can i have a kick start on step and 3d models (for diptrace)?

[JPortici]

Because we like pretty things, i have several patterns from my libraries that don't have an associated 3d model. mainly automotive connectors and other related goodies

so i want to draw them. what could a noob read to study and program and use to accomplish such task? i know nothing about STEP models.

[voltsandjolts]

I am in a similar position, there are a number of components I would like to model but I haven't found any easy to use 3D software that is free/low cost.
FreeCAD supports the .STEP format but needs time to learn. Others like Rhino3D/Inventor/SolidWorks..etc are obviously high cost.
Google SketchUp doesn't support STEP natively and I get the impression that file format converters produce bloated STEP files.

Is there a SketchUp style 3D editor which supports STEP natively for free or low cost (<$100)?

[mikeselectricstuff]

Does Fusion360 support STEP?

[voltsandjolts]

Ahha! STEP import and export, looks intuitive and free to use, I need to try this.

https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/fusion-360/learn-explore/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/How-to-export-a-design-in-Fusion-360.html
https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/fusion-360/troubleshooting/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/How-to-import-or-open-a-file-in-Autodesk-Fusion-360.html


Edit:
Free for students, enthusiasts, hobbyists, and startups

[JPortici]

FreeCAD supports the .STEP format but needs time to learn.

keep in mind that i have no idea of what i would have to do.
i think i'll download freecad, open a 3d symbol from the diptrace library and proceed from there..

[Mechatrommer]

Google SketchUp (i use older ver 8 ) -> stl export plugin (Su2stl) to output stl file. and then use FreeCAD to convert to step file. all toolchains are free.
https://www.cerebralmeltdown.com/cncstuff/stl/index.htm

FreeCAD supports the .STEP format but needs time to learn.

no learning needed. just open stl file, select which object group on the left panel to export. file -> export to step file