The instructions for using the CAD files are for the progeCad-Smart software but will also apply to almost any AutoCAD or AutoCAD compatible CAD program. In the *.zip file there are 3 CAD files:
- ****STUDYPLANCAD.dwg: This is the AutoCAD (compatible) file.
- ****STUDYPLANCAD.dxf: This is a file (drawing interchange format) that most CAD systems can use except for some of the "home" drawing kinds.
- ****StudyPlanCAD.shx: This is a font file that will insure the text will be displayed correctly. This file should be in the came folder with the *.DWG file.
When you first open the CAD file, you might find that nothing is there. Sometimes the drawing is off center and "out of view". To center the drawing on the screen...
Click... View > Zoom > Extents
This will center the drawing on the screen. What you will see is a list of layers that make up each sheet of the drawing set. All the sheets, with all their layers are in the file, so to work on a specific sheet or plan you must turn on only those layers that apply to that sheet and make sure that the other layers are off.
If you are completely new to CAD software, then I would suggest that you look over the manual that comes with the CAD program and go through any tutorials that are available.
Get the progeCAD-Smart CAD Software Here:
A company who makes professional CAD software also makes a free shareware version. It is called progeCAD-Smart and can be downloaded free at:
www.progesoft.com
Scroll down to the bottom of the page and you will find the link to download. I have downloaded, installed and tested the software and it works just fine.
The following are some of the printers you can use:
- Fedex/Kinkos*
- UPS Store*
- American Reprographics Company (www.e-arc.com).
- Google "Reprographics" or "Blue Printers" for other printers in your area.
* Call them first to see if they can print 18"x24" sheets. Not all
of these stores have the capability.