MB for working in 3D. Large 3D assemblies need at least 512 MB. Working with insufficient memory can cause swapping problems and a significant decrease in operation speed. For optimum performance, a graphics card that supports OpenGL is required, with a minimum RAM of 16MB. With insufficient graphics card RAM, the 3D display is forced to use software emulation and may be slow. For color settings, use true color mode; 256-color mode or high color mode is insufficient.
There are no special requirements for printers or plotters. Under Windows, VariCAD uses the device drivers. You can also use VariCAD print drivers. VariCAD supports output to all standard output devices - ink, pin, pen or laser. VariCAD drivers support PostScript, HPGL, PCL or EPSON. For Linux, VariCAD uses KDE drivers, or you can choose to use VariCAD drivers.
VariCAD is available as a 32-bit or 64-bit version. The 64-bit version requires, of course, a processor working in 64-bit mode and an operating system supporting 64-bit mode (like the 64-bit version of Windows Vista).
The 64-bit version is recommended especially for work with extremely large assemblies.
For Linux operating systems, you should choose the correct version of VariCAD before installation. For Windows, the correct version is selected automatically during the installation process.
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