Avatech Support Blog

It's Not Goodbye, It's See You at the IMAGINiT Support Blog

2011-02-01T14:04:00.000-06:00

We're all official now. Truly and completely IMAGINiT Technologies. And that includes a whole new blog home. The same great content you're used to finding here is now available on our IMAGINiT Support Blog.

You'll be able to get all the great information from Todd, Jeff and Jeff (and a few others) on the blog or via RSS feed.

I repeat - we are NOT going away, we've just found a new home. We'll not remove this blog so you can still get all the great content we posted before. Please visit our new blog home or sign up to get the RSS feed so you can keep getting the great support we're pleased to continue to offer.

Autodesk License file is corrupt or missing information & best practices.

2011-01-19T09:35:00.005-06:00

I work with licensing every day and the following simple rules help me, and my clients, out of problems every time.

There are a few things that can cause problems with the license file. One is the email you receive from Autodesk Licensing. I've received files that when wordwrap is off it is one long contineous line. Another time I received it in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet. There have been other issues too. Sometimes the issue is when we copy/paste information, it inserts characters that can cause issues too.

If you are on subscription your license file will contain a "Package" section, this *must* be copied, or appended, into your license file when you combine them. However the instructions in the email from Autodesk say to copy from the "INCREMENT" line on down. If you do not capture the Package section then your license will not work.

Another thing that can cause problems within the license file is the format it is saved in. You must use Notepad and even then you may still have problems. Tab characters within the license file can cause problems and if the lines do not terminate with a hard return or if it has extra spaces at the end it can cause the license not to work. I've even received a license file from Autodesk in an Excel document. Copy/Paste from email or one file to another may paste in some undesirable information. Sometimes the file loses all the returns and is all on one line (when viewed with the word wrap turned off).

Best practices:
1) Always upgrade the license manager to the latest version shipped by Autodesk (for 2011 that is the 11.7 version).

2) Copy the entire contents from the license file you receive into a new notepad document and save it. Re-open the file and see if it still looks right. If you need to append this to your existing file, then remove the old information, you can copy paste from here. Then copy/paste the next license into this license file.

3) Remove any leading blank spaces or tab characters.

4) Ensure you are saving the file in ASCII file format.

5) Ensure the server name and the MAC address are the same as what is shown at the top of the existing license file. We know the existing license file works, if the MAC is different in the new one it won't work. All the encoding, all those 4 character groupings, are encoded using the MAC and if the MAC changes, it invalidates the entire license file.

6) Once you get your new license file in place, stop the service and configure for the new license file, then start the service. Since you stopped/started the service there is no need to reread the license file.

7) I leave the existing license file alone and make a copy of it, then paste the new information into the copy. Give it an appropriate name, keep it short. Then when I stop and configure the service I pick the new license file. This way I have a good backup copy (the original license) to go back to if things are not working in the new license file.

Also, it is your responsibility to ensure your license file has the correct number of licenses per your license agreement with Autodesk. I know in our busy day we just click "I accept" all too often, but you really do need to Read it.

Unable to change the colour of Dimensions

2011-01-12T16:33:00.001-06:00

When you change a dimensions to a different layer that has a different color and the dimension does not change colors, there would be a few reasons for this behavior.

1) The Dimension Style is hard coding the color. Modify your dimension style and see if the color settings on the Lines and Text tabs are set to By Layer or a particular color.

2) Sometimes you have dimensions inside of a block or external reference, these may not change by changing it on this drawing without modifying the original block or drawing.

3) Another reason is the objects are set to a particular color instead of By Layer when you inserted it. Enter COLOR at the command line, if it shows a color or number in the white box then you are inserting objects and hard coding them to that color. Select "By Layer" and click Ok, then insert a new one. Any new objects will be "By Layer". See IMAGINiT solution 00011898 to quickly change all objects to be "By Layer".

The Name Change - Avatech becomes Rand

2011-01-06T13:15:00.003-06:00

Effective January 1, 2011 Avatech Solutions' new name is Rand Worldwide Inc. This is a result of the merger we announced back in August. Our federal tax ID and remittance address will remain the same.

IMAGINiT Technologies is the dvision of Rand Worldwide that serves our Autodesk clients. Going forward, you may notice that invoices will say "IMAGINiT Technologies - a Rand Worldwide Company". If you need upated copies of W-9s or have any questions related to payment and the merger, please email ar@rand.com.

Please note that you may also receive information from Autodesk relating to our name change, you will not need to act on these communications.

By working with our new, combined company at IMAGINiT you will have access to:

A leading provider of Autodesk software.

The largest Autodesk Authorized Training Center partner in North America.

Best-in-class training, implementation, and support offerings.

More than 85 technical experts, the largest combined technical staff of any Autodesk partner worldwide.

Dedicated individuals who are experts in their product lines in eight different industries.

More training locations and more offices to support you, right where you work.

Thanks for your continued support. We look forward to working with you in the years to come. As always, we'll continue this blog but under a new name - check out our header. As always if you have support questions, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here for you.

Cool way to Copy just what you want...

2010-12-14T16:23:00.007-06:00

Did you ever want to copy just a dialog box and paste it into MS Word, then when you paste it is sooo small that you can hardly read it?

Try the following steps:
1) Select the dialog box or window you want to copy.
2) Hold down the Alt key and hit the Print Screen button.
3) Paste (or Control +V)into your Word document.

Notice how only the dialog is pasted in.

Alt+Print Screen just captures an image of the selected application or dialog box. You can use the same thing to capture only the Word document or the Browser window.

Of course you can also cheat and use the "Snipping Tool" that comes with Windows 7 or anther utility.

Revit install is grayed out on a new installation.

2010-12-06T10:11:00.006-06:00

You try to do a new install Revit and the option to install Revit is grayed out.

We wanted to give a heads up on this issue because we have been getting a lot of calls on this lately.

Specifics of the issue:
Customers are not able to install any of the Revit products, because the option to select it is grayed out. This is the first time installing and there is not sign of the software for 2011 on the machine.

There are 3 common things that can cause the product pick box to be grayed out at the product install screen.

1) Internet Explorer 7 or higher is not installed

Fix: Install IE 7 or higher.

2) DWF Viewer is installed.

Fix: Uninstall DWF Viewer and try reinstalling Revit.

3) The product is already installed, or was uninstalled incorrectly.

Fix: Verify the product you want to install is not already installed. If it was and had been uninstalled, make sure you went though the Clean Uninstall process (http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14633513).

This can be very frustrating. If 1 & 2 have checked out okay, and you need assistance ensuring the program is not in an invalid install/uninstall stated please give us a call. 888-389-3042. Please have your contract number handy so we can expedite the case creation.

Inserting a SID or ECW file in Civil 3D/Map 3D when it is not an option

2010-11-24T15:37:00.004-06:00

There are one of 2 things happening:
1.) Ensure you are using the correct command. It's a Map 3D command so a normal image insert does not have this option. The Map 3D command is MAPIINSERT

2.) Do you have the raster Design Object Enabler installed? This is required to give us this support. You must download and install this free add-on from the Autodesk website.
Civil 3D - http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/index?siteID=123112&id=2334440&linkID=9240698

Map 3D - http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/index?siteID=123112&id=2334440&linkID=9240858

After downloading close all versions of AutoCADDouble click on the file you downloaded and follow the prompts. As with any Autodesk install you must have Virus
Scan disabled and must have administrative rights. During the install only.

Happy Thanksgiving! Holidays are upon us

2010-11-24T15:28:00.003-06:00

I want to wish everyone a happy and relaxing Thanksgiving. We have been very busy in the support world and are looking forward to a nice break. We will be back on Monday bright eyed and ready to help!

Todd Stuart
Solution Center Manager

Tips and Tricks for Revit

2010-11-05T11:24:00.002-05:00

So, marketing gal here again. A little shameless self-promotion...

I wanted a way to show how amazing our new combined organization is, the depth and breadth of technical knowledge is just blowing me away. And you don't have to take my word for it, read the blog post from expert Joe Eichenseer.

As a way of showcasing our newly expanded technical expertise as well as giving you a gift this holiday season, we've put together a series of minicasts (that's a fancy marketing term for 30-minute webcast) on the various "flavors" of Revit.

Our experts will be showing best practices and their favorite tips for:

Revit Architecture (November 17)

Revit MEP (December 7)

Revit Structure (January 11)

Sign up for this great series and see what all the buzz is about.

Now back to your regularly scheduled, informative blog.

It's not my Graphics card driver, I have the latest one installed...

2010-10-29T16:41:00.014-05:00

When it comes to graphics issues, the latest one may or may not be the best one to have installed. I've had to downgrade some systems to fix issues.

Here's what I recommend:

Check the Autodesk graphics cards database to see if you are on a supported/recommended graphics card *and* driver. You may have a certified card but if you don't have the right driver installed you will most likely have issues.

You can find the information on one of the four (4) main Autodesk support web pages. Some overlap. Some conflict with others. For example, if you have Inventor and Mechanical (most people do), your card and driver may be supported/recommended for one but not the other. In these situations I recommend you use the supported/recommended driver for the program that is more important to you.

Here are the Autodesk databases and some are easier than others to use:

AutoCAD (AutoCAD based programs: Civil 3D, Architecture, Mechanical, LT)

http://www.autodesk.com/autocad-graphicscard

Inventor:

http://www.inventor-certified.com/graphics/

Revit:

http://www.autodesk.com/us/revit/revit_graphics_hardware_-_graphics_hardware_list_final.html

3DS Max:

http://www.autodesk.com/3dsmax-hardware

If you find the driver and version you want to use, then go to the list for AutoCAD and see if it's available for download. Just click the little blue download arrow. SWEET isn't it! Much better than trying to find it on the web somewhere!

Other notes:

Green check with a + is good.

Be sure you check for the version for your Operating System, don't get the version for Windows 7 if you're on Windows XP.

If your card is *not* listed, don't panic its okay. It just means it has not been tested by Autodesk and we don't know if it works or not. It probably will, but we may need to tweak something to get it to work better or error free. There have been very few times I've had to tell people, try a different card and driver that is on the Supported/Recommended list.

What if you're using a different Autodesk program?

Go to www.autodesk.com/support
Select the Knowledge Base link under your products name.
Then click the "Certified Hardware" link under the Documentation section.

Note: not all Autodesk programs seem to have a Certified Hardware list.

I hope this helps, if not, give us a call in the Solutions Center. 888-389-3042. Remember, contract holders are answered first, then the 1 time free support incident callers.

AutoCAD Structural Detailing 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T09:10:00.002-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD Structural Detailing 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-14
ID: DL15695896
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/asd2011sp1_32bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/asd2011sp1_64bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/english.html
AutoCAD Structural Detailing 2011 Update 1

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Structural Detailing 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD MEP 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T09:09:00.004-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD MEP 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-28
ID: DL15757045
Applies to:
AutoCAD® MEP 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCAD_MEP_2011_Update_1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCAD_MEP_2011_Update_1_x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCAD_MEP_2011_Update_1.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD MEP 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD Electrical 2011 Update 1 has been

2010-10-05T09:09:00.003-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD Electrical 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-20
ID: DL15695800
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Electrical 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ace2011_swl_update1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ace2011_swl_update1_x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ace2011_update1_readme_eng.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Electrical 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

Autodesk 3ds Max 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T09:08:00.004-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for Autodesk 3ds Max 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-30
ID: DL15770346
Applies to:
Autodesk® 3ds Max® 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/3dsMax2011_sp1_32-bit_ENU.msp
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/3dsMax2011_sp1_64-bit_ENU.msp
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/3dsmax_2011_sp1_readme.pdf

This update will apply to all Autodesk 3ds Max 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

Autodesk Maya 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T09:08:00.003-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for Autodesk Maya 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-30
ID: DL15770983
Applies to:
Autodesk® Maya® 2011

Maya 2011 service Pack Downloads
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_2011_sp1_win_32bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_2011_sp1_win_64bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_2011_sp1_linux_64bit.tgzAutoCAD

Maya 2011 Update 1
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_2011_sp1_mac_osx.dmg

Mental Ray Satellite Downloads
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsat381_sp1_win_32bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsat381_sp1_win_64bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsat381_sp1_linux_64bit.tgz
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsat381_sp1_mac_osx.dmg

Mental Ray Standalone Downloads
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsa381_sp1_win_32bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsa381_sp1_win_64bit.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsa381_sp1_linux_64bit.tgz
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_maya_mrsa381_sp1_mac_osx.dmg

Readme
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/maya_2011_servicepack_releasenotes_en.pdf

This update will apply to all Autodesk Maya 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

Autodesk Navisworks 2011 Update 1 has been

2010-10-05T09:01:00.003-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for Autodesk Navisworks 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-14
ID: DL15689177
Applies to:
Autodesk® Navisworks® Freedom 2011
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2011
Autodesk® Navisworks® Simulate 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ autodesk_navisworks_2011_sp1_win32.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ autodesk_navisworks_2011_sp1_win64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autodesk_navisworks_2011_sp1_readme.zip

This update will apply to all Autodesk Navisworks 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD Mechanical Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T09:00:00.001-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD Mechanical 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-17
ID: DL15695816
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Routed Systems Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Simulation Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Tooling Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/acm2011update1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/acm2011update1x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_mechanical_2011_update1_readme_eng.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Mechanical 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD Architecture 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T08:42:00.004-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD Architecture 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-28
ID: DL15756945
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCAD_Architecture_2011_Update_1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCAD_Architecture_2011_Update_1_x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/Autocad_Architecture_2011_Update1.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Architecture 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD Map 3D Update 1 has been released

2010-10-05T08:42:00.003-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1 for AutoCAD Map 3D 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-29
ID: DL15741597
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Map 3D 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCADMap3D2011lockedx86SP1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/AutoCADMap3D2011lockedx64SP1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_map3d_2011_update_1.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Map 3D 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD LT Update 1.1 has been released

2010-10-05T08:09:00.007-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1.1 for AutoCAD LT 2011

Published date: 2010-Sep-16
ID: DL15569738
Applies to:
AutoCAD LT® 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ AutoCADLT2011Update1.1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ AutoCADLT2011Update1.1x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_2011_and_autocad_lt_2011_update_1.1_en.html

This update will apply to all AutoCAD LT 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

AutoCAD Update 1.1 has been released

2010-10-05T08:09:00.005-05:00

Autodesk has released Update 1.1 for AutoCAD 2011.

Published date: 2010-Sep-16
ID: DL15569492
Applies to:
AutoCAD® 2011

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ AutoCAD2011Update1.1.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/ AutoCAD2011Update1.1x64.exe
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_2011_and_autocad_lt_2011_update_1.1_en.html
This update will apply to all AutoCAD 2011 software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

Cannot see True Type Fonts in Windows 7 64 bit with AutoCAD 2011

2010-10-05T08:05:00.001-05:00

A common issue we enoucnter is when a caller cannot see their True Type Fonts in AutoCAD 2011 on a 64 bit Windows 7 Operating System. Unless you zoom so far away you cannot read the text.

This issue is caused by using the Migrate Settings options in AutoCAD 2011. Uninstall all existing Autodesk Products. Then perform a clean reinstall of AutoCAD 2011. Then setup your AutoCAD Profile manually.

Inventor Publisher and Bonus Pack

2010-09-30T13:10:00.003-05:00

Autodesk released a few new products yesterday.

They have a new Inventor Publisher mobile app for iPhones and iPads. The app allows the user to view, rotate, animate and see properties of an Inventor Publisher file. The program can be downloaded for free from iTunes.

Autodesk also released their Subscription Advantage Pack for most of the manufacturing product lines. You can get your Advantage Pack from the Subscription site - only people who have an active Subscription contract have access to these new features. Please note that the packs can unload the Vault add-in, so the Vault may need to be re-installed or the add-in may need to be turned back on in Inventor.

Information on the Subscription Advantage Packs and Publisher mobile apps can be found on Garin Gardner's blog.

Older DWGs take a long time to open in Civil 3D

2010-09-30T09:43:00.004-05:00

You are using Civil 3D and when you open older DWGs with imagrey it takes a very long time to open.

We have found, in many instances, that uninstalling the Vault client on these machines will make this performance issue go away.

Blinking screen when panning after Civil 3D Update 1

2010-09-30T09:27:00.003-05:00

This issue can happen after installing the update. Disabling the Hardware Acceleration in AutoCAD will resolve this issue.

1. Right click on your command line
2. Select Options (or launch Options from another method)
3. Go to the System Tab
4. Select performance
5. Select Manual Tune
6. Disable Hardware Acceleration (Uncheck the box)
7. Select OK
8. Select Ok
9. Select Ok

You may also turn this back on, after turning this off and back on it resets the hardware acceleration and should still be fine. You may find that the background around the Nav Cube may turn white as well the fix is the same.

10. Exit and restart AutoCAD then turn the Hardware Acceleration back on and the issue should be resolved.

AutoCAD Civil 3D 2011 Update 1 has been released

2010-09-27T15:23:00.002-05:00

Published date: 2010-Sep-27
ID: DL15755400

Applies to:
AutoCAD® Civil 3D® 2011

Update for the 64 bit
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/c3d2011_x64_sp1.exe

Update for the 32 bit
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/c3d2011_win32_sp1.exe

A few of the issues that have been fixed are:

• .NET applications built for AutoCAD 2010 may not run on AutoCAD 2011.
• Drawings containing 100 or more annotation scales cannot be reset.
• DGNIMPORT command may not work with the option to ignore external references.

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Civil 3D software languages.
Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

WOW what a month.... Who is RAND-IMAGINiT/Avatech combined Solution Center???

2010-09-10T16:15:00.006-05:00

If you have not heard... Had the month off? Read the announcement and then come back to this post....

Okay, so now that you are aware we have MERGED, I'm sure you're wondering what this means to you. Togehter, we have the BEST support/solution center with more dedicated reps! We combined IMAGINiT and Avatech and have a new phone system to help us serve you better and faster. *merging pains are being worked out*

We are very excited to take the best of both companies and put them to work for you! As always we are open to any feedback and suggestions from you to make this YOUR 1 stop support center. Again I hope you have some patience while we get all the snags worked out and make this service better than ever!

Todd Stuart

NSC Manager

AutoCAD 2011 update 1.1 is now available.

2010-09-08T17:43:00.009-05:00

It was posted a while back, however it was removed quickly as there were some issues with Update 1. These have been ironed out and now AutoCAD 2011 Update 1.1 is available. Hey, it fixed a problem on my machine already!

So, without further delay...

AutoCAD 2011 Update 1.1

ID: DL15569492

Applies to:

AutoCAD® 2011

Note: This is a re-release of Update 1 for AutoCAD 2011. After Update 1 was originally released, we discovered an issue when conducting certain operations that may cause AutoCAD to shut down. Update 1 was subsequently removed to correct the issue and a hotfix was released for those customers who had already applied Update 1. This release of Update 1.1 includes that fix.

You can apply Update 1.1 to AutoCAD 2011 running on all supported operating systems and languages. Be sure to install the correct update for your operating system.

There are very important instructions for installing this one.

Who should install this Update?

If you have not installed Update 1 to AutoCAD 2011, you should install Update 1.1.

If you previously installed Update 1 to AutoCAD 2011 and you installed the AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT Layer Manager Hotfix, you do not need to install Update 1.1.

If you previously installed Update 1 to AutoCAD 2011 and you have not installed the AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT Layer Manager Hotfix, you only need to install the hotfix. Alternatively, you can choose to uninstall Update 1 and then install Update 1.1 (refer to the "Uninstall This Update" section of the readme for instructions on uninstalling Update 1).

To access the Readme in English please see:

http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_2011_and_autocad_lt_2011_update_1.1.html

You can access the downloads by going to:

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL15569492

If you need assistance you can contact us at 800-808-7645, please have your contract number handy for Maria!

ALERT for Inventor Users

2010-09-02T08:28:00.014-05:00

Whoaaa! The Service Pack 1 is available for Inventor 2011 products and install is much different than what we've seen in the past. I'd recommend reading it twice if you also use Vault.

Reading the Readme will save you a lot of time, headaches and money. Below is part of the Readme that is extremely important to understand.

Partial Inventor 2011 SP 1 Readme:

MUST READ - Notes About Installation

Install only the bit-type version of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1 that corresponds to the bit-type version of your installation of Autodesk Inventor 2011.

If the Service Pack 1 Beta was installed previously, uninstall it before you install Service Pack 1. Otherwise, Service Pack 1 does not install correctly.

In some cases, it is necessary to reload the Vault add-in after installing this Service Pack.

With the release of Autodesk Vault 2011 Update 2, Vault and Remote Content users should update the server they access from their Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1 installations.

During uninstallation of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1, you are prompted to supply the original media from which Autodesk Inventor 2011 was originally installed.

NOTE: For Inventor Tooling 2011 and Inventor Professional 2011 users, uninstallation of this Service Pack 1 causes the Moldflow Add-in for Inventor Tooling to stop working. To return your Inventor Tooling 2011 or Inventor Professional 2011 installation to full operability after uninstallation, install the Moldflow Add-in for Inventor Tooling license hotfix and then reboot your machine.

Installation Requirements

Verify you have administrator privileges on your local machine to install Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1.

On Windows Vista and Windows 7 installations, disable the User Account Control feature.

The 32-bit version of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1 is approximately 57 MB in size. A minimum of 1300 MB of free disk space is required on the drive where your temporary files are directed.

The 64-bit version of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1 is approximately 91 MB in size. A minimum of 2000 MB of free disk space is required on the drive where your temporary files are directed.

Installation Instructions

To install Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1:

Install Autodesk Inventor 2011 from one of the AutoCAD Inventor 2011 Suites, or from the Autodesk Inventor 2011 media set.

Update your operating system before installing Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1, especially KB952696 for Vista. Reboot your system after the updates are installed.

If you are running Windows Vista 64-bit or Windows 7 64-bit, please verify that you have the Microsoft fix for user mode callback exceptions KB976038. This fix ensures that Autodesk receives the correct data from Inventor 2011 error reports. For more information, and access to this and related Microsoft downloads, refer to Autodesk Technical Solution 15492718.

Download the appropriate version of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1 (32-bit or 64-bit version) depending upon the bit type of your operating system.

Double-click the .msp file to update Autodesk Inventor 2011 with Service Pack 1. A progress bar displays while the installer updates the files on your system. When done, click Finish.

If required, reboot the system after this service pack installation is finished.

If you install Inventor 2011 on Windows Vista or Windows 7, when you launch it for the first time after installing Autodesk Inventor 2011 Service Pack 1, right-click on the Inventor shortcut, and use "Run as administrator" if User Account Control (UAC) is enabled, or your current user is not an Administrator group.

To verify the installation was successful, start Autodesk Inventor. On the InfoCenter Help pulldown menu, select About Inventor. If the About box display reads: Build: 282, Release: 2011 SP1, the installation was successful.

To view the full Readme see:
http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/inventor_2011_sp1_readme_enu0.htm

Note: It has been reported to us that the Microsoft Hotfix (listed under the installation instructions in step 2) failed to install on some machines.

Network license finder dialog with 2010/2011 programs or license errors.

2010-08-26T17:27:00.010-05:00

If you cannot communicate with the license manager (i.e. you receive an error or the license finder dialog when launching the program), but the license manager shows licenses are available there are a few common things that will cause this to happen.

1) In the programs folder (where the .exe is you run to open the program) there is a licpath.lic file. It could have an incorrect server name. Open it in notepad to verify it has the right server name in it.

2) Incorrect information in the registry. This one is not for the faint of heart. In the Registry editor expand out hklm->software->flexlm license manager and double click the ADSKFLEX_LICENSE_FILE key. If the value is incorrect then this can also cause this issue. It should be "@servername" where "servername"= the name of the server that is running the license manager.

Warning! Problems caused by improperly editing the Windows registry could render your computer/operating system unusable. Microsoft provides a wealth of critical information that you need to know about the registry in the Microsoft Knowledge Base.

Use the Microsoft® Registry Editor only at your own risk and only after backing up the registry as well as the system.dat and user.dat files as outlined for your operating system in the Microsoft Knowledge Base and in the related Autodesk solution, http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS66513. Additional information about the registry is also contained in the Help topics in the Microsoft Registry Editor.

3) Incorrect information in the Windows Environment variable for ADSKFLEX_LICENSE_FILE in the System variables. It should also be formatted like the registry. @servername

4) This is the new one with 2010 and 2011. There is a file (hidden deep down in the system) that is called CascadeInfo.cas. This file can become corrupted. To replace it, rename the file and launch the program again, it will ask the license manager for a new one and will be created on the fly. On an XP machine look under C:\Documents & Settings\All Users\Autodesk\ADLM.

Warning: Do not delete or rename or open the ProductInformation.pit file.

Those are the four main causes for this issue, however, I've seen others but they're rare.

Render Us Speechless (again)

2010-08-17T08:34:00.002-05:00

Marketing gal here...

Our Render Us Speechless contest is underway as of this morning. Submit your best rendering using Autodesk software to win. We have over $4,000 in prizes to give away.

If you're not rendering inclined have some fun checking out our gallery of last year's submittals and winners.

www.avatech.com/renderingcontest

I now return you to your regularly scheduled informative blog.

Civil 3D Ribbons Explained

2010-08-09T11:31:00.004-05:00

So, Autodesk has pretty much made their stance on the Ribbon interface clear - it's here to stay. We've had a lot of requests from people to turn off the Ribbons, to make the product look the way it did before. You can do that, but you'll be missing out on a lot of new functionality. While it takes some getting used to, those that take the time to understand and embrace the new interface will reap the benefits long-term.

One of our technical experts, Mick Reynolds, put this guide together for those who are starting out. It explains the Ribbon, and breaks down where you can find different tools.

Noted by our tech support team, you can go to Help inside of Civil 3D and there is an option on the Contents tab called "Where is my command?". If you can remember where the command was on the pulldown, it'll tell you where it is on the Ribbon. Combined, the paper and this tip should get you on your way to using Ribbons.

On a personal note, I transition to the new Windows interface - complete with Ribbons for Microsoft products - very soon. And yes, I'm a little scared. Thank goodness I've got great technical folk who'll help me out.

It's Magic! No, it's the Block Editor.

2010-08-05T17:46:00.014-05:00

Have you ever had to change a block and every instance of it in your drawing? The old tried and true way to do this was to explode the block, modify what you needed, purge the block and recreate it. Then the block definition changed, but the blocks in the drawing still looked the same as they did before you updated the block.

There is a better way now. Well, with 2008 and newer anyway. Enter the Block Editor.

Select the block and type BEDIT (or double click the block).
Click OK on the dialog that comes up after you verify your block is selected.
Modify your block, say you want all the objects to be on a different layer. Select all and select another layer from the Layer dropdown list. Or you need to add a line, draw a line.
Click the "Close block editor" button.
Click Yes to save.

Now the objects are now on a different layer or you've added lines. Note: You have to explode the block to see that it actually changed the objects layer.

Ok, so it is Magic! :)

Note: this does not work when you try to add attributes. I believe BATTMAN can help though.

Who DAT? Yes we are REAL! Just like the M&M's

2010-07-30T15:23:00.002-05:00

Thanks to our marketing ladies! We continue to have tons of new features and looks to keep it fun at the NSC Blog. Please keep us on your RSS and stay tuned for late breaking tips and news.

Thanks for your continued views of our blog!

Todd

Differences Between 3ds Max and Max Design

2010-07-30T15:20:00.004-05:00

I get asked this A LOT!

There are some key differences between 3ds Max and 3ds Max Design

3ds Max Design is intended for architecture and visualization, the tutorials and movies that are included show typical applications and scenarios for these customers. In addition, 3ds Max Design contains Exposure™ lighting analysis technology, which is designed specifically for architecture and visualization work flows. To learn more about Exposure lighting analysis, refer to the 3ds Max Design Help.

The tutorials and movies included with 3ds Max demonstrate 3D pipelines typically employed by artists and animators in films, games and television-related fields. In addition, 3ds Max ships with the SDK which can be used to add your own plug-ins to your 3ds Max pipeline. The only difference that you will notice during the install procedure is that you cannot install the SDK with 3ds Max Design.

It is possible to install both 3ds Max and 3ds Max Design on the same machine—a unique serial number and product key for each product is required to activate the software so that you can run the products beyond the 30-day trial period.

How to increase your priority at Autodesk

2010-07-27T17:04:00.013-05:00

Should I send the error report or not? You can increase your priority at Autodesk by sending the error report.

I talk to people all the time that say they never send the error report anymore because they never receive a response.

While this is correct, you will not receive a response from Autodesk, I encourage everyone to always send those error reports. "Why?" you ask, because Autodesk uses those error reports to fix things in the programs. Send the report every time. The more times it's submitted the higher the priority to getting the issue resolved. If I'm working with corrupt drawings and get kicked out 20 times I send it 20 times. What? You want "proof" that they fix things using the error reporting (a.k.a. CER or Customer Error Reporting). Okay, then go to one of the service packs for the program you run and view the readme. There will be a long list of things fixed due to the CER. Here's the AutoCAD 2010 readme

(http://images.autodesk.com/adsk/files/autocad_2010_and_autocad_lt_2010_update_2_enu.htm#CERUtility).

Now, that said, sometimes it does pop up with a message that says it's been fixed in a service pack or hotfix that has a link to the update or hotfix. This can be very helpful. Also, I have heard of very rare instances where Autodesk developers/QA contacting the client to help them reproduce the issue so they can fix it.

So, SEND SEND SEND! Always send that CER!

Are you unable to plot immediately after sending a plot job?

2010-07-22T12:01:00.012-05:00

When you print/plot and you gain control of AutoCAD again but can't plot again because it says there is a plot job in process, there is a setting that can help.

About the Background processing options for plotting:

If you turn on Background processing for plotting, then you gain control of your AutoCAD based program much quicker and the print/plot job continues to work in the background. However, the trade-off is that it takes longer to plot and you cannot send another print/plot job until it is done.

If you leave Background processing for plotting turned off, it plots quicker. However, you must wait for the entire job to be sent before you can do anything else in the AutoCAD based program again.

Go into Options and select the "Plot and Publish" tab

Either check or un-check the Plotting option under "Background processing options" (see fig. 1)

fig. 1

I recommend leaving it unchecked unless you have a lot of plot jobs to do quickly and you are unable to use the PUBLISH command to batch print/plot your jobs.

Subscription Tutorials: a Great Resource for Customers

2010-07-19T08:17:00.001-05:00

Subscription Tutorials: a Great Resource for Customers
The new Subscription Tutorials have been a great resource for helping customers with issues such as understanding how to access their Subscription Benefits, how to manage their contract, and how to set up access for end users.

Tutorials include:

• Signing In to Subscription Center
• Downloading Software
• Downloading Subscription Advantage Packs
• Extending Your License Rights
• Giving Users Access to Benefits
• Managing Subscription Contracts
• Renewing Your Subscription Contract

What is cascade licensing?

2010-07-07T14:33:00.012-05:00

This can be a difficult topic and when you include all the different version's of Autodesk programs and each versions little differences it can be very confusing.

In a nutshell: Cascade licensing allows a program to check out/obtain a “feature code” (or license) that is assigned to another program/product.

Now, let’s change our way of thinking. No longer think “license” instead, think “feature” or “feature code”. This is important. When you view your license file you will see all kinds of feature codes.

Let’s start with the basic “How network licensing works”:

You install your program as a network version and in doing so it knows what “feature code” it has encoded. We have installed AutoCAD 2011 and the feature code is 85536ACD_2011_0F.

The license manager is configured for a license file that has a feature code in it.

When you run AutoCAD (feature code: 85536ACD_2011_0F) it will ask the license manager if it can have 1 of feature code 85536ACD_2011_0F. The license manager will check its database and if that feature has a seat available it grants it and the program runs. However, if it doesn’t have any available you receive a message.

How cascading works:
You install your program as a network version and in doing so it knows what "feature code" is has encoded. We now have AutoCAD 2011 (feature code: 85536ACD_2011_0F) and AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite 2011 (feature code: 85623REVITS_2011_0F) installed.

The license manager is configured for a license file that has a feature code in it (most likely many feature codes). We've combined out AutoCAD and AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite licenses/Features together so we have both feature codes available n our license file.

Wehn you run AutoCAD (feature code 85536ACD_2011_0f) it will ask the license manager if it can have 1 of feature 85536ACD_2011_0F. The license manager will check its datbase and finds that feature code is not available, now it ill look for (cascade to) another feature code in the license file. So, now it asks the license manaager for an AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite 2011 feature code (85623REVITS_2011_0F) and if it's available it is granted. Otherwise it continues down the cascade list of feature codes until it obtains a license or gives a message that no licenses are available.

Note: Cascading is available in the Autodesk 2007 programs and newer, 2006 and prior cannot cascade.

Autodesk Support has done a great job in posting Technical Solutions about the cascading and feature list.

To see the Cascade list for 2011 programs, click here or copy/paste this address: http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14885918

To see the Feature list for 2011 programs, click here or copy/pate this address: http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS15224763

You can also search for “cascading” or “feature code” and come up with the other versions lists too.

Again, this is not an easy topic to conquer, especially if you’re new to network licensing. I hope this helps, if not, give us a call in the National Support Center. 800-808-7645. Remember, contract holders are answered first, then the 1 time free support incident callers.

Windows Installer CleanUp Utility is no longer available

2010-07-06T11:56:00.009-05:00

Microsoft has pulled the ability to download and use the tool as it had some unintended consequences from time to time:

Per Microsoft: This article previously contained a link to the Windows Installer Cleanup utility (MSICUU2.exe). If you were directed to this article to solve a problem installing a product other than Microsoft Office, please contact your software manufacturer for installation support on the product.

While the Windows Installer Cleanup utility resolved some installation problems, it sometimes damaged other components installed on the computer. Because of this, the tool has been removed from the Microsoft Download Center. The Fix it Solutions in this article provide the ability to fully remove Office 2003, 2007 and 2010 suites without damaging other Windows components.

As an alternative you can check out the Revo Uninstaller at:

http://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_free_download.html.

They have a 'free' version and full version that has a 30 day trial for full use of the product.

To get help on this or other issues call us at 800-808-7645.

We're watching Fireworks! ooohhhh ... aaahhh

2010-07-02T09:57:00.002-05:00

On Monday, July 5, we'll be taking a break to rejuvenate, practice our pyrotechnic skills and relax. And we're taking Autodesk with us. Just in case something may break, we think you should make a preemptive strike and take a break too!

Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, July 6, 2010.

Alleviating graphics problems in Revit.

2010-06-17T08:02:00.000-05:00

You can alleviate all kinds of issues by using an Autodesk certified graphics card and driver. Autodesk has posted a list for Revit now, you can find a list of Autodesk tested graphics cards at:

http://www.autodesk.com/us/revit/revit_graphics_hardware_-_graphics_hardware_list_final.html

A green check with a plus sign means it is supported and recommended. This is the one you will want. There may be multiples for your card use the one that is the highest version with the green check/plus.

The Revit list page does not have the ability to download the driver. So you have two choices, you can download it from the graphic card manufacturers website or you may be able to find it on the Autodesk website under the AutoCAD drivers and download it from there.

To download it (if available) from the Autodesk AutoCAD graphics driver website run the query at: http://www.autodesk.com/autocad-graphicscard

In the list of drivers, click the blue down-arrow next to the driver version you need and select the save option to download it to your hard drive.

Note: this is the list for AutoCAD based programs, so you should only download and install the version listed as supported/recommended from the Revit list.

Always use a supported/recommended driver and a certified card whenever possible.

The National Support Center is here to help you with your software issues and we can be reached at 800-808-7645.

Changing the Content Browser in the Avatech Utilities for Revit 2011

2010-06-11T09:35:00.020-05:00

Do you want to change the web site where the Avatech Utilities for Revit's Content Browser is pointing?

If you do, then the contentURL can be changed to a different location by editing the file named ContentBrowser.dll.config in Notepad.

The file can be located in one of the following folder:

XP Pro

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Avatech Solutions\Avatech Utilities 2011

Win 7/Vista:

C:\ProgramData\Avatech Solutions\Avatech Utilities 2011

To change the site just update the following line in Fig 1:

Fig 1

The http name between the quotes is the location of the download site. So if you wanted to change it to go to

"www.avatech.com/solutions/building-design/product-details.aspx?product=44" the line should look like the following in Fig 2:

Fig 2

Close and save the file then run Revit and test it.

Only certain websites will work with the Content Browser. Websites that contain ".rfa" in the URL that you click on to receive data. Sites (like RevitCity). However, certain sites (such as Autodesk Seek and others) – have a more complex mechanism for performing the download (particularly when they pop-up acceptance messages when you click). In these cases, we cannot determine if the link you just clicked on is going to send you an RFA file – so they will not do anything special.

Bonus:

If you want to add additional “save” options, then those can be added to the contentFolders section of the ContentBrowser.dll.config

In order to add more “save” locations add lines in the section to look something like Fig 3:

Fig 3

The “key” is just an identifier, the “value” is the location where the content will be saved.

Close and save the file then run Revit and test it.

For more information about the Avatech Utilities for Revit 2011 please see www.avatech.com/solutions/building-design/product-details.aspx?product=44

Network licensing error [-15,10] Winsock 10061

2010-06-11T08:39:00.008-05:00

When performing a "Server Status Enquiry" with the Flex License Manager you receive an error: "[-15,10] System Error: 10061 WinSock Connection refused"

This can happen for a variety of reasons:

The lmgrd.exe file has restricted file or folder permissions, here you can re-configure the service using an account with adequate permissions to the license manager
Unsupported platform, ensure the Flex License Manager is running on a supported platform, see http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS85748 for the system requirements
3rd-party application is conflicting with the FLEXnet licensing startup process, identify and stop the conflicting service
Disable any active firewall(s) OR ensure ports 2080 and 27000-27009 are open and working, or both
Substitute the servers' IP Address for the servers hostname in the “licapth.lic” file

The National Support Center is here to help you with your software issues and we can be reached at 800-808-7645.

Civil 3D 2011 UCS icon and Navigation Cube do not match when in World Coordinate System

2010-06-08T15:33:00.018-05:00

There is a known issue in Civil 3D 2011 where the UCS Icon and the Navigation Cube will not match and cannot be set back to World. As seen below in Figure 1 And Figure 2

Figure 1

Figure 2

There is no official work around however here is an operation that should resolve this until the issue can be resolved officially.
Use the undocumented command AECCIMPORTSTYLESANDSETTINGS

Note - (enter)- Denotes the act of selecting the enter key on the keyboard

1.) Start a new DWG using a good DWT file to start with.
2.) Type AECCIMPORTSTYLESANDSETTINGS (enter)
3.) When the path comes up type in the location path of the old Template and the name of the old Template. I will use an example in folder C:\styles and a file called ProblemDWT.dwt.
4.) C:\styles\ProblemDWT.dwt (enter)
Now the clean file should have all of the Settings and Styles from the DWT that was having the issue with the UCS Icon and Navigation Cube but without the problem.
See Figure 3

Figure 3

Now you can save your file as a DWT and begin using this DWT as your start point.

Civil 3D 2011 I would like to import Styles and/or Settings is there an easy way?

2010-06-08T15:22:00.003-05:00

In Civil 3D 2011 there are two new commands to help with this task:

AeccImportStyles
AeccImportStylesAndSettings

These commands will prompt (at the command line) for a template or Drawing (DWT or DWG) file that will be used as the source for the styles/settings. Then all the style/settings from the source drawing will be added to the current drawing. All the styles will be imported.

NOTE- the styles in the source drawing "take over" - that is the current drawing is modified to match the template file. So if you have one you want to keep make a copy under another name.

NOTE - This is a command line only prompt - there is no file dialog by design. This was done so that the command could be scripted to run on a set of files. However you could create a routine which is one of the things that makes this so nice.

AECCIMPORTSTYLES – This command is used to import Styles from a DWG or DWT that contains the Styles you would like.
In the example below we will use a folder on the c drive called styles place the DWG or DWT that contains the styles you would like in the C:\styles folder
1.) On the command line type AECCIMPORTSTYLES
2.) Type in your path in this case C:\STYLES\
3.) The Styles in this folder should be read and update the file you are currently in

AECCIMPORTSTYLESANDSETTINGS – This command will import the Styles and settings of a DWG or DWT.
1.) On the command line type AECCIMPORTSTYLESANDSETTINGS
2.) Type in your path in this case C:\STYLES\
3.) The Styles and Settings in this folder should be read and update the file you are currently in

Automatic Save functionality explained

2010-05-28T12:52:00.012-05:00

I get calls where the person is unable to find their Automatically saved file or feels it's not working because the file is not there.

When you turn on Autosave and give it a time then it will save to the folder specified in Options->Files->Automatic Save File Location.

Even if you specify a length of time, say 10 minutes, it may not save at that exact time. There are things that can prevent the autosave, like a dialog box being open, performing a QSAVE (clicking the save button) or SAVEAS command will reset the timer.

2011 Help says:

Automatic Save
Saves your drawing automatically at the intervals you specify. You can specify the location of all Autosave files by using the SAVEFILEPATH system variable.SAVEFILE (read-only) stores the name of the Autosave file.

Note Automatic save is disabled when the Block Editor is open.

Minutes Between Saves: When Automatic Save is on, specifies how often the drawing is saved.

(SAVETIME system variable)

The SAVETIME is saved in the Windows Registry on each machine for each persons login.

When you go to the location of the Automatically saved files and you don't see any files with a .SV$ extension this can be due to you exiting the program normally. When you exit the program normally you don't need the Autosave file as you've saved it since then and the program automatically deletes the file.

Alright, so now you've crashed and have found the most current .SV$ for the drawing you were in, now what? Copy it to another folder and rename it, I add a .dwg after the .SV$ so I know this was the autosave file. Verify everything is correct, run audit and let it fix any errors. Save it and run Recover on it. Audit and Recover are very similar commands but I trust Recover more and you use Recover to open a drawing and Audit while in the drawing.

Autosave file names can be a bit cryptic. The original name will be in it but it will also have some numbers after it. For example, my drawing name is "AutoSave.dwg" and the automatic save generated this filename "AutoSave_1_1_1411.sv$", if it saves again then you will also have a AutoSave_1_1_1411.bak with the same name.

From the Autodesk technical solution (TS67319)

Automatic save files are

Created based on the time interval specified by the SAVETIME system variable, or in the Options dialog box, Open and Save tab.
Saved only if you have modified a drawing and have not subsequently used the QSAVE, SAVE, or SAVEAS command.
Saved to the directory specified by the SAVEFILEPATH variable, which by default is taken from the TEMP environment variable.
Even if a drawing has been created and not saved, an automatic save file will be created based on the drawing name, for example, DRAWING1.bak.

The TIME command is useful in tracking whether an automatic save file will be created because it gives information about the countdown time, and whether modifications have been made to the drawing.

Note that the automatic save files are deleted if you exit the software normally. If AutoCAD exits abnormally, the automatic save files can be useful.

To get help on this or other issues call us at 800-808-7645.

Autodesk Vault 2011 Updates

2010-05-26T14:56:00.002-05:00

Update 1 for Vault 2011

A number of identified issues for the Vault family of products have now been resolved with the release of Autodesk Vault 2011 Update 1. Please refer to the readme for further details on the issues and specific installation instructions.

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL15092560

Autodesk Inventor 2011 Hotfix - Multiple localization and performance issues with the Vault Add-In (To be installed in conjunction with Autodesk Vault 2011 Update 1)

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id = DL15104453

AutoCAD 2010 Client Update for Vault 2011

This Update allows our supported 2010 AutoCAD-based CAD applications to communicate with the 2011 ADMS server.

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL15159434

Autodesk Inventor 2010 SP3 Client Update for Vault 2011 Update 1

This Update allows accessing one of the Vault 2011 Update 1 (SP1) Server releases from Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3.

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL14822511

Autodesk Inventor 2010 Subscription Advantage Pack SP 3 Client Update for Vault 2011 Update 1

This Update allows accessing one of the Vault 2011 Update 1 (SP1) Server releases from Inventor 2010 Subscription Advantage Pack Service Pack 3.

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL14822518

Printing IDW with embedded bitmap will cause a crash

2010-05-26T07:16:00.000-05:00

There is currently an issue with printing IDW's when the Titleblock has a bitmap logo embedded. There is also an issue saving the IDW to a AutoCAD DWG. Development have fixed the issue and the fix is included in Inventor 2011 SP1 and will be available shortly. I will announce the release as soon as the download is available.

http://beinginventive.typepad.com/being-inventive/2010/05/printing-idw-with-embedded-bitmap-will-cause-a-crash.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+BeingInventive+%28Being+Inventive%29

2010 Freezes on launch

2010-05-21T08:16:00.006-05:00

I had an interesting call recently where the program would lock up after launching it. We'd get as far as the drawing window and sometimes the ribbon would show, sometimes it wouldn't. No icons (osnap, workspace, etc) anywhere on the screen or Ribbon most of the time. It required an end task to stop 2010.

We tried all the usual suspects, video first because this type of behavior smacks of video. However, it wasn't video. I was told he would format and re-image the machine as a last resort and we were almost at that point. Then I remembered, Autodesk told me a while back that the Ribbon icons are heavily dependent on the .NET Framework, so using the Add/Remove Programs feature in Control Panel, we did a repair on .NET Framework 3.5 sp 1, rebooted and it worked!

Autodesk programs rely heavily on your graphics card and .NET Framework.

AutoCAD LT 2010 Update 2

2010-05-17T17:40:00.003-05:00

AutoCAD LT 2010 Update 2

Published date: 2010-May-11

Applies to:

AutoCAD LT® 2010

To identify which AutoCAD LT Update 2 needs to be installed on your system, in Windows Explorer, navigate to the installation folder of AutoCAD LT 2010 (for example, C:\Program Files\AutoCAD LT 2010).

On Windows XP: right-click on proddata.dll, select Properties and in the resulting dialog select the Version tab.
On Windows Vista and Windows 7: right-click on proddata.dll, select Properties and in the resulting dialog select the Details tab.

If proddata.dll is version 18.0.55.0 or 18.0.215.0, use the following files:

autocadlt2010update2.exe (exe - 24786Kb)

autocadlt2010update2x64.exe (exe - 33084Kb)

If proddata.dll is version 18.0.59.0 or 18.0.215.20, use the following files:

autocadlt2010update2mld.exe (exe - 24783Kb)

autocadlt2010update2mldx64.exe (exe - 33063Kb)

If proddata.dll is version 18.0.221.0, use the following file:

autocadlt2010update2sld.exe (exe - 20419Kb)

You do not have to install Update 1 in order to install Update 2. Update 2 includes the most recent fixes, as well as all fixes included in Update 1.

Readme (select language version): English

AutoCAD® MEP 2010 Update 2

2010-05-14T14:47:00.005-05:00

Published date: 2010-May-13

ID: DL15135406

Applies to:

AutoCAD® MEP 2010

AutoCAD® Revit® MEP Suite 2010

autocad_mep_2010_update_2.exe (exe - 47150Kb)

autocad_mep_2010_update_2_x64.exe (exe - 70961Kb)

Readme (html - 80Kb)

You can apply Update 2 to AutoCAD® MEP 2010 running on all supported operating systems and languages. Be sure to install the correct update for your operating system.

You do not have to install Update 1 in order to install Update 2. Update 2 includes the most recent fixes, as well as all fixes included in Update 1.

AutoCAD® Architecture 2010 Update 2

2010-05-14T14:46:00.003-05:00

Published date: 2010-May-13

ID: DL15135553

Applies to:

AutoCAD® Architecture 2010

autocad_architecture_2010_update_2.exe (exe - 42334Kb)

autocad_architecture_2010_update_2_x64.exe (exe - 62903Kb)

Readme (html - 71Kb)

You can apply Update 2 to AutoCAD Architecture 2010 running on all supported operating systems and languages. Be sure to install the correct update for your operating system.

You do not have to install Update 1 in order to install Update 2. Update 2 includes the most recent fixes, as well as all fixes included in Update 1.

AutoCAD Mechanical 2010 Update 2

2010-05-14T14:45:00.002-05:00

AutoCAD Mechanical 2010 Update 2

Published date: 2010-May-12
ID: DL15135668

Applies to:
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Routed Systems Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Simulation Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Tooling Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010

	acm2010update2.exe (exe - 39852Kb)
	acm2010update2x64.exe (exe - 58392Kb)
	Readme (html - 55Kb)

This update will apply to all AutoCAD Mechanical 2010 software languages.

Refer to the Readme for detailed information about this update and installation instructions.

Autodesk Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3 Client Update for Autodesk Vault 2011 SP1 Server Releases

2010-05-14T09:42:00.000-05:00

Published date: 2010-May-06
ID: DL14822511
Applies to:
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Routed Systems Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Simulation Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Tooling Suite 2010
Autodesk® Inventor® 2010
Important: Do not install this update unless you have a clear need to access one of the Autodesk Vault 2011 SP1 Server releases from Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3.
You must install Autodesk Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3 before you can install Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3 Client Update for Autodesk Vault 2011 SP1 Server Releases.

Autodesk Inventor 2010 SP3 Client Update ADMS 2011 SP1 - 32-bit (zip - 1345Kb)

Autodesk Inventor 2010 SP3 Client Update ADMS 2011 SP1 - 64-bit (zip - 1665Kb)

Readme (htm - 23Kb)

Think 2011 laid an egg in Hatching?

2010-05-12T16:01:00.019-05:00

Hatching is actually better than ever. However it has a new workflow that most of us are not accustom to and it may take a little bit to get used to it.

Entering BHATCH now brings up a new Ribbon tab (fig. 1). Select an internal point (default) or click the ribbon button to select an object/boundary. Then hover over an area to display what the hatch will look like. Need to change the pattern, click the Hatch Pattern dropdown (fig. 2) and select a new hatch and hover again, it changes on the fly! Nice! Hit Escape to end the command or keep picking points or selecting objects/boundaries to insert additional hatches and they appear immediately. Think of it like the Layer Manager palette that stays on the screen and you see the changes as you make them.

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Now, if you've given the new workflow the good old college try and need to revert back to the old tried and true, then set HPDLGMODE = 1 and you will have your dialog back. This is the quickest way to revert back if you use the Ribbon.

Give the new workflow a chance and I know you'll like it.

Need help for your 2011 Help?

2010-05-12T15:35:00.008-05:00

With the latest release Autodesk has given us a new option for help. When you hit F1 or click the help button you will open a Web browser that accesses the help system over the internet. This method enables Autodesk to quickly change content without having to post a hotfix/update or service pack.

But what if you don't have internet access? What if your internet access is too slow? Autodesk has given us the Option to not use the web based Help.

To use the local content installed onto your hard drive:

Enter OPTIONS at the command line (right click command line select options).
Select the System tab.
Uncheck the box "Use online help from Autodesk website when available" (see fig. 1)
Click Apply, then click Ok.
Exit AutoCAD and re-launch it.

Now using help should pull information from your local hard drive.

Note: you will not have immediate access to the most current help content.

fig. 1

Get FlexLM for your 2011 (and prior) programs

2010-05-10T12:04:00.005-05:00

You need to upgrade the license manager when upgrading your Autodesk software:

There are threee places you can get the license manager:

From your downloaded Autodesk program. Run the Setup and select Tools and Utilities.
If you requested CDs or DVDs you can get it from the media - same thing, select Tools and Utilities.
Autodesk also has it posted on their website.

See the Autodesk Technical Solution:

http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS13737466

To get help on this or other issues call us at 800-808-7645.

Get a new GRIP

2010-05-10T11:44:00.006-05:00

There are new Grips in AutoCAD 2011 that will allow us to modify objects with little effort.

1.) Select a Polyline (with no command active) you will see a new Grip at the midpoint of the polyline (pline) segment. Select this Grip and you will see that it stretches not just the line but the lines that are at each end in a case like we have below. In Figure 1

Figure 1

2.) While you still have the Grip selected right click and take a look at the menu. There are several new Options such as Add Vertex that will allow you to add a point on the Polyline. Convert to Arc so you can change the Polyline to an Arc. See figure 2

Figure 2

Take a look at these new Grip options and I think you will be very impressed.
Thank you and happy gripping.

AutoCAD 2010 Update 2 is available.

2010-05-07T17:29:00.009-05:00

AutoCAD 2010 Update 2 can be downloaded from:

Http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=DL15074619

Published date: 2010-Apr-28

ID: DL15074619

Applies to:

AutoCAD® 2010

autocad2010update2.exe (exe - 30814Kb)

autocad2010update2x64.exe (exe - 42094Kb)

Readme (html - 64Kb)

You can apply Update 2 to AutoCAD 2010 running on all supported operating systems and languages. Be sure to install the correct update for your operating system.

You do not have to install Update 1 in order to install Update 2. Update 2 includes the most recent fixes, as well as all fixes included in Update 1.

Change parameter value from linked Excel file does not update sketch

2010-05-06T15:54:00.001-05:00

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=14965008&linkID=9242019

Published date: 2010-Apr-28
ID: DL14965008

Applies to:
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Routed Systems Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Simulation Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Tooling Suite 2011

dl14965008.zip (zip - 351Kb)
Readme.pdf (pdf - 61Kb)

Readme:
Addresses an issue where changing the parameter value from a linked Excel file does not update the parameter in Inventor.

All kinds of problems can be resolved by...

2010-05-06T09:07:00.017-05:00

When working with Autodesk programs it is important to use an Autodesk supported and recommended graphics card and driver. Why is this? Well, there are two main reasons.

1) If you need support from Autodesk they're going to tell you (at some point) that you need to get on a Supported/Recommended card and driver to help you troubleshoot further.

2) It alleviates many issues. Some issues that may be resolve include: Performance issues, mouse trails (moving the mouse leaves part of the crosshairs on the screen), fatal errors, printing (yes even some printing issue), and even a machine spontaneously rebooting just by installing an Autodesk Supported and Recommended graphics driver.

I've been told, "but this is the 'latest' driver". If wasn't tested by Autodesk we don't know how it will work. Install the one that Autodesk has tested (and recommended), it may mean you have to install an older version.

Will this resolve all your issues? No, but once you have an Autodesk Supported/Recommended card and driver installed you are one step closer to error free designing.

Once installed, you'll need to go into Options to configure it (or enter 3DCONFIG) and use Manual Tune to turn on (or change) your Hardware Acceleration settings.

How can you tell if you have a supported/recommended driver? That's the easy part and takes less than 5 minutes to find out if you read our other blog first: http://avatechsupport.blogspot.com/2008/05/hows-your-cad-doing-under-hood.html

To get help on this or other issues call us at 800-808-7645.

Autodesk Vault 2011 Update 1 is out!

2010-05-05T16:10:00.002-05:00

I heard that an update to vault was coming out. It IS out. This applies to all versions for 2011.

Please download and carefully look through the readme for details on applying this.

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=15092560&linkID=9261341

Also Here is the "associated" Inventor hotfix.
http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=15104453&linkID=9242019

Inventor 2010 SP 3 is available

2010-05-03T08:15:00.001-05:00

Even though Inventor 2011 is out, they just released another service pack for 2010.

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=14822533&linkID=9242019

You must install Autodesk Inventor 2010 and apply Service Pack 1 & Service Pack 2, before you can install Autodesk Inventor 2010 Service Pack 3. If you have previously installed the Subscription Advantage Pack for Autodesk Inventor 2010, in addition to Service Pack 1 and the approriate Service Pack 2, ensure you download and install from the appropriate Autodesk Inventor 2010 Subscription Bonus Pack SP3 file instead of the appropriate Autodesk Inventor 2010 SP3 file.

Webcast Recordings Available to You

2010-04-27T08:31:00.000-05:00

Marketing gal here....

Not that you want another post about the Avatech Client Portal, but so many of you have Autodesk Subscription through us that it made sense for me to tell you that the What's New in 2011 software webcast recordings are posted on the Client Portal in the eLearning section. Covered products include Autodesk Inventor, Revit Architecture, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD, Civil 3D and more. Login to the Portal to check them all out.

If you haven't logged in or don't know your login information, contact your Avatech representative.

Back to your regularly scheduled informative blog.

Avatech client support portal - Whats new!

2010-04-26T14:46:00.003-05:00

http://client.avatech.com/

I wanted to make sure all of our contracted telephone support clients know of the AWESOME new tools and abilities we have in our Avatech client portal!

1. LIVE CHAT
2. Submit tickets AND upload files (20 mb max)
3. Review your tickets open or closed
4. Search tickets for old solutions
5. MUCH MORE and we are listening to your requests!

IF you do not have a login to our portal just let us know and we can have your main point of contact for your company add you or we will for them.

License expiration date: error 17

2010-04-22T17:15:00.002-05:00

Getting the following error when I go to File - Licensing in my Revit program.
License expiration date: error 17

Close the program
Open Windows Explorer
For Windows Vista or Windows 7 browse to
C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\Adlm\cascadeinfo.cas file and delete it.

For Windows XP browse to
C:\Document and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Autodesk\Adlm\cascadeinfo.cas file and delete it.

Windows 7 spoofing for Public folders

2010-04-22T16:25:00.004-05:00

I was in the middle of my normal scripting of installs and I normally will push a custom icon down to the All users desktop, this is where windows 7 through me!

Open Windows explorer, browse to c:\users\public\public desktop

BUT it is not what as it seems! Click in the address bar and notice the CHANGE in path!

ACTUALLY:
C:\Users\Public\Desktop

Vault 2011 will not install, SQL Server incompatible version error

2010-04-22T16:16:00.003-05:00

http://crackingthevault.typepad.com/crackingthevault/2010/03/sql-server-incompatible-version-error.html

SQL Server incompatible version error
If you are using SQL 2005 for your Vault 2011 installation it must be patched to service pack 3. For SQL 2008, it must be at service pack 1. If they are not updated, you will receive an error stating the version of SQL is incompatible. To correct the issue, cancel the installation and update SQL to the required service pack. Once it is updated than you can install Vault 2011. The updates are available through Windows Automatic Update or direct download from Microsoft.

To be clear you need to uncheck the ADVANCED checkbox and update the AutodeskVault instance.

Is your Complex Linetype upside-down?

2010-04-12T17:58:00.014-05:00

Our complex Linetypes using text look like this in 2010 and prior:

Notice how you have to keep turning the circle to read it?

But now they can look like this!

Notice how the text flips orientation. Very, very cool!!! I know of companies that have spent hours and thousands of dollars creating add-on programs designed to do this exact same thing!

Now for the better news. The Linetypes included with AutoCAD 2011 behave this way by default. You can update your own custom Linetypes to be used in 2011, by changing the rotation option to U, for “upright”.

AutoCAD 2008

*HOT_WATER_SUPPLY,Hot water supply ---- HW ---- HW ---- HW ---

A,.5,-.2,["HW",STANDARD,S=.1,R=0.0,X=-0.1,Y=-.05],-.2

AutoCAD 2011
*HOT_WATER_SUPPLY,Hot water supply ---- HW ---- HW ---- HW ----
A,.5,-.2,["HW",STANDARD,S=.1,U=0.0,X=-0.1,Y=-.05],-.2

The National Support Center is here to help you with your software issues, please call us at 800-808-7645 for assistance.

2011 Plot speed is not so Transparent.

2010-04-07T17:26:00.006-05:00

The Plot and Page Setup dialogs (see fig. 1) both include a checkbox for transparency (PLOTTRANSPARENCY), similar to the behavior for plot styles. When this option is enabled, AutoCAD rasterizes the entire drawing for plotting, slowing down the plotting process.

(fig. 1)

To test if your transparencies are causing the plots to be unacceptably slow, unchecking the Transparency box on the plot dialog and plot. If it plots at a normal speed then you’ve found it!

There are other things that can also cause very poor performance when bringing up the plot and other dialogs. To get help on these and other issues call the NSC at 800-808-7645.

Find and download your Autodesk upgrade.

2010-04-05T15:26:00.027-05:00

Since Autodesk instituted their new, greener downloadable upgrades for Subscription customers, we've received many inquiries about the Subscription download site. So I thought I'd help everyone out here with a quick blog. Here's what I find works best on my systems, if it tells me it's going to take over 2 hours I abort it and try again later. Sometimes even using a different machine is better.

First, you'll need to do a bit of preparation:

Use Internet Explorer (IE) 7 - this has been what works *best* (just say no to IE6!), however an older version may work and my IE 8 seems to work fine too.
If you have any scanning software (anti-virus or anti-spyware) you want to disable it at this time.
Exit all programs (except IE)
Turn off your pop-up blockers (better yet, add the domain to the accepted list).

And here's the short version:

Login to the subscription website at: http://subscription.autodesk.com
Click the "Get your Upgrade" link
Find and click the hyperlink for the product you want to download and install (Ex: AutoCAD 2011 English)
Chose the correct architecture (32-bit or 64-bit)
Another window should "pop-up" click the "Download Now" link to download using the download manager (this is quicker than using the "unassisted download" method-if you are forced to use the unassisted download do not use the Run option).
Put it somewhere easy to find
When the download manager comes up click Details to see how far along it is

Now the picture version, it can be helpful!

Once you're prepared and logged in, you should see something like this.

Now your list or programs will be different but you still click the hyperlink for the product you want.

Chose your architecture. If you don't know what it is, right click your My Computer icon and go to Properties, if it does not say 64-bit somewhere on the page then it's most likely 32-bit.

The best option is to use the "download now" as this uses the download manager and is optimized for speed. Again, if you are forced to use the unassisted download method do not click Run. Now click to Save and put it somewhere easy to find.

I like using the Details button to view a status bar and a little more information about how its coming along. If it tells me it will take more than 2 hours I typically cancel it and either try it on another machine or wait until a later time that has less network/internet traffic.

Autodesk has posted a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page at:

https://autodesk.subscribenet.com/control/adsk/content?partnerContentId=FaqContent#top

Here are some of them:

How many times can I download the software?

You can download the software as many times as you need. This allows you to download multiple versions or from multiple locations. The Download Log for each product records each download, for your reference.

What can I do to speed up my download?

Larger files such as Autodesk products can take several minutes or potentially hours to download, depending on your internet connection speed. Some customers find it easier to download their products during times of low network traffic such as late in the day or early in the morning. Using the Download Manager also ensures that downloads occur as quickly as possible. If your download will take minutes or hours, you can always continue with other work while your download completes in the background.

If needed, there is also a link where you can request a DVD or CD (see the left sidebar menu). Now, what if you order a DVD, can you still download too? Yes. Your serial number controls how many seats you get to register and activate or receive in a network license file. If you activate a standalone too many times the system will tell you. Check your license agreement, it seems there is something new with each new version!

Once downloaded, run the executable (*.exe) and it should extract all the files to c:\autodesk\ into a folder that basically has the same name as the downloaded file (that is the default, however you can change the location). Once all the files are extracted it will automatically kick off the installer for you.

If you need assistance with the above process, please contact your IT department or the Avatech National Support Center at 800-808-7645 (please have your support contract number handy).

I just received 2011 - do I need to upgrade the license manager for network licensing?

2010-04-02T11:31:00.015-05:00

Yes, it's that time again. New products shipping and lots of scrambling (I like bacon with my eggs).

Anyway, yes, always upgrade the license manager when implementing new Autodesk Networked products.

The current version is 11.7.0.0 for the 2011 programs.

Pre-upgrade steps:

Ensure you have the media (downloaded media counts) and you can access it from the license manager machine.
Get a new license file from Autodesk at 800-551-1490 or go to www.autodesk.com/register and login (it should be the same login as your Subscription login) and retrieve it.
If necessary, Combine your license files (check your license agreement!).

To quickly upgrade the license manager:

Run LMTools and ensure you stop the service. I like to check the box for "force server shutdown" and click Stop a couple of times, then exit LMTools.
Uninstall the license manager.
Install the 11.7.0.0 license manager.
Configure and start your service.

Done! Under 5 minutes if you're really good and you don't have problems trying to stop that service.

Autodesk has developed a video with the exact steps to assist you in setup and configuration. You can go to: http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS13503006 and click the image to load up the video. The upgrade solution can be found at : http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS66079

If you need assistance upgrading and have a valid Avatech Support contract we can help! Call us at 800-808-7645.

2011 Events Galore

2010-03-29T13:41:00.000-05:00

Marketing gal here...

If you have not already seen an email, I wanted to be sure you knew that Avatech is hosting a series of webcasts (starting this week) on what's new in the Autodesk 2011 products. We'll cover AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Inventor, Revit and more. Check our website for more information and to register.

Additionally, we're doing a whole in-person set of events starting April 21. For the list of locations and products covered, check the events page on our website.

Last (but definitely not least) Autodesk is hosting a Virtual Event on April 19. When you sign up be sure to let them know that Avatech sent you there. If you haven't done a Virtual Event with Autodesk yet, you're in for a treat. It's highly interactive with great presentations from Lynn Allen, Shaan Hurley and more. Find out more and register on the Autodesk website.

OK, that's all the marketing blah blah. I now return you to your previously scheduled informative blog.

“HOW TO” install your 2011 software

2010-03-25T19:34:00.004-05:00

FIRST: OBTAINING YOUR SOFTWARE
Many of you will ask ... "Where is my software? We did not get the box in the mail!"

That is true. Autodesk is offering their 2011 software as a download from your subscription web site by default. You must go there to download your software or request a shipment of the software discs to you. If you do not know how to use your subscription web page, then you should attend one of the free webinars available from Avatech. Sign up at http://www.avatech.com/

You originally received a "welcome" email from Autodesk when you bought your subscription. The "contract manager" received this email containing your login and password information. If you need Autodesk to send you this welcome email again, just contact them at customercare.abc@autodesk.com. Be sure to include your subscription contract number or serial number in the email.

If you are NOT on subscription, then you are most likely on an older version of software that you would first have to upgrade to the current version. A new box of software is shipped to those that upgrade... and be smart... get on subscription we can show you it is better and more economical by far.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NEXT... INSTALLING YOUR SOFTWARE
Here are some great links to information that will help you install your software. Please check these out BEFORE you start.

Good links for licensing:
Installing and Configuring the Autodesk Network License Manager
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS13503006
Understanding and Managing Your Autodesk Licenses
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14852836

AUTOCAD BASED INSTALL INFO:
System requirements for installing Autodesk 2011 products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14851465
Stand-Alone Install of AutoCAD-Based 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14852807
Network Install of AutoCAD-Based 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14852818
Post-Install Tasks of AutoCAD-Based 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14852826
Creating Deployments of AutoCAD-Based 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14852828
AutoCAD 2010 Install and Licensing Training Videos
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14173981
Troubleshooting Common Install Problems
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14868637
Troubleshooting Common Licensing Problems
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14868639

INVENTOR BASED INSTALL INFO:
System requirements for installing Autodesk 2011 products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14859586
Stand-Alone Install of Autodesk Inventor 2011 products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14859713
Network Install of Autodesk Inventor 2011 products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14859843
Creating Deployments of Autodesk Inventor 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14859908
Solving Windows 7 specific issues in Inventor
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14860048

REVIT BASED INSTALL INFO:
Standalone Installation of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14877739
Network Installation of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14877729
Creating Deployments of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14858163
Post Installation Tasks for Autodesk Revit Architecture 2011
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14877683
Clean Uninstall of Revit 2011 Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14633513
Troubleshooting Common Revit Install and Licensing Issues
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14878060
Troubleshooting Product Stability Issues in Revit
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS13899709
Troubleshooting Revit Families
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14877843
Troubleshooting Revit Memory Usage and Performance
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14878205
Troubleshooting Revit Upgrades and Migration
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14878114
Troubleshooting Revit Worksharing
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14877765
Troubleshooting Whats New in 2011 for Revit Products
http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14878261

For those that have a support agreement with Avatech - you can contact our National Support Center directly to avoid the delays associated with doing hours of research on your own. We are happy to help you through any questions.

Avatech National Support Center:
1-800-808-7645 - support@avatech.com or https://client.avatech.com/

New Autodesk Software!

2010-03-25T17:20:00.008-05:00

You may have noticed that new software is available from Autodesk. The latest release of AutoCAD is out and it is 2011.

This year we can download the software from the Subscription site, this makes receiving the software much quicker!

Just login to your subscription site (https://subscription.autodesk.com/ ) and select the Downloads button/link.

You may have already received an email about it, the email should contain your serial number and new product key. You need this to actually do the install. If you have not received an email from Autodesk yet, you can call the Autodesk Business Center (ABC) at 800-538-6401

Use this link to view the AutoCAD 2011 system requirements:

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/index?siteID=123112&id=13784795

With AutoCAD 2010 I have started recommending 64-bit system. It may be time to upgrade if you have a 6+ yr old computer like mine. It runs the Network License Manager just fine though so I can't get rid of it yet.

Let the downloads begin!

We're Getting Our Learn On

2010-03-22T08:44:00.013-05:00

The Technical Team is taking some time in the next two weeks to get an Autodesk knowledge infusion.

This is part of required training that we, and all Autodesk partners, must complete each year. We will continue to handle urgent requests during this time, but responses may take a bit longer than normal. If you've got a login to the Autdoesk Subscription site, it's probably best to submit your request there during training.

Times are:
March 30 - April 1 for the Building and Civil folk
April 6 - April 8 for the Mechanical and Manufacturing folk

We'll get back to our regularly scheduled program (with spiffy new knowledge) as soon as training is complete.

Mouse stutters.

2010-03-18T08:08:00.012-05:00

Have you ever moved your mouse over a part of your drawing and it just stops? You try to move it left, right, up, circle then all of the sudden it moves again?

This can happen when you have certain OSnaps turned On and there are many possible snap points for AutoCAD to consider.

Try turning off the following OSnaps:

Extension
Nearest
Apparent Intersection

To turn off your OSnaps, right-click the OSNAP button on the status bar and select Settings. Then uncheck the selections you don't need and click Ok.

Then see if it happens again. If it does, then lets go into Options and go to the Selection tab to turn Off the Highlight options.

Now if it still happens, then it may be something more sinister and you may need to call us. The National Support Center can be reached at 800-808-7645.

Migration. You've upgraded your Autodesk program, now what?

2010-03-11T08:21:00.011-06:00

Ok, you have the new and old AutoCAD installed, how do you go about migrating your settings to the new program? Should you use that wizard that pops up the first time you run the program?

No! Until you're sure the AutoCAD (or other vertical, Architecture, Inventor, Revit, Max, etc) works consistently you don't want to migrate anything. Let it run for a few days without any changes first. If you migrate settings and receive errors, how do you know what caused it if you have not run AutoCAD without the changes to ensure it works? At this point I typically recommend a very clean uninstall, reboot and reinstall, then run it without migrating. I've seen migrated menus cause errors in AutoCAD.

Note: This post focuses on AutoCAD-based programs, you may not be able to do some of these migrations with other programs like Revit, Inventor, 3ds Max, etc.

Migrating Menus/Profile using the wizard:

Alright, you've run AutoCAD for a few days and now you want to migrate your settings. Ahh, that's easy, just run that wizard that popped up the first time you ran AutoCAD. For example: Start->All Programs->Autodesk-> AutoCAD Architectural 2010->Migrate Custom Settings and pick "Migrate from a Previous Release".

I prefer to manually migrate (actually Import) my custom menu. I created a custom menu back around AutoCAD 2002 and I just use the CUI dialog to load my partial menu. This way I can have my menu in several AutoCAD versions all referencing the same menus (no duplication) and I can quickly remove my customization if I need to troubleshoot an issue.

You can also manually migrate pieces of your menu (toolbars, menus, etc) by using the CUI (that's Custom User Interface for those keeping an Autodesk acronym dictionary). In the CUI dialog select the Transfer tab. On the left display your Main menu and on the right Open your old or custom menu. Then just drag-n-drop from the list on the right to the left. Using this method ensures you don't have all those extra Workspaces showing up in the list.

Migrating Profiles is typically fine, but if your migrated Profile does not work and the normal one does, then you need to spend a lot of time figuring it out. I do not migrate my Profile. I go into Options and set the settings I want, it takes MUCH LESS TIME to manually change the new Profile than to troubleshoot a broken profile. Change your settings on the "Files" tab last. Only modify a few at a time then exit and go back into AutoCAD. If/When it breaks we don't want a list of 30 changes to go through.

Migrating Plot information:

Should you re-use old PC3 files? what about the CTBs and STBs? I typically recommend different folders for sharing PC3s and CTBs. You can have something like the following folders for your PC3 files.

S:\ACAD\Plotters\2009

S:\ACAD\Plotters\2010

S:\ACAD\Plot Styles\2009

S:\ACAD\Plot Styles\2010

Then copy your old 2009 PC3s and CTBs to the new folder. NOTE: Do not copy any shortcuts from those folders. If you do then you will have very bad performance issues sooner or later. I've seen some systems that would take 20 minutes to bring up the Plot dialog box.

Custom LISP/Script/VBA:

Setup a test environment and test these all out before you spend a couple hours getting AutoCAD installed, manually migrate all your settings only to Crash AutoCAD and have to spend another few hours only to find out your old VBA application won't work in the new environment. Only after thorough testing would I migrate these and then I'd only do it manually testing after each major piece is put into place. Your test environment may work and the users environment may not due to permissions, access to drives/shares, more restrictions in Anti-Virus/Spyware, Group Policies, etc...

Third Party Add-on programs:

Check with the 3rd party add-on manufacturer. Their version of the Lisp/Scrip/VBA or ARX may not be compatible with this version of AutoCAD/Revit/Inventor/MAX/etc...

TEXT! Front and center, MARCH!

2010-03-08T15:39:00.009-06:00

Ok, sometimes you can have problems selecting your text because something else is on-top of it, like a hatch pattern or a solid object. Draworder can be very time consuming when you have a lot of text/objects, plus you still have to be able to select the Text.

There is a quick way to bring your text to the front and it is the TEXTTOFRONT command. You get to choose between Text, Dimensions or Both.

This brings all your text to the "front" or "above" all the other objects. It's a lot faster than using draworder!

If you're having problems with your Autodesk program, we can help. Call the National Support Center at 800-808-7645.

Autodesk Warning! Do not uninstall your older Mechanical Desktop!

2010-02-24T08:22:00.013-06:00

Autodesk warns that if you need to open Mechanical Desktop files in 2010, then do not uninstall the older version (2009 or prior).

From the Autodesk webpage:

---------

Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 2009

Autodesk Mechanical Desktop has been discontinued and starting with the 2010 release is no longer included with any Autodesk Inventor product.

To open Mechanical Desktop files in Inventor 2010 make sure to leave the MDT 2009 installation on your computer.

If you are a previously licensed user of Mechanical Desktop software and have uninstalled Mechanical Desktop 2009 or are installing Inventor 2010 on a new computer then you will need to download new installation files that are compatible with Inventor 2010.

The new installer for AutoCAD Mechanical Desktop 2009 is provided by a self-contained installation file that you can download here. Or, previously licensed users can also request DVD media at no additional charge*.

*Free products are subject to the terms and conditions of the end-user license agreement that accompanies download of the software.

---------

If you need to re-install MDT again, then you can download it from here:

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/item?id=13744274&siteID=123112

Ensure you keep your MDT 2009 serial number too.

So, what version of Flex are you running?

2010-02-23T12:46:00.012-06:00

Anytime I receive a network licensing call this is one of the first questions I ask. It is so important because it is backwards compatible not forward compatible. So, a newer license manager can grant licenses for older license files but older license managers will not correctly grant licenses for newer license files. I have seen many times where it will grant a license, but there will be problems sometime in the future. Just try borrowing and returning a license and you'll probably find out quickly what I mean.

So, how do you find out what version you're running, that's easy.

Launch LMTools
Select About under the Help dropdown menu.
Note the version indicated.

Ok so now what?

Compare your version to this table (click the table for a larger view).

NOTE: I do not recommend you use special characters in your folder names. Characters such as (but not limited to) &, # and $ have been known to cause the error -16,258 when trying to start the service.

Also keep the path short, a path length over 109 characters may cause the same error. See http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS1054983 for details.

We can help if you need assistance! Call the National Support Center at 800-808-7645.

Where can I go to get information about...

2010-02-11T09:38:00.028-06:00

There are so many different sources of information out there and it makes it difficult to determine which website to access or where to call for a particular need.

Here's a quick cheat-sheet I use to help you get the information you need.

Autodesk Activations:

To help you activate your standalone license, or to get a network license file, call Autodesk at 800-551-1490 or create an account and login to:

http://registeronce.autodesk.com

Autodesk Service Packs/Updates and Hotfixes:

Is your Autodesk program on the latest version or do you need to install updates/service packs or hotfixes? When you click the link you'll need to select your product from the "Select a Product" dropdown list on the left under "Knowledge Base..."

www.autodesk.com/support

Autodesk Business Center (ABC):

To help you understand what your serial number is (standalone/network/multi-seat standalone), how many seats you have or other general questions about your software.

800-538-6401

Autodesk Certified graphics cards/drivers:

Is your graphics card certified by Autodesk? is the driver version supported and recommended?

AutoCAD:

www.autodesk.com/autocad-graphicscard

Inventor

http://www.inventor-certified.com/graphics/

Autodesk Search for Technical Solutions (TS):

The best way to search for the answers to your issues is to use the generic search tool and uncheck the option for "Products, Solutions, Services and Company Information" then key in your few key words and click search:

www.autodesk.com/search

Avatech Webex:
At times we may need to see your system to tweak it, do a file transfer, or otherwise share desktops for training, etc. We use Webex for our desktop sharing and training.

http://avat.webex.com

Autodesk Subscription:
If you have not purchased phone support through Avatech but you are on subscription with Autodesk, then you can submit your issues using the Web Based support method. You can also download some "Subscription Packs" that are add-on/add-in utilities from the website or download the latest version of the programs.

http://subscription.autodesk.com/

Avatech Client Portal:

Designed as a destination exclusively for Avatech’s Autodesk Subscription or Support clients, the Client Portal provides instant access to information, software, and services of special interest to Avatech clients.

The Portal currently enables Subscription clients to download and get authorization codes for various software packages that dramatically streamline workflow by automating tedious and repetitive tasks. Support clients have access to submit and manage technical issues.

Plans for expansion of the portal include more free software downloads, on-demand learning, product tips, links, special offers and promotions, communities, and more.

http://client.avatech.com

Windows Installer CleanUp Utility:

This is very useful when you are unable to reinstall, install or uninstall your Windows program. Select the link to get to the Microsoft Knowledge Base article and download the utility.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/290301

Avatech Support Blog:

If you are reading this, you don't need the support blog link, but I refer people here every week, you can too with this link.

http://avatechsupport.blogspot.com/

That is the list "I" use, however you have another option, you can call us.

Phone support:

Avatech Solutions National Support Center offers phone support and you can access information about that from your account manager or check out our website at:

http://avatech.com/service/support/

then click the "variety of support plans" link for more information on the plans we have for you.

Are you unable to activate your Avatech Utilities for Revit?

2010-02-04T10:50:00.027-06:00

These tools are great (if you can get them installed and activated). But we're receiving a lot of calls and emails on activation issues. So, I thought I'd help you all out here.

If you're on Autodesk Subscription through Avatech, then you activate through the Avatech Client Portal.

How to activate if you have not activated it yet:

Login to the Avatech Client Portal at http://client.avatech.com
Select the Software downloads link
Click Generate AuthCodes
Select your software in the dropdown, then click the "Generate AuthCode" button.
NOTE: Only click the Generate button 1 time or you could end up with fewer licenses.

Image 1

The web page should show you a code, select and copy it.
Bring up Revit and click on a utility button on the "add-ins" tab.
Paste the AuthCode into the Activate dialog (see image 2).

Image 2.

If you have tried the above and it still will not activate, do not try it again. This happens often with 64-bit systems. Check your email, you should have received an email from us. It may be in your spam or junk mail folder.

Another method is to activate manually using the email you've received:

Open the email you've received
Open notepad
Copy and paste the license information into the new notepad file (Image 3).

Image 3

Format it if needed...

Image 4

Image 5

Save the license file to your desktop and call it "Avatech.lic". Note: In notepad ensure you change the files of type to show "all files" instead of "*.txt" or it will append the .txt and call it Avatech.lic.txt and will not be recognized as a valid license file.

Copy the Avatech.lic file to your Avatech Utilities folder.

On a 32-bit system it should be in:

C:\Program Files\Avatech Solutions\Avatech Utilities 2010

On a 64-bit system it should be in:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Avatech Solutions\Avatech Utilities 2010

Once it is located there, run Revit and try the tool.

If you've purchased the the Utilities from our website, then you should have received an email and can use that second method to activate it. Remember, check your spam or junk mail folder if its not in your inbox.

If you're having problems with this process, we can help. Call the National Support Center at 800-808-7645.

Should I upgrade my Autodesk software?

2010-02-02T17:41:00.017-06:00

Should I install this upgrade software from Autodesk?

That is a great question! From a technical perspective, you'll want to consider if your machine will run the new software effectively.

Here are some important factors to consider before installing newer software:

Look at the system requirement for the "upgrade" software that you want to install, then double it (my rule of thumb). Can your machine handle those specs?
If so, then is your graphics card an Autodesk approved and certified card? See the links below to verify you have an Autodesk recommended/supported and hopefully certified card.
Do you have enough hard disk space?

Autodesk Graphic card list:

AutoCAD based programs:

http://www.autodesk.com/autocad-graphicscard

Inventor Graphics card list:

http://www.autodesk.com/us/inventor/graphic_cards/

If you answered no or you don't have a certified graphics card for the program you want to install, then you may want to upgrade those parts first.

If you need to get a new system, I'd recommend a 64-bit machine for any 2010 or higher programs from Autodesk.

The best option for you is to contact your Avatech representative to get a solutions consultant involved to listen to your goals for the upgrade. With you, they'll help formulate a plan that works best for you now and your future needs.

Not Supported. What does that mean?

2010-01-19T10:09:00.004-06:00

I've been told by the product manufacturer that my issue is "not supported", what exactly does that mean?

It means it hasn't been tested. It may work. Like my AutoCAD 2008 network install on Windows 7. If I have problems with it and call for support, the first thing that I'll be required to test is, "does it work if you run it on a supported operating system."

It could also mean that support is unable to test because they don't have the right hardware/software. Until recently running AutoCAD on a Macintosh wasn't supported (again). Support won't agree to officially support something if they are unable to test the same environment. Autodesk, once supporting the Mac, will have purchased the hardware and software to enable the support and development teams to test issues. The reason for this is that support cannot log an issue with development until they can reproduce it in a clean environment.

So, will it run? Maybe, can I get help on it? Maybe. The Avatech National Support Center (NSC) will support (without guarantee of finding a workaround, resolution or fix) many unsupported environments, however we need a support contract to do so. Sometimes the issues are no different than in a supported environment, other times there isn't a good resolution.

You can contact the NSC at 800-808-7645.

Avatech Utilities for Revit 2010 FREE Minicast.

2010-01-12T09:53:00.005-06:00

Experience Utilities
for Revit in 30 Minutes

See live demos of these popular programs.

If you haven't heard of Avatech Utilities for Revit, it's high time you did–and this 30-minute Minicast highlighting each one in this set of indispensable, time-saving utility programs is a must-see for any Autodesk® Revit® user, even if you are a veteran Utilities user.

Refined over years by Avatech's IT and Revit gurus, Avatech Utilities for Revit is available three ways: a full retail version; a free "lite" version; and a full version free to those having Autodesk Subscription through Avatech.

The full version of the Utilities that will be covered in this Minicast includes all of the programs below. Be prepared to ask questions of Revit expert Beau Turner at the end of this live demonstration.

Room Renumber
Grid Select
Change Case
Door Mark Update
RevitCity.com Content Browser
Space Update
Earth Connector for Revit
Room Phase Copy

For more information about Revit Utilities, visit www.avatech.com/revitutilities. To register for the Minicast, click the Register Now button to the right.

Minicast: Avatech
Utilities for Revit
January 19, 2010
10:00 AM and 2:00 PM ET

Windows 7 Known issues.

2010-01-07T11:50:00.007-06:00

What are the "known issues" with Autodesk products and Windows 7?

Autodesk Support has posted the following for a limited list of products under Technical Solution # TS14056444:

AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Electrical 2010
AutoCAD LT® 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010
AutoCAD® MEP 2010

The following issues have been identified with Windows 7 and are currently being researched for a potential fix in a future release:

AutoCAD® and all AutoCAD-based vertical products:

Infocenter balloons sometimes display blank
Dragging Ribbon tabs sometimes crashes the product
Encrypted files fail to open and save on Windows 7
Open files do not appear on Windows 7 Jumplist
Export to Impression functionality will not work because Autodesk Impression is not supported on Windows 7

AutoCAD Architectural 2010 and AutoCAD Mechanical 2010:

Text in the Drafting Settings dialog overlaps radio buttons

Graphics Card Support for Windows 7:

Please refer to the Graphics Hardware List for more information on supported graphics cards in Windows 7.

You can find the article here: http://usa.autodesk.com/getdoc/id=TS14056444

We are here to help you with your software issues and can be reached at 800-808-7645.

How to start a new drawing without using a template...?

2009-12-23T12:07:00.007-06:00

Use this if you suspect there is something funny going on in your drawing template and want to know if the same things are happening in a plain jane AutoCAD type of drawing environment. Just start a new drawing specifying "no template..."

To open a new drawing without using a template:

1) Click the Red A (Application dropdown menu –It may be another letter R for Revit for example) and select New->Drawing. (Figure 1)

Figure 1.

2) Click the down-arrow on the right side of the Open button and select “Open with no Template – Imperial” (Figure 2)

Figure 2

If you need assistance we can help! Call the Avatech Solutions National Support Center at 800-808-7645.

Tired of wasting paper printing webpages or help info?

2009-12-23T12:00:00.004-06:00

I used to have a filing cabinet full of printouts, not anymore! Now if I have something I want to keep I print it to a PDF file. Its easy, just use File->Print and select your favorite PDF writer. I use CutePDF, however you may already have the Adobe PDF writer installed depending on which Adobe programs you have installed.

When printing to PDF it will prompt you for a location and file name. Use your file management skills to organize the location.

If you need a PDF writer, the CutePDF writer is a free tool. Just download and install it.

http://www.cutepdf.com/Products/CutePDF/writer.asp

Happy Holidays from the team at the NSC

2009-12-14T08:28:00.004-06:00

Holiday Hours
December 24 Closed
December 25 Closed
December 28–December 31 Open
January 1 Closed

Avatech Solutions National Support Center appreciates the opportunity to support you!

Happy Holidays from the team at the NSC
Todd

Error Will Robinson, Error -5.412.0 when launching an Autodesk network product

2009-12-03T14:55:00.010-06:00

Launching a network version of an Autodesk program may give you an error -5.412.0 if the CascadeInfo.cas file becomes corrupt.

The CascadeInfo.cas file is automatically downloaded to the local machine when you launch AutoCAD (or other Autodesk network program) and has information pertaining to cascade licensing.

I've seen this error two times in two days now.

To resolve this issue, simply rename the file so its not recognized by the program. This will force it to download a fresh copy from the License Manager. If the file isn't recreated at that time then there may be multiple issues.

On a Windows XP system it can be found at:

C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\Autodesk\Adlm

On Windows Vista or Windows 7 it is located at:

C:\ProgramData\Autodesk\Adlm

NOTE: Do not delete or rename the ProductInformatin.pit file or you will have all kinds of problems and perhaps the inability to uninstall, repair or reinstall the program.

We can help if you need assistance! Call the National Support Center at 800-808-7645.

Don't you wish you could go to Autodesk University? I DO!

2009-12-01T12:24:00.008-06:00

Autodesk University (AU) can be fun, educational (Duh!) and can allow you to meet people you've worked with but never met face to face (Networking!).

Well, maybe you can go. Not in person, of course, but there is now a Virtual AU!

Check out the details on the Autodesk website

http://au.autodesk.com/?nd=event_au_virtual

I can Virtually see you there already!

Fatal errors...?

2009-11-30T16:30:00.010-06:00

I hear about these often and they can happen for a variety of reasons. The trick to resolving these issues is to find out the answers to some questions.

Question and most common reason(s):

1) Is it drawing specific? If it is, then clean up the drawings and xrefs. This can be tricky because if you don't clean up the Xrefs first a reloaded Xref may bring the badness back in. Also, a layer that is turned off or frozen, etc won't help during a purge.

2) Is it machine specific? if it is, then disable other programs from running before you run AutoCAD, ensure you have the most current Autodesk Recommended/Supported graphics driver for your version of AutoCAD.

3) Is it specific to your Windows login? If it works logged in on the same machine as a different user then you may have a bad AutoCAD or Windows Profile.

4) Is it specific to your machine only? If it is, then you may be looking at a hardware problem, problem with the Hard Drive or Windows or AutoCAD install.

If you're having problems narrowing it down, or have it narrowed down and you're unable to fix it, give the National Support Center a try. We work with these issues quite often. We can be reached at 800-808-7645

Ciao for now!

NSC availablility this week.

2009-11-23T17:30:00.004-06:00

This Thursday and Friday (Nov 26th & 27th) Avatech Solutions employees will be sharing good food and times with family and friends. The National Support Center will be closed these two days.

We hope you have a great Thanksgiving break.

The National Support Center Staff.

AutoCAD: Going Back in Time

2009-11-19T14:55:00.011-06:00

I have a customer who has an earlier version of AutoCAD. I need to give them a version of the project they can use. What are my options?
If you select your Application Icon and select Saveas or type Saveas.

When the Saveas Dialog opens you will notice at the bottom a drop down called Files of Type. Select this drop down and then you can select earlier versions or DXF versions. Note that the AutoCAD file format traditionally follows 3 releases. So 2007 is for 2007, 2008, and 2009. 2004 is for 2004, 2005, 2006. Also if you are using a vertical product such as Civil 3D these are not standard formats and you should use. Export to AutoCAD to take the vertical data and convert it to standard AutoCAD data.

Note:
AutoCAD Civil 3D 2010 - Application Icon->Export->AutoCAD->Version
AutoCAD Architecture 2010 - Application Icon->Export->AutoCAD->Version
Autodesk Revit 2010 - Application Icon->Export->CAD Formats->DWG

What Version of AutoCAD Do I have?

2009-11-09T08:03:00.000-06:00

• Type VERNUM and hit enter on the keyboard
This will give you the version of AutoCAD you are running however you will need to
discuss this with a Technical Support Agent due to the fact these are build numbers not Updates or Service Packs
• However the easiest way in versions prior to 2010 is to select the Help Pull down
then Select About AutoCAD (Or other product name Map 3D, Civil 3D, Etc)once the Dialog is open select Product Information You will have a listing for the updates loaded in the second field from the top on the left hand side.
(Note: in 2009 the updates are as follows Update 1 lists as update 2, Update 2 as Update 3, Update 2.1 as 3.1 and Update 3 as Update 4)

• In the 2010 version this is no longer shown. you must find this under Add/Remove programs.

To find out the service Pack Level go to
- Windows XP: Start->Control Panel->Add/Remove Programs->Enable Show Updates at the top

- Windows Vista: Start->Control Panel->Programs and features->Click View Installed Updates.

Any update will be displayed under the AutoCAD Listing "AutoCAD 2010" or Vertical Product "AutoCAD Civil 3D 2010" "AutoCAD Map 3D 2010" etc.

AutoCAD, a Switch Hitter

2009-10-26T11:06:00.002-05:00

Have you ever wanted to have AutoCAD perform certain things during launch? Perhaps not have that AutoCAD splash screen come up on launch or run a specific script or routine? There is a way to make these things happen. You may have noticed in the AutoCAD Icon that there are these strange things in the startup string (example: “c:\program files\AutoCAD 2010\ACAD.exe” /p <>). These are known as Startup Switches and they can make life very nice for those wanting to add a little more to their launch.

How do you access these Startup Switches?
1.) Locate the AutoCAD Icon on your desktop
2.) Highlight the Icon
3.) Right click and select Copy
4.) Right click on the background on your desktop and select Paste
5.) Highlight the new Icon
6.) Right click and select Properties
7.) Find the Target path this is where the magic takes place

How do these switches work?
I will use an example. I want to automatically load a custom profile I created internally on my Profile Tab in the Options Dialog called ACADSWITCHES. The Target would look like this.
“C:\Program Files\AutoCAD 2010\ACAD.exe” /P “ACADSWITCHES”

1.)“C:\Program Files\AutoCAD 2010\ACAD.exe” this part is used to launch AutoCAD it is just running ACAD.EXE which is the AutoCAD program
2.) /P this is the switch that says load this profile after you launch
3.)“ACADSWITCHES” This is the profile that is loaded when this icon is used to start the program
4.) Here is an example using more than one switch
“C:\Program Files\AutoCAD2010\ACAD.exe” /P “ACADSWITCHES /NOHARDWARE /NOLOGO,
this will Launch AutoCAD and set the ACADSWITCHES profile current, it won’t display the splash screen and it turns off the Hardware Acceleration in AutoCAD.

1.) /b “Script name”
b stands for batch process and this allows you to have AutoCAD run a script when it opens.

2.) /t “Template name”
This allows you to have AutoCAD use a certain DWT file to start the default Drawing when AutoCAD is launched by default

AutoCAD uses ACAD.DWT .DWT is assumed.

3.) /c “Configuration Folder”
c will farce AutoCAD to look at an alternative folder to find the ACAD.CFG file to look for a different hardware

configuration file. However if c is not set then it will use ACADWCFGW or ACADCFG environment variables for the path.

4.) /v “View Name”
v forces AutoCAD to recall a Named View when launched

5.) /id “ARX or DBF application”
id farces AutoCAD to load a specified ARX or DBF when launched

6.) /s “Support Folders”
s Allows AutoCAD to search additional support folder search paths rather than just the defaults in the Options Dialog. You can have up to 15 new paths delimited by ;.

7.) /r “Default System Pointing Device”
r restores the default pointing device and creates a new acad2010.cfg file and names the current acad2010.cfg file to acad.bak.

8.) /nologo
Starts AutoCAD without display the AutoCAD logo screen or splash screen.

9.) /p “Profile Name”
p allows AutoCAD to load a profile listed in the Options Dialog Profile tab. However this will load a Profile other than the

default. You may also use a path and load an external .arg file.

10.) /nohardware
nohardware disables hardware acceleration on startup.

11.) /nossm
nossm suppresses the Sheet Set Manager window on startup
.
12.) /set “path\”
set loads a named Sheet Set on start up.

13.) /w “default workspace”
w loads the Workspace specified on start up.

14.) /pl “path\.DSD
pl publishes a drawing set on .start up

Autodesk now supports Windows 7

2009-10-23T14:30:00.000-05:00

You may have seen this but if you had not, head on over to the Autodesk press release to find out more. There are seven products that support Windows 7 (seven for Windows 7, nicely done Autodesk).

However, some of main platforms do not support Windows 7 right now, including Civil 3D and the Revit products, so be sure to read the release carefully and ask for help if you need it.

I have used the Raster design License update but I still can not get a License.

2009-10-19T08:04:00.002-05:00

The Raster Design license update corrects an issue in the 2010 release. The issue is that without the update you must have matching software install types (network or standalone). For example you have Civil 3D 2010 licensed on the local machine and Raster Design licensed from the server they will not work together without this hotfix. However if you have a standalone Civil 3D license and you have a standalone Raster Design license then you would not need the hotfix and they would work together fine.

Hotfix Link
http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/ps/dl/item?siteID=123112&id=13435443&linkID=9240978
Document listing - DL13435443

The exact text from Autodesk is as follows
Issues Addressed by this Hotfix:
· Raster Design Network Deployment:This hotfix updates licensing files which allow AutoCAD Raster Design 2010 network deployments to be installed with supported standalone AutoCAD applications.
This hotfix will not allow a standalone Raster Design 2010 installation to install with network deployments of host applications.
· Raster Design Features with AutoCAD Civil 3D and AutoCAD Civil 2010:This hotfix also addresses instability issues with Raster Design features (i.e. Imanage) when installed with AutoCAD Civil 3D 2010.

However there has also been a new issue that is tied to this issue. The Raster Design license will still not get a license if the 2 products are not installed from the same media type. So this means if you have installed Civil 3D 2010 from a DVD and then install Raster Design from a deployment then they will not work together. You must install BOTH Civil 3D and Raster Design from a deployment OR a DVD method.