MicroStation CONNECT Edition vs PowerDraft CONNECT Edition

Many folks have asked what is the difference between MicroStation CONNECT Edition and PowerDraft CONNECT Edition.

PowerDraft is basically a subset of MicroStation.  PowerDraft does not include:

  • Advanced rendering (Luxology) - PowerDraft does have editable Display Styles
  • Animation
  • Batch Convert
  • Batch Processing
  • 3D Solid Modeling Tools
  • 3D Surface Modeling Tools
  • Mesh tools

You can edit 3D models in PowerDraft with the Detailing Callout tools, so you can use it to create and work with Dynamic Views, but you cannot edit the 3D graphics (except manipulation ... move, copy, delete).

You also get the following in PowerDraft:

  • Full configuration and access to variables
  • 2D Constraints are also available in PowerDraft allowing you to create powerful 2D parametric cells. 
  • Geographic Coordinate systems
  • Full Import and Export of standard formats including all DWG versions
  • Design History
  • Full Reference, Raster, Point Cloud and Reality Mesh functionality
  • Tables, Reports, Databases and Item Types
  • Named Boundaries, Drawing Boundaries and Place Label
  • Named Expressions, MDL apps and Macros
  • and all your 2D creation, manipulation and modification tools!

Its quite a powerful piece of software for 2D drafting.  Enjoy!

Samir Haque

Parents Reply Children
  • In V8i the basic 3D Object Creation functions (Toolbox) is available. In CE this is gone. The functions keyins (e.g. create slab) are removed as well.

    I also vote for the batch functions to be available under PD!!

    All those users never needing 3D functionality don't understand why they need to pay that premium for batch processing, imho. You need it ever so infrequent... It is a too limited arguement for your purchasing dept./deciders.

    For majority of  applications drafting (PD) is the right choice (schematics/layout/floor plans and the like "drawing production business".


    In all "hybrid" projects - without comprehensive CAD/BIM coordination aka. "Reality" -  most exchange/work is done 2D (...what a pity...) Although constituens might be modeling their lot/craft  you will get a flattended plan - the least common denominator.
    That gap appears to actually accrete, for all the multitude of efforts.Why? My best guess isthe restoring forces of "The Topor" interplaying with cost-containment.

  • I agree with you Gerd.

    As Channel Partner I have saw my PWD customers don't move to CE only because the 3D tools have been removed. This the main reason for them. Annoying !


    Philippe HALET 

    CEO at beCAD a Gold Channel Partner