AC3D 6.7 - 3D modelling software

The latest version of AC3D, the low-cost 3D modelling software, has gained a few useful new capabilities including support for the Collada file format to exchange objects with other software or import models from Google’s 3D Warehouse.

We reviewed version 6.0 of AC3D four years ago. In the intervening period several point updates have been released adding features such as an iPhone Development Library, improved texturing and support for export of models into Google Earth (see the AC3D forum).

Features new to the 6.7 release include improved Windows 7 and 64-bit support; arrow keys now nudge the selection in the Texture Coordinate Editor; Render to Texture plugin now included; Knife plugin included with all versions, plus various other fixes and minor changes.

Essentially, AC3D 6.7 looks and works just like the version 6.0 release which we reviewed previously. As I said then, while it doesn’t have the slickest of user interfaces, it is a highly capable program and great value for money. You can test AC3D free for a 14-day trial period. Owners of AC3D who bought a copy some time after December 2008 can update for free. If you bought before that date the upgrade costs $34.95.

For an overview of AC3D in use, see the screencast tutorials: http://www.inivis.com/tutorials.html