I'd like to announce the first release of a new open-source CAD package for Linux - PythonCAD. As the name implies, PythonCAD is written entirely in Python. The goal of this project is to create a fully scriptable drafting program for open-source software users. PythonCAD is being released under the GNU Public License (GPL). PythonCAD requires Python 2.2. The interface is GTK 2.0 based, and uses the PyGTK module for interfacing to GTK. The design of PythonCAD is built around the idea of separating the interface from the back end as much as possible. By doing this, it is hoped that both GNOME and KDE interfaces can be added to PythonCAD through usage of the appropriate Python module. Addition of other interfaces will depend on the availability of a Python module for that particular interface and developer interest and action. The initial release is capable of basic drawing functionality, simple horizontal and vertical dimensioning, and file saving and reloading. There are some simple editing abilities as well. As this is the first release, there are many things that PythonCAD can't do, and things that it doesn't do well. These shortcomings will be addressed in future releases. I've set up a web site for PythonCAD. The site provides much more information about the program, such as software requirements, installation and usage instructions, and other issues pertaining to PythonCAD. There are even a few screen shots show PythonCAD in action. http://www.pythoncad.org Come and join me in developing PythonCAD into a first class drafting program! I'd like to thank the entire Python development team for all their efforts in creating and maintaining Python. My project would not exist without your work! Art Haas -- They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety. -- Benjamin Franklin, Historical Review of Pennsylvania, 1759