Library Expert Lite + 3D

3D STEP is sold as a separate interface but it is available for free with the "POD Builder". But then you have to purchase all your parts for $1 from Parts On Demand - www.pcblibraries.com/POD

The Comparison Table showing "Automation of 3D STEP Models" in Lite is a typo and will be fixed today.

Automation = auto-generated per the component dimensions in the calculator.

You can insert an infinite number of component dimensions into any component family calculator and the 3D STEP model will reflect those exact dimensions. It's totally unlimited.

Another part of the automation is that the Footprint and 3D model are created and imported simultaneously with the Library Expert Pro. i.e.: if you use Lite and 3D STEP, they are separate programs and you have to manually import the 3D STEP separately.

Some people use Library Expert Lite for free and just purchase the 3D STEP module for 3D model creation.

A couple of years ago, 3D modeling of electronic components was eye candy and most people did not have a mandatory need for it. But more and more today, 3D modeling is becoming a company / customer requirement and the MCAD teams are requiring all PCB layouts to have 3D modeling so they can render the board in the enclosure to quality control the form and the fit prior to manufacturing.

In the near future, 3D modeling will be prevalent and mandatory through-out the electronics industry. Those who do not use this automated feature will be left behind.