Migrate Custom Settings and Files from Previous
Releases
You can migrate your custom settings and files from previous releases of
AutoCAD to your new release. It is recommended that you migrate from a
previous release right away. This prevents you from overwriting files or having
to keep track of any custom settings you may make in the new release. Migrating
settings overwrites any new settings.
You can use the following tools to migrate settings and files:
■ Migrate Custom Settings dialog box. Migrates user profiles, CUI files,
AutoCAD and user-defined linetype files, AutoCAD and user-defined hatch
patterns, and the acad.pgp file (a file that stores command definitions and
aliases). The Migrate Custom Settings dialog box is displayed when you start
the product for the first time. You can also migrate settings later from the
Start menu (Windows).
■ Customize User Interface dialog box. Converts legacy menu files (MNU and
MNS) to the CUI format while leaving the original MNU or MNS file
unchanged. Migrating user interface elements, transferring data between
customized files, and customizing user interface elements are simplified in
this dialog box. For more information about the CUI format and how
migration of menu files has been simplified, see Customize the User
Interface in the Customization Guide.
■ Migration tools. Aid migration of settings or files that cannot be
automatically migrated (such as AutoLISP® files and the accompanying
MNL files) or that require you to make a decision about which files to
migrate (such as which files in a set of drawing files). Download these
migration tools by visiting www.autodesk.com and then performing a search
on Migration Tools.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 2
Migrate Custom Settings
If you install AutoCAD on a computer where a previous release of the AutoCAD
product is installed, you can migrate some custom settings from a previous
release to your newer AutoCAD product.
Migrate the user profile. This file contains drawing environment settings such
as screen color, cursor size, command line window font, and the dictionary
to use for checking spelling. The user profile file also includes the folders in
which AutoCAD searches for support, driver, customization, and other files.
If you customized files in a location other than the default AutoCAD location,
the path to the location is migrated. The files themselves do not get migrated.
Migrate linetypes, hatch patterns, and command aliases that you created.
The data from these files is added to a user-defined section of the AutoCAD
files, to make it easy for you to find this information and migrate this data to
future releases. You cannot use the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box to
migrate shell commands or comments that you made to your acad.pgp file.
If you install AutoCAD on a computer where a previous release of the AutoCAD
product is installed, you can migrate some custom settings from a previous
release to your newer AutoCAD product.
Migrate the user profile. This file contains drawing environment settings such
as screen color, cursor size, command line window font, and the dictionary
to use for checking spelling. The user profile file also includes the folders in
which AutoCAD searches for support, driver, customization, and other files.
If you customized files in a location other than the default AutoCAD location,
the path to the location is migrated. The files themselves do not get migrated.
Migrate linetypes, hatch patterns, and command aliases that you created.
The data from these files is added to a user-defined section of the AutoCAD
files, to make it easy for you to find this information and migrate this data to
future releases. You cannot use the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box to
migrate shell commands or comments that you made to your acad.pgp file.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 3
Files Migrated with the Migrate Custom Settings Dialog Box
File Name File Description Details
User Defined Hatch Patterns section
of the file.
The file itself is not migrated; however,
any command aliases you cre-
Stores shell commands and command
alias definitions (a program
acad.pgp
ated in this file are copied to the
AutoCAD acad.pgpfile.
parameters file in ASCII text
form).
The file itself is not migrated; however,
a copy of the file is created and
Contains menu customization
from an AutoCAD version earlier
than AutoCAD 2006.
*.mnu
then is converted into a CUI file with
the same name. The new CUI file is
placed in the same folder as the main
CUI file. A MNU file is converted
when a MNS file with the same name
is not found.
The file itself is not migrated; however,
a copy of the file is created and
Contains menu customization
from a version of an AutoCAD
earlier than AutoCAD 2006.
*.mns
then is converted into a CUI file with
the same name. The new CUI file is
placed in the same folder as the main
CUI file. A MNS file is converted
when a MNU file with the same
name is present or not.
If the CUI file is supplied by Autodesk,
the custom changes made to the file
Contains customizations from a
version of an AutoCAD starting
with AutoCAD 2006.
*.cui
are migrated to the newer version of
the CUI file.
If the CUI file is not supplied by
Autodesk, the file is migrated and is
copied to where the main CUI file is
located, unless the CUI file is in a
network location. In that case, the
file is migrated but is not copied to
the location of the main CUI file.
Enterprise CUI files are not migrated
automatically. You must migrate
them manually.
Before the MNU, MNS, and CUI files are migrated, a backup copy of each file
is saved in the following directory:
■ (Windows XP):\Documents and Settings\\Application
Data\Autodesk\\\\Previous Version
Custom Files
■ (Windows Vista):\Users\\Application
Data\Autodesk\\\\Previous Version
Custom Files
To migrate custom settings when you start the AutoCAD
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box, in the Migrate Settings From
list, select the AutoCAD release from which you want to migrate your
custom settings.
3 In the Settings and Files to Migrate box, select the custom files that you
want to migrate.
4 Click OK.
5 In the Migrate Custom Settings message, click OK to view the log file, or
click No if you do not want to view the log file now.
Each time the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box is used, AutoCAD resets
the program’s default CUI file from the UserDataCache folder and then migrates
any customization done in a previous release forward.
To migrate custom settings from the Start menu (Windows)
1 Do one of the following:
■ (Windows XP) Click Start menu ➤ Programs ➤ Autodesk ➤
➤ Migrate Custom Settings ➤ Migrate From a Previous
Release.
■ (Windows Vista) Click Start menu ➤ All Programs ➤ Autodesk ➤
➤ Migrate Custom Settings ➤ Migrate From a Previous
Release.
2 In the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box, in the Migrate Settings From
list, select the AutoCAD release from which you want to migrate your
custom settings.
3 In the Settings and Files to Migrate box, select the custom files that you
want to migrate.
4 Click OK.
5 In the Migrate Custom Settings message, click OK to view the log file, or
click No if you do not want to view the log file.
NOTE To be accessible, pull-down menus that are migrated from a MNU/MNS
file to a CUI file need to be added to a workspace.
File Name File Description Details
User Defined Hatch Patterns section
of the file.
The file itself is not migrated; however,
any command aliases you cre-
Stores shell commands and command
alias definitions (a program
acad.pgp
ated in this file are copied to the
AutoCAD acad.pgpfile.
parameters file in ASCII text
form).
The file itself is not migrated; however,
a copy of the file is created and
Contains menu customization
from an AutoCAD version earlier
than AutoCAD 2006.
*.mnu
then is converted into a CUI file with
the same name. The new CUI file is
placed in the same folder as the main
CUI file. A MNU file is converted
when a MNS file with the same name
is not found.
The file itself is not migrated; however,
a copy of the file is created and
Contains menu customization
from a version of an AutoCAD
earlier than AutoCAD 2006.
*.mns
then is converted into a CUI file with
the same name. The new CUI file is
placed in the same folder as the main
CUI file. A MNS file is converted
when a MNU file with the same
name is present or not.
If the CUI file is supplied by Autodesk,
the custom changes made to the file
Contains customizations from a
version of an AutoCAD starting
with AutoCAD 2006.
*.cui
are migrated to the newer version of
the CUI file.
If the CUI file is not supplied by
Autodesk, the file is migrated and is
copied to where the main CUI file is
located, unless the CUI file is in a
network location. In that case, the
file is migrated but is not copied to
the location of the main CUI file.
Enterprise CUI files are not migrated
automatically. You must migrate
them manually.
Before the MNU, MNS, and CUI files are migrated, a backup copy of each file
is saved in the following directory:
■ (Windows XP)
Data\Autodesk\
Custom Files
■ (Windows Vista)
Data\Autodesk\
Custom Files
To migrate custom settings when you start the AutoCAD
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box, in the Migrate Settings From
list, select the AutoCAD release from which you want to migrate your
custom settings.
3 In the Settings and Files to Migrate box, select the custom files that you
want to migrate.
4 Click OK.
5 In the Migrate Custom Settings message, click OK to view the log file, or
click No if you do not want to view the log file now.
Each time the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box is used, AutoCAD resets
the program’s default CUI file from the UserDataCache folder and then migrates
any customization done in a previous release forward.
To migrate custom settings from the Start menu (Windows)
1 Do one of the following:
■ (Windows XP) Click Start menu ➤ Programs ➤ Autodesk ➤
Release.
■ (Windows Vista) Click Start menu ➤ All Programs ➤ Autodesk ➤
Release.
2 In the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box, in the Migrate Settings From
list, select the AutoCAD release from which you want to migrate your
custom settings.
3 In the Settings and Files to Migrate box, select the custom files that you
want to migrate.
4 Click OK.
5 In the Migrate Custom Settings message, click OK to view the log file, or
click No if you do not want to view the log file.
NOTE To be accessible, pull-down menus that are migrated from a MNU/MNS
file to a CUI file need to be added to a workspace.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 4
View the Migration Log File
The migration log file (migration.xml) provides specific information about any
settings or files that were not successfully migrated to AutoCAD. The log file
shows all the files that were successfully copied from a previous version to the
newer AutoCAD. It also provides information about files that were not
successfully migrated. Use the log for troubleshooting if there are unwanted
or unexpected results in your AutoCAD profiles.
After you use the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box to migrate custom
settings and files, a message is displayed from which you open the migration
log file. You can view the migration log file at that time. You can also navigate
to the file if you want to view the log details another time.
To locate and view the migration log file
1 In Windows Explorer, navigate to the following location:
■ (Windows XP):\Documents and Settings\
profile>\Application Data\Autodesk\\
number>\\Migration
■ (Windows Vista):\Users\\Application
Data\Autodesk\\
number>\\Migration
2 Double-click migration.xml to open the file, and view the details of your
migration.
Restore Profiles After Migrating Files from an Earlier
Release
After you migrate your profiles from an earlier AutoCAD release, you may
want to restore the newer AutoCAD default profile settings.
To restore AutoCAD default profiles
1 On the Application menu, click Options.
2 In the Options dialog box, Profiles tab, click the profile you want to
restore and click Reset.
3 Click Yes.
The profile is reset to the newer default profile.
The migration log file (migration.xml) provides specific information about any
settings or files that were not successfully migrated to AutoCAD. The log file
shows all the files that were successfully copied from a previous version to the
newer AutoCAD. It also provides information about files that were not
successfully migrated. Use the log for troubleshooting if there are unwanted
or unexpected results in your AutoCAD profiles.
After you use the Migrate Custom Settings dialog box to migrate custom
settings and files, a message is displayed from which you open the migration
log file. You can view the migration log file at that time. You can also navigate
to the file if you want to view the log details another time.
To locate and view the migration log file
1 In Windows Explorer, navigate to the following location:
■ (Windows XP)
profile>\Application Data\Autodesk\
number>\
■ (Windows Vista)
Data\Autodesk\
number>\
2 Double-click migration.xml to open the file, and view the details of your
migration.
Restore Profiles After Migrating Files from an Earlier
Release
After you migrate your profiles from an earlier AutoCAD release, you may
want to restore the newer AutoCAD default profile settings.
To restore AutoCAD default profiles
1 On the Application menu, click Options.
2 In the Options dialog box, Profiles tab, click the profile you want to
restore and click Reset.
3 Click Yes.
The profile is reset to the newer default profile.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 5
Use Migration Tools
Migration tools take the guesswork out of updating your custom files from
previous releases. The tools help you to share drawings when you upgrade to
a new release of an AutoCAD product. You can download the migration tools
in several languages from the Autodesk website.
The migration tools are as follows:
■ DWG TrueView 2010. You can view, plot, and convert any AutoCAD
product or an AutoCAD product-based drawing file for compatibility with
the current AutoCAD drawing file formats.
■ ScriptPro. Using ScriptPro, you can apply a set of commands to multiple
drawings by specifying a script file and the list of drawings to which you
want to apply the script.
■ AutoLISP Compatibility Analyzer. Details AutoCAD compatibility issues
found in AutoLISP files and the accompanying menu (MNL) files. When
a compatibility issue is found, the tool provides an explanation of the issue
and suggestions on how to correct it.
Customize AutoCAD with Initial Setup
With Initial Setup you can perform some basic customization of AutoCAD
the first time you start.
You respond to a series of questions that are used to gather information about
specific features and settings in AutoCAD. You specify which industry best
describes your work, add task-based tools to your default workspace, and
specify the drawing template you want to use when creating a new drawing.
Select an Industry
When Initial Setup is first displayed, you are prompted to select an industry.
Select one of the listed industries that is closest to the type of work that best
describes the drawings you create. The following features and settings in
AutoCAD and Initial Setup are affected by the industry you select:
■ Content Search. Used as part of a generated query to find content from
Autodesk Seek.
■ Partner product search. Used as part of a generated query that is sent to
the Autodesk Partner Products website to find relevant third-party utilities
that might be beneficial to your work.
■ Initial Setup. Used to determine a drawing template file that might be more
appropriate to your industry for new drawings when compared to the
supplied default templates that come with AutoCAD.
Migration tools take the guesswork out of updating your custom files from
previous releases. The tools help you to share drawings when you upgrade to
a new release of an AutoCAD product. You can download the migration tools
in several languages from the Autodesk website.
The migration tools are as follows:
■ DWG TrueView 2010. You can view, plot, and convert any AutoCAD
product or an AutoCAD product-based drawing file for compatibility with
the current AutoCAD drawing file formats.
■ ScriptPro. Using ScriptPro, you can apply a set of commands to multiple
drawings by specifying a script file and the list of drawings to which you
want to apply the script.
■ AutoLISP Compatibility Analyzer. Details AutoCAD compatibility issues
found in AutoLISP files and the accompanying menu (MNL) files. When
a compatibility issue is found, the tool provides an explanation of the issue
and suggestions on how to correct it.
Customize AutoCAD with Initial Setup
With Initial Setup you can perform some basic customization of AutoCAD
the first time you start.
You respond to a series of questions that are used to gather information about
specific features and settings in AutoCAD. You specify which industry best
describes your work, add task-based tools to your default workspace, and
specify the drawing template you want to use when creating a new drawing.
Select an Industry
When Initial Setup is first displayed, you are prompted to select an industry.
Select one of the listed industries that is closest to the type of work that best
describes the drawings you create. The following features and settings in
AutoCAD and Initial Setup are affected by the industry you select:
■ Content Search. Used as part of a generated query to find content from
Autodesk Seek.
■ Partner product search. Used as part of a generated query that is sent to
the Autodesk Partner Products website to find relevant third-party utilities
that might be beneficial to your work.
■ Initial Setup. Used to determine a drawing template file that might be more
appropriate to your industry for new drawings when compared to the
supplied default templates that come with AutoCAD.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 6
Add Task-based Tools
With Initial Setup, you can add task-based tools to your default workspace
(for example tools to review red-line markups created from Autodesk Design
Review or tools used to create photorealistic renderings).
The following task-based tools can be added to your default workspace from
Initial Setup:
■ 3D modeling
■ Photorealistic rendering
■ Review and markup
■ Sheet sets
You can use the Customize User Interface (CUI) Editor to further control which
task-based tools are displayed in a workspace. For more information about
workspaces, see “Customize Workspaces“ in the Customization Guide.
With Initial Setup, you can add task-based tools to your default workspace
(for example tools to review red-line markups created from Autodesk Design
Review or tools used to create photorealistic renderings).
The following task-based tools can be added to your default workspace from
Initial Setup:
■ 3D modeling
■ Photorealistic rendering
■ Review and markup
■ Sheet sets
You can use the Customize User Interface (CUI) Editor to further control which
task-based tools are displayed in a workspace. For more information about
workspaces, see “Customize Workspaces“ in the Customization Guide.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 7
Specify a Default Drawing Template
With drawing templates you can reuse a set of settings and styles when you
create a new drawing. In Initial Setup you can specify the default drawing
template to use when you create a new drawing. Initial Setup has the following
drawing template options:
■ Default drawing template. Use the imperial or metric drawing template
that is installed by default.
■ Existing drawing template. Specify an existing drawing template that is
available on a local or network drive.
If you migrated your custom settings and files from a previous release, the
migrated default drawing template file is listed. For information about
migrating custom settings and files from a previous release, see Migrate
Custom Settings on page 26.
■ Industry focused drawing template. Use the drawing template that is
associated with the industry you selected in Initial Setup, and either the
imperial or metric measurement type.
Drawing templates are often project- or company-specific to ensure consistent
styles and settings from one drawing to the next. It is recommended that you
use a drawing template that follows your company’s CAD standards.
For information about creating a custom drawing template, see “Use a Template
File to Start a Drawing“ in the User’s Guide.
To customize AutoCAD with Initial Setup
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In Initial Setup, Industry page, from the Industry list select the industry
that best describes your work. Click Next.
3 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
4 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Start
AutoCAD 2010.
With drawing templates you can reuse a set of settings and styles when you
create a new drawing. In Initial Setup you can specify the default drawing
template to use when you create a new drawing. Initial Setup has the following
drawing template options:
■ Default drawing template. Use the imperial or metric drawing template
that is installed by default.
■ Existing drawing template. Specify an existing drawing template that is
available on a local or network drive.
If you migrated your custom settings and files from a previous release, the
migrated default drawing template file is listed. For information about
migrating custom settings and files from a previous release, see Migrate
Custom Settings on page 26.
■ Industry focused drawing template. Use the drawing template that is
associated with the industry you selected in Initial Setup, and either the
imperial or metric measurement type.
Drawing templates are often project- or company-specific to ensure consistent
styles and settings from one drawing to the next. It is recommended that you
use a drawing template that follows your company’s CAD standards.
For information about creating a custom drawing template, see “Use a Template
File to Start a Drawing“ in the User’s Guide.
To customize AutoCAD with Initial Setup
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In Initial Setup, Industry page, from the Industry list select the industry
that best describes your work. Click Next.
3 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
4 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Start
AutoCAD 2010.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 8
To customize AutoCAD with Initial Setup
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In Initial Setup, Industry page, from the Industry list select the industry
that best describes your work. Click Next.
3 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
4 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Start
AutoCAD 2010.
To change the settings made with Initial Setup
1 Click the Application menu button ➤ Options.
2 In the Options dialog box, User Preferences tab, click Initial Setup.
3 In Initial Setup, Industry page, specify an industry that best describes
your work. Click Next.
4 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
5 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Finish.
6 In the Options dialog box, click OK.
Export and Import Custom Settings from the Same
Release
You can export your custom settings between systems running the same release
of an AutoCAD product, or export the custom settings and later re-import
them on the same computer if you need to reinstall AutoCAD. When exporting
custom settings, a migration package is created that contains an XML file.
This file contains custom settings, a listing of the custom files from local
locations used with AutoCAD, and optionally, custom files in network
locations.
The migration package is a ZIP file archive, so it has the file extension ZIP.
During the import process, you select the ZIP file archive that contains the
exported custom settings you want to merge onto your computer.
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 In Initial Setup, Industry page, from the Industry list select the industry
that best describes your work. Click Next.
3 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
4 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Start
AutoCAD 2010.
To change the settings made with Initial Setup
1 Click the Application menu button ➤ Options.
2 In the Options dialog box, User Preferences tab, click Initial Setup.
3 In Initial Setup, Industry page, specify an industry that best describes
your work. Click Next.
4 On the Optimize Your Workspace page, select the task-based tools you
want to display in your default workspace. Click Next.
5 On the Specify a Drawing Template File page, select the drawing template
file that you want to use when creating new drawings. Click Finish.
6 In the Options dialog box, click OK.
Export and Import Custom Settings from the Same
Release
You can export your custom settings between systems running the same release
of an AutoCAD product, or export the custom settings and later re-import
them on the same computer if you need to reinstall AutoCAD. When exporting
custom settings, a migration package is created that contains an XML file.
This file contains custom settings, a listing of the custom files from local
locations used with AutoCAD, and optionally, custom files in network
locations.
The migration package is a ZIP file archive, so it has the file extension ZIP.
During the import process, you select the ZIP file archive that contains the
exported custom settings you want to merge onto your computer.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 9
Export and Import Custom Settings from the Same Release
The following table lists the file types that are most commonly included in
the migration package that is created from the Export Custom Settings dialog
box.
Most Common File Types Included in the Migration Package
File Name File Description
Information about the user profiles in the product and the original locations
of the files in the export package.
*.xml
*.lin Linetype definitions.
*.pat Hatch pattern definitions.
*.pgp Shell commands and command alias definitions.
*.pc3 Configuration information for a plotter or printer.
*.pmp Calibration and paper size settings that are used with a PC3 file.
*.ini Configuration settings for some features.
*.shx Information about text characters or shapes used with linetype definitions.
*.mln Multiline style definitions.
Settings used to control the appearance of objects when plotting; the
settings are arranged by the colors of the AutoCAD Color Index (ACI)
system.
*.ctb
Settings used to control the appearance of objects when plotting; the
settings are grouped into names that can be assigned to a layer or object.
*.stb
*.cui Information for commands and user interface elements.
AutoLISP commands and procedures that a customization file is dependent
on; must have the same name as a customization file in order to be loaded
by the product.
*.mnl
Information about font mappings for True Type Fonts used in the In-place
Text Editor.
*.fmp
*.cus Custom dictionary entries.
The following table lists the file types that are most commonly included in
the migration package that is created from the Export Custom Settings dialog
box.
Most Common File Types Included in the Migration Package
File Name File Description
Information about the user profiles in the product and the original locations
of the files in the export package.
*.xml
*.lin Linetype definitions.
*.pat Hatch pattern definitions.
*.pgp Shell commands and command alias definitions.
*.pc3 Configuration information for a plotter or printer.
*.pmp Calibration and paper size settings that are used with a PC3 file.
*.ini Configuration settings for some features.
*.shx Information about text characters or shapes used with linetype definitions.
*.mln Multiline style definitions.
Settings used to control the appearance of objects when plotting; the
settings are arranged by the colors of the AutoCAD Color Index (ACI)
system.
*.ctb
Settings used to control the appearance of objects when plotting; the
settings are grouped into names that can be assigned to a layer or object.
*.stb
*.cui Information for commands and user interface elements.
AutoLISP commands and procedures that a customization file is dependent
on; must have the same name as a customization file in order to be loaded
by the product.
*.mnl
Information about font mappings for True Type Fonts used in the In-place
Text Editor.
*.fmp
*.cus Custom dictionary entries.
Auto Cad 2010 Migrating and Customizing Part 10
Most Common File Types Included in the Migration Package
File Name File Description
*.psf Information about font substitution when exporting to a Postscript file.
*.bmp Image used for a command in a customization file.
Tools defined on a tool palette and the tool palette catalog. The file is
not migrated from release to release, but is from computer to computer
with the migration package.
*.atc
Order of the tools as they appear on a tool palette and other local settings.
The file is not migrated from release to release, but is from computer to
computer with the migration package.
*.aws
The following table lists the file types that are not included in the migration
package that is created from the Export Custom Settings dialog box.
Some of the File Types Not Included in the Migration Package
File Name File Description
*.actm Action macro file.
*.arx ObjectARX application file.
Definitions for custom dialog boxes used with AutoLISP, ADS, or ObjectARX
applications.
*.dcl
*.dvb Visual Basic for Applications project file.
*.fas Fast-load AutoLISP format file.
*.fdc Definitions for fields; should not be modified.
Landscape library; this file type is no longer supported due to the removal
of the LANDSCAPE command.
*.lli
AutoLISP source file that contains definitions for custom commands and
functions.
*.lsp
*.mli Render material library; this file type is no longer supported due to changes
to the MATERIALS command.
File Name File Description
*.psf Information about font substitution when exporting to a Postscript file.
*.bmp Image used for a command in a customization file.
Tools defined on a tool palette and the tool palette catalog. The file is
not migrated from release to release, but is from computer to computer
with the migration package.
*.atc
Order of the tools as they appear on a tool palette and other local settings.
The file is not migrated from release to release, but is from computer to
computer with the migration package.
*.aws
The following table lists the file types that are not included in the migration
package that is created from the Export Custom Settings dialog box.
Some of the File Types Not Included in the Migration Package
File Name File Description
*.actm Action macro file.
*.arx ObjectARX application file.
Definitions for custom dialog boxes used with AutoLISP, ADS, or ObjectARX
applications.
*.dcl
*.dvb Visual Basic for Applications project file.
*.fas Fast-load AutoLISP format file.
*.fdc Definitions for fields; should not be modified.
Landscape library; this file type is no longer supported due to the removal
of the LANDSCAPE command.
*.lli
AutoLISP source file that contains definitions for custom commands and
functions.
*.lsp
*.mli Render material library; this file type is no longer supported due to changes
to the MATERIALS command.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to installation issues and answers to commonly asked questions
that may arise while installing your product(s). Additional troubleshooting information and
support is also available at http://autodesk.com/support.
General Installation Issues
The following outlines common issues and their solutions that may arise while
you are performing a general installation of your product(s).
How can I check my graphics card driver to see if it needs
to be updated?
It is recommended that you verify and update your graphics card driver to
optimize your program. Use the following procedure to identify your current
graphics card driver.
To identify your graphics card driver
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 At the command line, enter 3dconfig.
3 In the Adaptive Degradation and Performance Tuning dialog box, click
View Tune Log.
4 Review the 3D Device section for information about your system's graphics
card driver and driver version.
that may arise while installing your product(s). Additional troubleshooting information and
support is also available at http://autodesk.com/support.
General Installation Issues
The following outlines common issues and their solutions that may arise while
you are performing a general installation of your product(s).
How can I check my graphics card driver to see if it needs
to be updated?
It is recommended that you verify and update your graphics card driver to
optimize your program. Use the following procedure to identify your current
graphics card driver.
To identify your graphics card driver
1 Start AutoCAD.
2 At the command line, enter 3dconfig.
3 In the Adaptive Degradation and Performance Tuning dialog box, click
View Tune Log.
4 Review the 3D Device section for information about your system's graphics
card driver and driver version.
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 1
TIP Many newer graphic cards offer tabbed pages where you can learn more
precise information about your specific graphic card. If specific tab pages are
present, refer to them instead of the Adapter tab.
What is a text editor used for?
The text editor you designate during installation is used for editing text files
such as PGP and CUS dictionary files while you are running your product.
When performing a Typical installation, what gets
installed?
A Typical installation includes the following features:
Contains tools for reviewing design files for compliance with
your standards.
CAD Standards
Database Contains database access tools.
Dictionaries Contains multi-language dictionaries.
Allows you to use the Security Options dialog box to protect
a drawing with a password.
Drawing Encryption
Contains AutoCAD support tools and utilities (not supported
by Autodesk).
Express Tools
Fonts Contains AutoCAD fonts and TrueType fonts.
The Impression toolbar allows you to quickly export any view
to Autodesk Impression for advanced line effects.
Autodesk Impression
Toolbar
Autodesk Seek.
NOTE Seek will only be installed in the English version of
AutoCAD.
Autodesk Seek
Contains animated demos, exercises, and sample files to help
users learn the new features.
precise information about your specific graphic card. If specific tab pages are
present, refer to them instead of the Adapter tab.
What is a text editor used for?
The text editor you designate during installation is used for editing text files
such as PGP and CUS dictionary files while you are running your product.
When performing a Typical installation, what gets
installed?
A Typical installation includes the following features:
Contains tools for reviewing design files for compliance with
your standards.
CAD Standards
Database Contains database access tools.
Dictionaries Contains multi-language dictionaries.
Allows you to use the Security Options dialog box to protect
a drawing with a password.
Drawing Encryption
Contains AutoCAD support tools and utilities (not supported
by Autodesk).
Express Tools
Fonts Contains AutoCAD fonts and TrueType fonts.
The Impression toolbar allows you to quickly export any view
to Autodesk Impression for advanced line effects.
Autodesk Impression
Toolbar
Autodesk Seek.
NOTE Seek will only be installed in the English version of
AutoCAD.
Autodesk Seek
Contains animated demos, exercises, and sample files to help
users learn the new features.
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 2
Allows users to transfer an Autodesk product license between
computers.
NOTE The utility will not be installed on unlocked versions of
AutoCAD.
License Transfer Utility
Migrates custom settings and files from previous version of
your product to this version.
Migrate Custom Settings
Allows users to set up their initial configuration of AutoCAD
(online content, workspaces) based on their units system, industry,
and commonly used task-based tools.
Initial Setup
Allows users to view and edit the paths of externally referenced
files associated with a drawing.
Reference Manager
Samples Contains various feature sample files.
VBA Support Contains Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications support files.
Why should I install the Material Library?
The Material Library contains over 300 professionally made materials that you
can immediately apply to objects in your model. They can also act as a basis
for custom materials that you want to create.
For more information regarding materials, see Materials and Textures in the
AutoCAD User’s Guide.
Where are my product manuals?
Documentation for AutoCAD is in two formats: PDF files and CHM files.
■ PDF files are made available during installation; click the Documentation
link in the installer.
■ CHM files are available after the product is installed; they are accessed in
the Help system in the product.
The PDF files are also available from within your installed product’s Help
system.
computers.
NOTE The utility will not be installed on unlocked versions of
AutoCAD.
License Transfer Utility
Migrates custom settings and files from previous version of
your product to this version.
Migrate Custom Settings
Allows users to set up their initial configuration of AutoCAD
(online content, workspaces) based on their units system, industry,
and commonly used task-based tools.
Initial Setup
Allows users to view and edit the paths of externally referenced
files associated with a drawing.
Reference Manager
Samples Contains various feature sample files.
VBA Support Contains Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications support files.
Why should I install the Material Library?
The Material Library contains over 300 professionally made materials that you
can immediately apply to objects in your model. They can also act as a basis
for custom materials that you want to create.
For more information regarding materials, see Materials and Textures in the
AutoCAD User’s Guide.
Where are my product manuals?
Documentation for AutoCAD is in two formats: PDF files and CHM files.
■ PDF files are made available during installation; click the Documentation
link in the installer.
■ CHM files are available after the product is installed; they are accessed in
the Help system in the product.
The PDF files are also available from within your installed product’s Help
system.
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 3
Why should I install the Material Library?
Files are also installed to the \\Help folder.
Licensing Issues
This section outlines common issues and their solutions with regards to
software licenses and licensing your product(s).
What is the difference between a stand-alone license
and a network license?
Stand-alone licensed products are registered and activated to an individual
workstation. While the software can be installed on multiple systems in your
facility, the license only allows one system to be operational. If you need to
run more systems, you need to purchase more stand-alone licensed products,
or consider converting to network licenses.
Network licensed products rely on the Network License Manager to keep track
of software licenses. The software can be installed and run on multiple systems,
up to the maximum number of licenses you’ve purchased. The Network License
Manager “checks out” licenses until they are all in use. No further systems
can run the program until a license is “checked in.” If you need to run more
systems, you can purchase additional licenses for the Network License Manager
to maintain.
Stand-alone licensed products are registered and activated to an individual
workstation. While the software can be installed on multiple systems in your
facility, the license only allows one system to be operational. If you need to
run more systems, you need to purchase more stand-alone licensed products,
or consider converting to multi-seat stand-alone licenses.
You cannot purchase a network licensed version of PRODNAME. However, a
multi-seat stand-alone licensed version is available that does not rely upon
servers to maintain licenses. Multi-seat stand-alone licensing means that each
installation of your product uses a single serial number for registration and
activation.
Files are also installed to the \
Licensing Issues
This section outlines common issues and their solutions with regards to
software licenses and licensing your product(s).
What is the difference between a stand-alone license
and a network license?
Stand-alone licensed products are registered and activated to an individual
workstation. While the software can be installed on multiple systems in your
facility, the license only allows one system to be operational. If you need to
run more systems, you need to purchase more stand-alone licensed products,
or consider converting to network licenses.
Network licensed products rely on the Network License Manager to keep track
of software licenses. The software can be installed and run on multiple systems,
up to the maximum number of licenses you’ve purchased. The Network License
Manager “checks out” licenses until they are all in use. No further systems
can run the program until a license is “checked in.” If you need to run more
systems, you can purchase additional licenses for the Network License Manager
to maintain.
Stand-alone licensed products are registered and activated to an individual
workstation. While the software can be installed on multiple systems in your
facility, the license only allows one system to be operational. If you need to
run more systems, you need to purchase more stand-alone licensed products,
or consider converting to multi-seat stand-alone licenses.
You cannot purchase a network licensed version of PRODNAME. However, a
multi-seat stand-alone licensed version is available that does not rely upon
servers to maintain licenses. Multi-seat stand-alone licensing means that each
installation of your product uses a single serial number for registration and
activation.
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 4
What is the benefit of using a network licensed version
of the software?
Network licensed products are recommended for large drafting/design facilities,
classrooms, and lab environments. The main advantage is that you can install
products on more systems than the number of licenses you have purchased
(for example, purchasing 25 licenses but installing on 40 workstations). At
any one time, products will run on the maximum number of systems for
which you have licenses. This means you get a true floating license. If software
needs to be run on more systems, additional licenses can be purchased.
Registration and activation occurs only once and the licenses are maintained
on your Network License Server.
What is Internet Explorer used for?
After installing your product, you can operate in trial mode for a given number
of days. Whenever you launch the program, you are prompted to activate the
software. When you choose to activate the software, Internet Explorer makes
this process much faster. Once you entered your registration data and submit
it to Autodesk, an activation code is returned and you are not prompted again
during startup.
Uninstall and Maintenance Issues
This section outlines common issues and their solutions with regards to adding
and removing features, reinstalling or repairing your installation, and
uninstalling products.
When adding or removing features, how can I tell what
features get installed by default?
To quickly see what gets installed during a typical, default installation, click
the Restore Defaults button on the Add/Remove Features page.
Contains tools for reviewing design files for compliance with
your standards.
CAD Standards
Database Contains database access tools.
What
of the software?
Network licensed products are recommended for large drafting/design facilities,
classrooms, and lab environments. The main advantage is that you can install
products on more systems than the number of licenses you have purchased
(for example, purchasing 25 licenses but installing on 40 workstations). At
any one time, products will run on the maximum number of systems for
which you have licenses. This means you get a true floating license. If software
needs to be run on more systems, additional licenses can be purchased.
Registration and activation occurs only once and the licenses are maintained
on your Network License Server.
What is Internet Explorer used for?
After installing your product, you can operate in trial mode for a given number
of days. Whenever you launch the program, you are prompted to activate the
software. When you choose to activate the software, Internet Explorer makes
this process much faster. Once you entered your registration data and submit
it to Autodesk, an activation code is returned and you are not prompted again
during startup.
Uninstall and Maintenance Issues
This section outlines common issues and their solutions with regards to adding
and removing features, reinstalling or repairing your installation, and
uninstalling products.
When adding or removing features, how can I tell what
features get installed by default?
To quickly see what gets installed during a typical, default installation, click
the Restore Defaults button on the Add/Remove Features page.
Contains tools for reviewing design files for compliance with
your standards.
CAD Standards
Database Contains database access tools.
What
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 5
What is the benefit of using a network licensed version of the software?
Dictionaries Contains multi-language dictionaries.
Allows you to use the Security Options dialog box to protect
a drawing with a password.
Drawing Encryption
Contains AutoCAD support tools and utilities (not supported
by Autodesk).
Express Tools
Fonts Contains AutoCAD fonts and TrueType fonts.
The Impression toolbar allows you to quickly export any view
to Autodesk Impression for advanced line effects.
Autodesk Impression
Toolbar
Autodesk Seek.
NOTE Seek will only be installed in the English version of
AutoCAD.
Autodesk Seek
Contains animated demos, exercises, and sample files to help
users learn the new features.
New Features Workshop
Allows users to transfer an Autodesk product license between
computers.
NOTE The utility will not be installed on unlocked versions of
AutoCAD.
License Transfer Utility
Migrates custom settings and files from previous version of
your product to this version.
Migrate Custom Settings
Allows users to set up their initial configuration of AutoCAD
(online content, workspaces) based on their units system, industry,
and commonly used task-based tools.
Initial Setup
Allows users to view and edit the paths of externally referenced
files associated with a drawing.
Reference Manager
Samples Contains various feature sample files.
VBA Support Contains Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications support files.
Allows you to use the Security Options dialog box to protect
a drawing with a password.
Drawing Encryption
Contains AutoCAD support tools and utilities (not supported
by Autodesk).
Express Tools
Fonts Contains AutoCAD fonts and TrueType fonts.
The Impression toolbar allows you to quickly export any view
to Autodesk Impression for advanced line effects.
Autodesk Impression
Toolbar
Autodesk Seek.
NOTE Seek will only be installed in the English version of
AutoCAD.
Autodesk Seek
Contains animated demos, exercises, and sample files to help
users learn the new features.
New Features Workshop
Allows users to transfer an Autodesk product license between
computers.
NOTE The utility will not be installed on unlocked versions of
AutoCAD.
License Transfer Utility
Migrates custom settings and files from previous version of
your product to this version.
Migrate Custom Settings
Allows users to set up their initial configuration of AutoCAD
(online content, workspaces) based on their units system, industry,
and commonly used task-based tools.
Initial Setup
Allows users to view and edit the paths of externally referenced
files associated with a drawing.
Reference Manager
Samples Contains various feature sample files.
VBA Support Contains Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications support files.
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 6
Is it possible to change the installation folder when
adding or removing features?
Once your product is installed, you cannot change the installation path from
the Add/Remove Features page. Changing the path while adding features
results in program corruption, so it is not an option.
When should I reinstall the product instead of a repair?
You should reinstall your product if you accidentally delete or alter files that
are required by the program. Missing or altered files adversely affect the
performance of your product and cause error messages when you try to execute
a command or find a file.
If an attempt to repair an installation fails, reinstalling is the next best option.
Do I need my original disc to reinstall my software?
When performing a reinstall of the product, you do not need to have the
original discs on hand. Installation data is cached locally on your drive and
that data is reused when reinstalling.
After repairing my installation, is it possible to recover
my settings?
Custom settings can be exported and later re-imported to the same system in
case you have to repair the installation of your program.
For more detailed information regarding exporting and importing custom
settings, see Export and Import Custom Settings from the Same Release on
page 35.
When I uninstall my software, what files are left on my
system?
If you uninstall the product, some files remain on your system such as files
you created or edited (drawings or custom menus).
adding or removing features?
Once your product is installed, you cannot change the installation path from
the Add/Remove Features page. Changing the path while adding features
results in program corruption, so it is not an option.
When should I reinstall the product instead of a repair?
You should reinstall your product if you accidentally delete or alter files that
are required by the program. Missing or altered files adversely affect the
performance of your product and cause error messages when you try to execute
a command or find a file.
If an attempt to repair an installation fails, reinstalling is the next best option.
Do I need my original disc to reinstall my software?
When performing a reinstall of the product, you do not need to have the
original discs on hand. Installation data is cached locally on your drive and
that data is reused when reinstalling.
After repairing my installation, is it possible to recover
my settings?
Custom settings can be exported and later re-imported to the same system in
case you have to repair the installation of your program.
For more detailed information regarding exporting and importing custom
settings, see Export and Import Custom Settings from the Same Release on
page 35.
When I uninstall my software, what files are left on my
system?
If you uninstall the product, some files remain on your system such as files
you created or edited (drawings or custom menus).
Auto Cad 2010 Installation Troubleshooting Part 7
Is it possible to change the installation folder when adding or removing features ?
Your license file also stays on your workstation when you uninstall your
product. If you reinstall on the same workstation, the license information
remains valid and you do not have to reactivate the product.
Your license file also stays on your workstation when you uninstall your
product. If you reinstall on the same workstation, the license information
remains valid and you do not have to reactivate the product.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Tips and Tricks for Cad
I'm fond of saying the CAD manager has the toughest technical job I can think of precisely because both technical and managerial skill sets must be in proper balance to achieve real success.
The purpose of this article is to beef up the managerial side of your job with some tips and tricks I've found helpful. I can't take credit for all the tips; I have to share that with the many CAD managers I've met over the years. My hope is you'll find some nuggets in these tips and tricks that you can apply to your daily efforts. Here goes.
Make no mistake; a big part of management is keeping things in writing. An informal log goes a long way towards documenting what you're doing, when, and to what extent you're experiencing problems. Your log may well become the basis for anything from performance reviews to information that supports litigation against vendors who don't perform.
If you want to prove something later, write it down now.
Not only did my supervisors appreciate the quick status report (after all it saves them time), but it also showed that I took my responsibilities seriously enough to monitor my own progress. I also found that keeping my weekly list documented all the "hurry up" and "oops we forgot to tell you" type jobs I received from others who didn't always plan very well. And every time I crossed an item off the weekly list, I got a positive feeling: I was tangibly getting the job done. If you're not keeping this sort of list, what are you waiting for?
It you're not crossing items off your list each week, then it may mean you're either scheduling too much or that you need to apply more time management skills to prioritizing what you work on. In such cases, reprioritize your weekly list or even put in some extra hours to get caught up. You may even want to consider a training class in time management if you still feel lost. Either way you'll learn about your own capabilities by analyzing your own work habits (before somebody else does)
The purpose of this article is to beef up the managerial side of your job with some tips and tricks I've found helpful. I can't take credit for all the tips; I have to share that with the many CAD managers I've met over the years. My hope is you'll find some nuggets in these tips and tricks that you can apply to your daily efforts. Here goes.
Keep an Informal Log (Diary)
You can keep this log as an electronic document (I like Microsoft Word) or in a stenographer's pad to keep everything in one notebook. The log serves as an aid to memory, and it documents what types of problems keep coming up. For example, three months from now during John Doe's performance review you might want some proof that you've had to explain the same concept to him 14 times in the last three months. If you keep a log you'll have the proof.Make no mistake; a big part of management is keeping things in writing. An informal log goes a long way towards documenting what you're doing, when, and to what extent you're experiencing problems. Your log may well become the basis for anything from performance reviews to information that supports litigation against vendors who don't perform.
If you want to prove something later, write it down now.
Assign Yourself T
Early on in my career I started to keep a weekly task list that I used to track my progress. Every week I wrote a brief report to my boss explaining what I did and did not get done on my list for the week. I've found no other way to motivate myself more effectively than this simple weekly report to my boss.Not only did my supervisors appreciate the quick status report (after all it saves them time), but it also showed that I took my responsibilities seriously enough to monitor my own progress. I also found that keeping my weekly list documented all the "hurry up" and "oops we forgot to tell you" type jobs I received from others who didn't always plan very well. And every time I crossed an item off the weekly list, I got a positive feeling: I was tangibly getting the job done. If you're not keeping this sort of list, what are you waiting for?
It you're not crossing items off your list each week, then it may mean you're either scheduling too much or that you need to apply more time management skills to prioritizing what you work on. In such cases, reprioritize your weekly list or even put in some extra hours to get caught up. You may even want to consider a training class in time management if you still feel lost. Either way you'll learn about your own capabilities by analyzing your own work habits (before somebody else does)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)