AutoCAD is a powerful software tool used by architects, engineers, and designers to create precise 2D and 3D drawings. One of the features that AutoCAD offers is TrueView, which allows users to view and manipulate drawings without having the full AutoCAD software installed.
What is TrueView?
TrueView is a free application developed by Autodesk that enables you to view AutoCAD drawings in their native DWG file format without the need for an AutoCAD license. It provides a simplified interface with essential viewing and markup tools, making it ideal for collaboration and sharing drawings with clients or colleagues who do not have AutoCAD installed.
How to Install TrueView
To start using TrueView, you first need to download and install it on your computer. Here’s how:
- Step 1: Go to the Autodesk website (www.autodesk.com) and navigate to the TrueView page.
- Step 2: Locate the download button and click on it.
- Step 3: Choose the appropriate version of TrueView based on your operating system (Windows or Mac).
- Step 4: Start the installation process by running the downloaded file.
- Step 5: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Using TrueView
Note: Before opening a drawing in TrueView, ensure that it is saved in the DWG file format. Other formats may not be compatible.
To open a drawing in TrueView:
- Step 1: Launch TrueView by double-clicking the desktop shortcut or searching for it in the Start menu.
- Step 2: Click on the “Open” button in the toolbar or go to File > Open.
- Step 3: Navigate to the location of your drawing file and select it.
- Step 4: Click on the “Open” button to load the drawing into TrueView.
Navigating and Viewing Drawings
Once you have opened a drawing in TrueView, you can use various tools to navigate and view it:
- Pan: Click and drag with the middle mouse button or use the Pan tool in the toolbar to move around the drawing.
- Zoom In/Out: Use the scroll wheel on your mouse or click on the Zoom tool in the toolbar to zoom in or out of the drawing.
- Preset Views: Access predefined views such as Top, Front, Left, etc., from the View Cube located in the top right corner of the interface.
- Display Modes: Toggle between different display modes like Wireframe, Hidden Lines, Shaded, etc., using icons in the toolbar.
Annotating and Measuring Drawings
To collaborate effectively using TrueView, you can take advantage of its annotation and measurement tools:
- Markup Tools: Use text boxes, shapes, lines, arrows, and other markup tools to add comments or mark specific areas of your drawing.
- Drawing Compare: Compare two versions of a drawing to identify changes or differences visually.
- Measurement Tools: Measure distances, angles, and areas within the drawing using the measurement tools available in TrueView.
Conclusion
In summary, TrueView is a valuable tool for anyone who needs to view and collaborate on AutoCAD drawings without having an AutoCAD license. By following the installation steps and utilizing its various features, you can easily access and interact with DWG files. Remember to use the navigation, annotation, and measurement tools provided by TrueView to enhance your collaboration experience.