AutoCAD

Popular programs in 3D Design

What is AutoCAD

Few factories, architectural firms and manufacturing companies can be found that do not include AutoCAD as one of their most-used software programs. What's so special about AutoCAD, and why is it so widely used worldwide? Read this informative article and learn the important facts about this highly publicized software program known as AutoCAD.

Overview of AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software program used to create 2D and 3D designs. AutoCad, which was created by Autodesk, Inc. in 1982, was one of the first computer-aided programs to be designed for use on desktop computers. There continue to be regular upgrades to this program; it is currently on its 20th version.

While it was originally designed for personal computers, it has now been streamlined so that it can be used in other computerized settings, allowing individuals to use it both at work and at home. Although AutoCad was originally for the Windows operating system, special versions of AutoCad have been developed for use on Android devices and MAC operating systems. Both the Android and the MAC version give the user the option of saving designs offline and online.

Where is AutoCad Used?

AutoCad is used in many industries, including architecture, manufacturing, engineering and even the fashion industry. Because of its popularity and use worldwide, many high schools now offer this software program as part of their curriculum. AutoCad is also offered in various versions that accommodate different purposes, such as AutoCad Electrical, AutoCad Architecture and AutoCad Civil 3D, to name just a few.

Pros of AutoCad

?Ease of Use

?Allows the user to create parts that are less likely to cause problems when manufactured and assembled

?Capable of making a variety of angles, contours and shapes

?Automatically saves and documents all designs so users can trace their design back to the first line

?Can "build" almost anything

?Quick and easy installation

?The ability to share licenses

?Can be used on mobile devices as well as computers

?Offers networking options so users can share their designs in the cloud

Cons of AutoCad

?Software is costly.

?Ease of use - Although listed as a pro, the programs ease of use is also a con because the program allows designs to be drawn on screen, but that may not be possible to actually create in real life.

?Not easy for a beginner to learn

?Often slow to fire up and get started - Many claim they can have a design all drawn on paper in the time it takes the user to boot up the program and draw a simple rectangle.

?When set up on a network, if a the network server goes down, AutoCad also shuts down.

?If network and Internet connections are not good, users may not be able to use AutoCad.

?If a user opens multiple sessions of AutoCad on the network, many licenses are being used, restricting others from opening AutoCad.

?License pack versions often do not include a manual.

?If users modify files, it can cause problems with the program.

?Uses up a lot of the system resources