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Cadalyst Library: Free Downloads
Whitepapers, how-to guides, e-books, and more are available for free download from Cadalyst and our sponsors. Check out the following free resources that can help you make the most of the hardware and software that powers your CAD workflow.
Hardware
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Software
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Hardware
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #8: Six 'Whys' of Choosing a Workstation | How to Choose a CAD Workstation on a Budget | |
 Are you considering a new computer for CAD? Do you know how to start configuring that essential machine - and why? When you plan your next purchase, start with these basics. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
 You’re not looking to splurge on all the bells and whistles; you just need a reliable machine that will get the job done. But what type of configuration will meet your needs? And which components and capabilities are must-haves? The sample configurations and expert advice in this guide will help you decide. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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What Makes a Mobile Workstation?
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 Apart from the form factor, what differentiates mobile workstations from their stationary cousins — and from each other? This overview explains the categories of mobile workstations, the subsystems vendors are using, and why one type of component might be better for your needs than another. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| Cadalyst Guide: Choose the Best Type of Monitor for CAD | ||
 To help you choose the right monitor for your needs, experts from four monitor manufacturers — BenQ, Lenovo, NEC Display Solutions, and ViewSonic - share their perspectives in this seven-page white paper. The guide addresses the most important considerations for CAD users, including QHD vs. UHD/4K resolution; flat and curved form factors; viewing angle; and more! From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| IoT 101: An Introduction to the Internet of Things | Cadalyst Pro Tips #7: Choose the Right CAD Input Device | |
 Have you dismissed the IoT as just another buzzword? Unlike some much-hyped tech trends, this one is here to stay. Take a quick look at the basics and you'll be better equipped to predict the impact of the Internet of Things on your job, your company, and your workflows. If the IoT isn't affecting your work yet, it will - so start preparing now with simple guidance from industry insiders. Download your copy of this free, eight-page white paper today to start your exploration of the IoT! From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now |
 Selecting an input device that works for you is essential, because you'll use it all day, every day. Do you need low cost or high comfort? Corded or wireless? Trackball or vertical grip? To determine which mouse belongs in your house, start with this one-page overview that sorts the many options into needs-based categories. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
Software
| New! The Top CAD Technology Trends of 2018 | New! The Future of CAD File Formats | |
 Which new and evolving technologies are having the biggest impact on CAD managers and users? Should you be keeping an eye on generative design, augmented reality, mobile CAD, or something else? In this seven-page white paper, industry insiders from seven CAD software developers provide their picks for which to watch, and why. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
 Today, the challenges regarding data and files for design-based industries are more diverse than they used to be — and they're evolving rapidly with the development of new storage and computing technologies. How are CAD developers approaching these challenges, and how are their strategies shaping our use of CAD data? Written by industry expert Randall Newton, this white paper provides insights into the complications of new devices and bigger file sizes; web services and the role of the cloud; and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| New! CAD on the Cloud, Today and Tomorrow | Editors' Pick! From 2D CAD to 3D Modeling: Your Guide to the Transition | |
 Cloud-based computing is reshaping the ways that software, hardware, and networks are acquired and deployed. It has already transformed a variety of enterprise services, but adoption of cloud CAD lags behind. What are the advantages, and the reasons for resistance? And what can CAD users expect from cloud solutions in the near future? This eight-page white paper provides insights to give you a clearer understanding of what the cloud means for CAD users. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
 Whether you've already begun switching from 2D to 3D software or you're still considering your options, this free guide by CAD management guru and industry expert Robert Green will help you draft a plan, gather resources, and manage expectations. This eight-page white paper provides advice about choosing a trial project, training users to become productive with the new software, and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| IoT 101: An Introduction to the Internet of Things | Editors' Pick! A CAD Dinosaur's Journey into Modern Times | |
 Have you dismissed the IoT as just another buzzword? Unlike some much-hyped tech trends, this one is here to stay. Take a quick look at the basics and you'll be better equipped to predict the impact of the Internet of Things on your job, your company, and your workflows. If the IoT isn't affecting your work yet, it will - so start preparing now with simple guidance from industry insiders. Download your copy of this free, eight-page white paper today to start your exploration of the IoT! From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
 Sometimes change is hard, but when you're talking about upgrading CAD software and changing to a state-of-the-art professional workstation, it is worth it. Cadalyst's original blog series follows Patrick Hughes, machine designer and owner of Engineered Design Solutions, as he takes the plunge and moves from using AutoCAD Release 14 on an outdated PC to AutoCAD 2015 on a new professional workstation. Follow along in our e- book as this CAD dinosaur finds his way in the 21st century. Sponsored by Intel. Download now. |
| Editors' Pick! Cadalyst Labs Report: DWG-Compatible Software | ||
 Have you been exploring your options in 2D CAD software applications, only to be overwhelmed by the number of products available? This Cadalyst Labs Report by longtime CAD journalist Randall Newton delves into some of the most popular, well-established titles in the market. Learn about the history and importance of the DWG format, software that's available by perpetual purchase as well as by subscription, and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| Executive's Guide to Managing ECOs | ||
 Engineering change requests and change orders are critical components of effective product development - yet many SMBs still manage these processes using sticky notes, email, spreadsheets, or home-grown solutions. This whitepaper discusses why every successful SMB must actively control this process and introduces a solution that is effective, affordable, and right-sized. Learn how automating the change process can improve your business without stressing your staff or budget. Sponsored by IMAGINiT Technologies. Download now. |
| Outsourcing CAD: Tips for AEC Professionals | Cadalyst Pro Tips #6: Favorite Hatch Helpers | |
 Your company must always be ready to adapt to changing workloads, and outsourcing is one way to scale up when needed. But before you turn to an outside firm or individual for a helping hand with your CAD work, learn about the benefits and limitations of outsourcing with this six-page white paper. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now |
 Wondering how to give the various materials in your drawings just the right look? Try a custom hatch pattern! The classic Cadalyst CAD Tips included here are longtime favorites of AutoCAD users. Simply download one of the prepared patterns, or craft your own with the LISP routines. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
| The AEC Professional's Guide to Outsourcing BIM Management | Help Building Owners Get the BIM Data They Really Need | ||
 A good BIM manager is vital to an AEC firm's success. But what constitutes good BIM management? What does it mean to outsource BIM management, and when does it make sense to to do so? If outsourcing is right for you, how do you maximize its benefits and avoid the pitfalls? This whitepaper will answer those questions and provide the needed perspective to help companies make decisions that optimize their BIM initiatives. Sponsored by IMAGINiT. Download now. |
 Teach your clients which model information can help them best manage their facilities - and in turn earn your clients' trust - and build your business. At the project hand-off phase, you need a clear idea of who is getting the data, what information that person needs, and how the data will be managed and kept up to date. Learn how to teach clients to get the most out of BIM data and in turn build your own business. Sponsored by IMAGINiT. Download now. |
| New! Cadalyst Spotlight: Understanding Autodesk Subscription | Cadalyst Pro Tips #3: 18 Questions to Ask Before You Rent CAD Software | |
 This Cadalyst Spotlight issue includes exclusive articles designed to help you understand Autodesk subscriptions, how they could affect your company going forward, and how to determine if you would be better served by moving from single-product licensing to an Autodesk Industry Collection. Sponsored by Autodesk. Download now — no registration required! |
 Trying to decide between perpetual licensing and software subscription? Use our list to be sure you cover all your bases. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
Cadalyst Pro Tips
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #9: Training Checklists for CAD Managers | Cadalyst Pro Tips #8: Six 'Whys' of Choosing a Workstation | |
 Training is an essential task on every CAD manager's to-do list. But with all those little details to remember, preparing a clear, informative training session can be overwhelming. These handy checklists present helpful advice from CAD management expert Robert Green in a concise format that will help you deliver a training session that will make your users — and your boss — happy. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
 Are you considering a new computer for CAD? Do you know how to start configuring that essential machine - and why? When you plan your next purchase, start with these basics. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #7: Choose the Right CAD Input Device | Cadalyst Pro Tips #6: Favorite Hatch Helpers | |
 Selecting an input device that works for you is essential, because you'll use it all day, every day. Do you need low cost or high comfort? Corded or wireless? Trackball or vertical grip? To determine which mouse belongs in your house, start with this one-page overview that sorts the many options into needs-based categories. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
 Wondering how to give the various materials in your drawings just the right look? Try a custom hatch pattern! The classic Cadalyst CAD Tips included here are longtime favorites of AutoCAD users. Simply download one of the prepared patterns, or craft your own with the LISP routines. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #5: Essential Communication Techniques for CAD Managers | Cadalyst Pro Tips #3: 18 Questions to Ask Before You Rent CAD Software | |
 As a CAD manager, communicating effectively with upper management is essential. For example, to get your users the tools they need, you must convince the person holding the purse strings that those purchases are worthy investments. To make these conversations less challenging, try these field-tested techniques from CAD management expert Robert Green. Download now — no registration required! |
Trying to decide between perpetual licensing and software subscription? Many factors may influence your choice. Download this one-page tip sheet to learn what to ask when making your next CAD software licensing decision. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
CAD Management
| New! Cadalyst Spotlight: Understanding Autodesk Subscription | New! The Future of CAD File Formats | |
 This Cadalyst Spotlight issue includes exclusive articles designed to help you understand Autodesk subscriptions, how they could affect your company going forward, and how to determine if you would be better served by moving from single-product licensing to an Autodesk Industry Collection. Sponsored by Autodesk. Download now. |
 Today, the challenges regarding data and files for design-based industries are more diverse than they used to be — and they're evolving rapidly with the development of new storage and computing technologies. How are CAD developers approaching these challenges, and how are their strategies shaping our use of CAD data? Written by industry expert Randall Newton, this white paper provides insights into the complications of new devices and bigger file sizes; web services and the role of the cloud; and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| New! CAD on the Cloud, Today and Tomorrow | Editors' Pick! From 2D CAD to 3D Modeling: Your Guide to the Transition | |
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Cloud-based computing is reshaping the ways that software, hardware, and networks are acquired and deployed. It has already transformed a variety of enterprise services, but adoption of cloud CAD lags behind. What are the advantages, and the reasons for resistance? And what can CAD users expect from cloud solutions in the near future? This eight-page white paper provides insights to give you a clearer understanding of what the cloud means for CAD users. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
 Whether you've already begun switching from 2D to 3D software or you're still considering your options, this free guide by CAD management guru and industry expert Robert Green will help you draft a plan, gather resources, and manage expectations. This eight-page white paper provides advice about choosing a trial project, training users to become productive with the new software, and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now |
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #9: Training Checklists for CAD Managers | Editors' Pick! Cadalyst Labs Report: DWG-Compatible Software | |
 Training is an essential task on every CAD manager's to-do list. But with all those little details to remember, preparing a clear, informative training session can be overwhelming. These handy checklists present helpful advice from CAD management expert Robert Green in a concise format that will help you deliver a training session that will make your users — and your boss — happy. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
 Have you been exploring your options in 2D CAD software applications, only to be overwhelmed by the number of products available? This Cadalyst Labs Report by longtime CAD journalist Randall Newton delves into some of the most popular, well-established titles in the market. Learn about the history and importance of the DWG format, software that's available by perpetual purchase as well as by subscription, and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
| Cadalyst Pro Tips #5: Essential Communication Techniques for CAD Managers | ||
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As a CAD manager, communicating effectively with upper management is essential. For example, to get your users the tools they need, you must convince the person holding the purse strings that those purchases are worthy investments. To make these conversations less challenging, try these field-tested techniques from CAD management expert Robert Green. Download now — no registration required! |
