How To Work In AutoCAD
A Brief History
AutoCAD is a software application for 2D and 3D drafting. It was developed by Autodesk and was first used in 1982 under the name MicroCAD. By March 1986, only four years after it was introduced, AutoCAD had become the most widely used design application worldwide, a position it still holds today.
AutoCAD Versions And Their Release Year
AutoCAD Version Release Year
AutoCAD 2013 2012
AutoCAD 2012 2011
AutoCAD 2011 2010
AutoCAD 2010 2009
AutoCAD 2009 2008
AutoCAD 2008 2007
AutoCAD 2007 2006
AutoCAD 2006 2005
AutoCAD 2005 2004
AutoCAD 2004 2003
AutoCAD 2002 2001
AutoCAD 2000i 2000
AutoCAD 2000 1999
AutoCAD Release 14 1997
AutoCAD Release 13 1994
AutoCAD Release 12 1992
AutoCAD Release 11 1990
AutoCAD Release 10 1988
AutoCAD Release 9 1987
AutoCAD Version 2.6 1987
AutoCAD Version 2.5 1986
AutoCAD Version 2.1 1985
AutoCAD Version 2.0 1984
AutoCAD Version 1.4 1983
AutoCAD Version 1.3 1983
AutoCAD Version 1.2 1983
AutoCAD Version 1.0 1982
Where To Use AutoCAD
AutoCAD is now used across a wide range of industries, by architects, project managers, engineers, graphic designers, and other professionals.
In early days AutoCAD was used as a drafting tool. Through the years and many releases it has now become a design tool.
The AutoCAD Software
- AutoCAD uses ‘Icon’ based environment. Icons are grouped in toolbars.
- AutoCAD screen contains two parts graphical screen and textual (command) line.
- AutoCAD saves files in .DWG format but can import and export different formats (DXF, IGES).
- There are two main domains within an Autocad – MODEL space and PAPER space.
Model Space
All drawings and Models are made in a ‘MODEL SPACE’.
Drawing Space Or Paper Space
It is actually a blank sheet in which a real object drawn in model space can be represented as a printable drawing in a proper scale.
AutoCAD commands and options allow you to draw objects of any size or shape. You can use AutoCAD to prepare two-dimensional (2D) drawings, three-dimensional (3D) models, and animations.
2D Drawings
2D drawings display object length and width, width and height, or height and length in a fl at (2D) form. 2D drawings are the established design and drafting format and are common in all engineering and architectural industries and related disciplines. A complete 2D drawing typically includes dimensions, notes, and symbols that describe view features and information.
3D Models
3D models allow for advanced visualization, simulation, and analysis typically not possible with 2D drawings. AutoCAD provides commands and options for developing wireframe, surface, and solid models. An accurate solid model is an exact digital representation of a product. Add color, lighting, and texture to display a realistic view of the model.
Starting Your AutoCAD Work
- Plan Your Work
- Know and apply Drawing Standards
- Save your work
If you follow these steps, you will find it easier to use AutoCAD commands and methods, and your drawing experience will be more productive and enjoyable.
- Plan Your Work
A drawing plan involves thinking about the entire process or project in which you are involved and determining how to approach it. Your drawing plan focuses on the content you want to present, the objects and symbols you intend to create, and the appropriate use of standards.
The drawing plan helps you establish
- Drawing layout: area, number of views, and required free space
- Drawing settings: units, drawing aids, layers, and styles
- How and when to perform specific tasks
- What objects and symbols to draw
- Drawing Standards
Companies follow appropriate industry standards. Standards are understood and used by all CADD personnel.
Drawing standards apply to most settings and procedures, including:
- File storage, naming, and backup
- Drawing template, or template, files
- Units of measurement
- Layout characteristics
- Borders and title blocks
- Symbols
- Layers
- Text, dimension, multileader, and table styles
- Plot styles and plotting
- Saving your work
Drawings are lost due to software error, hardware malfunction, power failure, or accident. Be prepared for such events by saving your work at least every 15 minutes.
A Final Word
Use following methods to make your work perfect
- Carefully plan your work.
- Frequently check object and drawing settings, such as layers, styles, and properties, to see which object characteristics and drawing options are in effect.
- Follow the prompts, tooltips, notifi cations, and alerts that appear as you work.
- Constantly check for the correct options, instructions, or keyboard entry.
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