@dave r said:

I think it was the free version of V7 that allowed that. The challenge will be finding it to download it. Depending upon how many CAD files you need imported, maybe it would be worth your while to find a pro SketchUp user to contract with. They can make the imports and send you the SKP files.

Curious about plugins or (rubys?) that will work to the same end on some of the newer free versions..are there any? I'm running Win 8 now and about to upgrade to win 10. Not sure if that matters for running the older versions either?

Sherry

Thanks for the responses - Can someone tell me if any of the newer free versions (like 8 or make) support plugins that will convert dwg files into sketchup? (and how to do this?)

Thanks!
S

I'm new to sketchup but have used it a few times. I know the older free versions allowed for importing CAD files. I'd prefer to use an older version that imports CAD files rather than having to renew an educational license every year. Plus I only have one more year in school anyway and won't be able to get the educational license anyway. So the main question at this point I think, is which is the best version for me to look for that will continue to be free but I can either plug in something to import CAD files or using an older version that is still available that doesn't require a new license every year to work.
Thanks!
newbie Sherry