AutoCAD (Automatic Computer Aided Design)
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Introduction
AutoCAD is a widely used software in the field of computer-aided design (CAD), developed by Autodesk. It provides a wealth of design and drawing tools that can be used to create and edit 2D and 3D graphics.

- **DWG: **Primary drawing file, containing complete CAD design data.
- **DWT: **Drawing template file, used for predefined settings when creating new DWG files.
- **DWS: **Drawing standards file, defines and manages standardized settings for CAD drawings.
- **DXF: **Drawing exchange file, ASCII text format, used for the exchange and sharing of CAD data.
Pros
- Perfect graphics drawing function: AutoCAD provides a wealth of drawing tools to meet the needs of users to draw various complex graphics. Whether it is simple lines, shapes, or complex 3D models, AutoCAD can easily handle it.
- **Powerful graphics editing function: **In addition to the drawing function, AutoCAD also has powerful graphics editing functions. Users can make various modifications and adjustments to the drawn graphics, such as moving, rotating, scaling, mirroring, etc. to meet different design needs.
- **Multiple secondary development methods: **AutoCAD supports multiple secondary development methods, such as AutoLISP, VBA, C#.NET, etc. This allows users to customize and expand the functions of AutoCAD according to their needs and improve work efficiency.
Cons
- Relatively weak modeling function: Although AutoCAD has 3D modeling capabilities, its modeling function is relatively weak compared to some professional 3D modeling software. For 3D model design that requires high precision, AutoCAD may not be the best choice.
- **Limited information integration capabilities: **AutoCAD is relatively weak in information integration, and designers need to manually integrate various design information. This may lead to inconsistent data and affect the accuracy and reliability of the design.
- **Insufficient collaboration functions: **AutoCAD is also relatively weak in multi-person collaboration. Designers need to manually merge their respective design results, which may lead to conflicts and errors. In order to improve collaboration efficiency, other collaboration tools or platforms may be needed.
Application Scenario
AutoCAD is a very versatile and comprehensive CAD software that covers almost all design and drawing applications. Its powerful graphics drawing and editing functions, multiple secondary development or user customization methods, and strong data exchange capabilities have made AutoCAD widely used and recognized around the world.
Example
- AutoCAD MEP2021.

- AutoCAD.

File Opening Mode
- Open the file in AutoCAD.

LYR
MID
MDB
QLR
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoCAD
- https://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad/overview
- https://web.autocad.com/login