Google SketchUp Download

SketchUp is independent software that allows users to create 3D models. It has various applications in the realm of mechanical, architectural, design, civil and gaming. The software itself is expensive so a free version with the name of SketchUp Make is available. This however has a limited functionality. While other 3D modeling softwares on the market are complex, SketchUp is surprisingly easy and offers simplicity in creating models. Thus users with low level of expertise in 3D modeling prefer SketchUp.

Similarly in 2006 Google announced a free version of the software with the name of Google SketchUp. It has a limited functionality compared to the original SketchUp Pro but it allows the users to integrate their models with Google Earth and Google 3D warehouse. The integration of the software with Google also ensured that users can share their designs with others via email or upload it on Google 3D warehouse. Another added feature is one step Geo-tagging using Google Map. Users receive a snapshot when you add a geo-location to your model which now includes 3D terrain data plus color aerial imagery.

Features

Positives

• The Toolbox feature allows the users to view their 3D models from various angles. It is like walking around the object in reality.
• The 3D models can be exported to .dae and .kmz file format for upload on Google Earth.
• The full version of SketchUp can allow the export to be made in .dwg, .dxf formats etc.
• It is the simplest 3d modeling software with a user friendly interface. The example for it is that the complex feature of Extrude in certain surface has been renamed as simple Pull/push.
• The entire modeling process in well guided with tips and tricks. Negatives
• It lacks the minute details and functions that other Computer Aided Design softwares may offer.
• The version does not allow the export to CAD format which means that the model created is restricted to Google SketchUp Software only. It cannot be tempered with in other softwares.
• No text or images can be added to the created design.

The video below provides a better understating of Google SketchUp

www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsfH_cyXa1o

How to download Google SketchUp?

Since this is a freeware it is readily available on a number of websites. Some of the sources of download are

http://SketchUp-make.en.softonic.com/

http://www.techradar.com/downloads/google-SketchUp

download.cnet.com/SketchUp/3000-6677_4-10257337.html

The file is 77 MB in size and will download in a short while on a standard internet connection. Since the release is made by Google it can be ensured that the software will function correctly as Google is a trustworthy team. Currently this software is supported on Windows Vista, Win XP, Windows 7. The language however is only English with little or no Mac Support.

The latest version of the software was released on 20th March 2014 by Trimble, the original SketchUp developers. This means that the software development and update is currently active, hence the users will keep getting latest features for some time to come.