TECHNICAL MAGAZINE: May 2016

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

AutoCAD supports a number of APIs for customization and automation. These include AutoLISP, Visual LISP, VBA, .NET and ObjectARX. ObjectARX is a C++ class library, which was also the base for:a) products extending AutoCAD functionality to specific fields;b) creating products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Civil 3D; orc) third-party AutoCAD-based application.There are a large number of AutoCAD plugins (add-on applications) available on the application store Autodesk Exchange Apps .[13] AutoCAD's DXF, drawing exchange format, allows importing and exporting drawing information.Vertical integrationAutodesk has also developed a few vertical programs (AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD ecscad, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Structural Detailing, AutoCAD Utility Design, AutoCAD P&ID and AutoCAD Plant 3D) for discipline-specific enhancements. For example, AutoCAD Architecture (formerly Architectural Desktop) permits architectural designers to draw 3D objects, such as walls, doors and windows, with more intelligent data associated with them rather than simple objects, such as lines and circles. The data can be programmed to represent specific architectural products sold in the construction industry, or extracted into a data file for pricing, materials estimation, and other values related to the objects represented. Additional tools generate standard 2D drawings, such as elevations and sections, from a 3D architectural model. Similarly, Civil Design, Civil Design 3D, and Civil Design Professional support data-specific objects, facilitating easy standard civil engineering calculations and representations. Civil 3D was originally developed as an AutoCAD add-on by a company in New Hampshire called Softdesk (originally DCA). Softdesk was acquired by Autodesk, and Civil 3D was further evolved.VariantsAutoCAD LTAutoCAD LT is the lower cost version of AutoCAD, with reduced capabilities, first released in November 1993. Autodesk developed AutoCAD LT to have an entry-level CAD package to compete in the lower price level. AutoCAD LT, priced at $495, became the first AutoCAD product priced below $1000. It is sold directly by Autodesk and can also be purchased at computer stores (unlike the full version of AutoCAD, which must be purchased from official Autodesk dealers).As of the 2011 release the AutoCAD LT MSRP has risen to $1200. While there are hundreds of small differences between the full AutoCAD package and AutoCAD LT, there are a few recognized major differences[14] in the software's features:3D Capabilities: AutoCAD LT lacks the ability to create, visualize and render 3D models as well as 3D printing.Network Licensing: AutoCAD LT cannot be used on multiple machines over a network.Customization: AutoCAD LT does not support customization with LISP, ARX, .NET and VBA.Management and automation capabilities with Sheet Set Manager and Action Recorder.CAD standards management tools.AutoCAD LT 2015 introduced Desktop Subscription from $360 per yearAutoCAD 360Formerly marketed as AutoCAD WS, AutoCAD 360 is an account-based mobile and web application enabling registered users to view, edit, and share AutoCAD files via mobile device and web[15] using a limited AutoCAD feature set — and using cloud-stored drawing files. The program, which is an evolution and combination of previous products, uses a freemium business model with a free plan and two paid levels — marketed as Pro ($4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly) and Pro Plus ($99.99 yearly) — including various amounts of storage, tools, and online access to drawings. 360 includes new features such as a "Smart Pen" mode and linking to third-party cloud-based storage such as Dropbox. Having evolved from Flash-based software, AutoCAD 360 uses HTML5 browser technology available in newer browsers including Firefox and Google Chrome.AutoCAD WS began with a version for the iPhone and subsequently expanded to include versions for the iPod Touch, iPad, Android phones, and Android tablets.[16] Autodesk released the iOS version in September 2010,[17] following with the Android version on April 20, 2011.[18] The program is available via download at no cost from the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android) and Amazon Appstore (Android).In its initial iOS version, AutoCAD WS supported drawing of lines, circles, and other shapes; creation of text and comment boxes; and management of color, layer, and measurements — in both landscape and portrait modes. Version 1.3, released August 17, 2011, added support of unit typing, layer visibility, area measurement and file management.[15] The Android variant includes the iOS feature set along with such unique features as the ability to insert text or captions by voice command as well as manually.[18] Both Android and iOS versions allow the user to save files on-line — or off-line in the absence of an Internet connection.[18]In 2011, Autodesk announced plans to migrate the majority of its software to "the cloud", starting with the AutoCAD WS mobile application.[19]According to a 2013 interview with Ilai Rotbaein, an AutoCAD WS Product Manager for Autodesk, the name AutoCAD WS had no definitive meaning, and was interpreted variously as Autodesk Web Service, White Sheet or Work Space.[20]

ESRI ArcMap 10 permits export as AutoCAD drawing files. Civil 3D permits export as AutoCAD objects and as LandXML. Third-party file converters exist for specific formats such as Bentley MX GENIO Extension, PISTE Extension (France), ISYBAU (Germany), OKSTRA and Microdrainage (UK);[10] also, conversion of .pdf files is feasible, however, the accuracy of the results may be unpredictable or distorted, as that of jagged edges.LanguagesAutoCAD 2014 and AutoCAD LT 2014 are available for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional and Brazilian Portuguese.[11][12] Russian, Czech, Polish, Hungarian will be available later on. The extent of localization varies from full translation of the product to documentation only. The AutoCAD command set is localized as a part of the software localization.ExtensionsAutoCAD supports a number of APIs for customization and automation. These include AutoLISP, Visual LISP, VBA, .NET and ObjectARX. ObjectARX is a C++ class library, which was also the base for:a) products extending AutoCAD functionality to specific fields;b) creating products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Civil 3D; orc) third-party AutoCAD-based application.There are a large number of AutoCAD plugins (add-on applications) available on the application store Autodesk Exchange Apps .[13] AutoCAD's DXF, drawing exchange format, allows importing and exporting drawing information.Vertical integrationAutodesk has also developed a few vertical programs (AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD ecscad, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Structural Detailing, AutoCAD Utility Design, AutoCAD P&ID and AutoCAD Plant 3D) for discipline-specific enhancements. For example, AutoCAD Architecture (formerly Architectural Desktop) permits architectural designers to draw 3D objects, such as walls, doors and windows, with more intelligent data associated with them rather than simple objects, such as lines and circles. The data can be programmed to represent specific architectural products sold in the construction industry, or extracted into a data file for pricing, materials estimation, and other values related to the objects represented. Additional tools generate standard 2D drawings, such as elevations and sections, from a 3D architectural model. Similarly, Civil Design, Civil Design 3D, and Civil Design Professional support data-specific objects, facilitating easy standard civil engineering calculations and representations. Civil 3D was originally developed as an AutoCAD add-on by a company in New Hampshire called Softdesk (originally DCA). Softdesk was acquired by Autodesk, and Civil 3D was further evolved.VariantsAutoCAD LTAutoCAD LT is the lower cost version of AutoCAD, with reduced capabilities, first released in November 1993. Autodesk developed AutoCAD LT to have an entry-level CAD package to compete in the lower price level. AutoCAD LT, priced at $495, became the first AutoCAD product priced below $1000. It is sold directly by Autodesk and can also be purchased at computer stores (unlike the full version of AutoCAD, which must be purchased from official Autodesk dealers).As of the 2011 release the AutoCAD LT MSRP has risen to $1200. While there are hundreds of small differences between the full AutoCAD package and AutoCAD LT, there are a few recognized major differences[14] in the software's features:3D Capabilities: AutoCAD LT lacks the ability to create, visualize and render 3D models as well as 3D printing.Network Licensing: AutoCAD LT cannot be used on multiple machines over a network.Customization: AutoCAD LT does not support customization with LISP, ARX, .NET and VBA.Management and automation capabilities with Sheet Set Manager and Action Recorder.CAD standards management tools.AutoCAD LT 2015 introduced Desktop Subscription from $360 per yearAutoCAD 360Formerly marketed as AutoCAD WS, AutoCAD 360 is an account-based mobile and web application enabling registered users to view, edit, and share AutoCAD files via mobile device and web[15] using a limited AutoCAD feature set — and using cloud-stored drawing files. The program, which is an evolution and combination of previous products, uses a freemium business model with a free plan and two paid levels — marketed as Pro ($4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly) and Pro Plus ($99.99 yearly) — including various amounts of storage, tools, and online access to drawings. 360 includes new features such as a "Smart Pen" mode and linking to third-party cloud-based storage such as Dropbox. Having evolved from Flash-based software, AutoCAD 360 uses HTML5 browser technology available in newer browsers including Firefox and Google Chrome.AutoCAD WS began with a version for the iPhone and subsequently expanded to include versions for the iPod Touch, iPad, Android phones, and Android tablets.[16] Autodesk released the iOS version in September 2010,[17] following with the Android version on April 20, 2011.[18] The program is available via download at no cost from the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android) and Amazon Appstore (Android).In its initial iOS version, AutoCAD WS supported drawing of lines, circles, and other shapes; creation of text and comment boxes; and management of color, layer, and measurements — in both landscape and portrait modes. Version 1.3, released August 17, 2011, added support of unit typing, layer visibility, area measurement and file management.[15] The Android variant includes the iOS feature set along with such unique features as the ability to insert text or captions by voice command as well as manually.[18] Both Android and iOS versions allow the user to save files on-line — or off-line in the absence of an Internet connection.[18]In 2011, Autodesk announced plans to migrate the majority of its software to "the cloud", starting with the AutoCAD WS mobile application.[19]According to a 2013 interview with Ilai Rotbaein, an AutoCAD WS Product Manager for Autodesk, the name AutoCAD WS had no definitive meaning, and was interpreted variously as Autodesk Web Service, White Sheet or Work Space.[20]Student versionsAutoCAD is licensed, for free, to qualifying students and teachers, with a 18-month renewable license available. The student version of AutoCAD is functionally identical to the full commercial version, with one exception: DWG files created or edited by a student version have an internal bit-flag set (the "educational flag"). When such a DWG file is printed by any version of AutoCAD (commercial or student) older than AutoCAD 2014 SP1, the output includes a plot stamp / banner on all four sides. Objects created in the Student Version cannot be used for commercial use. Student Version objects "infect" a commercial version DWG file if it is imported in older versions than AutoCAD 2015.[21]The Autodesk Education Community provides registered students and faculty with free access to different Autodesk applications.

Monday, May 16, 2016

AutoCAD is licensed, for free, to qualifying students and teachers, with a 18-month renewable license available. The student version of AutoCAD is functionally identical to the full commercial version, with one exception: DWG files created or edited by a student version have an internal bit-flag set (the "educational flag"). When such a DWG file is printed by any version of AutoCAD (commercial or student) older than AutoCAD 2014 SP1, the output includes a plot stamp / banner on all four sides. Objects created in the Student Version cannot be used for commercial use. Student Version objects "infect" a commercial version DWG file if it is imported in older versions than AutoCAD 2015.[21]The Autodesk Education Community provides registered students and faculty with free access to different Autodesk applications.PortsAndroidAutodesk AutoCAD 360 is the official AutoCAD mobile app for Android.[22]Microsoft WindowsAutoCAD is a software package created for Windows and usually any new AutoCAD version supports the current Windows version and some older ones. AutoCAD 2016 supports Windows 7 up to Windows 10.[23]Mac OSAutodesk stopped supporting Apple's Macintosh computers in 1994. Over the next several years, no compatible versions for the Mac were released. In 2010 Autodesk announced that it would once again support Apple's Mac OS X software in the future.[24] Most of the features found in the 2012 Windows version can be found in the 2012 Mac version. The main difference is the user interface and layout of the program. The interface is designed so that users who are already familiar with Apple's OS X software will find it similar to other Mac applications.[17] Autodesk has also built in various features in order to take full advantage of Apple's Trackpad capabilities as well as the full-screen mode in Apple's OS X Lion.[16][17] AutoCAD 2012 for Mac supports both the editing and saving of files in DWG formatting that will allow the file to be compatible with other platforms besides the OS X.[16] AutoCAD 2014 for Mac supports Apple Mac OS X v10.9.0 or later (Mavericks), OS X v10.8.0 or later (Mountain Lion) with 64-bit Intel processor.AutoCAD LT 2013 is now available through the Mac App Store for $899.99. The full featured version of AutoCAD 2013 for Mac, however, is not available through the Mac App Store due to the price limit of $999 set by Apple. AutoCAD 2014 for Mac is available for purchase from Autodesk's Web site for $4,195 and AutoCAD LT 2014 for Mac for $1,200, or from an Autodesk Authorized Reseller.[24]See also3ds MaxAutoCAD ArchitectureAutodeskAutodesk MayaAutodesk RevitAutoShadeAutoSketchComparison of computer-aided design editorsDesign Web FormatTekla StructuresSketchUpReferences"Autodesk, Inc". FundingUniverse. Lendio. 2012. Retrieved 29 March 2012."Chapter 8 : Autodesk and AutoCAD" (PDF). Cadhistory.net. Retrieved 2016-03-30."Chapter 2 : A Brief Overview of the History of CAD" (PDF). Cadhistory.net. Retrieved 2016-03-30."Part 2 CAD/CAM/CAE", 25 Year retrospective, Computer Graphics World, 2011, retrieved 29 March 2012Riddle, Michael. "About". Retrieved 24 January 2014. "I’ve been building CAD products for over 29 years now, starting with Interact for the Marinchip 9900 released back in 1979, one of the first PC-based CAD programs available. Interact went on to become the architectural basis for the early versions of AutoCAD. I was one of the original 18 founders of that company."Walker, John (1 May 1982). "Information letter #5". Retrieved 24 January 2014.Yare, Evan (17 Feb 2012). "AutoCAD's Ancestor". 3D CAD World. Retrieved 24 January 2014.One Company's CAD Success Story, InfoWorld, 3 December 1984, retrieved 19 July 2014[1] Archived August 16, 2011, at the Wayback Machine."AutoCAD Civil 3D 2011 Drawing Compatibility" (PDF). AutoCAD Civil 3D 2011 User's Guide. Autodesk. April 2010. pp. 141–142. Retrieved January 29, 2013."AutoCAD Language Packs". Autodesk. Retrieved 7 April 2013."AutoCAD Language Packs". Autodesk. Retrieved 7 April 2013."AutoCAD Exchange Apps". Autodesk. Retrieved 11 August 2013."Questions and Answers" (PDF). Images.autodesk.com. Retrieved 2016-03-30.Autodesk. "AutoCAD WS". iTunes Preview. Apple. Retrieved 30 September 2011.Ozler, Levent. "AutoCAD for Mac and AutoCAD WS application for iPad and iPhone". Dexigner. Dexigner. Retrieved 30 September 2011.Ozler, Levent. "AutoCAD for Mac 2012: Built for Mac OS X Lion". Dexigner. Dexigner. Retrieved 30 September 2011.Ozler, Levent. "AutoCAD WS for Android". Dexigner. Dexigner. Retrieved 30 September 2011.Thomson, Iain. "Autodesk Shifts Design Apps to the Cloud". The A Register. The A Register. Retrieved 30 September 2011."AutoCAD WS: Moving Forward". Augi Autodesk Users Group International, January 29th, 2013. Retrieved 26 April 2013."Overview of Plotting". Retrieved 19 March 2016."AutoCAD 360 - Android Apps on Google Play". Play.google.com. Retrieved 2016-03-19."System requirements for AutoCAD 2016 | AutoCAD | Autodesk Knowledge Network". Knowledge.autodesk.com. 2015-12-16. Retrieved 2016-03-19.Clark, Don (16 August 2011). "Autodesk Adopts Apple App Store for Mac Software". The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 30 September 2011.

Compatibility with other softwareESRI ArcMap 10 permits export as AutoCAD drawing files. Civil 3D permits export as AutoCAD objects and as LandXML. Third-party file converters exist for specific formats such as Bentley MX GENIO Extension, PISTE Extension (France), ISYBAU (Germany), OKSTRA and Microdrainage (UK);[10] also, conversion of .pdf files is feasible, however, the accuracy of the results may be unpredictable or distorted, as that of jagged edges.LanguagesAutoCAD 2014 and AutoCAD LT 2014 are available for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional and Brazilian Portuguese.[11][12] Russian, Czech, Polish, Hungarian will be available later on. The extent of localization varies from full translation of the product to documentation only. The AutoCAD command set is localized as a part of the software localization.ExtensionsAutoCAD supports a number of APIs for customization and automation. These include AutoLISP, Visual LISP, VBA, .NET and ObjectARX. ObjectARX is a C++ class library, which was also the base for:a) products extending AutoCAD functionality to specific fields;b) creating products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Civil 3D; orc) third-party AutoCAD-based application.There are a large number of AutoCAD plugins (add-on applications) available on the application store Autodesk Exchange Apps .[13] AutoCAD's DXF, drawing exchange format, allows importing and exporting drawing information.Vertical integrationAutodesk has also developed a few vertical programs (AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD ecscad, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Structural Detailing, AutoCAD Utility Design, AutoCAD P&ID and AutoCAD Plant 3D) for discipline-specific enhancements. For example, AutoCAD Architecture (formerly Architectural Desktop) permits architectural designers to draw 3D objects, such as walls, doors and windows, with more intelligent data associated with them rather than simple objects, such as lines and circles. The data can be programmed to represent specific architectural products sold in the construction industry, or extracted into a data file for pricing, materials estimation, and other values related to the objects represented. Additional tools generate standard 2D drawings, such as elevations and sections, from a 3D architectural model. Similarly, Civil Design, Civil Design 3D, and Civil Design Professional support data-specific objects, facilitating easy standard civil engineering calculations and representations. Civil 3D was originally developed as an AutoCAD add-on by a company in New Hampshire called Softdesk (originally DCA). Softdesk was acquired by Autodesk, and Civil 3D was further evolved.VariantsAutoCAD LTAutoCAD LT is the lower cost version of AutoCAD, with reduced capabilities, first released in November 1993. Autodesk developed AutoCAD LT to have an entry-level CAD package to compete in the lower price level. AutoCAD LT, priced at $495, became the first AutoCAD product priced below $1000. It is sold directly by Autodesk and can also be purchased at computer stores (unlike the full version of AutoCAD, which must be purchased from official Autodesk dealers).As of the 2011 release the AutoCAD LT MSRP has risen to $1200. While there are hundreds of small differences between the full AutoCAD package and AutoCAD LT, there are a few recognized major differences[14] in the software's features:3D Capabilities: AutoCAD LT lacks the ability to create, visualize and render 3D models as well as 3D printing.Network Licensing: AutoCAD LT cannot be used on multiple machines over a network.Customization: AutoCAD LT does not support customization with LISP, ARX, .NET and VBA.Management and automation capabilities with Sheet Set Manager and Action Recorder.CAD standards management tools.AutoCAD LT 2015 introduced Desktop Subscription from $360 per yearAutoCAD 360Formerly marketed as AutoCAD WS, AutoCAD 360 is an account-based mobile and web application enabling registered users to view, edit, and share AutoCAD files via mobile device and web[15] using a limited AutoCAD feature set — and using cloud-stored drawing files. The program, which is an evolution and combination of previous products, uses a freemium business model with a free plan and two paid levels — marketed as Pro ($4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly) and Pro Plus ($99.99 yearly) — including various amounts of storage, tools, and online access to drawings. 360 includes new features such as a "Smart Pen" mode and linking to third-party cloud-based storage such as Dropbox. Having evolved from Flash-based software, AutoCAD 360 uses HTML5 browser technology available in newer browsers including Firefox and Google Chrome.AutoCAD WS began with a version for the iPhone and subsequently expanded to include versions for the iPod Touch, iPad, Android phones, and Android tablets.[16] Autodesk released the iOS version in September 2010,[17] following with the Android version on April 20, 2011.[18] The program is available via download at no cost from the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android) and Amazon Appstore (Android).In its initial iOS version, AutoCAD WS supported drawing of lines, circles, and other shapes; creation of text and comment boxes; and management of color, layer, and measurements — in both landscape and portrait modes. Version 1.3, released August 17, 2011, added support of unit typing, layer visibility, area measurement and file management.[15] The Android variant includes the iOS feature set along with such unique features as the ability to insert text or captions by voice command as well as manually.[18] Both Android and iOS versions allow the user to save files on-line — or off-line in the absence of an Internet connection.[18]In 2011, Autodesk announced plans to migrate the majority of its software to "the cloud", starting with the AutoCAD WS mobile application.[19]According to a 2013 interview with Ilai Rotbaein, an AutoCAD WS Product Manager for Autodesk, the name AutoCAD WS had no definitive meaning, and was interpreted variously as Autodesk Web Service, White Sheet or Work Space.[20]Student versionsAutoCAD is licensed, for free, to qualifying students and teachers, with a 18-month renewable license available. The student version of AutoCAD is functionally identical to the full commercial version, with one exception: DWG files created or edited by a student version have an internal bit-flag set (the "educational flag"). When such a DWG file is printed by any version of AutoCAD (commercial or student) older than AutoCAD 2014 SP1, the output includes a plot stamp / banner on all four sides. Objects created in the Student Version cannot be used for commercial use. Student Version objects "infect" a commercial version DWG file if it is imported in older versions than AutoCAD 2015.[21]The Autodesk Education Community provides registered students and faculty with free access to different Autodesk applications.Ports

Sunday, May 15, 2016

AutoCAD LTAutoCAD LT is the lower cost version of AutoCAD, with reduced capabilities, first released in November 1993. Autodesk developed AutoCAD LT to have an entry-level CAD package to compete in the lower price level. AutoCAD LT, priced at $495, became the first AutoCAD product priced below $1000. It is sold directly by Autodesk and can also be purchased at computer stores (unlike the full version of AutoCAD, which must be purchased from official Autodesk dealers).As of the 2011 release the AutoCAD LT MSRP has risen to $1200. While there are hundreds of small differences between the full AutoCAD package and AutoCAD LT, there are a few recognized major differences[14] in the software's features:3D Capabilities: AutoCAD LT lacks the ability to create, visualize and render 3D models as well as 3D printing.Network Licensing: AutoCAD LT cannot be used on multiple machines over a network.Customization: AutoCAD LT does not support customization with LISP, ARX, .NET and VBA.Management and automation capabilities with Sheet Set Manager and Action Recorder.CAD standards management tools.AutoCAD LT 2015 introduced Desktop Subscription from $360 per yearAutoCAD 360Formerly marketed as AutoCAD WS, AutoCAD 360 is an account-based mobile and web application enabling registered users to view, edit, and share AutoCAD files via mobile device and web[15] using a limited AutoCAD feature set — and using cloud-stored drawing files. The program, which is an evolution and combination of previous products, uses a freemium business model with a free plan and two paid levels — marketed as Pro ($4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly) and Pro Plus ($99.99 yearly) — including various amounts of storage, tools, and online access to drawings. 360 includes new features such as a "Smart Pen" mode and linking to third-party cloud-based storage such as Dropbox. Having evolved from Flash-based software, AutoCAD 360 uses HTML5 browser technology available in newer browsers including Firefox and Google Chrome.AutoCAD WS began with a version for the iPhone and subsequently expanded to include versions for the iPod Touch, iPad, Android phones, and Android tablets.[16] Autodesk released the iOS version in September 2010,[17] following with the Android version on April 20, 2011.[18] The program is available via download at no cost from the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android) and Amazon Appstore (Android).In its initial iOS version, AutoCAD WS supported drawing of lines, circles, and other shapes; creation of text and comment boxes; and management of color, layer, and measurements — in both landscape and portrait modes. Version 1.3, released August 17, 2011, added support of unit typing, layer visibility, area measurement and file management.[15] The Android variant includes the iOS feature set along with such unique features as the ability to insert text or captions by voice command as well as manually.[18] Both Android and iOS versions allow the user to save files on-line — or off-line in the absence of an Internet connection.[18]In 2011, Autodesk announced plans to migrate the majority of its software to "the cloud", starting with the AutoCAD WS mobile application.[19]According to a 2013 interview with Ilai Rotbaein, an AutoCAD WS Product Manager for Autodesk, the name AutoCAD WS had no definitive meaning, and was interpreted variously as Autodesk Web Service, White Sheet or Work Space.[20]Student versionsAutoCAD is licensed, for free, to qualifying students and teachers, with a 18-month renewable license available. The student version of AutoCAD is functionally identical to the full commercial version, with one exception: DWG files created or edited by a student version have an internal bit-flag set (the "educational flag"). When such a DWG file is printed by any version of AutoCAD (commercial or student) older than AutoCAD 2014 SP1, the output includes a plot stamp / banner on all four sides. Objects created in the Student Version cannot be used for commercial use. Student Version objects "infect" a commercial version DWG file if it is imported in older versions than AutoCAD 2015.[21]The Autodesk Education Community provides registered students and faculty with free access to different Autodesk applications.

DesignFile formats and versionsThe native file format of AutoCAD is .dwg. This and, to a lesser extent, its interchange file format DXF, have become de facto, if proprietary, standards for CAD data interoperability, particularly for 2D drawing exchange.[citation needed] AutoCAD has included support for .dwf, a format developed and promoted by Autodesk, for publishing CAD data.Autodesk's logo and, respectively, AutoCAD icons have changed for several versions through the years.Official Name Version Release Date of release CommentsAutoCAD Version 1.0 1.0 1 1982, December DWG R1.0 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 1.2 1.2 2 1983, April DWG R1.2 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 1.3 1.3 3 1983, August DWG R1.3 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 1.4 1.4 4 1983, October DWG R1.4 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 2.0 2.0 5 1984, October DWG R2.05 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 2.1 2.1 6 1985, May DWG R2.1 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 2.5 2.5 7 1986, June DWG R2.5 file format introduced.AutoCAD Version 2.6 2.6 8 1987, April DWG R2.6 file format introduced. Last version to run without a math co-processor.AutoCAD Release 9 9.0 9 1987, September DWG R9 file format introduced.AutoCAD Release 10 10.0 10 1988, October DWG R10 file format introduced.AutoCAD Release 11 11.0 11 1990, October DWG R11 file format introduced.AutoCAD Release 12 12.0 12 1992, June DWG R11/R12 file format introduced. Last release for Apple Macintosh till 2010.AutoCAD Release 13 13.0 13 1994, November DWG R13 file format introduced. Last release for Unix, MS-DOS and Windows 3.11.AutoCAD Release 14 14.0 14 1997, February DWG R14 file format introduced.AutoCAD 2000 15.0 15 1999, March DWG 2000 file format introduced.AutoCAD 2000i 15.1 16 2000, JulyAutoCAD 2002 15.2 17 2001, JuneAutoCAD 2004 16.0 18 2003, March DWG 2004 file format introduced.AutoCAD 2005 16.1 19 2004, MarchAutoCAD 2006 16.2 20 2005, March Dynamic Block introduced.AutoCAD 2007 17.0 21 2006, March DWG 2007 file format introduced.AutoCAD 2008 17.1 22 2007, March Annotative Objects introduced. AutoCAD 2008 and higher (including AutoCAD LT) can directly import and underlay DGN V8 files.AutoCAD 2009 17.2 23 2008, March Revisions to the user interface including the option of a Microsoft Office 2007-like tabbed ribbon.AutoCAD 2010 18.0 24 2009, March 24 DWG 2010 file format introduced. Parametrics introduced. Mesh 3D solid modeling introduced. PDF underlays. Both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of AutoCAD 2010 and AutoCAD LT 2010 are compatible with and supported under Microsoft Windows 7.AutoCAD 2011 18.1 25 2010, March 25 Surface Modeling, Surface Analysis and Object Transparency introduced. October 15, 2010[9] AutoCAD 2011 for Mac was released. Are compatible with and supported under Microsoft Windows 7AutoCAD 2012 18.2 26 2011, March 22 Associative Array, Model Documentation. Support for complex line types in DGN files is improved in AutoCAD 2012. DGN editing.AutoCAD 2013 19.0 27 2012, March 27 DWG 2013 file format introduced.AutoCAD 2014 19.1 28 2013, March 26 File Tabs, Design Feed, Reality Capture, Autodesk Live MapsAutoCAD 2015 20.0 29 2014, March 27 Line smoothing (anti-aliasing), Windows 8.1 support added, dropped Windows XP support (incl. compatibility mode)AutoCAD 2016 20.1 30 2015, March 23 More comprehensive canvas, richer design context, and intelligent new tools such as Smart Dimensioning, Coordination Model, and Enhanced PDFs.AutoCAD 2017 21.0 31 2016, March 21 PDF import, Associative Center Marks and Centerlines.Compatibility with other softwareESRI ArcMap 10 permits export as AutoCAD drawing files. Civil 3D permits export as AutoCAD objects and as LandXML. Third-party file converters exist for specific formats such as Bentley MX GENIO Extension, PISTE Extension (France), ISYBAU (Germany), OKSTRA and Microdrainage (UK);[10] also, conversion of .pdf files is feasible, however, the accuracy of the results may be unpredictable or distorted, as that of jagged edges.LanguagesAutoCAD 2014 and AutoCAD LT 2014 are available for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Chinese Simplified, Chinese Traditional and Brazilian Portuguese.[11][12] Russian, Czech, Polish, Hungarian will be available later on. The extent of localization varies from full translation of the product to documentation only. The AutoCAD command set is localized as a part of the software localization.ExtensionsAutoCAD supports a number of APIs for customization and automation. These include AutoLISP, Visual LISP, VBA, .NET and ObjectARX. ObjectARX is a C++ class library, which was also the base for:a) products extending AutoCAD functionality to specific fields;b) creating products such as AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Civil 3D; orc) third-party AutoCAD-based application.There are a large number of AutoCAD plugins (add-on applications) available on the application store Autodesk Exchange Apps .[13] AutoCAD's DXF, drawing exchange format, allows importing and exporting drawing information.Vertical integrationAutodesk has also developed a few vertical programs (AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD ecscad, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Structural Detailing, AutoCAD Utility Design, AutoCAD P&ID and AutoCAD Plant 3D) for discipline-specific enhancements. For example, AutoCAD Architecture (formerly Architectural Desktop) permits architectural designers to draw 3D objects, such as walls, doors and windows, with more intelligent data associated with them rather than simple objects, such as lines and circles. The data can be programmed to represent specific architectural products sold in the construction industry, or extracted into a data file for pricing, materials estimation, and other values related to the objects represented. Additional tools generate standard 2D drawings, such as elevations and sections, from a 3D architectural model. Similarly, Civil Design, Civil Design 3D, and Civil Design Professional support data-specific objects, facilitating easy standard civil engineering calculations and representations. Civil 3D was originally developed as an AutoCAD add-on by a company in New Hampshire called Softdesk (originally DCA). Softdesk was acquired by Autodesk, and Civil 3D was further evolved.VariantsAutoCAD LTAutoCAD LT is the lower cost version of AutoCAD, with reduced capabilities, first released in November 1993. Autodesk developed AutoCAD LT to have an entry-level CAD package to compete in the lower price level. AutoCAD LT, priced at $495, became the first AutoCAD product priced below $1000. It is sold directly by Autodesk and can also be purchased at computer stores (unlike the full version of AutoCAD, which must be purchased from official Autodesk dealers).As of the 2011 release the AutoCAD LT MSRP has risen to $1200. While there are hundreds of small differences between the full AutoCAD package and AutoCAD LT, there are a few recognized major differences[14] in the software's features:3D Capabilities: AutoCAD LT lacks the ability to create, visualize and render 3D models as well as 3D printing.Network Licensing: AutoCAD LT cannot be used on multiple machines over a network.Customization: AutoCAD LT does not support customization with LISP, ARX, .NET and VBA.Management and automation capabilities with Sheet Set Manager and Action Recorder.CAD standards management tools.AutoCAD LT 2015 introduced Desktop Subscription from $360 per yearAutoCAD 360Formerly marketed as AutoCAD WS, AutoCAD 360 is an account-based mobile and web application enabling registered users to view, edit, and share AutoCAD files via mobile device and web[15] using a limited AutoCAD feature set — and using cloud-stored drawing files. The program, which is an evolution and combination of previous products, uses a freemium business model with a free plan and two paid levels — marketed as Pro ($4.99 monthly or $49.99 yearly) and Pro Plus ($99.99 yearly) — including various amounts of storage, tools, and online access to drawings. 360 includes new features such as a "Smart Pen" mode and linking to third-party cloud-based storage such as Dropbox. Having evolved from Flash-based software, AutoCAD 360 uses HTML5 browser technology available in newer browsers including Firefox and Google Chrome.AutoCAD WS began with a version for the iPhone and subsequently expanded to include versions for the iPod Touch, iPad, Android phones, and Android tablets.[16] Autodesk released the iOS version in September 2010,[17] following with the Android version on April 20, 2011.[18] The program is available via download at no cost from the App Store (iOS), Google Play (Android) and Amazon Appstore (Android).In its initial iOS version, AutoCAD WS supported drawing of lines, circles, and other shapes; creation of text and comment boxes; and management of color, layer, and measurements — in both landscape and portrait modes. Version 1.3, released August 17, 2011, added support of unit typing, layer visibility, area measurement and file management.[15] The Android variant includes the iOS feature set along with such unique features as the ability to insert text or captions by voice command as well as manually.[18] Both Android and iOS versions allow the user to save files on-line — or off-line in the absence of an Internet connection.[18]In 2011, Autodesk announced plans to migrate the majority of its software to "the cloud", starting with the AutoCAD WS mobile application.[19]According to a 2013 interview with Ilai Rotbaein, an AutoCAD WS Product Manager for Autodesk, the name AutoCAD WS had no definitive meaning, and was interpreted variously as Autodesk Web Service, White Sheet or Work Space.[20]Student versionsAutoCAD is licensed, for free, to qualifying students and teachers, with a 18-month renewable license available. The student version of AutoCAD is functionally identical to the full commercial version, with one exception: DWG files created or edited by a student version have an internal bit-flag set (the "educational flag"). When such a DWG file is printed by any version of AutoCAD (commercial or student) older than AutoCAD 2014 SP1, the output includes a plot stamp / banner on all four sides. Objects created in the Student Version cannot be used for commercial use. Student Version objects "infect" a commercial version DWG file if it is imported in older versions than AutoCAD 2015.[21]The Autodesk Education Community provides registered students and faculty with free access to different Autodesk applications.PortsAndroidAutodesk AutoCAD 360 is the official AutoCAD mobile app for Android.[22]Microsoft WindowsAutoCAD is a software package created for Windows and usually any new AutoCAD version supports the current Windows version and some older ones. AutoCAD 2016 supports Windows 7 up to Windows 10.[23]Mac OSAutodesk stopped supporting Apple's Macintosh computers in 1994. Over the next several years, no compatible versions for the Mac were released. In 2010 Autodesk announced that it would once again support Apple's Mac OS X software in the future.[24] Most of the features found in the 2012 Windows version can be found in the 2012 Mac version. The main difference is the user interface and layout of the program. The interface is designed so that users who are already familiar with Apple's OS X software will find it similar to other Mac applications.[17] Autodesk has also built in various features in order to take full advantage of Apple's Trackpad capabilities as well as the full-screen mode in Apple's OS X Lion.[16][17] AutoCAD 2012 for Mac supports both the editing and saving of files in DWG formatting that will allow the file to be compatible with other platforms besides the OS X.[16] AutoCAD 2014 for Mac supports Apple Mac OS X v10.9.0 or later (Mavericks), OS X v10.8.0 or later (Mountain Lion) with 64-bit Intel processor.AutoCAD LT 2013 is now available through the Mac App Store for $899.99. The full featured version of AutoCAD 2013 for Mac, however, is not available through the Mac App Store due to the price limit of $999 set by Apple. AutoCAD 2014 for Mac is available for purchase from Autodesk's Web site for $4,195 and AutoCAD LT 2014 for Mac for $1,200, or from an Autodesk Authorized Reseller.[24]

AutoCAD DXF (Drawing Interchange Format, or Drawing Exchange Format) is a CAD data file format developed by Autodesk[2] for enabling data interoperability between AutoCAD and other programs.DXF was originally introduced in December 1982 as part of AutoCAD 1.0, and was intended to provide an exact representation of the data in the AutoCAD native file format, DWG (Drawing), for which Autodesk for many years did not publish specifications. Because of this, correct imports of DXF files have been difficult. Autodesk now publishes the DXF specifications as a PDF[1] on its website.Versions of AutoCAD from Release 10 (October 1988) and up support both ASCII and binary forms of DXF. Earlier versions support only ASCII.As AutoCAD has become more powerful, supporting more complex object types, DXF has become less useful. Certain object types, including ACIS solids and regions, are not documented. Other object types, including AutoCAD 2006's dynamic blocks, and all of the objects specific to the vertical market versions of AutoCAD, are partially documented, but not well enough to allow other developers to support them. For these reasons many CAD applications use the DWG format which can be licensed from Autodesk or non-natively from the Open Design Alliance.DXF coordinates are always without dimensions so that the reader or user needs to know the drawing unit or has to extract it from the textual comments in the sheets.Contents1 File structure2 See also3 References4 External linksFile structureASCII versions of DXF can be read with any text editor. The basic organization of a DXF file is as follows:[3]HEADER section – General information about the drawing. Each parameter has a variable name and an associated value.CLASSES section – Holds the information for application-defined classes whose instances appear in the BLOCKS, ENTITIES, and OBJECTS sections of the database. Generally does not provide sufficient information to allow interoperability with other programs.TABLES section – This section contains definitions of named items.Application ID (APPID) tableBlock Record (BLOCK_RECORD) tableDimension Style (DIMSTYPE) tableLayer (LAYER) tableLinetype (LTYPE) tableText style (STYLE) tableUser Coordinate System (UCS) tableView (VIEW) tableViewport configuration (VPORT) tableBLOCKS section – This section contains Block Definition entities describing the entities comprising each Block in the drawing.ENTITIES section – This section contains the drawing entities, including any Block References.OBJECTS section – Contains the data that apply to nongraphical objects, used by AutoLISP and ObjectARX applications.THUMBNAILIMAGE section – Contains the preview image for the DXF file.END OF FILEThe data format of a DXF is called a "tagged data" format which "means that each data element in the file is preceded by an integer number that is called a group code. A group code's value indicates what type of data element follows. This value also indicates the meaning of a data element for a given object (or record) type. Virtually all user-specified information in a drawing file can be represented in DXF format."[4]

The longest stairway is listed by Guinness Book of Records as the service stairway for the Niesenbahn funicular railway near Spiez, Switzerland, with 11,674 steps and a height of 1,669 m (5,476 ft).[23] The stairs are usually employee-only, but there is a public run called "Niesenlauf" once a year.A flight of 7,200 steps (including inner temple Steps), with 6,293 Official Mountain Walkway Steps, leads up the East Peak of Mount Tai in China.The Haʻiku Stairs, on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, are approximately 4,000 steps which climb nearly 1⁄2 mile (0.8 km). Originally used to access longwire radio radio antennas which were strung high above the Haʻiku Valley, between Honolulu and Kaneʻohe, they are closed to hikers.The Flørli stairs, in Lysefjorden, Norway, have 4,444 wooden steps which climb from sea level to 740 metres (2,428 feet). It is a maintenance stairway for the water pipeline to the old Flørli hydro plant. The hydro plant is now closed down, and the stairs are open to the public. The stairway is claimed to be the longest wooden stairway in the world.[24]The CN Tower's staircase reaches the main deck level after 1,776 steps and the Sky Pod above after 2,579 steps; it is the tallest metal staircase on Earth.The Penrose stairs, devised by Lionel and Roger Penrose, are a famous impossible object. The image distorts perspective in such a manner that the stairs appear to be never-ending, a physical impossibility. The image was adopted by M. C. Escher in his iconic lithograph Ascending and Descending.The World Trade Center Survivors' Staircase is the last visible structure above ground level at the World Trade Center site. It was originally two outdoor flights of granite-clad stairs and an escalator that connected Vesey Street to the World Trade Center's Austin J. Tobin Plaza. During the September 11, 2001, attacks, the stairs served as an escape route for hundreds of evacuees from 5 World Trade Center, a 9-floor building adjacent to the 110-story towers.Stairwell A was the lone stairway left intact after the second plane hit the South Tower of the World Trade Center during the September 11 attacks. It was believed to have remained intact until the South Tower collapsed at 9:59 am. 14 people were able to escape the floors located at the impact zone (including one man who saw the plane coming at him), and 4 people from the floors above the impact zone. Numerous 911 operators who received calls from individuals inside the South Tower were not well informed of the situation as it rapidly unfolded in the South Tower. Many operators told callers not to descend the tower on their own, even though it is now believed that Stairwell A was most likely passable at and above the point of impact.[25]In London, England a notable staircase is that to The Monument to the Great Fire of London, more commonly known simply as "the Monument". This is a column in the City of London, near the northern end of London Bridge, which commemorates the Great Fire of London. The top of the Monument is reached by a narrow winding staircase of 311 steps. Constructed between 1671 and 1677, it is the tallest isolated stone column in the world.[26]The Spanish Steps in Rome are a monument of late Italian Baroque architecture connecting the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti up the side of the Pincian Hill. Designed by Francesco De Sanctis and constructed 1723–1725, the 135 steps form a wide vista looking down toward the Tiber. The steps are adorned with garden terraces blooming with azaleas and have been widely celebrated in cultural work.The Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, New Mexico is well known for its helix-shaped spiral staircase, which has been nicknamed "Miraculous Stair". It has been the subject of legend and rumor, and the circumstances surrounding its construction and its builder are considered miraculous by the Sisters of Loretto and many visitors.

For stairs with an open concept upper floor or landing, the upper floor is functionally a balcony. For a straight flight of stairs, the balcony may be long enough to require multiple newels to support the length of railing. In modern homes, it is common to have hardwood floors on the first floor and carpet on the second. The homeowner should consider using hardwood nosing in place of carpet. Should the carpet be subsequently replaced with hardwood, the balcony balustrade may have to be removed to add the nosing.FlightA flight is an uninterrupted series of steps.Floating stairsA flight of stairs is said to be "floating" if there is nothing underneath. The risers are typically missing as well to emphasize the open effect. There may be only one stringer or the stringers otherwise minimized. Where building codes allow, there may not even be handrails.Landing or PlatformA landing is the area of a floor near the top or bottom step of a stair. An intermediate landing is a small platform that is built as part of the stair between main floor levels and is typically used to allow stairs to change directions, or to allow the user a rest. A half landing is where a 180° change in direction is made, and a quarter landing is where a 90° change in direction is made (on an intermediate landing).[4] As intermediate landings consume floor space they can be expensive to build. However, changing the direction of the stairs allows stairs to fit where they would not otherwise, or provides privacy to the upper level as visitors downstairs cannot simply look up the stairs to the upper level due to the change in direction. The word 'landing' is also commonly used for a general corridor in any of the floors above the ground floor of a building, even if that corridor is located well away from a staircase.Mobile Safety StepsCan be used as temporary, safe replacements for many types of stairsRunnerCarpeting that runs down the middle of the stairs. Runners may be directly stapled or nailed to the stairs, or may be secured by a specialized bar that holds the carpet in place where the tread meets the riser, known as a stair rod.SpandrelIf there is not another flight of stairs immediately underneath, the triangular space underneath the stairs is called a "spandrel". It is frequently used as a closet.StaircaseThis term is often reserved for the stairs themselves: the steps, railings and landings; though often it is used interchangeably with "stairs" and "stairway". In the UK, however, the term "staircase" denotes what in the U.S. is called "stairway", but usually includes the casing – the walls, bannisters and underside of the stairs or roof above.StairwayThis primarily American term is often reserved for the entire stairwell and staircase in combination;[citation needed] though often it is used interchangeably with "stairs" and "staircase".StairwellThe spatial opening, usually a vertical shaft, containing an indoor stairway; by extension it is often used as including the stairs it contains.Staircase towerA tower attached to, or incorporated into, a building that contains stairs linking the various floors.MeasurementsThe measurements of a stair, in particular the rise height and going of the steps, should remain the same along the stairs.[5] A large baluster or post used to anchor the handrail. Since it is a structural element, it extends below the floor and subfloor to the bottom of the floor joists and is bolted right to the floor joist. A half-newel may be used where a railing ends in the wall. Visually, it looks like half the newel is embedded in the wall. For open landings, a newel may extend below the landing for a decorative newel drop.FinialA decorative cap to the top of a newel post, particularly at the end of the balustrade.Baserail or ShoerailFor systems where the baluster does not start at the treads, they go to a baserail. This allows for identical balusters, avoiding the second baluster problem.FilletA decorative filler piece on the floor between balusters on a balcony railing.Handrails may be continuous (sometimes called over-the-post) or post-to-post (or more accurately "newel-to-newel"). For continuous handrails on long balconies, there may be multiple newels and tandem caps to cover the newels. At corners, there are quarter-turn caps. For post-to-post systems, the newels project above the handrails.Another, more classical, form of handrailing which is still in use is the tangent method. A variant of the Cylindric method of layout, it allows for continuous climbing and twisting rails and easings. It was defined from principles set down by architect Peter Nicholson in the 18th century.The earliest spiral staircases appear in Temple A in the Greek colony Selinunte, Sicily, to both sides of the cella. The temple was constructed around 480–470 BC.[3]

File structureASCII versions of DXF can be read with any text editor. The basic organization of a DXF file is as follows:[3]HEADER section – General information about the drawing. Each parameter has a variable name and an associated value.CLASSES section – Holds the information for application-defined classes whose instances appear in the BLOCKS, ENTITIES, and OBJECTS sections of the database. Generally does not provide sufficient information to allow interoperability with other programs.TABLES section – This section contains definitions of named items.Application ID (APPID) tableBlock Record (BLOCK_RECORD) tableDimension Style (DIMSTYPE) tableLayer (LAYER) tableLinetype (LTYPE) tableText style (STYLE) tableUser Coordinate System (UCS) tableView (VIEW) tableViewport configuration (VPORT) tableBLOCKS section – This section contains Block Definition entities describing the entities comprising each Block in the drawing.ENTITIES section – This section contains the drawing entities, including any Block References.OBJECTS section – Contains the data that apply to nongraphical objects, used by AutoLISP and ObjectARX applications.THUMBNAILIMAGE section – Contains the preview image for the DXF file.END OF FILEThe data format of a DXF is called a "tagged data" format which "means that each data element in the file is preceded by an integer number that is called a group code. A group code's value indicates what type of data element follows. This value also indicates the meaning of a data element for a given object (or record) type. Virtually all user-specified information in a drawing file can be represented in DXF format."[4]See also.dwg (DWG)Design Web Format (DWF)QCad, an open source CAD application that uses the DXF file format internally and to save and import filesLibreCAD, a version of QCAD Community Edition ported to Qt4Open Design Alliance (originally called OpenDWG)ShareCAD, a free online CAD viewer that supports DXF, among other formatsReferencesDXF specifications (PDF)FAQS.orgDXF File Structure"Chapter 1 -- DXF Format" Autodesk.comExternal linksAutoCAD DXF Reference (PDF version)AutoCAD DXF File Format SummaryAnnotated example DXF filePaul Bourke (March 1990). "Minimum Requirements for Creating a DXF File of a 3D Model".