AutoCAD 2005 FAQ
General Information
What is AutoCAD 2005?
Creating a single drawing as efficiently as possible is important. Delivering a coordinated set of drawings in a
timely manner directly benefits your bottom line. With AutoCAD 2005 software you can do both. Everyday tools
like the table object and tool palettes boost productivity, and the new Sheet Set Manager helps you control content
across entire sets of related drawings, enabling you to lower the risk for errors. Then, in a single view, you can
compose and collate sheet sets and share them with your project team using plots, eTransmit, or DWF files. Whether
you use AutoCAD for 2D drafting, detailing, design documentation, or introductory 3D design, you can personalize
or program the software to meet your specific design needs or add an industryspecific application built to work
with AutoCAD. AutoCAD software is a worldwide standard in computeraided design (CAD). More people use AutoCAD than
any other CAD software.
Who uses AutoCAD software?
AutoCAD is used to create technical drawings and documentation in many industries. Designers, architects, engineers,
land planners, contractors, facility managers, and educational institutions and students are examples of customers
who currently use AutoCAD. AutoCAD is a foundation technology that supports other Autodesk industry-targeted applications,
as well as hundreds of third-party applications. It fits into any design solution that requires a general, customizable
drafting and design tool.
What are the main benefits of AutoCAD 2005?
AutoCAD 2005 provides significant benefits to both small and large organizations in creating, managing, and sharing
project information, a process often complicated by the dispersed and fast paced nature of team-based work. To remain
competitive, companies must reduce errors and omissions, guard against complacency and improve the overall quality
of their deliverables. The new features in AutoCAD 2005 were developed to address these requirements. Organizations
that implement and fully exploit the powerful functionality of AutoCAD 2005, especially the new Sheet Set Manager,
will realize the benefits of more accurate project deliverables. They can efficiently and confidently respond to
project changes and increase their productivity. The new Sheet Set Manager in AutoCAD 2005 offers superior benefits
when compared to the traditional methods of managing individual drawings as separate files. By utilizing the Sheet
Set Manager, both small and large organizations can efficiently and accurately create, compose, collate, update,
publish, distribute, archive, and manage sheet sets.
Availability and Pricing
When is AutoCAD 2005 available?
AutoCAD 2005 is available worldwide in English, German, and Japanese in March 2004.
When can I expect localized versions of
AutoCAD 2005 to ship?
Within 30 days after the English version ships, you can expect the following localized versions:
- French
- Spanish
- Simplified Chinese
- Chinese (Taiwan)
- Korean
Within 60 days after the English version ships:
After 90 days:
- Eastern European languages
- European Nordic Regions
- Brazilian Portuguese
Can I try AutoCAD 2005 before I buy it?
Yes. You can try it by requesting the AutoCAD 2005 Trial version. This full-functioning version of AutoCAD 2005
is available as a free, 30-day trial version. You can order the trial CD by contacting
us.
What are the purchasing options and pricing
for AutoCAD 2005?
Contact us for a price quote and product information.
What are the benefits of an Autodesk Subscription?
Autodesk Subscription is a complete software, support, and training offering that gives you easy access to
the latest Autodesk product releases and upgrades with expert technical support, self-paced e-Learning, and
a range of exclusive community resources such as product webcasts and weblogs. Autodesk Subscription helps you extend
the power of your design technology to the fullest. For an annual fee, Autodesk Subscription gives you a complete
solution to software upgrades that simplifies your license management, improves your budgeting, and minimizes disruptions
to your workflow. For the latest information on Autodesk Subscription, including
availability and purchase requirements, visit http://www.amsystems.com/products/subscription/.
AutoCAD subscriptions are sold by Autodesk Authorized Autodesk Resellers on behalf of Autodesk.
Compatibility
Can I run AutoCAD 2005
side-by-side on my computer with AutoCAD 2004, 2002, 2000i, or 2000?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 is designed to run side-by-side with the AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002/2004 versions, enabling you to
make a smooth transition to the new release of AutoCAD. AutoCAD 2005’s migration feature helps you make a
smooth transition to the new release by automatically migrating customized menus, hatch patterns, linetypes, command
short cuts and AutoCAD profiles.
Has
the AutoCAD 2005 drawing file format (DWG) changed from the AutoCAD 2004 file format, as it did between AutoCAD
2002 and AutoCAD 2004?
No, the new features and functionality developed in AutoCAD 2005 maintain DWG and DXF™ file compatibility
between the AutoCAD 2004 and AutoCAD 2005 software versions. You can directly and easily share files between different
design teams using AutoCAD 2004 and AutoCAD 2005. In addition, AutoCAD 2005 has a built-in SaveAs function to save
drawings in AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002 format.
Does AutoCAD 2005 read
and save drawings created by earlier releases of AutoCAD?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 reads drawing files from all previous versions of AutoCAD software. AutoCAD 2005 has a built-in
SaveAs function so you can save and safely round-trip drawings to and from AutoCAD releases 2000/2000i/2002 and
2004 DWG formats. In addition, you can use the SaveAs AutoCAD Release 12 DXF command to support releases prior to
AutoCAD 2000. Also, the Autodesk Batch Drawing Converter 2005 can be used to convert any AutoCAD or AutoCADbased
drawing file to AutoCAD Release 14, AutoCAD 2000, AutoCAD 2000i, AutoCAD 2002, and AutoCAD 2004 file formats. The
Autodesk Batch Drawing Converter 2005 is a free download available at www.autodesk.com\migrationtools.
Is AutoCAD 2005 compatible with AutoCAD LT 2005?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 software is fully DWG-compatible with AutoCAD LT 2005 software. It can read files from all
older versions of AutoCAD LT and can save to the AutoCAD LT 2004 and 2002/2000i/2000 DWG file formats for compatibility
with older products.
Do AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002/2004
customized files work in AutoCAD 2005?
Yes, with some modifications. AutoCAD 2005 includes a migration feature that will automatically migrate customized
AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002/2004 menus, hatch patterns, linetypes, command short cuts and AutoCAD profiles. This feature
can migrate your customizations at install time or after you have installed AutoCAD 2005. For more information on
migrating your customized files, please consult the AutoCAD online Help.
How are AutoLISP programs affected by
changes in AutoCAD 2005?
AutoLISP routines, linetype files, hatch patterns, PGP files and other customizations that have been written
for AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002/2004 releases should work in AutoCAD 2005; no changes have been made that would affect
them.
Will my third-party
application that runs on AutoCAD 2004 be available for AutoCAD 2005?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 is both DWG and application compatible with AutoCAD 2004. Applications from third parties—whether
they are based on ObjectARX, COM Automation, VBA/VB, or Visual LISP—that support either product
do not require an update. Autodesk has been providing prerelease software and technical guidance to members of the
Autodesk Developer Network to ensure that their applications will work for you. You should contact your application
developer/supplier if you have any questions regarding your application. You can find more information on the availability
of third-party applications compatible with AutoCAD 2005 at www.autodesk.com/partnerproducts.
Do AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002
third-party applications work with AutoCAD 2005?
Maybe. Some AutoCAD 2000/2000i/2002 third-party add-on applications based on Visual LISP and VBA may be compatible
with AutoCAD 2005. Third-party applications based on ActiveX and ObjectARX will require upgrades to be compatible
with AutoCAD 2005. There are numerous compatible applications available for AutoCAD 2005. Check with your application
developer/supplier regarding availability of applications built for AutoCAD 2005.
Will the AutoCAD 2000i/2002/2004 extensions
work with AutoCAD 2005?
All the modular functionality delivered in the AutoCAD 2000i/2002/2004 extensions has been built into AutoCAD 2005.
Therefore, the AutoCAD 2000i/2002/2004 extensions will not install on AutoCAD 2005 and are not necessary.
Is AutoCAD 2005 interoperable with other
Autodesk products?
AutoCAD 2005 is the foundation for an interoperable family of Autodesk products. Sharing the same database framework
component—ObjectDBX™ for reading and writing drawing files—ensures that the next generation of
Autodesk products is interoperable with AutoCAD 2005. These products include 3ds max and Autodesk VIZ
4, Autodesk DWF™ Viewer, Autodesk Raster Design, Autodesk OnSite View, and the AutoCAD industry-specific
desktop products, including Autodesk Map™, AutoCAD Mechanical, Autodesk Mechanical Desktop,
Autodesk Architectural Desktop, Autodesk Land Desktop, and Autodesk Civil Design.
When will the AutoCAD
2005-based industry-specific applications be available?
Autodesk applications built on the AutoCAD 2005 foundation that will be available 15-120 days after AutoCAD 2005
include Autodesk Architectural Desktop, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD Electrical, Autodesk Map™, Autodesk
Land Desktop 2005, Autodesk Civil Design 2005, Autodesk Survey 2005, Autodesk Raster Design 2005. AutoCAD
OEM 2004 and the updated ObjectDBX will be released about 90 days following after the AutoCAD 2005 software’s
March ship date.
Can I run AutoCAD 2005
side-by-side with other AutoCAD platform–based applications?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 can be installed side-by-side with any other AutoCAD or AutoCAD–based product versions—including
AutoCAD 2005–based versions. These products include Autodesk Mechanical Desktop, AutoCAD Mechanical, Autodesk
Architectural Desktop, Autodesk Land Desktop, Autodesk Civil Design, Autodesk Map, and AutoCAD LT software.
Platforms and System Requirements
What are the system requirements for AutoCAD 2005?
The system requirements for AutoCAD 2005 are as follows:
- Intel Pentium III or later, with 800 MHz or faster processor, or compatible
- Microsoft Windows XP (Professional, Home Edition, or Tablet PC Edition), or Windows
2000 Professional
- 256 MB RAM
- 300 MB free disk space for installation
- 1024x768 VGA with true color
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0
- CD-ROM drive
- Mouse, trackball, or compatible pointing device
Is AutoCAD 2005 certified for Microsoft Windows
XP?
Yes, AutoCAD has received “Designed for Windows XP—Optimized for Enterprise” logo certification.
This is the highest level of logo certification that Microsoft offers. The logo certification program ensures that
software runs smoothly and reliably in the Windows operating system environment. Several fundamental changes have
been made to AutoCAD to ensure its robust performance when running on the latest version of the Windows operating
system. These changes include the ability to run AutoCAD as a limited rights user, making it easy for multiple AutoCAD-based
products to be run on the same computer, and changes to the file structures and use of the registry that support
roaming user profiles.
Does AutoCAD 2005 support Tablet PCs running
Windows XP?
Yes, AutoCAD 2005 software supports Microsoft Windows XP for Tablet PC operating system functionality, including
the ability to specify landscape or portrait orientation as well as right- or lefthandedness, enabling you to take
full advantage of the portability that the Tablet PC offers.
Which new plotters are supported by AutoCAD 2005?
AutoCAD 2005 includes updated HDI drivers for the OCÉ and Xerox devices and updated Hewlett Packard
Windows system drivers that support Microsoft Windows XP Professional/Home and Windows 2000. For more details
on AutoCAD 2005 plotter support, please consult your plotter manufacturer.
Licensing
Does AutoCAD 2005 use product activation
for stand-alone licenses?
Yes, with AutoCAD 2005 the authorization process now includes product activation.
What is product activation?
Product activation is a software-based license management technology incorporated into many Autodesk products. It
is a secure and trouble-free process that authenticates licensed users running Autodesk software. The process verifies
that the serial number is legitimate and has not been activated on more computers than are eligible. It does not
affect the ability of licensed users to operate their software the way they have always done. It is similar to the
authorization mechanism in Autodesk products in the past but provides additional capabilities for security and special
product versions (such as student and trial versions).
Why is Autodesk requiring Autodesk
customers to activate their software?
Product activation is a simple way to reduce and deter unauthorized use and casual copying of Autodesk products,
with little to no impact on our loyal customers.
Which Autodesk products use this activation
technology?
Almost all Autodesk products use or will use this technology, with the exception of Discreet Advanced Systems
products, some Discreet new media products, and VISION* products.
How do I activate my software?
Through the activation and registration interface, you can activate your product 24 hours a day, seven days a week
over the Internet or via email. Either option takes only a few steps to complete and requires your product serial
number and registration information.
What
if I have more than one computer? Will product activation let me use the software on multiple machines?
Autodesk recognizes you may sometimes need to operate the software when you are away from your usual work location,
such as while working from home. To accommodate this need, product activation lets you install and activate the
software on a second computer you own or control. Please note that the software may be used by only one person and
that only one of the two copies may be used at a time. Consult your AutoCAD Software License Agreement for complete
details regarding installation and use of the software on a second computer.
Where can I find more information about
software activation?
 AutoCAD
2005 Product Activation White Paper [pdf - 180 Kb]
Consulting, Training, and Support
What consulting services are available for
AutoCAD 2005?
Advanced Micro Systems offers consulting and customization services in AutoCAD
2005. Contact us for more information.
Where do I find training courses for AutoCAD 2005?
Advanced Micro Systems offers an AutoCAD Fundamentals Course
How can I find technical support information
for AutoCAD 2005?
Visit http://www.autodesk.com/autocad-support
and find a knowledge base of commonly asked support questions. Also, you can ask questions and read information
about the use of Autodesk products in the peer-to-peer discussion groups on http://www.autodesk.com/discussion.
Autodesk hosts topical discussion groups about specific products, including AutoCAD 2005, and about general topics,
such as drafting techniques and customization. Alternatively, Autodesk software manuals and documentation are a
great source of answers to your support questions.
How do I obtain direct, technical support?
Direct technical support is available from both Autodesk Authorized Resellers and Autodesk Professional Services.
Furthermore, Autodesk Subscription is a complete software, support, and training package that simplifies your technology
upgrades and boosts your design productivity. Purchase of Autodesk Subscription includes web support* from Autodesk
technical experts for all your installation, configuration, and troubleshooting questions. Learn
more about Autodesk Subscription. *May not be available in all countries. The Autodesk Enterprise Support is
a worldwide program that provides expert technical support by telephone for all major Autodesk products from a single
source. Contact your Autodesk Account Executive or Autodesk Authorized Autodesk Reseller for more details. Autodesk
Systems Centers (ASCs) and Autodesk Authorized Autodesk Resellers also provide telephone support services for AutoCAD
software and all other Autodesk products. Find a complete list of support options for AutoCAD on the Autodesk website
at http://www.autodesk.com/autocad-support.
How do I find out if a service pack is
available for AutoCAD 2005?
In the event that Autodesk releases a service pack for AutoCAD 2005, it is easy to access and install it using the
Communication Center in AutoCAD 2005. Look at the top of the Communication Center window to see if an update is
available. AutoCAD 2005 automatically recognizes if you have the most up-to-date release and prompts you if there
is an update available. When you click on the link, AutoCAD 2005 automatically downloads and installs the update
seamlessly and painlessly.
List all pages on AutoCAD
or search Google for AutoCAD
|
Archived Products
