ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized CAD software designed for arborists to create professional, scale-accurate tree survey plans and reports while automating critical protection zone calculations and data management.
MatterControl
MatterControl is a comprehensive open-source 3D printing software that combines design, preparation, and printer management into a single interface to streamline your entire additive manufacturing workflow.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ArborCAD | MatterControl |
|---|---|---|
| Website | cad.com.au | matterhackers.com |
| Pricing Model | One_time | Free |
| Starting Price | Custom Pricing | Free |
| FREE Trial | ✘ No free trial | ✘ No free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✓ Has free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✘ No product demo |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 1988 | 2012 |
| Headquarters | Sydney, Australia | Foothill Ranch, USA |
Overview
ArborCAD
ArborCAD is a specialized design tool built specifically for arborists and tree consultants who need to produce professional, scale-accurate survey plans. Instead of struggling with generic drafting tools, you get a system that understands arboricultural data, allowing you to plot trees quickly and generate comprehensive reports automatically. You can import site surveys, define tree species, and visualize critical data points directly on your plan without manual drafting.
The software simplifies the complex task of calculating Tree Protection Zones (TPZ) and Structural Root Zones (SRZ) by automating these measurements based on your input data. You can manage large-scale projects with ease, ensuring all your documentation meets local regulatory standards. It functions as an add-on to the PowerCADD engine, providing a familiar yet highly optimized environment for your specialized consulting needs.
MatterControl
MatterControl is an all-in-one desktop application designed to take you from initial concept to finished 3D print without switching between multiple programs. You can design parts from scratch using geometric primitives, import existing digital models, and slice them for production all within the same workspace. It eliminates the friction of managing separate CAD and slicing tools by providing a unified environment where your design changes update your print settings instantly.
You can manage your entire library of 3D designs and organize them into projects for easy access. The software supports a vast range of desktop 3D printers and offers advanced features like hardware-level leveling and cloud-syncing for your settings. Whether you are a hobbyist calibrating a single machine or a professional managing a small fleet, it provides the tools you need to ensure consistent print quality and reliable results.
Overview
ArborCAD Features
- Automated TPZ/SRZ Calculation Calculate and draw Tree Protection Zones and Structural Root Zones instantly based on your trunk diameter measurements.
- Tree Survey Plotting Place tree symbols on your plans quickly using a dedicated toolset that stores species and health data.
- Automatic Report Generation Export your survey data directly into professional reports, saving you from manual data entry and transcription errors.
- Scale-Accurate Drafting Create precise, professional-grade plans that you can share with architects, developers, and local planning authorities.
- Species Database Integration Access and manage a comprehensive list of tree species to ensure consistent naming and data across all projects.
- DXF/DWG Compatibility Import site surveys from land surveyors and export your finished plans to work with other industry-standard CAD formats.
MatterControl Features
- Integrated Design Tools. Create 3D models directly in the app using simple geometric shapes and text tools to save time on basic design tasks.
- Advanced Slicing Engine. Convert your 3D models into G-Code with highly customizable settings for layer height, infill density, and support structures.
- Software Print Leveling. Achieve perfect first layers even on uneven print beds by using the automated software-based bed leveling calibration wizard.
- Cloud Sync Capabilities. Access your print settings, custom profiles, and design library from any computer by syncing your data to the cloud.
- Print Recovery. Protect your long-running projects from power outages or accidental disconnections with built-in tools to resume interrupted prints.
- Hardware Control. Monitor your printer in real-time and adjust temperatures or movement speeds on the fly during the printing process.
Pricing Comparison
ArborCAD Pricing
MatterControl Pricing
- Full CAD design suite
- Integrated slicing engine
- Unlimited printer profiles
- Cloud library storage
- Automatic print leveling
- G-Code terminal access
- Everything in Open Source, plus:
- Regular software updates
- Community forum access
- Online documentation
- Open-source code access
- Plugin support
Pros & Cons
ArborCAD
Pros
- Significant time savings on calculating tree protection zones
- Produces professional plans that meet local government standards
- Eliminates manual data entry between plans and reports
- Specifically designed for arborist workflows rather than generic CAD
Cons
- Requires a separate base CAD engine to operate
- Limited to specific operating systems (primarily macOS)
- Higher initial cost compared to basic drawing tools
MatterControl
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no subscription fees
- Unified workflow combines design and slicing in one app
- Excellent software-based bed leveling for older printers
- Frequent updates and active development from MatterHackers
- Clean and modern user interface compared to competitors
Cons
- Higher system resource usage than basic slicers
- Learning curve for the integrated design tools
- Occasional bugs in newer experimental software releases