Design Consulting Promoted to Autodesk Gold Partner
Autodesk has promoted Design Consulting to an Autodesk Gold Partner following continued growth since becoming an Autodesk Reseller in November, 2020.
Design Consulting would like to thank our customers, staff and Autodesk for all their support as we move at the speed of business!
Design Consulting provides tailored end to end solutions, expertise and specialisation in Autodesk’s offerings, aligning our solutions with our customers objectives and good old fashioned customer service.
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The Ultimate Guide to AutoCAD vs AutoCAD Architecture
AutoCAD and AutoCAD Architecture are both powerful CAD software programs that can be used for a variety of purposes, including architectural design, engineering, and manufacturing. However, there are some key differences between the two programs that can make one a better choice for your specific needs.
In this blog post, we will compare AutoCAD and AutoCAD Architecture in terms of their features, capabilities, and pricing. We will also discuss the factors you should consider when choosing between the two programs.
What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a general-purpose CAD software program that can be used for a variety of purposes, including architectural, mechanical, and electrical design. It offers a wide range of features and tools, making it a versatile option for many different industries.
Some of the key features of AutoCAD include:
2D and 3D drafting
Dimensioning
Annotation
Rendering
Sheet metal design
Manufacturing
Import and export of CAD files
AutoCAD Architecture vs AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a general-purpose CAD software program that can be used to create 2D and 3D drawings. It includes a wide range of features for drafting, editing, and annotating drawings. AutoCAD also supports a variety of file formats, making it easy to share your drawings with others.
AutoCAD Architecture is a specialized CAD software program that is designed for architectural design. It includes a number of features that are specifically designed for creating architectural drawings, such as intelligent walls, doors, and windows. AutoCAD Architecture also includes a library of pre-built architectural objects, which can save you time and effort when creating your drawings.
Both AutoCAD and AutoCAD Architecture are capable of creating high-quality drawings. However, AutoCAD Architecture has a number of features that make it specifically suited for architectural design. These features include:
Intelligent objects: AutoCAD Architecture objects are intelligent, which means that they can be manipulated as a whole rather than as individual lines and curves. This makes it easier to create accurate and realistic drawings.
Architectural features: AutoCAD Architecture includes a library of pre-built architectural objects, such as walls, doors, and windows. This can save you time and effort when creating your drawings.
Parametric modeling: AutoCAD Architecture supports parametric modeling, which allows you to create objects that can be modified by changing their parameters. This can be useful for creating complex architectural objects.
AutoCAD Architecture vs AutoCAD vs AutoCAD LTÂ
Feature
AutoCAD Architecture
AutoCAD
AutoCAD LT
Intelligent objects
Yes
No
No
Architectural features
Yes
No
No
Parametric modeling
Yes
No
No
2D drafting tools
Yes
Yes
Yes
3D modeling tools
Yes
Yes
No
Annotation tools
Yes
Yes
Yes
Rendering tools
Yes
Yes
No
Schedules
Yes
No
No
Documentation tools
Yes
Yes
No
Standards compliance
Yes
No
No
Collaboration tools
Yes
Yes
No
Cloud integration
Yes
Yes
No
AutoCAD Architecture has a number of unique commands that are specifically designed for architectural design. These commands include:
AECWALL: This command creates a wall object. Wall objects are intelligent, which means that they can be manipulated as a whole rather than as individual lines and curves. This makes it easier to create accurate and realistic walls.
AECDOOR: This command creates a door object. Door objects are also intelligent, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs.
AECWINDOW: This command creates a window object. Window objects are also intelligent, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs.
AECROOF: This command creates a roof object. Roof objects are also intelligent, and they can be customized to fit your specific needs.
AECSCHEDULE: This command creates a schedule. Schedules can be used to track the quantities of materials, labor, and equipment used in a project.
AECDOCUMENT: This command creates a document. Documents can be used to create drawings, reports, and presentations.
AECSTANDARDS: This command ensures that your drawings comply with industry standards.
AECCOLLABORATE: This command allows you to collaborate with other users on projects.
AECCLOUD: This command allows you to access your drawings and projects from anywhere.
In addition to these unique commands, AutoCAD Architecture also includes a number of other features that are specifically designed for architectural design. These features include:
A library of pre-built architectural objects
A number of parametric tools
A number of tools for creating and managing schedules
A number of tools for creating and managing documentation
A number of tools for ensuring that your drawings comply with industry standards
A number of tools for collaborating with other users on projects
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Tailored Functionality
Organisations can customise AutoCAD for their industries, empowering teams to build and run discipline-specific routines and workflows.
Download the Study here to learn how you can save over 60% in productivity using AutoCAD with Specialised Toolsets.
Ready to get AutoCAD with the Architecture Toolset?
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
AutoCAD Map 3D: The Perfect Mapping Tool for Engineering and GIS Professionals
AutoCAD Map 3D is a powerful GIS software that allows CAD professionals to create, edit, and visualize geospatial data. It is a comprehensive toolset that includes everything you need to work with maps, 3D models, and other spatial data.
AutoCAD Map 3D is a geographic information system (GIS) software that is part of the AutoCAD family of products. It is designed for CAD professionals who need to work with geospatial data. AutoCAD Map 3D includes a comprehensive toolset for creating, editing, and visualizing maps, 3D models, and other spatial data.
Features and Benefits
AutoCAD Map 3D includes a wide range of features for working with geospatial data, including:
Data management tools for importing, exporting, and managing spatial data
2D and 3D drafting tools for creating and editing maps and models
Visualisation tools for creating interactive maps and 3D models
Analysis tools for performing spatial analysis
Collaboration tools for sharing data and projects with others
There are many benefits to using AutoCAD Map 3D, including:
Increased productivity: AutoCAD Map 3D can help you save time and improve your workflow by providing a comprehensive toolset for working with geospatial data.
Improved accuracy: AutoCAD Map 3D can help you create more accurate maps and models by providing a variety of tools for data management, drafting, and visualisation.
Enhanced collaboration: AutoCAD Map 3D can help you collaborate with others more effectively by providing tools for sharing data and projects.
Increased flexibility: AutoCAD Map 3D is a flexible software that can be used for a variety of purposes, including engineering, construction, and environmental planning.
AutoCAD Map 3D Vs AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD Map 3D is a more powerful and feature-rich version of AutoCAD than AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD. AutoCAD Map 3D includes all of the features of AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD, plus a number of additional features for working with geospatial data.
Feature
AutoCAD Map 3D
AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD
Data management
Yes
No
No
2D and 3D drafting
Yes
Yes
Yes
Visualization
Yes
No
No
Analysis
Yes
No
No
Collaboration
Yes
No
No
The right version of AutoCAD for you depends on your specific needs. If you only need to:
Work with geospatial data, then AutoCAD Map 3D is the best choice.
Create basic 2D drawings, then AutoCAD LT is a good option.
Create basic 3D models or 2D drawings and don’t need any of the advanced features of AutoCAD Map 3D, then AutoCAD is the best choice.
Connecting AutoCAD Map 3D with other apps
AutoCAD Map 3D can be used with other Autodesk apps to create a more comprehensive and integrated workflow. For example, AutoCAD Map 3D can be used with AutoCAD Civil 3D to create 3D models of infrastructure projects. AutoCAD Map 3D can be used with Autodesk 3ds Max to create photorealistic renderings of maps and models.
AutoCAD Map 3D can be connected to a variety of GIS mapping data sources, including:
Shapefiles:Â Shapefiles are a common format for storing vector data. AutoCAD Map 3D can import and export shapefiles.
Geodatabases:Â Geodatabases are a powerful format for storing spatial data. AutoCAD Map 3D can connect to geodatabases hosted on a variety of platforms, including Microsoft SQL Server, Oracle, and IBM DB2.
Raster datasets:Â Raster datasets are a format for storing gridded data. AutoCAD Map 3D can import and export raster datasets.
Web services:Â Web services are a way to access spatial data over the internet. AutoCAD Map 3D can connect to web services that are hosted on a variety of platforms, including ArcGIS Online and Google Maps.
To connect AutoCAD Map 3D to a GIS mapping data source, you can use the following steps:
Open AutoCAD Map 3D.
Click the Map tab.
In the Data Sources panel, click the Add button.
Select the type of data source you want to connect to.
Enter the connection information for the data source.
Click the Connect button.
Once you have connected AutoCAD Map 3D to a GIS mapping data source, you can view and edit the data in AutoCAD Map 3D. You can also use AutoCAD Map 3D to perform spatial analysis on the data.
Here are some of the benefits of connecting AutoCAD Map 3D with GIS mapping data sources:
You can access a wider range of spatial data.
You can perform more complex spatial analysis.
You can share your work with others more easily.
You can collaborate with others more effectively.
If you need to work with geospatial data, then connecting AutoCAD Map 3D with GIS mapping data sources is a great way to improve your workflow and productivity.
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Ready to get AutoCAD 2024?
Discover how Autodesk AutoCAD 2024 can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.Â
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
AutoCAD Mechanical vs AutoCAD: A Comparison for Mechanical Engineers
AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical are both powerful CAD software programs that can be used for a variety of purposes. However, there are some key differences between the two programs that may make one a better fit for your needs than the other.
In this blog post, we will compare AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical in detail. We will discuss the features, interface, pricing, and best uses of each program. By the end of this post, you will be able to decide which CAD software is right for you.
What is AutoCAD?
AutoCAD is a general-purpose CAD software program that can be used for a variety of purposes, including architectural, mechanical, and electrical design. It offers a wide range of features and tools, making it a versatile option for many different industries.
Some of the key features of AutoCAD include:
2D and 3D drafting
Dimensioning
Annotation
Rendering
Sheet metal design
Manufacturing
Import and export of CAD files
What is AutoCAD Mechanical?
AutoCAD Mechanical is a specialised CAD software program that is specifically designed for mechanical engineering design. It includes a number of features and tools that are specifically useful for mechanical engineers, such as tools for creating and dimensioning parts, as well as tools for generating bills of materials.
Some of the key features of AutoCAD Mechanical include:
A library of standard parts and components
Tools for creating and dimensioning parts
Tools for generating bills of materials
Tools for 3D printing
Tools for analysis and simulation
Differences Between AutoCAD Mechanical vs AutoCADÂ
There are a number of key differences between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical. These differences include:
Features:Â AutoCAD Mechanical includes a number of features and tools that are specifically useful for mechanical engineers, such as tools for creating and dimensioning parts, as well as tools for generating bills of materials. AutoCAD does not include these specialized features for mechanical engineering design.
Interface:Â AutoCAD Mechanical has a more specialized interface that is designed to be more intuitive for mechanical engineers. AutoCAD has a more general-purpose interface that is designed to be more accessible to users from a variety of engineering disciplines.
Pricing:Â AutoCAD Mechanical is typically more expensive than AutoCAD.
Best uses:Â AutoCAD is a good choice for general engineering and design projects. AutoCAD Mechanical is a good choice for mechanical engineering design projects.
Â
AutoCAD LT vs AutoCAD Mechanical
AutoCAD LT and AutoCAD Mechanical are both CAD software programs that can be used for drafting, designing, and documenting. However, there are some key differences between the two programs.
AutoCAD LT is a 2D drafting and design software program that is designed for general engineering and drafting purposes. It includes a wide range of features and tools for creating and editing 2D drawings, as well as for dimensioning, annotating, and rendering drawings. AutoCAD LT is a less expensive option than AutoCAD Mechanical, and it is a good choice for users who need a 2D drafting and design software program for general engineering and drafting purposes.
AutoCAD Mechanical is a 2D and 3D drafting, designing, and documentation software program that is specifically designed for mechanical engineering. It includes a wide range of features and tools for creating and editing 2D and 3D drawings, as well as for dimensioning, annotating, and rendering drawings. AutoCAD Mechanical also includes a library of standard parts and components, as well as tools for creating bills of materials, generating 3D printing files, and performing analysis and simulation. AutoCAD Mechanical is a more expensive option than AutoCAD LT, but it is a good choice for users who need a 2D and 3D drafting, designing, and documentation software program for mechanical engineering.
Feature
AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD Mechanical
Features
2D drafting and design
2D and 3D drafting, designing, and documentation
Interface
General-purpose interface
Specialized interface designed for mechanical engineers
Pricing
Less expensive
More expensive
Best for
General engineering and drafting
Mechanical engineering
Unique Tools in AutoCAD Mechanical
AutoCAD Mechanical Sheet Metal Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for sheet metal design, and they include features such as the ability to create flanges, bends, and hems.
AutoCAD Mechanical Weldments Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for weldment design, and they include features such as the ability to create weld symbols, weld beads, and weld joints.
AutoCAD Mechanical Electrical Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for electrical design, and they include features such as the ability to create wire routings, connectors, and switches.
AutoCAD Mechanical Fluid Power Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for fluid power design, and they include features such as the ability to create pipes, valves, and cylinders.
AutoCAD Mechanical Geometric Tolerance Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for creating geometric tolerances, and they include features such as the ability to create datums, tolerances, and modifiers.
AutoCAD Mechanical Surface Modeling Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for surface modeling, and they include features such as the ability to create surfaces, solids, and blends.
AutoCAD Mechanical Advanced Rendering Tools:Â These tools are specifically designed for creating advanced renderings, and they include features such as the ability to create realistic shadows, reflections, and materials.
AutoCAD Mechanical and Autodesk Inventor Professional Integration
Inventor to AutoCAD Mechanical
There are two ways to import 3D models into AutoCAD Mechanical:
Import a 3D model from a file:Â You can import a 3D model from a file that is saved in a supported format, such as STEP, IGES, or Parasolid. To do this, follow these steps:
Click the Insert tab.
In the Import panel, click Import.
In the Import File dialog box, select the file that you want to import.
Click Open.
In the Import Options dialog box, select the options that you want to use for the import.
Click OK.
Create a 3D model in Inventor and then import it into AutoCAD Mechanical:Â You can create a 3D model in Inventor and then import it into AutoCAD Mechanical. To do this, follow these steps:
Create the 3D model in Inventor.
Save the 3D model in a supported format, such as STEP, IGES, or Parasolid.
Open AutoCAD Mechanical.
Click the Insert tab.
In the Import panel, click Import.
In the Import File dialog box, select the file that you want to import.
Click Open.
In the Import Options dialog box, select the options that you want to use for the import.
Click OK.
If the model changes in Inventor, the changes will be updated in AutoCAD Mechanical if the following conditions are met:
The model is saved in a supported format.
The model is imported into AutoCAD Mechanical using the Import command.
The Update Links option is selected in the Import Options dialog box.
If these conditions are not met, the changes will not be updated in AutoCAD Mechanical.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when importing 3D models into AutoCAD Mechanical:
The model may need to be scaled or positioned correctly in AutoCAD Mechanical.
The model may need to be converted to a different type of object, such as a block or a sketch.
The model may need to be edited or modified in AutoCAD Mechanical.
By following these steps, you can import 3D models into AutoCAD Mechanical and keep the models up to date with changes made in Inventor.
AutoCAD Mechanical to Inventor
Inventor has a feature called AnyCAD that allows you to import and work with 2D DWG files in Inventor part, assembly, and drawing environments. AnyCAD is a powerful tool that can help you to save time and improve the efficiency of your design workflow.
To import a 2D DWG file into Inventor, follow these steps:
Click the File menu.
Select Import > 2D DWG.
In the Import DWG File dialog box, select the DWG file that you want to import.
Click Open.
The DWG file will be imported into Inventor as a Reference Model. Reference Models are special types of Inventor models that are linked to the original DWG file. Any changes that you make to the DWG file will be automatically updated in the Reference Model in Inventor.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when importing 2D DWG files into Inventor:
The DWG file must be saved in a supported format, such as DWG or DXF.
The DWG file must be opened in read-only mode.
The DWG file must be placed on a Reference Plane in Inventor.
The DWG file must be updated regularly to reflect the latest changes.
By following these steps, you can import 2D DWG files into Inventor and keep the files up to date with changes made to the original DWG file.
Here are some additional benefits of using AnyCAD:
You can use Inventor tools to modify and edit 2D DWG files.
You can create 3D models from 2D DWG files.
You can create assemblies that contain both 2D DWG files and 3D Inventor models.
You can create drawings that contain both 2D DWG files and 3D Inventor models.
AnyCAD is a powerful tool that can help you to save time and improve the efficiency of your design workflow. If you are working with 2D DWG files, I encourage you to try using AnyCAD in Inventor.
Which CAD Software is Right for You?
The best CAD software for you depends on your specific needs. If you are a mechanical engineer who needs specialized tools for mechanical engineering design, then AutoCAD Mechanical is the better choice. If you are a general engineer or designer who needs a more versatile CAD software program, then AutoCAD is the better choice.
Advantages of AutoCAD Plant 3D over Mechanical CAD Software
Mechanical CAD software is designed for the design of mechanical parts and assemblies. It does not offer the same level of features as AutoCAD Plant 3D for plant design, such as:
Industry-standard symbols
Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
Electrical diagrams
Structural drawings
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Â
Tools: AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID vs Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks
AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID tools:
Industry-standard symbols:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include a comprehensive library of industry-standard symbols for pipes, valves, fittings, instruments, and other plant equipment. This makes it easy to create accurate and consistent drawings.
Powerful 3D modeling tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID offer powerful 3D modeling tools that allow you to create accurate and realistic models of piping systems.
Advanced design automation features:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include advanced design automation features that can help you to speed up the design process and reduce errors.
Integrated reporting and documentation tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include integrated reporting and documentation tools that can help you to create accurate and professional documentation.
Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks Pipe and Tubing Tools:
Parametric modeling:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks use parametric modeling, which means that the properties of pipe and tubing components are linked to each other. This can be helpful for maintaining consistency in pipe and tubing designs.
Clash detection:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks include clash detection tools that can help you to identify potential conflicts between pipe and tubing and other components in a design. This can help to avoid costly errors during manufacturing or assembly.
Generative design:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks include generative design tools that can help you to explore different pipe and tubing design options. This can be helpful for finding the most efficient and cost-effective pipe and tubing solutions.
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Tailored Functionality
Organisations can customise AutoCAD for their industries, empowering teams to build and run discipline-specific routines and workflows.
Ready to get AutoCAD with the Mechanical Toolset?
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
Better Piping and P&ID's Designs with the AutoCAD Plant 3D Toolset​
AutoCAD Plant 3D is a powerful toolset for plant design. It offers a wide range of features that are specifically designed for the needs of plant designers and engineers. These features include:
A comprehensive library of industry-standard symbols
Powerful 3D modeling tools
Advanced design automation features
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
In this blog we’ll explore the differences in using the AutoCAD Plant 3D Toolset over:
AutoCAD LT and AutoCADÂ
MCAD software such as Autodesk Inventor and Dassault Systemes Solidworks
BIM software such as Revit
Advantages of AutoCAD Plant 3D over AutoCAD LT
AutoCAD LT is a less expensive version of AutoCAD that is designed for 2D drafting and design. It does not offer the same level of features as AutoCAD Plant 3D, including:
Industry-standard symbols
3D modeling tools
Design automation features
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Advantages of AutoCAD Plant 3D over AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a more powerful version of AutoCAD LT that offers a wider range of features. However, it does not offer the same level of specialization for plant design as AutoCAD Plant 3D. AutoCAD Plant 3D includes features that are specifically designed for plant design, such as:
A comprehensive library of industry-standard symbols
Advanced 3D modeling tools
Design automation features
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Advantages of AutoCAD Plant 3D over Mechanical CAD Software
Mechanical CAD software is designed for the design of mechanical parts and assemblies. It does not offer the same level of features as AutoCAD Plant 3D for plant design, such as:
Industry-standard symbols
Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
Electrical diagrams
Structural drawings
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Â
Tools: AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID vs Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks
AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID tools:
Industry-standard symbols:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include a comprehensive library of industry-standard symbols for pipes, valves, fittings, instruments, and other plant equipment. This makes it easy to create accurate and consistent drawings.
Powerful 3D modeling tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID offer powerful 3D modeling tools that allow you to create accurate and realistic models of piping systems.
Advanced design automation features:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include advanced design automation features that can help you to speed up the design process and reduce errors.
Integrated reporting and documentation tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D and P&ID include integrated reporting and documentation tools that can help you to create accurate and professional documentation.
Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks Pipe and Tubing Tools:
Parametric modeling:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks use parametric modeling, which means that the properties of pipe and tubing components are linked to each other. This can be helpful for maintaining consistency in pipe and tubing designs.
Clash detection:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks include clash detection tools that can help you to identify potential conflicts between pipe and tubing and other components in a design. This can help to avoid costly errors during manufacturing or assembly.
Generative design:Â Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks include generative design tools that can help you to explore different pipe and tubing design options. This can be helpful for finding the most efficient and cost-effective pipe and tubing solutions.
BIM software is designed for the design and construction of buildings. It offers a wide range of features for 3D modeling, clash detection, and quantity takeoff. However, it does not offer the same level of features as AutoCAD Plant 3D for plant design, such as:
Industry-standard symbols
P&IDs
Electrical diagrams
Structural drawings
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Advantages of AutoCAD Plant 3D over BIM Software
BIM software such as Revit is designed for the design and construction of buildings. It offers a wide range of features for 3D modeling, clash detection, and quantity takeoff. However, it does not offer the same level of features as AutoCAD Plant 3D for plant design, such as:
Industry-standard symbols
P&IDs
Electrical diagrams
Structural drawings
Integrated reporting and documentation tools
Tools: AutoCAD Plant 3D Vs Revit
AutoCAD Plant 3D Piping Tools
Industry-standard symbols:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D includes a comprehensive library of industry-standard piping symbols. This makes it easy to create accurate and consistent piping drawings.
Powerful 3D modeling tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D offers powerful 3D modeling tools that allow you to create accurate and realistic piping models.
Advanced design automation features:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D includes advanced design automation features that can help you to speed up the design process and reduce errors.
Integrated reporting and documentation tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D includes integrated reporting and documentation tools that can help you to create accurate and professional documentation.
P&ID Tools:Â AutoCAD Plant 3D also includes P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) tools that allow you to create accurate and consistent P&ID drawings.
Revit MEP Piping Tools:
BIM integration:Â Revit MEP is a BIM (Building Information Modeling) software, which means that it integrates with other BIM software, such as Revit Architecture and Revit Structure. This can be helpful for coordinating piping designs with other aspects of a building design.
Parametric modeling:Â Revit MEP uses parametric modeling, which means that the properties of piping components are linked to each other. This can be helpful for maintaining consistency in piping designs.
Generative design:Â Revit MEP includes generative design tools that can help you to explore different piping design options. This can be helpful for finding the most efficient and cost-effective piping solutions.
Autodesk Revit and Fabrication Products (Estmep, CADmep and CAMduct) Integration
Revit MEP can connect to Autodesk fabrication products such as ESTmep, CADmep, and CAMduct:
ESTmep:Â ESTmep is a software that can be used to generate fabrication drawings and bills of materials for Revit MEP models. It can be used to generate drawings for a variety of HVAC components, such as pipes, valves, and fittings. ESTmep can also be used to generate bills of materials for these components.
CADmep:Â CADmep is a software that can be used to create 3D models of HVAC components. These models can then be used to create fabrication drawings and bills of materials. CADmep can also be used to simulate the flow of fluids through HVAC systems.
CAMduct:Â CAMduct is a software that can be used to create CNC machine tool paths for HVAC components. These paths can then be used to cut HVAC components from sheet metal. CAMduct can also be used to generate bills of materials for the CNC machine tools.
The Revit MEP can connect to these Autodesk fabrication products through the Autodesk Fabrication Connector. The Autodesk Fabrication Connector is a plugin that allows Revit MEP to export models and data to ESTmep, CADmep, and CAMduct. This allows Revit MEP users to take advantage of the fabrication capabilities of these products.
Here are some of the benefits of connecting Revit MEP to Autodesk fabrication products:
Increased efficiency:Â The Autodesk fabrication products can automate many of the tasks involved in fabrication, such as generating drawings and bills of materials. This can help to increase the efficiency of the fabrication process.
Improved accuracy:Â The Autodesk fabrication products can help to ensure that fabrication drawings and bills of materials are accurate. This can help to reduce errors and rework during the fabrication process.
Improved communication:Â The Autodesk fabrication products can help to improve communication between engineers and fabricators. This can help to ensure that the fabrication process meets the engineer’s specifications.
Plant 3D Setup and Training
To get the most out of Plant 3D, it is recommended to setup Plant 3D and P&ID templates, catalogs and specs and do training. Whether it’s software, training, setup or something custom, Design Consulting has the capabilities to achieve your objectives.
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Tailored Functionality
Organisations can customise AutoCAD for their industries, empowering teams to build and run discipline-specific routines and workflows.
AutoCAD Plant 3D 2024
Ortho Bill of Materials (BOM)
The Ortho Table Setup dialog box includes simplified options and more table capabilities for orthographic drawings. You can now add the Bill of Materials (BOM) for piping, equipment, steel, as well as nozzle and spool lists into ortho drawings.
Spec and Catalog Editor Enhancements
The Edit Parts and Edit Properties functions are enhanced in both Spec and Catalog Editors.
Edit parts within a selected parts family for inclusion in a spec sheet or catalog.
View all parts available for a specific size in the selected spec. Use the search box to look for specific components in the Pipe Spec Viewer.
Any changes to the size and spec lists are both updated in Pipe Spec Viewer and the Part Insertion panel on the ribbon.
Ortho Single-Line Piping Enhancements
In this release, ortho single-line piping offers more enhancements including a new interface for some piping criteria providing better control when you display piping in a single-line representation in orthographic drawings.
Ready to get AutoCAD with the Plant 3D and P&ID Toolset?
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
AutoCAD® allows users to achieve a level of productivity for design creation that is not matched with AutoCAD LT®.Â
Autodesk commissioned a study that explored the productivity and commercial differentiations between AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT when performing tasks ranging from creating geometry to creating plans and elevations, extracting object data, and applying and monitoring CAD standards.
Results showed that AutoCAD could allow a user to generate designs up to 3.9 times quicker* compared with AutoCAD LT, when these tasks were performed by an experienced AutoCAD user.
How AutoCAD Saves More Time Compared to AutoCAD LT
Parametric constraints – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 33%. AutoCAD offers complete geometric and dimensional constraint creation, editing, and management of parametric constraints.
Plans and elevations – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 46%. The 3D modeling tools in AutoCAD allow for easy manipulation to generate 2D plan and elevation objects.
Isometric drafting – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 61%. AutoCAD makes it easy to view 3D objects in isometric views and has visual styles that can be set to hide hidden detail.
Data extraction – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 90%. AutoCAD provides the functionality to extract data and create tables automatically, either in the drawing or in a Microsoft Excel® file.
CAD standards – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 81%. AutoCAD provides CAD standard functionality with a highly efficient method of checking standards against new and existing DWG files.
Text edting (Express Tools) – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 80%. AutoCAD includes Express Tools with advanced workflows when changing and manipulating text.
AutoLISP – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 50%. AutoLISP functionality is available in AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT. Direct access to AutoLISP editors only from AutoCAD saves time when editing the application.
Markup Import and Markup Assist – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 71%. Using machine learning, AutoCAD can interpret handwritten annotation and suggest conversions to AutoCAD objects, saving time and reducing errors.
Smart Blocks: Placement and Replacement – Time savings with AutoCAD up to 40%. The Smart Blocks: Replacement tool in AutoCAD provides a simple interface where multiple blocks can be selected and replaced by a chosen block in one operation.
Application programming interface (API) and the app store – AutoCAD offers an API not available in AutoCAD LT that allows users to automate tedious and time-consuming tasks. AutoCAD users are also able to purchase and download apps in the Autodesk App Store and develop apps to benefit AutoCAD users on your team.
Autodesk AutoCAD vs AutoCAD LT 2024 Highlights Video
Organisations can customise AutoCAD for their industries, empowering teams to build and run discipline-specific routines and workflows.
AutoLISP
AutoCAD LT now includes AutoLISP.Â
Leverage thousands of previously written programs created for use in AutoCAD-based programs. AutoCAD LT supports AutoLISP Source (LSP) files, compiled LSP files, Fast-load AutoLISP (FAS), and Visual LISP Applications (VLX) files.
AutoCAD 2024 offers more advanced features for 3D modeling, customisation with add-on apps and APIs, rendering, and CAD standards, among other features, while AutoCAD LT 2024 is a more affordable version that still offers many of the essential features for 2D drafting, annotation, and automation.Â
Features
AutoCAD 2024
AutoCAD LT 2024
Find and replace blocks based on other blocks in your drawing
Yes
No
Stay informed of relevant file changes with details of multi-user activities in a DWG file
Yes
No
Utilise AutoLISP programs to automate repetitive tasks and enhance workflows
Yes
Yes
Extend AutoLISP programs with third-party automation libraries, and utilize specialised editors to write and debug programs
Yes
No
Create and edit 2D geometry
Yes
Yes
Annotate drawings with traces, text, dimensions, leaders & tables
Yes
Yes
Customize the ribbon and tool palettes
Yes
Yes
Attach and import data from PDF files
Yes
Yes
Share and use data from DGN files, Navisworks, & Bing Maps
Yes
Yes
Create and edit 3D models with solids, surfaces, & mesh objects
Yes
No
Customize with add-on apps and APIs
Yes
No
Extract object data to tables
Yes
No
Create renderings with lighting, materials, & visual styles
Yes
No
Apply and monitor CAD standards
Yes
No
Automate counting objects and blocks
Yes
Yes
Share drawings with colleagues directly from AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
Yes
Yes
Import feedback and incorporate changes with a click of a button
Yes
No
Learn new features and workflows to work faster with My Insights
Yes
No
What's New in Specialised Toolsets
AutoCAD Architecture and MEP 2024
AEC3DPRINT
With AEC3DPRINT command, you can natively export the AEC objects to an STL file format that’s compatible with 3D printing without converting to 3D solids.
Enhanced Design Center Content
New MVBlocks and block references are available in Design Center.
More than 200 new MVBlocks and block references are added to the AutoCAD Architecture (US Imperial) and AutoCAD Architecture (US Metric) content packs for Design Center. The added content is available in metric profile for non-English languages. The content includes external lighting, bathroom accessories, furniture, site, kitchen fittings, and more.
The section line symbol within AutoCAD Mechanical is updated to support the AWS Y14.3 – 2012 standard revision. To support AWS Y14.3 – 2012, all aspects of the section line symbol are revised to correspond with AWS Y14.3 – 2012.
AutoCAD Mechanical continues to support the AWS Y14.3 – 2003 standard revision to allow documents created in previous releases to be opened, edited, and saved without updating the section line symbol standard. By supporting AWS Y14.3 – 2012 and AWS Y14.3 – 2003, you can annotate new and as-built designs using the required standard revision.
ISO Standard Revision Update for Taper and Slope Symbols
The taper and slope symbol within AutoCAD Mechanical is updated to support the ISO 3040:2016(E) standard revision. To support the ISO 3040:2016(E), all aspects of the taper and slope symbol is revised to correspond with ISO 3040:2016(E).
AutoCAD Mechanical continues to support the ISO 3040:2009(E) standard revision to allow documents created in previous releases to be opened, edited, and saved without updating the taper and slot symbol standard. By supporting ISO 3040:2016(E) and ISO 3040:2009(E), you can annotate new and as-built designs using the required standard revision.
The Ortho Table Setup dialog box includes simplified options and more table capabilities for orthographic drawings. You can now add the Bill of Materials (BOM) for piping, equipment, steel, as well as nozzle and spool lists into ortho drawings.
Spec and Catalog Editor Enhancements
The Edit Parts and Edit Properties functions are enhanced in both Spec and Catalog Editors.
Edit parts within a selected parts family for inclusion in a spec sheet or catalog.
View all parts available for a specific size in the selected spec. Use the search box to look for specific components in the Pipe Spec Viewer.
Any changes to the size and spec lists are both updated in Pipe Spec Viewer and the Part Insertion panel on the ribbon.
Ortho Single-Line Piping Enhancements
In this release, ortho single-line piping offers more enhancements including a new interface for some piping criteria providing better control when you display piping in a single-line representation in orthographic drawings.
AutoCAD Map 3D 2024
Coordinate System Update
AutoCAD Map 3D 2024 supports the new coordinate systems in the following categories:
Create a schematic symbol table from schematic reports.
The schematic report lists the symbols used in the project along with its description in a table. You can also surf through a particular symbol that is used in various locations of the project.
Wire Type Synchronisation
Wire type can now be synchronized for all wires in the network with the same signal code across the drawings.
In previous releases, when you update the type of the wire connected to the source arrows, the destination wire type was not updated. In AutoCAD Electrical 2024 toolset, when the wire type is updated at the source arrow, all wires in the network are updated to the same wire type of the source. New wire layers are created along with its properties if the destination drawing doesn’t contain the new wire type.
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Ready to get AutoCAD 2024?
Discover how Autodesk AutoCAD 2024 can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.Â
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
Focus on quickly creating and collaborating on innovative solutions using assistive machine learning technology to improve design workflows.
The performance enhancements in AutoCAD 2024 really stand out—both with how fast it opens and the speed of switching between models and view ports. It’s much faster than any previous versions.
Michael Shurgalla
Senior Design Technology Specialist, Merrick
Activity Insights
Bridge information gaps in collaborative AutoCAD workflows and stay connected to essential data throughout project lifecycles
My Insights Macro Advisor &Â Dashboard
Provides valuable information to you at the right time and in the right context to assist with steps that you can automate.
Count & Blocks Palette
Counting blocks is now up to 70% faster and reusing design content with blocks is up to 47% faster.
Smart Blocks: Placement and Replacement
Automatically place blocks in your drawing based on where you’ve inserted the same ones thus far, reducing the number of clicks and saving you valuable time in the process.
Quickly find the blocks you need with machine learning powered functionality, delivering powerful time-saving automations.
Tailored Functionality
Organisations can customise AutoCAD for their industries, empowering teams to build and run discipline-specific routines and workflows.
Added support for Apple Silicon increased AutoCAD for Mac’s overall performance by 2x*
Connected Design Experience
Autodesk creates an ecosystem of industry-leading design software and technology partners.
Web AutoLISP APIs
AutoLISP, a staple feature of AutoCAD desktop, now enables customisations to automate a sequence of commands in AutoCAD on the webÂ
AutoLISP
AutoCAD LT now includes AutoLISP.Â
Leverage thousands of previously written programs created for use in AutoCAD-based programs. AutoCAD LT supports AutoLISP Source (LSP) files, compiled LSP files, Fast-load AutoLISP (FAS), and Visual LISP Applications (VLX) files.
The CUI, tool palettes, and templates have undergone enhancements to facilitate the transfer of customised files and locations.
To utilise personalized configurations:
Access the Autodesk AutoCAD <product and release> folder drop-down list from the Windows Start menu. Choose Migrate From a Previous Release.
In the resulting Migrate Custom Settings dialog box, specify the release you wish to migrate from.
Select the customized settings you want to transfer to the latest release.
Tab Improvements
The Start, File and Layout Tabs have been improved.
Trace Updates
Enhancements to the Trace environment continue, with the introduction of the COPYFROMTRACE command and additional settings controls on the toolbar.
Autodesk Docs Improvements
The following improvements have been made to Autodesk Docs:
Improved support and performance when viewing large files on Autodesk Docs.
Improved Desktop Connector resulting in improved performance displaying a drawing in the Start tab and opening a drawing from Autodesk Docs.
Improved navigation on the Start tab for drawings stored on Autodesk Docs
AutoCAD 2024 Vs AutoCAD LT 2024
AutoCAD 2024 offers more advanced features for 3D modeling, customisation with add-on apps and APIs, rendering, and CAD standards, among other features, while AutoCAD LT 2024 is a more affordable version that still offers many of the essential features for 2D drafting, annotation, and automation.Â
Features
AutoCAD 2024
AutoCAD LT 2024
Find and replace blocks based on other blocks in your drawing
Yes
No
Stay informed of relevant file changes with details of multi-user activities in a DWG file
Yes
No
Utilise AutoLISP programs to automate repetitive tasks and enhance workflows
Yes
Yes
Extend AutoLISP programs with third-party automation libraries, and utilize specialised editors to write and debug programs
Yes
No
Create and edit 2D geometry
Yes
Yes
Annotate drawings with traces, text, dimensions, leaders & tables
Yes
Yes
Customize the ribbon and tool palettes
Yes
Yes
Attach and import data from PDF files
Yes
Yes
Share and use data from DGN files, Navisworks, & Bing Maps
Yes
Yes
Create and edit 3D models with solids, surfaces, & mesh objects
Yes
No
Customize with add-on apps and APIs
Yes
No
Extract object data to tables
Yes
No
Create renderings with lighting, materials, & visual styles
Yes
No
Apply and monitor CAD standards
Yes
No
Automate counting objects and blocks
Yes
Yes
Share drawings with colleagues directly from AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
Yes
Yes
Import feedback and incorporate changes with a click of a button
Yes
No
Learn new features and workflows to work faster with My Insights
Yes
No
What's New in Specialised Toolsets
AutoCAD Architecture and MEP 2024
AEC3DPRINT
With AEC3DPRINT command, you can natively export the AEC objects to an STL file format that’s compatible with 3D printing without converting to 3D solids.
Enhanced Design Center Content
New MVBlocks and block references are available in Design Center.
More than 200 new MVBlocks and block references are added to the AutoCAD Architecture (US Imperial) and AutoCAD Architecture (US Metric) content packs for Design Center. The added content is available in metric profile for non-English languages. The content includes external lighting, bathroom accessories, furniture, site, kitchen fittings, and more.
The section line symbol within AutoCAD Mechanical is updated to support the AWS Y14.3 – 2012 standard revision. To support AWS Y14.3 – 2012, all aspects of the section line symbol are revised to correspond with AWS Y14.3 – 2012.
AutoCAD Mechanical continues to support the AWS Y14.3 – 2003 standard revision to allow documents created in previous releases to be opened, edited, and saved without updating the section line symbol standard. By supporting AWS Y14.3 – 2012 and AWS Y14.3 – 2003, you can annotate new and as-built designs using the required standard revision.
ISO Standard Revision Update for Taper and Slope Symbols
The taper and slope symbol within AutoCAD Mechanical is updated to support the ISO 3040:2016(E) standard revision. To support the ISO 3040:2016(E), all aspects of the taper and slope symbol is revised to correspond with ISO 3040:2016(E).
AutoCAD Mechanical continues to support the ISO 3040:2009(E) standard revision to allow documents created in previous releases to be opened, edited, and saved without updating the taper and slot symbol standard. By supporting ISO 3040:2016(E) and ISO 3040:2009(E), you can annotate new and as-built designs using the required standard revision.
The Ortho Table Setup dialog box includes simplified options and more table capabilities for orthographic drawings. You can now add the Bill of Materials (BOM) for piping, equipment, steel, as well as nozzle and spool lists into ortho drawings.
Spec and Catalog Editor Enhancements
The Edit Parts and Edit Properties functions are enhanced in both Spec and Catalog Editors.
Edit parts within a selected parts family for inclusion in a spec sheet or catalog.
View all parts available for a specific size in the selected spec. Use the search box to look for specific components in the Pipe Spec Viewer.
Any changes to the size and spec lists are both updated in Pipe Spec Viewer and the Part Insertion panel on the ribbon.
Ortho Single-Line Piping Enhancements
In this release, ortho single-line piping offers more enhancements including a new interface for some piping criteria providing better control when you display piping in a single-line representation in orthographic drawings.
AutoCAD Map 3D 2024
Coordinate System Update
AutoCAD Map 3D 2024 supports the new coordinate systems in the following categories:
Create a schematic symbol table from schematic reports.
The schematic report lists the symbols used in the project along with its description in a table. You can also surf through a particular symbol that is used in various locations of the project.
Wire Type Synchronisation
Wire type can now be synchronized for all wires in the network with the same signal code across the drawings.
In previous releases, when you update the type of the wire connected to the source arrows, the destination wire type was not updated. In AutoCAD Electrical 2024 toolset, when the wire type is updated at the source arrow, all wires in the network are updated to the same wire type of the source. New wire layers are created along with its properties if the destination drawing doesn’t contain the new wire type.
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Ready to get AutoCAD 2024?
Discover how Autodesk AutoCAD 2024 can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.Â
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
Connected Electrical Design with Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical are two of the most popular software applications used in engineering design, particularly in electrical and electronic design automation. While each has its own strengths, combining these two powerful tools can lead to even greater design efficiency and productivity. In this article, we will explore how Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical work together, focusing on the EMX project, syncing files, and how they can be combined with Fusion 360 for advanced PCB design.
Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical: Combining Forces for Better Schematic Design
Introduction to Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical
Autodesk Inventor is a 3D modeling software used primarily for mechanical engineering design. It allows users to create precise 3D models of mechanical parts, assemblies, and even entire machines. On the other hand, AutoCAD Electrical is a specialized software used for electrical engineering design. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for creating and modifying electrical control systems, wiring diagrams, and other related documentation.
The EMX Project: Enhancing Design Efficiency and Productivity
The EMX Project is an add-on for AutoCAD Electrical that enables users to create 3D representations of their electrical schematics in Autodesk Inventor. This makes it possible to visualize the electrical components in 3D space, making it easier to detect potential design issues before fabrication. The EMX project also allows users to import Inventor models into AutoCAD Electrical, giving them a more realistic representation of the actual components used in their designs.
Syncing Files Between Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical
Another advantage of using Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical together is the ability to sync files between the two applications. This allows users to transfer 3D electrical harness models from Inventor to Electrical or vice versa, as well as easily update changes made in one application to the other. This seamless integration not only saves time but also ensures accuracy and consistency in design documentation.
Combining with Fusion 360: Taking PCB Design to the Next Level
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD/CAM platform that allows users to collaborate on projects in real-time. It integrates with both Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical, enabling users to bring their schematic designs into the 3D modeling environment of Fusion 360 for more advanced PCB design. This integration streamlines the design process and helps eliminate errors by providing a seamless workflow from schematic design to PCB layout and manufacturing.
How to Get Started with Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical
To get started with Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD Electrical, users need to have a basic understanding of electrical engineering principles and practices. They also need to have access to both software applications, as well as the EMX Project add-on for AutoCAD Electrical. Additionally, users can benefit from online training resources, tutorials, and forums provided by Autodesk to help them master the software.
Revolutionizing Electronics Design: How Autodesk Inventor's PCB Interoperability Tools are Changing the Game
Autodesk Inventor is a powerful CAD software that offers a range of advanced features for mechanical and electrical design. One of the most valuable features for electronic designers is the ability to work with printed circuit boards (PCBs) directly in the software. With Autodesk Inventor’s PCB interoperability tools, users can streamline their design process and create more accurate designs.
How to Achieve Connected Design with Autodesk Inventor and Eagle (Fusion 360)
Look no further than Autodesk’s connected design solution between Inventor and Eagle. This powerful combination allows for seamless collaboration between mechanical and electrical design teams. Autodesk Eagle, now a part of Fusion 360, is a popular PCB design tool that offers a range of powerful features to create schematics, layout designs, and manufacturing outputs. By integrating Eagle with Inventor, designers can easily incorporate PCBs into their mechanical assemblies and optimize the fit and function of their designs.Â
One key advantage of using Inventor and Eagle together is the ability to maintain a “single source of truth” for your design data. With the integration, design changes in one tool can be automatically propagated to the other, reducing the risk of errors and ensuring consistency across the design process. Another benefit of this connected design approach is the ability to visualize the PCB and its components in a 3D mechanical assembly context.
This allows designers to check for potential interferences, optimize the placement of the PCB and its components, and ultimately achieve a more efficient and cost-effective design. To get started with connected design between Inventor and Eagle, simply import your Eagle board file into Inventor.
From there, you can place the PCB into your assembly and start working on the integration with your mechanical components. Changes made to the PCB in Eagle will be reflected in Inventor, and vice versa.
Inventor’s PCB Interoperability Tools
Inventor offers a suite of tools for working with PCBs, including:
ECAD-MCAD Collaboration
This tool allows electrical and mechanical designers to work together seamlessly by importing 3D models of the PCB into Inventor. This tool eliminates the need for physical prototypes and enables designers to test the fit of the PCB in the mechanical assembly.
PCB layout import
Inventor can import and view PCB layouts from other software tools such as Eagle, Altium, and OrCAD. This feature allows designers to view their designs in a 3D environment and make any necessary changes before finalizing the design.
 Design rule checking
Inventor offers a comprehensive design rule checking tool that allows designers to check their PCB designs against a set of predefined rules. This feature ensures that the design meets industry standards and helps identify any potential errors before the manufacturing process.
Export to Manufacturing
Once the design is complete, Inventor can export the PCB design to the manufacturing process. This feature ensures that the design is accurate and ready for production.
Seamless Integration: How Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360 Work Together for Streamlined PCB Design
https://www.autodesk.com/redshift/pcb-design-with-fusion-360/Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360 are both powerful design tools that can be used for a wide range of applications. While Inventor is known for its advanced 3D design capabilities, Fusion 360 is a comprehensive product development platform that allows designers and engineers to work together in a collaborative environment.
One of the ways that Inventor and Fusion 360 work together is through their interoperability with PCB design software. In particular, Fusion 360 includes an integrated PCB design tool called Eagle that can be used to create schematics and layouts for printed circuit boards. By leveraging the power of Eagle and the design capabilities of Inventor and Fusion 360, designers can create complex PCB designs with ease.
One of the key benefits of using Inventor and Fusion 360 for PCB design is the ability to work in a connected design environment. This means that designers can collaborate in real-time with other members of their team, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and other stakeholders. This collaborative approach can help to streamline the design process and reduce errors, ensuring that the final product is of the highest quality.
Another advantage of using Inventor and Fusion 360 for PCB design is the ability to import and export data between the two platforms. This means that designers can easily move between the two tools, leveraging the strengths of each platform as needed. For example, designers can create a 3D model of a PCB in Inventor, then import the data into Fusion 360 to add electrical components and wiring.
To get started with using Inventor and Fusion 360 for PCB design, users should first become familiar with the basic workflows and tools of each platform. They should also explore the various integration points between the two tools, including the ability to import and export data, collaborate in a connected design environment, and use the integrated Eagle PCB design tool within Fusion 360.
Why Use Autodesk Inventor for PCB Design?
Autodesk Inventor’s PCB interoperability tools make it an ideal choice for electronic designers. The ability to work with both mechanical and electrical designs in the same software environment streamlines the design process and eliminates the need for multiple software tools. This feature also enables designers to test the fit of the PCB in the mechanical assembly, reducing the risk of errors and rework.
Additionally, Inventor’s ability to import and view PCB layouts from other software tools enables designers to work with existing designs and make any necessary changes in a 3D environment. This feature saves time and improves accuracy.
Finally, Inventor’s comprehensive design rule checking tool ensures that the design meets industry standards and identifies any potential errors before the manufacturing process. This feature reduces the risk of costly errors and ensures that the design is accurate and ready for production.
In conclusion, the interoperability between Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360, along with the integrated Eagle PCB design tool, makes these tools an excellent choice for designers and engineers looking to create complex PCB designs. By working together in a connected design environment and leveraging the strengths of each platform, designers can create high-quality PCB designs in a fraction of the time it would take with other tools.
Connected Design with Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Click a link below to learn more about Connected Design using the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing CollectionÂ
Ready to get your Electrical Design Connected?
Discover how Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.Â
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
Many users who design electrical schematics and wiring diagrams use AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT as their tool of choice for 2D schematic and wiring design, however, Autodesk also has AutoCAD Electrical, a specialised product for electrical designers and engineers, available now with AutoCAD as a specialised toolset that can be downloaded and used if you have an AutoCAD Subscription.
What's the Difference?
AutoCAD Electrical has all the tools of AutoCAD plus specialised tools and catalog for electrical schematic design, reporting and panel layouts with integration with Autodesk Inventor which has electrical harnessing and nailboard drawing tools and BOM tables for wiring lengths and components.
In addition, Autodesk Vault Professional also has AutoCAD Electrical integration with additional options for working with electrical projects.
AutoCAD Electrical has these additional tools, not found if just using AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT:
Project Tab
SQL Database
Schematic Components
Circuits
PLC
Wire and Wire Numbers
Terminals
Catalog
Panel Layout
Reports
Symbol Libraries
Electromechanical Projects
Integration for Vault ProfessionalÂ
Project Tab
AutoCAD Electrical has a project manager tab, to manage all your electrical projects with tools to make projects active, customise, copy, delete and archive.
There are also buttons to refresh a drawing list, tasks list, update/retag and other file management tools.
AutoCAD Electrical manages the catalog through a SQL database, giving users the ability to work with catalog database tables, with a detailed list of customisable Family Code/Table Names
Schematic Components
Using the schematic tools, an AutoCAD Electrical user can:
Search for AutoCAD component
Insert a component
Insert at Fence Crossing Points
Copy Data from One-line to Schematic
Copy Component
Copy Component at Fence Crossing Points
Insert from User-Defined Pick List
Insert from Equipment List
Insert Components or Terminals from Panel Lists
Cut, Copy, and Paste Electrical Objects
Scoot Components/Wire Segments
Align Components/Wire Numbers
Stretch PLC Modules, Components, or Blocks
Split PLC Modules/Components
Reverse/Flip Components
Swap Contact States
Work With Cross-Referencing
Surf on Cross-Reference Exception Reports
Change Cross-Reference Visibility
Insert a Location Box
Retag Components
Retrieve the Pinlist Values from a Peer Parent
Check the Coil/Contact Count
Â
Circuits
Circuits can be cut, copied and pasted and users can insert, configure single and dual circuits.
Using the circuit builder, the program builds dynamically and matches the rung spacing, adds wiring between components, and can annotate the circuit with calculated values based upon the assigned load amperage of the circuit. Circuit Builder extracts these annotation values from a database based on engineering standards, motor horsepower, and supply voltage.
PLC
AutoCAD Electrical toolset can generate any number of different PLC I/O modules on demand and in various graphical styles. AutoCAD Electrical toolset generates the selected PLC I/O module through a parametric generation technique based on information in the PLC database (ACE_PLC.MDB).
Wires and Wire Numbers
Create, import, select, and change wire types with AutoCAD Electrical using the schematic tab for:
Different Wire Types
Ladders
Wire Gaps
Single Arrows
Tee MArkers
Wire Sequence
Internal Jumpers
Wire Colour/Guage Labels
In-Line Wire Labels
Inserting Cable Markers
Fan In/Out Source and Destination Markers
Shield Symbols
Inserting Wire Numbers
Terminals
Terminals can be inserted from the Catalog browser and users of AutoCAD Electrical can define a Multi-Level Terminal by Catalog Value, by Terminal Block Properties, and associate Terminals on the same Drawing or across Drawings.
When selecting a terminal, the user can show terminal associations or break them apart.
Catalog
When working in the Catalog browser in AutoCAD Electrical, the user has a the ability to:
Insert a Schematic Component From the Catalog
Assign Catalog Information to a Component
Predefine a Search Value for Catalog Browser Lookup Mode
Copy Catalog Assignments
Show Missing Catalog Assignments
Update Components from the Catalog Database
Work With Editing the Catalog Database Records
Work With Catalog Database Tables
Create a Project-Specific Catalog Database
Define a Secondary Catalog Lookup File for a Project
Move the Catalog Database File
Edit or Add Manufacturer Content to the Catalog Database
Layouts can be driven from information carried on the AutoCAD Electrical toolset schematic wiring diagram drawings or they can be constructed independently of schematics.
AutoCAD Electrical toolset places no requirements on special naming or attribute requirements on mechanical footprint symbols. Vendor-supplied footprint symbols, in AutoCAD format, can be used as is with AutoCAD Electrical toolset.
Bi-directional update capabilities allow certain schematic wiring diagram edits to update the panel drawings automatically and vice versa.
Wire number, wire color/gauge information, and connection sequencing data can be extracted directly from the schematics and annotated on to the panel footprint representations.
AutoCAD Electrical toolset extracts various reports from these smart panel layout drawings including panel BOM, panel component/item lists, nameplate reports, and schematic versus panel exception reports.
Users can generate reports based on the schematic design with the ability to:
Generate a report
Insert a report on to a drawing
Change the format of a report
Export the report to a spreadsheet
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Symbol Libraries
During a stand-alone installation of AutoCAD Electrical, all available symbol libraries are installed and users can remove any symbol libraries not required.
The symbol libraries and Symbol Builder template files are located at C:\Users\Public\Documents\Autodesk\Acade {version}\Libs. The symbol library subfolder, \Libs, carries various AutoCAD Electrical schematic and panel layout symbol libraries.
The following electrical schematic libraries are installed by default and multiple symbol libraries can be used within a project.
Layouts can be driven from information carried on the AutoCAD Electrical toolset schematic wiring diagram drawings or they can be constructed independently of schematics.
AutoCAD Electrical toolset places no requirements on special naming or attribute requirements on mechanical footprint symbols. Vendor-supplied footprint symbols, in AutoCAD format, can be used as is with AutoCAD Electrical toolset.
Bi-directional update capabilities allow certain schematic wiring diagram edits to update the panel drawings automatically and vice versa.
Wire number, wire color/gauge information, and connection sequencing data can be extracted directly from the schematics and annotated on to the panel footprint representations.
AutoCAD Electrical toolset extracts various reports from these smart panel layout drawings including panel BOM, panel component/item lists, nameplate reports, and schematic versus panel exception reports.
Vault Professional Integration
Vault Professional support AutoCAD Electrical .wdp project files where you can add and open an AutoCAD Electrical project to/from Vault using the .wdp file format and use the usual check in/out, revision/lifecycle and search features.
Autodesk Vault Professional allows you to:
Keep a history of your design changes
Review how your designs have progressed
Rollback to a previous version
Have a central shared secured repository of drawings and data
Search for required information across multiple drawings and projects
What's new in AutoCAD Electrical 2023
Discover the Right CAD Tool for Your Engineering Needs
Choosing between AutoCAD and AutoCAD Mechanical? Our free eBook offers a detailed comparison to help you make the best choice for your design projects. Gain insights into key features, pricing, and real-world applications.
Download the eBook now to make an informed decision and optimise your workflow.
Get in Touch
DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.
Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.
Save Time and Money with Autodesk Vault for AutoCAD
If you are wondering if Autodesk Vault can help you manage your AutoCAD projects and collaborate with team members, then check out these top reasons for Autodesk Vault for AutoCAD.
Benefits of Using Autodesk Vault
Autodesk Vault comes in two version, Vault Basic and Vault Professional and Design Consulting can deploy these systems on-premise or in the cloud.
Data Centralisation
Versioning
Search
Change Management
Revision Tables
Sheet Set Manager
Copy Design
Rename
View and Markup
Data Centralisation
Whether it’s Vault Basic or Vault Professional, your engineering data and related documents are stored centrally.
Files are stored on the Vault Server and users check them out which creates a local copy on their computer and when they are ready, they can check the file/s back into Vault and the latest version is stored on the Server.
Versioning
Managers can audit and track the revision history of data files from a single location. This helps reduce the chance of design and construction errors by enabling the proactive release and tracking of files throughout the project lifecycle.Â
Team members access only the correct revision of data. As the project evolves, Autodesk® Vault Professional software captures predefined milestones in the project lifecycle, making it easier for users to revert back to a previous state and keep track of design changes.
Search
Vault users can use a range of methods, such as saved searches and shortcuts, to find and organize data. A user can search for a file name or search on attributes and custom properties to find the right file/s.
Change Management
Control design data access with revision management. Audit and track the revision history of your data files from a single location. Reduce the chance of design and manufacturing errors by securely releasing and tracking files throughout the design cycle, helping make sure that team members access only the correct revision of data.
Revision Tables
The process of manually updating the revision tables on drawings can be time-consuming, especially for changes that require simple property updates throughout the drawing’s lifecycle. The Vault Revision Table feature enables you to automatically update a drawing’s revision table data. Since multiple revision tables may exist in the same drawing, the Vault Revision Table feature tracks and updates all tables.
Sheet Set Manager
Sets of drawings are the primary deliverable for most design groups. Sets of drawings communicate the overall design intent of a project and provide the documentation and specifications for the project. However, managing sets of drawings manually can be complicated and time-consuming. The Sheet Set Manager integration enables you to store your sheets in a vault. You can also work on vaulted sheet sets online of offline.
Copy Design
Stop manually recreating or duplicating complex models and drawing sets, saving hours of design time. Using Autodesk data management software, you can copy a digital prototype—including all related files and documentation—for use in a new design. It’s easy to configure the files you want to replace, reuse, or copy.
Rename
Drawing files containing external references or links can be renamed and reorganized without breaking links between parent and child documents. Users are able to specify a new name and new numbering scheme based on a configurable set of tables.
View and Markup
Vault enables easy sharing and collaborating. Multisheet drawings are supported in the markup environment, which provides a rich feature set of tools. Once a markup is created, it can be shared and managed by Vault.
Summary
Vault provides a number of benefits for Autodesk AutoCAD users and all features except change management are found in Autodesk Vault Basic. Vault Professional offers revision control, lifecycle management, automatic numbering schemes a job processor to automate publishing of PDF, DWG and other file typ.es plus many other features with support for AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD Mechanical, Electrical, Civil 3D and Factory Design Utilities.
Get in Touch
DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.
Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.
Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection is a complete set of tools for the design, analysis, visualisation, documentation and manufacturing of products for manufacturing, industrial design, fabrication and defence.
Inventor Professional
Professional grade electromechanical 3D CAD software that can design products, plastics, sheet metal, weldments, automate, simulate, produce bills of materials, 2D fabrication level detailing and documentation.
Learn about products, workflows and related products.
PDM Collection Overview
The Autodesk PDM Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the manufacturing industry which gives the ability to 3D model, design, automate, visualise, animate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.
Create high-tolerance, fabrication level detailed designs for electromechanical products and fabricated structures.
Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools.
End to end CAD/CAM digital prototyping solution.
Integrated CAD/CAM and Nesting
The Product Design & Manufacturing Collection comes with Inventor CAM and Inventor Nesting, being one of the few, if only product set in the market with the exceptional 3D CAD modelling and detailing features of Inventor with integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM and Nesting..
Inventor and AutoCAD Workflows
Use the right tool for the right job. Reference AutoCAD 2D CAD data into Inventor designs and drawings and detail Inventor models in AutoCAD.
Inventor and Fusion Workflows
Use Fusion 360 generative design studies to explore design alternatives and optimise product preformance or cost.
Inventor and Revit Workflows
Reference Revit projects and use Inventor BIM interoperability tools to publish BIM data to Revit and other sources.
Included Software
The most comprehensive selection of cutting-edge BIM and CAD design, visualisation and analysis software and cloud tools comes within the AEC Collection.
Inventor Professional
Tools for parts and assembly modelling, automation, sheet metal, weldments, electrical, tube & pipe, bills of materials and 2D detailing.
Fusion 360
Cloud based CAD/CAM for PC and Mac with simulation and PCB design.
Inventor Tolerance Analysis
Analyse tolerances and the impact of variations in dimensions.
2D/3D design and drafting software with specialised toolsets for mechanical, electrical schematics, plant design, GIS and more.
Inventor Nesting
Integrated parametric nesting software for Inventor Professional.
Navisworks Manage
Project coordination, data aggregation, 5D scheduling, quantification, simulation and visualisation software.
Inventor CAM
Integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM for Inventor Professional with automation and simulation.
Recap Pro
Reality capture, photogrammetry and 3D scanning point cloud software.
Inventor Nastran
Non-Linear FEA integrated into Inventor Professional.
Factory Design Utilities
Process analysis and 2D/3D layout tools for AutoCAD, Inventor Professional and Navisworks.
HSM Works
Integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM for Solidworks.
3ds Max
3D modelling, rendering, animation and simulation software.
Autodesk Rendering
Cloud based rendering for Revit, 3ds Max, Navisworks and AutoCAD.
Autodesk Drive
Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.
Compare
Compare the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection to other products such as Inventor Professional, AutoCAD Inventor LT suite and Inventor Professional LT.
PDM Collection
Inventor Professional
AutoCAD Inventor LT Suite
Inventor LT
PDM Collection
Inventor Professional
AutoCAD Inventor LT Suite
Inventor LT
3D Parametric Part Modelling
B-REP surfacing, solid body and multi-body part modelling
Direct Editing
Direct editing (push-pull) part modelling environment
Freeform Modelling
NURBS with T-Splines part modelling environment
Plastic Part Design
Mold and die modelling environment
Local Rendering
Ray-trace rendering on your PC
2D Design
2D design functionality in AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
2D Drafting
2D views, annotations, leaders, etc.
3D Parametric Assembly Modelling
Place multiple parts in an assembly file and use constraints and joints to assemble
Weldments
Weldment assembly environment used with frame generator to model structural frames
Sheet Metal Modelling
Tools for sheet metal design, flat patterns and 2D symbols and annotations
Electrical Cable and Harnessing
Tools tools to route electrical cables, harnesses and detail nailboards
Electrical Schematics
Design electrical control systems and switchboards with reports such as from/to and wire lists
EMX Project
Synch between AutoCAD Electrical schematicsand Inventor Professional cable harnesses
Tube and Piping
Tools to design flexible hose, tubes and pipes
Design Automation
Simplified code and forms to automate 3D model, drawings and connect to Excel
Content Centre Library
Customisable library of parts such as steel profiles and fasteners
Draft Analysis
Analyse drafts
Clash and interference detection
Detect clashes or interferences between parts in assemblies
Material cost/impact
Ability to select a material based on the environmental/cost impact
BIM Interoperability
Prepare models and export to RFA, adsk or IFC
Point Clouds
Import point clouds via Recap
Point Cloud Pre-Processing
Tools found in Recap Pro
Bill of Materials
Create bills of materials and tabvles from parts and assemblies
AnyCAD
Associative import of CAD parts and assembly files
Application Programming Interface (API)
Install plug-ins, create plug-ins, macros and run Dynamo scripts
Linear FEA
Linear and Dynamic FEA simulation studies
Non-Linear FEA
FEA tools in Inventor Nastran
CAM
Features found in Inventor CAM and HSMWorks
Nesting
Nesting tools in Inventor Nesting
Tolerance Analysis
Features found in Inventor Tolerance Analysis
Architecture Design
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
GIS Mapping
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Raster Tools
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Plant Design
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
P&ID Schematics
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Clash Detection
Features found in Navisworks Manage
5D Scheduling
Features found in Navisworks Manage
Project Review and Coordination
Features found in Navisworks Manage
Production Rendering and Animation
Features found in 3ds Max
Process Analysis
Bottleneck simulation and reporting for factory and assembly line layouts
Synch AutoCAD and Inventor Professional
2D/3D Factory Assets to synch AutoCAD 2D layouts with Inventor Professional 3D models
PDM Collection Add-Ons
Check out these programs and plug-ins to boost productivity even further.
Enterprise data management.
Additive manufacturing simulation and optimisation.
Cloud Collaboration with Fusion 360 Team Participant
Machine tool probing software for on machine verification and inspection.
Computational Fluid Dynamic software to simulate loads, air and fluid flows.
If you would like to learn more about Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.
Learn about products, workflows and related products.
Overview
The Autodesk AEC Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the architecture, engineering, construction and infrastructure industries which give the ability to 3D model, design, visualise, animate, coordinate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.
Create high-quality, detailed designs for building and infrastructure projects. Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools. Improve predictability in the field by coordinating and simulating projects and schedules.
The Autodesk AEC Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the architecture, engineering, construction and insfrastructure industries which give the ability to 3D model, design, visualise, animate, coordinate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.
Create high-quality, detailed designs for building and infrastructure projects.
Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools.
Improve predictability in the field by coordinating and simulating projects and schedules.
Combine Revit and Insight to improve environmental performance to guide you towards better outcomes using robust analytical tools.
Model in Revit and visualise analysis in Insight such as indicators, benchmark, ranges and specifications on factors such as infiltration, operating schedule, building orientation, lighting efficiency, HVAC, plug load efficiency, payback limit, surface coverage, panel efficiency and effect on construction materials.
Once you have viewed results, you can make design changes in Revit to optimise the building performance using comparison scenarios and viewing the results through the analytical model and produce a calculation summary report to validate design choices.
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Infrastructure BIM Workflows
Combine Revit, Civil 3D and Infraworks for bridge analysis and design. Use Civil 3D road geometry to create the initial bridge and develops the design further in Infraworks using parametric rules to change the characteristics of the bridge by individually changing parameters or automate by connecting parameters to a spreadsheet to layout the bridge. Run integrated analysis and design tools to provide feedback during the optioneering phase.
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Any changes in Civil 3D can be updated in Infraworks thereby providing connected design tools. The bridge structure can be publish to Revit and design work can continue concurrently using 3D structural design tools and 2D documentation.
Generative Design
Create generative design studies to quickly view alternate designs
Structral Design and Analysis Workflows
Combine Revit, Advance Steel and Robot to design, engineer and fabricate structural projects.
3D Scanning BIM Workflows
Pre-process point cloud data for Revit and import 3D scans and work in a hybrid reality capture BIM environment.
Design Automation Workflows
Automate routine tasks that normally take hours into minutes by running Dynamo scripts with applications such as Revit, Civil 3D, FormIT and Advance Steel .
MEP Fabrication Workflows
Connect Revit and CADmep to reduce duplication in designs allowing fabricators to create production designs and documentaion..
The most comprehensive selection of cutting-edge BIM and CAD design, visualisation and analysis software and cloud tools comes within the AEC Collection.
Revit
Architectural, structural, mechanical and electrical 3D modelling and drafting BIM software.
Civil 3D
Civil engineering design and construction documentation software.
AutoCAD
2D/3D design and drafting software with specialised toolsets for AEC, plant design, GIS and more.
Infraworks
Conceptual design, visualisation and analysis software for civil infrastructure.
Navisworks Manage
Project coordination, data aggregation, 5D scheduling, quantification, simulation and visualisation software.
Advance Steel
Structural steel design and detailing software that works with beamline machines.
Recap Pro
Reality capture, photogrammetry and 3D scanning point cloud software.
Insight
Building energy analysis software.
Formit Pro
3D sketching and design and energy analysis software with Revit and Dynamo interoperability.
Dynamo Studio
Visual programming design automation software for Revit, Formit and Advance Steel.
Robot Structural Analysis Professional
Non-Linear structural analysis for Revit and Advance Steel.
3ds Max
3D modelling, rendering, animation and simulation software.
Vehicle Tracking
Swept path analysis software.
Fabrication CADmep
Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.
Autodesk Rendering
Cloud based rendering for Revit, 3ds Max, Navisworks and AutoCAD.
Autodesk Drive
Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.
Exceptional Value
Compare buying the AEC Collection to buying each title separately. If you need more than one application, getting an Industry Collection is the best value choice. Please note that all prices quoted below exclude GST.
If you would learn more about Autodesk software, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.
