Basics Of AutoCAD 2D: Part One
What Is AutoCAD?
When it comes to 2D and 3D CAD design, AutoCAD is hands-down the industry leader. Computer aided design (CAD) has revolutionized the way that things get done. AutoCAD is a tool with a two-pronged approach. Not only can you use it to design and model your projects, you can also easily share the results with others. It is the most often used software for the design of built environments such as homes and other buildings, tools in the manufacturing process, and consumer goods.
The versatile AutoCAD software is used across industries. You can find it on computers in architecture firms as well as mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering companies. Civil engineers use it for town planning and surveying operations and relatively unknown uses such as geographical information systems are common. The newest versions of AutoCAD software contain a subprogram called Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Autocad has been around for many years. The earliest version was developed in 1982 by AutoDesk to run on the MS-DOS program. Today, the program operates on both Windows and Macintosh operating systems and is the clear leader in the CAD field. Many competitors have come and gone over the years. AutoCAD's development team have added complexity to their programming while maintaining simple and logical values at the core.
In 1993, the designers at AutoCAD released a pared down version of the program called AutoCAD LT. It does not contain the capacity for 3D visualization but is a powerful program nevertheless. A version of AutoCAD was developed for use on the Mac in 2010.
Main Features Of AutoCAD 2D
AutoCAD 2D is able to easily do the following:
* Accurately draw and change geometry;
* Deliver precise dimensions;
* Add text to documents;
* Change to different scales; and
* Organize with layers, lines, and colors for easy readability.
AutoCAD 2D has excellent capability when it comes to printing. A variety of layouts is available and users can easily import symbols, blocks, and multiple objects into their drawings. Since online collaboration is so simple, designers are able to reference other drawings and work with others over the Internet. Recent versions of AutoCAD offer full 3D renderings.
How To Create A Drawing In AutoCAD
There are three primary steps when creating an AutoCAD drawing. These are:
* Creating the geometry;
* Inputting text and pertinent dimensions; and
* Plotting, which is the technical term for printing.
A procedural piece of software, AutoCAD requires that inputs be entered in a step-by-step manner when prompted.
About the Author
In AutoCAD 2D Basics: Part Two we will introduce the Status Bar. This two-part series has been created by Tom Gillan, who has been training corporate clients in Sydney in the use of AutoCAD for seven years. For more information, visit http://www.designworkshopsydney.com.au/autocad-2d-courses/ .
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