Hi
The problem with downloading altium's demo was the file size if I remember rightly.
(I tried so many!) Unfortunately I'm not able to install broadband here so anything
above about 100MB can be a problem. I've downloaded larger but only from sites than can restart a failed download. Altiums web pages were also a serious off-putting sight.
Actually I'm very pleased with the package I eventually bought into.
I bought easy-PC (numberone.com)
As an entry level system it's unbeatable from what I've seen.
Priced at under 300 GBP for the entry level 1000 pin version and
all the features you'd expect on the more expensive systems.
It even includes 3D visualisation.
It can be easily upgraded with better autorouter and much larger library
(probably the entry level main weakness - shortage of components - but the library software is very good so defining your own isn't too hard)
If anyone buys into this and wants to share custom libraries let me know.
The ease of modular upgrade was a big selling point to me.
Right now 1000 pins is fine for me - but who knows. Luckily layers
are unlimited too.
Presentation is very professional and comes with a ring bound easy to read manual. It doesn't assume too much knowledge to start with but does assume some basic skills - it was about right for me. Delivery took 2 days. After using it for a couple of days I'm confident I can go from concept to manufactured product with this package.
If anyone is interested their demo is well worth a look. I can't speak highly enough
at this this level. (Of course - you may want to ask again after I've tried to manufacture my first design !)
On the pricing front - I recently bought some software at 80% discount after telling the salesman it was too expensive for me. Sometimes being able to negotiate isn't a bad thing. I now have some very useful design software and a loyalty to the company for future purchases. Perhaps if companies varied their prices based on the size or turnover of the customer they could be a bit more upfront about it.