Autodesk Delivers AutoCAD 2009 Right on Cue

By DE Editors

Autodesk (San Rafael, CA) is shipping its AutoCAD 2009 software and portfolio that includes updates to AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT, as well as the discipline-specific applications AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Mechanical, and AutoCAD MEP software applications.

AutoCAD 2009’s user interface has been optimized to reduce the number of steps it takes to reach commands. It is customizable and extensible, and can be migrated forward using the standard migration tools. Its “classic workspace” provides access to the traditional toolbar and menu interface. AutoCAD 2009 subscription customers will receive Autodesk Impression illustration software for the creation of presentation-ready graphics with a hand-drawn look.

AutoCAD LT 2009, a 2D drafting and detailing product with pricing starting at $1295, includes the new user interface to increase productivity for experienced and new users.

Autodesk is also shipping the latest version of the AutoCAD software portfolio, including the following four discipline-specific applications built on AutoCAD technology.

—AutoCAD Architecture 2009, which offers intuitive architectural drawing and design tools within a familiar AutoCAD workflow, giving users the flexibility to learn new tools at their own pace. Pricing begins at $4995.

—AutoCAD Electrical 2009 is purpose-built to design electrical controls systems quickly and accurately using automated tasks, comprehensive symbol libraries, and an electrical-specific workflow designed to increase the productivity of controls engineers. Pricing begins at $5295.

—AutoCAD Mechanical 2009 is designed to accelerate the mechanical design process with standards-based symbol libraries, engineering calculators, and a mechanical-specific workflow created to significantly improve productivity for AutoCAD users in manufacturing. Pricing begins at $4495.

—AutoCAD MEP 2009, the AutoCAD software for mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) businesses, offers intuitive system drawing and design tools with built-in design calculators for more efficient and accurate designs. Pricing begins at $4995. (In the four offerings described above, international pricing may vary.)

Read earlier DEcoverage here.

Autodesk also launched Autodesk Design Review software, the free, integrated, all-digital way to view, print, review, mark up, and track changes to drawings, maps, and models — all without the original design-creation software. With all design information built into the digital model, everyone in the review chain who is sharing and collaborating on designs can accelerate the review process.

For details, go to Autodesk, Inc.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.