Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the 3DESIGN jewellery CAD CAM suite. Please enquire to ask us your question.
INITIAL QUESTIONS:
What is CAD?
Computer-Aided Design is a technology used to design with the help of a computer.
It can be 2-Dimentional or 3-Dimensional.
What is CAM?
As the next step after CAD, Computer-Aided Manufacturing refers to the use of software to control machine tools used in manufacturing processes. Enabling a faster, accurate and more precise production of components.
Why is this technology used?
It allows for flexibility, meaning you can work from home, on the train, anywhere…
It gives you the ability to create virtual stock versus physical stock.
It allows for better communication between you and your clients by sending renders / videos.
It is all about saving time or cutting out any room for error.
Who are Type3 and Gravotech?
Type3, the software division of the Gravotech Group whose Headquarters are in Lyon, France.
They created 3DESIGN in 1999. With nearly 30 years' experience in developing artistic CAD/CAM software, Type3 has an extensive range of software for the Jewellery, Watch, Accessories, Signage and Engraving industries.
3SHAPER, TypeEdit and LaserType software are also developed by them.
The Gravotech Group has 17 Subsidiaries and over 900 Employees. Type3 has 50 Dealers around the world.
STEPS TO BUY:
How do I purchase a licence for 3DESIGN or 3SHAPER?
Licences can be purchased by calling us or emailing us.
Let us know what package you would like to purchase.
How do I know what software package is best for me?
We are here to guide you according to your budget and design requirements.
Please give contact us and we will walk you through your options.
How can I see the software capabilities before purchasing?
There are two ways:
1. Contact us for a one-to-one demo.
2. Register to our monthly webinars.
How and where do I download 3DESIGN?
After purchasing 3DESIGN, you can download the software directly from the 3DESIGN website.
You must be a paid client to use. If not, please contact us for further details on how to get a licence.
What do I receive by purchasing the software?
If you purchase a permanent licence, you will receive a box including:
1. Instructions on how to install 3DESIGN.
2. A yellow nodelock dongle (like a car key) to start your software.
If you purchase a subscription licence, you will receive an email from us with instructions.
I am a student. How do I get a Student Licence?
Please contact us with a copy of your valid student ID.
It must have your photo, your name, the name of the educational institute and current school term clearly written.
NEXT STEPS:
How to get started with 3DESIGN?
Once you become a client, you are advised to set up an account on the 3DESIGN Forum.
On this platform you can interact with other 3DESIGN users worldwide.
You will be provided with built-in PDF tutorials and access to our 3DESIGN Training Lounge.
How long will it take me to learn the software?
This will all depend on how much time you dedicate to learning.
If you are able to take training with one of our trainers, this will speed up the learning curve.
We recommend following all 3DESIGN tutorials and joining our live monthly webinars to pick up tips.
What sort of training or support is offered?
We can provide you with one-to-one training or group classes. Please contact us for dates and prices.
Support is available over the phone, via email and through remote access to your computer.
TECHNICAL QUESTIONS:
What are the minimum computer requirements to run the software?
Please check that your computer is compatible with the below PDFs.
3DESIGN and 3SHAPER compatibility
TypeEdit and LaserType compatibility
Are you compatible with the latest Mac OS and Windows 11?
Yes, 3DESIGN and 3SHAPER run on Windows 11 Professional and on Mac OS Sonoma 14*
3DESIGN is compatible with:
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Windows 10 Professional 64-bit to Windows 11 Professional 64-bit
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Mac OS Monterey 12 to Mac OS Sonoma 14
*Please always check with us about the compatibility before updating or installing.
TypeEdit and LaserType software are not Mac compatible.
How can I update my dongle driver?
Go to Thales website.
For Windows users, the link is “Sentinel LDK Windows GUI Runtime Installer 9.16”
For Mac users, the link is “Sentinel LDK Mac OS X Runtime Script Installation 9.15”
The driver number ends for example as 8.11
Verify the update was successful via http://localhost:1947/_int_/diag.html
The Runtime Installer number must be the same as the driver number.
How do I update my graphic driver?
We recommend using Nvidia or AMD graphic cards.
Nvidia drivers can be updated here.
AMD drivers can be updated here.
Contact us for further help.