Arden Software
Arden Software provides specialized CAD and CAM solutions for the packaging and display industries to streamline structural design and manufacturing workflows through its Impact software suite.
MagiCAD
MagiCAD is a specialized BIM software for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design that integrates directly with Revit and AutoCAD to streamline complex engineering calculations and 3D modeling workflows.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Arden Software | MagiCAD |
|---|---|---|
| Website | ardensoftware.com | magicad.com |
| Pricing Model | Custom | Custom |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | Custom Pricing |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1988 | 1983 |
| Headquarters | Stockport, UK | Turku, Finland |
Overview
Arden Software
Arden Software provides specialized tools for the structural design of packaging and point-of-sale displays. You can create complex 3D mockups, generate production-ready die-lines, and manage your entire design library from a single interface. The platform focuses on the technical requirements of the corrugated, folding carton, and tooling industries, ensuring your designs are both creative and manufacturable.
You can reduce errors by using automated layout tools and 3D prototyping features that let you visualize the finished product before it hits the production floor. Whether you are a small design shop or a large-scale converter, the software helps you speed up the approval process and maintain high precision in your manufacturing specifications.
MagiCAD
MagiCAD provides you with a powerful set of tools specifically designed for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) design. It functions as an extension for Revit and AutoCAD, allowing you to perform complex engineering calculations, such as pressure drops and sound levels, directly within your 3D model. You can access a massive library of over one million manufacturer-verified BIM objects, ensuring your designs are accurate and ready for installation.
The software helps you automate repetitive drafting tasks and resolve coordination issues before they reach the construction site. Whether you are designing ventilation systems, electrical circuits, or piping networks, you can maintain high data integrity throughout the project lifecycle. It is primarily used by MEP engineers, designers, and BIM managers in the construction and building services industries to increase productivity and design quality.
Overview
Arden Software Features
- 3D Structural Modeling Create realistic 3D virtual mockups of your packaging designs to verify fit and function before physical prototyping.
- Automated Layout Tools Generate optimized sheet layouts and nesting patterns automatically to minimize material waste and reduce production costs.
- Extensive Standards Library Access thousands of pre-defined FEFCO and ECMA templates so you can start your designs from proven industry standards.
- Project Management Database Organize and search your entire design history and customer files within a centralized, secure database environment.
- Die-Making Integration Produce high-precision tooling and die-board designs that sync directly with your manufacturing equipment for flawless execution.
- Adobe Illustrator Plug-in Bridge the gap between structural and graphic design by importing your 3D CAD data directly into Illustrator.
MagiCAD Features
- BIM Object Library. Access over one million intelligent, manufacturer-verified BIM objects with accurate dimensions and technical data for your MEP designs.
- Integrated Calculations. Perform real-time engineering calculations for sizing, pressure drops, and flow rates directly within your Revit or AutoCAD models.
- Collision Detection. Identify and resolve structural conflicts automatically to ensure your pipes, ducts, and cables fit perfectly in the physical space.
- Automatic Provision for Voids. Create and manage wall and floor openings automatically based on your MEP runs to simplify coordination with structural engineers.
- Circuit Wiring Tools. Draw wires and manage electrical circuits efficiently with automated tools that handle wire lengths and voltage drop calculations.
- Schematic Drawing Sync. Link your 2D schematic diagrams with your 3D models to ensure data remains consistent across all project documentation.
Pricing Comparison
Arden Software Pricing
MagiCAD Pricing
Pros & Cons
Arden Software
Pros
- Highly specialized tools for structural packaging design
- Excellent 3D visualization for client presentations
- Massive library of standard industry templates
- Strong integration with manufacturing and die-making hardware
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Pricing is not transparent on the website
- Requires high-performance hardware for complex 3D rendering
MagiCAD
Pros
- Massive library of real-world manufacturer components
- Seamless integration with Revit and AutoCAD workflows
- Highly accurate built-in engineering calculation engines
- Significant time savings on repetitive drafting tasks
- Excellent support for localized engineering standards
Cons
- Significant initial learning curve for new users
- Pricing is high for small independent firms
- Requires a host platform like Revit or AutoCAD
- Hardware intensive when handling very large models