Adobe today announced the immediate availability of Adobe Acrobat 3D Version 8 software, a major upgrade to the desktop application.

With Acrobat 3D Version 8, CAD, CAM, CAE, and technical publishing professionals can convert virtually any 3D CAD file?including large assemblies of more than 500 megabytes?into a single PDF document. The PDF file can maintain precise geometry or be compressed over 100 times smaller than the original file, depending on the needs of the specific business process. Three-dimensional CAD data can also be combined with other critical project information, such as product specifications, spreadsheets and bills of materials, into a more secure PDF document containing product manufacturing information (PMI). PMI is used to convey geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, annotations and other specifications directly on a 3D model.

Acrobat 3D Version 8 supports conversion to 3D PDF from over 40 formats, including those for Autodesk Inventor, Dassault Systemes CATIA, PTC Pro/ENGINEER, SolidWorks, and UGS NX and I-deas (see full list at www.adobe.com/go/a3d_supportedformats ). The software also provides users the option of exporting precise manufacturing CAD data from PDF into neutral file formats such as STEP, IGES and Parasolid for downstream processes, including machining operations and tool and mold design.

Acrobat 3D Version 8 is immediately available in English, French and German language versions. The Japanese language version is expected to be available in June 2007. The product has an estimated street price of US$995. Registered users of Acrobat 3D can upgrade to Acrobat 3D Version 8 for US$295.