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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
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New! What Makes a Mobile Workstation?
 Cadalyst has asked the question, "What makes a mobile workstation?" before, but in today's fast-moving market, the answers are changing. This overview explores the rapidly evolving market, describes the three primary product tiers, and explains why professional-grade components or systems can better serve designers and engineers. Download this updated guide to learn about new technologies affecting the market, which factors differentiate mobile workstations from standard laptops, and what to expect from entry-level, midrange, and high-end models. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
New! CAD Workstation Form Factors 101
 With so many types of workstation models on the market today — and new arrivals appearing all the time — the options for CAD professionals have become much more diverse. While the proliferation of mobile, mini, remote, and even luggable form factors creates more flexibility, it also can create confusion. To get a clearer view of your options, download this 30-page guide, which compiles workstation expert Alex Herrera's entire five-part form factor series into one convenient resource. It's packed with clear, detailed explanations and illustrations that can inform your workstation selection process. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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New! Workstation vs. PC: Which Performed Better?
 In the race to meet design deadlines, which options wins — a gaming PC or a professional workstation? Led by hardware expert Alex Herrera, Cadalyst put that question to the test, running CAD-related benchmark tests to evaluate the performance of a $2,200 professional CAD workstation against a $2,100 PC outfitted for gaming. See the results in this 11-page white paper — based on actual benchmark results — and decide for yourself which option makes sense to support your workload. Sponsored by Intel. Download now. |
Choose the Right CPUs for CAD Workstations
 When it comes to the options available in workstation-caliber CPUs for CAD professionals, OEMs and users alike are seeing an expanding choice of brands and configurations to choose from. And while that might make for a more challenging shopping exercise, a few simple guidelines from workstation expert Alex Herrera can help you narrow choices down quickly and outfit your next CAD machine with an optimal CPU for your workload. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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A Closer Look at State-of-the-Art Workstation Technology
 Both workstations and standard PCs comprise components such as processors, memory, and storage disks, right? So why, then, do workstations outperform standard PCs by such wide margins? CAD management expert Robert Green explains how the components in workstations utilize state-of-the-art technologies that standard PCs simply don’t offer — and that cutting-edge technology makes all the difference when it comes to supporting compute- and graphics-intensive applications. Sponsored by HP and Windows 10 Pro. Download now. |
CAD Manager’s Guide to the HP Z2 Mini Workstation
 This guide, developed by the editors of Cadalyst, includes three exclusive articles developed especially for CAD managers:"7 Reasons CAD Managers Can’t Ignore the HP Z2 Mini," "How the HP Z2 Mini Makes Your Job Easier," and "Is the HP Z2 Mini Right for Your CAD Staff?" Download your copy now to learn why and how this miniature marvel could be just the answer for supporting 2D and entry-level 3D CAD work without breaking the bank. Sponsored by HP and Windows 10 Pro. Download now. |
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How Workstations Can Benefit the Bottom Line
 Professional workstations provide much more power and performance than standard PCs, but they come at a higher price, and many companies simply don’t understand the cost savings to be gained by implementing workstations. This white paper explains the return on investment (ROI) of HP workstations — that is, when companies employ highly salaried engineers, designers, architects, or creative professionals, workstations can save much more than they cost by keeping those experts productive over time. Sponsored by HP and Windows 10 Pro. Download now |
How to Choose a CAD Workstation on a Budget — 2018 Edition
 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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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. |
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IoT 101: An Introduction to the Internet of Things
 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 |
Cadalyst Pro Tips #7: Choose the Right CAD Input Device
 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
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New! An Introduction to Generative Design
 Generative design is opening new opportunities for solving design problems. It's also turning traditional workflows upside down, moving simulation ahead of model creation. But what is generative design? It’s a category of technologies that suggests design options, or optimizes an existing design, to meet criteria defined by the user. Understanding the basics of the technology and terminology involved can help you decide if it’s time to share your AEC or product development workload with generative design tools. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
Cadalyst Spotlight: The Cloud for CAD and IT Professionals
 This Cadalyst Spotlight issue presents articles designed to help you understand how cloud technology is rapidly changing the development, procurement, and use of CAD software. Topics include decision-making metrics for cloud-based CAD, virtual workstations, and more. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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Real-Time Rendering for Visualization and Virtual Reality
 Real-time rendering is here now, and well within reach of architecture, engineering, and product development companies of any size. This 10-page white paper will help you better understand the technology, in particular Unreal Engine and Unreal Studio; discuss the realities of adopting Unreal Engine in terms of the learning curve and required time and financial investment; and present the payoffs for those who make the move. Sponsored by Epic Games. Download now. |
Fabulous Freebies for CAD Users
 The editors of Cadalyst, with help from our contributing editors and readers who are in the CAD trenches day in and day out, have compiled this guide to helpful tools and resources that don't cost a cent. Download the new edition of this popular guide and you'll soon be asking yourself, "How did I live without this?" Download now. |
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The Future of CAD File Formats
 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. |
CAD on the Cloud, Today and Tomorrow
 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. |
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Editors' Pick! From 2D CAD to 3D Modeling: Your Guide to the Transition
 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
 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. |
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New! Product Developers Reap Early Benefits of AR/VR
 Augmented, virtual, and mixed reality (AR, VR, and MR) solutions are no longer limited to sci-fi imaginings or video game applications. Big-name firms are applying these technologies on the front lines of product design, manufacturing, and maintenance in aerospace, automotive, and beyond. This white paper, written by design industry veteran Randall Newton, explains the basic differences between the technologies and showcases notable examples of companies using them today. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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New! Cadalyst Spotlight: Virtual Reality for Architects
 Virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a highly effective way for architects as well as their clients to experience a space while it's still in the design process. Adding Autodesk Revit Live to the Revit design workflow now brings virtual reality within easy reach of architects. A new edition of Spotlight by Cadalyst highlights how architects are putting VR to practical use and how Revit Live is making the process easy. Sponsored by Autodesk. Download now |
New! The State of Reality Capture for AEC Projects
 Reality capture — the collection of data that describes real-world structures, objects, and landforms — is evolving rapidly, as technologies become less expensive, more powerful, and easier to use. That’s good news for AEC professionals, who are bringing more drone-mounted cameras, laser scanners, photogrammetry software applications, and related technologies into their workflows, according to five solution vendors with shares of this growing market. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now |
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Outsourcing CAD: Tips for AEC Professionals
 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 |
Cadalyst Pro Tips #6: Favorite Hatch Helpers
 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! |
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The AEC Professional's Guide to Outsourcing BIM Management
 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. |
Help Building Owners Get the BIM Data They Really Need
 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. |
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Cadalyst Pro Tips #3: 18 Questions to Ask Before You Rent CAD Software
 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
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Cadalyst Pro Tips #10: Questions to Ask Before Adopting BIM
 Although it's not yet ubiquitous, building information modeling has become much more common in AEC and civil engineering environments in recent years. As with any technology that’s increasing in popularity, you may feel pressured to implement it. But before you make the leap, explore the issue with a critical eye and answer the questions in this tip sheet. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
Cadalyst Pro Tips #9: Training Checklists for CAD Managers
 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! |
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Cadalyst Pro Tips #7: Choose the Right CAD Input Device
 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! |
Cadalyst Pro Tips #6: Favorite Hatch Helpers
 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! |
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Cadalyst Pro Tips #5: Essential Communication Techniques for CAD Managers
 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! |
Cadalyst Pro Tips #3: 18 Questions to Ask Before You Rent CAD Software
 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
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New! A CAD Manager's Guide to Reducing Errors
 This guide compiles three of Robert Green's CAD Manager columns: a two-part series on adapting quality control techniques for CAD, and an overview of common CAD management mistakes. Whether your problems stem from users who ignore standards, a company culture that doesn't prioritize quality, or self-sabotaging management techniques, this guide will set you on the path to greater efficiency, fewer mistakes, and better results. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
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New! A CAD Manager’s Wish List
 This list condenses main points from Robert Green’s CAD Manager column of the same name into a printer-friendly single-sheet resource. Get your copy for easy sharing with your users, bosses, other departments within your company, and more! From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now — no registration required! |
CAD Manager’s Guide to the HP Z2 Mini Workstation
This guide, developed by the editors of Cadalyst, includes three exclusive articles developed especially for CAD managers:"7 Reasons CAD Managers Can’t Ignore the HP Z2 Mini," "How the HP Z2 Mini Makes Your Job Easier," and "Is the HP Z2 Mini Right for Your CAD Staff?" Download your copy now to learn why and how this miniature marvel could be just the answer for supporting 2D and entry-level 3D CAD work without breaking the bank. Sponsored by HP and Windows 10 Pro. Download now. |
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New! The Why and How of CAD Standards
 The CAD environment has changed, making CAD standards a much more complex — and perplexing — challenge than in the past. It’s time to rebuild your standards to reflect this new reality. This 15-page guide features the practical advice and easy-to-follow action checklists that CAD management expert Robert Green is known for. His entire four-part series of CAD Manager columns on standards is compiled here. From the editors of Cadalyst. Download now. |
Fabulous Freebies for CAD Users
The editors of Cadalyst, with help from our contributing editors and readers who are in the CAD trenches day in and day out, have compiled this guide to helpful tools and resources that don't cost a cent. Download the new edition of this popular guide and you'll soon be asking yourself, "How did I live without this?" Download now. |
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The Future of CAD File Formats
 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. |
CAD on the Cloud, Today and Tomorrow
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. |
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Editors' Pick! From 2D CAD to 3D Modeling: Your Guide to the Transition
 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
 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! |
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Cadalyst Pro Tips #5: Essential Communication Techniques for CAD Managers
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! |
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