I'm also a electronics/software guy and am really impressed by DS Mechanical. I've looked at a lot of different packages and this one seems to be the easiest to learn. It may not have the features that some of the others have but that is what I like about it. I can do some relatively simple mechanical design in 2D (AutoCAD LT) but this opens up a new area for me. I can now give my tool room a better definition of what I'm looking for.
What I like the most about DS Mechanical is that it actually wants you to work the part in 3D (according to the FAQ). You start in 2D space defining a basic outline. The rest of the project is done in 3D pulling and pushing the solid into shape. Again, not having a mechanical background, this is the most intuitive to me. I would also be interested in hearing what users of Autodesk, ProE, Solid Works, etc. have to say about DS Mechanical and particularly, with their background in mechanical engineering, how they think the tool stacks up. I can say, for the cost, it can't be beat.