I am just learning and getting my way into a family business. We do high end and very custom cabinets and some furniture pieces. One of the owners has been doing all of the drawings for the business and has been using cabnetware for many years. I am trying to learn as much of this job as I can so I understand how to use cabnetware but not to the point he does, so I guess it would be easier for me to learn a completely new program than him. Anyway we are looking to purchase our first CNC. We had planned to purchase S2M to go a long with this but I have read on here that cabinetware is going to be put to death next year. At this point I guess I am looking at finding the best software for us. I know the 2 other major softwares out there are Cabinet Vision and Microvellum. I want to know how either of these compare to cabnetware as far as use and what you can do with the program. I have not priced or looked much into either of these programs at this point.

Hi Ryan.

First off, you should know that I work out of the head office here at Microvellum. I am offering my input to make sure that you know what we have to offer. We develop AutoCAD-based software and Blender-based software for design to manufacturing. There are a few major differences between CV and MV. First, we offer a solution that is embedded within AutoCAD. Our solution also allows you the freedom to build, configure, and maintain your catalog using simple, yet powerful tools that are included with our software. The catalog is yours and the ability to maintain and engineer new products is very easy. If you work with architects, our solution would allow you to work with software the architect is most likely using, AutoCAD. You mentioned that you build high-end custom cabinets. Our solution is well suited for not only custom cabinets, but also custom fixtures, diewalls, reception areas, curved-tapered products. I I think you will find that our solution for custom fixtures and diewalls is unmatched. (Check this out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABN07l-8Kro) We offer a robust manufacturing solution for nesting, saw optimization (CNC and Non CNC), and point-to-point connectivity. If you deal with homeowners and need a solution to present designs onsite (not architects), we design software, Fluid Designer (Blender-based), which is well suited for onsite design, rendering and quoting that seamlessly connects to our manufacturing engine. I could go on, but I’d rather you hear from others on this forum. I think you hit the nail on the head though… you need to find the software that’s right for your business.

I went from cabnetware to Mozaik. I also use enroute pro for my 3D work.

This is a cut and dry sort of thing.

Bigger commercial shops go with Microvellum

Residential go with Cabinet Vision.

Roger Taylor created Cabnetware and Cabinet Vision. But IMO his organization with Mozaik leaves something to be desired. "In the name of cost cutting" Specifically my complaint is that it is almost impossible to get anyone to answer the phone.

If you are doing really custom look at Smartlister.

If you are using Cabnetware now Cabinet Vision is going to be what you are looking for.

We've used Cabnetware & Microvellum but found Topsolid to be our software of choice.

I wanted software to be able to do any type of custom project that came in the door. Topsolid allows us to do that. We can create whatever custom product we need, control it in any fashion we want (size, thicknesses, placement, terminology, etc.) We use it to compile detailed shop drawings for approval as well as use the 3d model to clarify construction methods/details to clients, installers & guys in the shop.

Topsolid has made layout/engineering something I enjoy doing vs. being a mundane needed task.

Mark,

What are you doing about shop floor information, such as CnC machine and Saw codes, labels, reports, etc?

I deep dove into TopSolid a few years back. The drawing/modeling abilities in TopSolid were awesome for custom work, but the shop floor data left a lot to be desired when I was looking at it a few years back.

Hi Gary,

Topsolid CAM and CNC has been on my wishlist for some time now. Still waiting but optimistic that day will come. At this time, I don't much to offer in that regard.

What I will tell you is Topsolid is more than fulfilling our our layout, engineering, shop drawing submittals & cutlisting needs. Topsolid has made a huge difference for me and my business.

Ryan Millians:
It is my opinion that there are only three impressive software packages that are truly designed for quick and efficient creation of not only frameless cabinets, but also complicated face frame cabinets with angled stiles, multiple widths of face frame parts, multiple sections under the same face frame, and quickly being able to change drawer guides per drawer, overlaps per door/dwr, door/dwr styles per opening, etc. These three software packages are Cabnetware, Cabinet Pro, and Cabinet Vision. If you are looking for a reasonably priced replacement of your Cabnetware package, and you do not want to be bothered by a salesperson until you find it necessary, feel free to visit our Demonstration Video Center where most aspects of custom cabinetry, as handled by Cabinet Pro, are explored in detail.

Pat Gilbert:
Roger Taylor did not create Cabnetware. Roger owned Cabinet Vision and did a nice job in developing that company while Cabnetware was his major competitor. Planit purchased both companies that stopped the ongoing lawsuits between both Cabnetware and Cabinet Vision. But to say Roger created Cabnetware is something I am sure will put a smile on his face. :)

http://www.cabinetpro.com