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Archives For November 30, 1999

How to Install OpenSCAD in Ubuntu 18.10 / 18.04

Last updated: January 14, 2019

This quick tutorial shows you how to install OpenSCAD, the programmers solid 3D CAD modeller, in Ubuntu 18.10, Ubuntu 18.04.

OpenSCAD is a software for creating solid 3D CAD models. Unlike most free software for creating 3D models (such as Blender) it does not focus on the artistic aspects of 3D modelling but instead on the CAD aspects. Thus it might be the application you are looking for when you are planning to create 3D models of machine parts but pretty sure is not what you are looking for when you are more interested in creating computer-animated movies.

OpenSCAD is not available in Ubuntu 18.04 and 18.10 universe repositories due to build failure. Fortunately, the OpenSCAD releases PPA contains the software package for Ubuntu 18.04, which also works in Ubuntu 18.10.

1. Open terminal either via Ctrl+Alt+T keyboard shortcut or from software launcher. When it opens, paste following command and run to add the PPA:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:openscad/releases

Type user password (no asterisks feedback) when it prompts and hit Enter to continue.

2. For Ubuntu 18.10, open Software & Updates and navigate to Other Software tab. Then do:

  1. Highlight the openscad repository line.
  2. Click Edit button to bring up setup dialog.
  3. Change the value of “Distribution” from cosmic to bionic
  4. Save the changes, and close the window.

3. Finally either install OpenSCAD via Synaptic package manager, or run following 2 commands one by one in terminal:

sudo apt-get update

sudo apt-get install openscad

Uninstall:

To remove the PPA repository, open Software & Updates -> Other Software (see pic. in step2) and simply remove the repository line.

To remove OpenSCAD, run command in terminal:

sudo apt-get remove --autoremove openscad

In addition for those feeling OK with Gnome Flatpak (containerized software package), the software is also available in Flathub.

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Install/Upgrade to FreeCAD 0.15 in Ubuntu 14.04/14.10

Last updated: April 11, 2015

A new stable release of FreeCAD, an open ource parametric 3D CAD modeler, was released a few days ago. It features a great variety of improvements in many workbenches, as well as fancy new things like Occulus Rift support.

What’s New in FreeCAD 0.15:

  • Cutting objects with planes is possible now.
  • IFC filter is based on the most recent IfcOpenShell library, it’s faster and supports the exporting of IFC files now, thus making FreeCAD two-way compatible in BIM workflows.
  • New Panel object allows creating all sorts of panel-like objects.
  • New Arch Equipment object makes it possible to add lighting appliances, sanitary equipments, furniture and all kinds of interior design objects.
  • New Roof tool provides more control over roof features such as thickness, length of the overflow etc.

    • Read the release note for more details.

    Install /Upgrade to FreeCAD 0.15 in Ubuntu/Linux Mint:

    The new release has been made into its PPA repository, available for Ubuntu 14.04, Ubuntu 14.10, and Linux Mint 17.

    1. To add the PPA, open terminal from the Dash or by pressing Ctrl+Alt+T on keyboard. When it opens, run command:

    sudo add-apt-repository -y ppa:freecad-maintainers/freecad-stable

    2. After adding the PPA, you should be able to upgrade your FreeCAD installation using Software Updater or Update Manager.

    Or run below commands one by one directly in terminal:

    sudo apt-get update

sudo apt-get install freecad

    That’s it. Enjoy!

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