Autodesk 2014 portfolio release

Autodesk has announced their 2014 portfolio of tools for design, engineering and entertainment and they invite you to join for a special webcast on March 26, 2013 at 8am Pacific, 11am Eastern, 3pm UK and 4pm Europe to learn more. Via In the Fold.

Stay tuned for more news about AutoCAD 2014, AutoCAD Architecture 2014, Autodesk Building Design Suite 2014 (includes Revit) and much more…

Autodesk Official Show Reel 2013

BTW. Check out the new look on Autodesk’s website.

Autodesk focuses a lot on suites so some products are only available as part of a suite like for example Revit.

AutoCAD Design Suite Standard 2014

Building Design Suite 2014

Entertainment Creation Suite 2014

Factory Design Suite 2014

Infrastructure Design Suite 2014

Plant Design Suite 2014

Product Design Suite 2014

Press release below:

SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The new Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK) Design and Creation Suites offer unprecedented access to the Autodesk 2014 software portfolio spanning the desktop and cloud and allow building, product, plant, and factory design; engineering, construction and infrastructure; and entertainment creation professionals to innovate more. For the first time, the 2014 Design and Creation Suites include new reality capture software and services that more easily incorporate both laser scans and digital photographs of the physical world into the 3D design and engineering process.

“Autodesk’s commitment to making our 3D design, engineering and entertainment software portfolio accessible to customers through suites workflows that connect to value added services in the cloud is unwavering.”

The flexible, economical software access provided by Autodesk Suites means designers and engineers have a broader palette of tools to choose from — they can choose the best tool for the job at hand and better respond to changing business requirements. Suites customers on Autodesk Subscription will also have access to select Autodesk 360 cloud services that extend designers and engineers’ workflows to explore more design alternatives, collaborate more effectively and experience greater mobility. Subscription customers now can purchase additional cloud capacity as well.

“With our 2014 portfolio, organizations large and small across every industry can simply innovate more,” said Andrew Anagnost, senior vice president of Industry Strategy and Marketing at Autodesk. “Autodesk’s commitment to making our 3D design, engineering and entertainment software portfolio accessible to customers through suites workflows that connect to value added services in the cloud is unwavering.”

The 2014 family of Autodesk Design and Creation Suites includes:

• Autodesk AutoCAD Design Suite
• Autodesk Building Design Suite
• Autodesk Entertainment Creation Suite
• Autodesk Factory Design Suite
• Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite
• Autodesk Plant Design Suite
• Autodesk Product Design Suite

Comprehensive Industry Workflows Include Reality Capture

A key addition to the 2014 portfolio of suites is Autodesk ReCap, a family of new reality capture software and cloud services that simplify the process of creating intelligent 3D data of physical objects and environments using laser scans and photos, allowing customers to bring the actual job site or physical objects into their design and engineering process.

Rather than beginning with a blank screen, designers and engineers can add, modify, validate and document their design process in context. For example, a civil engineer can bypass an existing bridge or expand the road underneath digitally and test feasibility with accurate survey data. At construction phase, builders can run digital clash detection to truly understand if existing utilities will be in the way. Urban planners can get answers to specific design questions about large areas, such as how much building roof surface is covered by shadow or vegetation.

The 2014 suites’ industry specific workflows address specific user needs and strengthen compatibility between products. For example, suites containing Autodesk Revit products and Autodesk AutoCAD software enjoy tighter interoperability so when it is time to import forms from AutoCAD into Revit products, the forms retain much greater integrity, or when it is time to output drawings in AutoCAD, users can generate 2D documentation within Revit products. Suites containing Autodesk Revit and Autodesk Inventor software will benefit from tighter interoperability that allows customers, such as building product manufacturers, to simplify and export an Inventor model into a Revit file format for the construction environment without exposing any sensitive intellectual property.

Better Together: Desktop and Cloud

Autodesk 360 extends the suites workflow advantage by connecting the desktop to secure and virtually infinite computing power in the cloud, helping subscribers rapidly design, visualize, simulate, and share their ideas anywhere, anytime.

Illustrating the power of a combining the cloud and desktop, Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite 2014 and Autodesk Building Design Suite 2014 introduce Autodesk InfraWorks software and Autodesk InfraWorks 360 cloud services. These new tools help accelerate the adoption of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud-based workflows for the planning, design, construction and management of civil infrastructure projects. Helping improve the civil infrastructure design process by engineering in 3D from the start, the software and services allow collaboration with a broad set of stakeholders on mobile and desktop platforms, and enables communication in new and visually compelling ways. Autodesk InfraWorks allows civil engineers and planners to design within the context of the real-world environment, helping to deliver projects, both large and small, by more efficiently managing even large-scale infrastructure models.

Economical Access

Finally, each suite offers an economical way for customers to access their primary design software—plus the complementary software and cloud services needed to more effectively complete design, engineering, or entertainment creation tasks. The 2014 Suites, which come in Standard, Premium or Ultimate editions, offer greater value than ever before:

• Standard editions of all suites containing AutoCAD have added AutoCAD Raster Design software.
• Autodesk Building Design Suite subscribers gain access to Autodesk Green Building Studio and energy analysis cloud services in the standard edition, as well as InfraWorks 2014 and the Optimization for Inventor cloud service in the Ultimate edition.
• Autodesk Entertainment Creation Suite customers will benefit from new workflows like the ability to easily generate moving or idle crowds with populate, improved viewport display and shading, and the ability to create production-quality meshes with the new retopologizing options.
• Autodesk Factory Design Suite includes more than 300 new factory assets.
• Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite Premium now includes Autodesk InfraWorks 2014, Autodesk Roads and Highways Module for InfraWorks, Autodesk AutoCAD Utility Design software and for the first time, a single, comprehensive version of Autodesk Revit products that combines tools for architectural design, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering and structural engineering.
• Autodesk Plant Design Suite Ultimate adds Autodesk Inventor with Routed Systems, and the Plant Design Suite Premium edition now includes Autodesk 3ds Max Design software.
• Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium now includes Autodesk Inventor Professional, and Autodesk Navisworks Manage has been added to the Product Design Suite Ultimate edition for clash detection. Both Product Design Suite Ultimate and Premium customers on Autodesk Subscription now have access to the Optimization for Inventor cloud service.

Availability

Availability varies by country. Suites customers on Subscription have access to select Autodesk 360 capabilities, and subscribers can purchase 100 additional cloud credits for only $100. See details and purchasing options at http://www.autodesk.com/purchaseoptions.

About Autodesk

Autodesk helps people imagine, design and create a better world. Everyone—from design professionals, engineers and architects to digital artists, students and hobbyists—uses Autodesk software to unlock their creativity and solve important challenges. For more information visit autodesk.com or follow @autodesk.

Hotfix - Autodesk Revit 2013 - Stability, Productivity and Server

This hotfix for Revit addresses issues in the following areas so you surely want to install it:
Revit Stability and Productivity:

• Prevents data loss during upgrade of families containing specific material parameters.
• Improves stability and memory usage within graphics display.
• Improves vector print output of transparent elements and masking regions.
• Prevents accidental data loss during cancellation of the in-place family editor.

Revit Server:

• Revit would occasionally report that an operation could not be completed when attempting a worksharing operation after a period of inactivity, if Riverbed devices were used in conjunction with Revit Server. A subsequent retry of the operation would then succeed. When this hotfix is applied to Revit, this behavior is eliminated. No changes to Revit Server are required.

Get it here: DL21147820

See also Autodesk Revit 2013 Update Release 2

Autodesk’s Official support for Windows 8

Have you started using Windows 8 or plan to do it? If so you may wonder what Autodesk says about support for their products.

Is compatible with ?

Windows 8 Support for Autodesk products

According to KB id TS19048377

Issue

You want to know which Autodesk products are supported on Microsoft Windows® 8.

Note: Unless indicated otherwise, this information applies to the 2013-2010 versions of all Autodesk products. Autodesk product versions of 2009 and earlier are no longer supported and are not included in considerations of Windows 8 compatibility.

Solution

Autodesk intends to support many of our key products on Windows 8 and will add additional products to the list of products supported on Windows 8 as updates and future versions are released. Product Support will provide its best effort to assist customers who have issues with products that are not currently supported.

The Autodesk products listed below have been tested and are confirmed as working correctly on Microsoft Windows 8 operating system:

• Autodesk 3ds Max 2013
• Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2013
• Autodesk Maya 2013
• Autodesk MotionBuilder 2013
• Autodesk Mudbox 2013
• Autodesk Softimage 2013
• Autodesk SketchBook Designer 2013

Note: This technical solution will be updated as new Windows 8 compatibility information becomes available.

See also Windows 8 and Autodesk product compatibility

Windows 8 and Autodesk product compatibility

If you like to know about Microsoft Windows 8 compatibility of Autodesk products you can visit the Windows 8 Compatibility Center and search for your product.

What does Microsoft say?

Here are a couple of examples:

AutoCAD 2013 is compatible with Windows 8.

Autodesk Revit 2013 is compatible with Windows 8.

But what does Autodesk say?

This is according to TS19048377

You want to know if you can run AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, or AutoCAD-based vertical products on Microsoft Windows 8.

At this time, Windows® 8 and the Windows® 8 Consumer Preview are not supported operating systems for any AutoCAD versions.  The AutoCAD team is investigating compatibility with these new platforms, but we do not have any further information at this time. In the meantime, please refer to Operating system compatibility for AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT for details on currently supported operating systems.

Windows 7 was released July 22, 2009 not a long time after AutoCAD 2010 was released in March 24, 2009. In the case with AutoCAD 2010 Windows 7 became supported by Autodesk. We have to wait and see if Autodesk officially will support some or all of their 2013 products on Windows 8 or not.

UPDATE: Autodesk’s Official support for Windows 8

Autodesk Revit 2013 Update Release 2

Update Release 2 for Autodesk Revit 2013 products is not a full install; rather it is using service pack technology similar to AutoCAD-based products.

Downloads here:
Autodesk Revit 2013 UR2
Autodesk Revit Architecture 2013 UR2
Autodesk Revit Structure 2013 UR2
Autodesk Revit MEP 2013 UR2

Autodesk Revit Platform 2013 Enhancements

• Improves stability when Save to Central or Sync with Central.
• Improves stability when utilizing Create Assembly Views from the project browser.
• Improves stability when editing a label within the family editor.
• Improves stability when saving file to a location with low disc space.
• Improves stability when launching Export gbXML – Settings dialog.
• Improves stability and memory usage within graphics display.
• Improves stability during IFC data import which contains openings with no usable geometry.
• Improves stability when importing IFC data which imported into Revit 2012 with warnings.
• Improves import of clipped solids during IFC import.
• Improves IFC Export to support buildingSMART International IFC certification.
• Improves stability when linking or attached DWG files.
• Improves stability of printing after Export to DWG or DXF format.
• Improves stability when creating, duplicating or deleting a material in the Material Editor.
• Improves the retention of part parameters within a part upgraded from Revit 2012.
• Corrects ribbon tab population after installing .NET 4.5
• Improves stability while editing calculated values within a schedule after deleting a parameter used in a formula.
• Improves stability with schedules which contains a filter based upon a user defined parameter and elements in linked files do not contain the user defined parameter.
• Improves stability when opening Sun Settings dialog.
• Improves stability when editing Text Notes.
• Improves stability when upgrading Revit 2012 project to Revit 2013.
• Improves stability when moving a Crop Region which utilizes the disjoin option.

Autodesk Revit Architecture 2013 Enhancements

• Improves stability when upgrading 2012 project which contains analytical walls.
• Improves stability when adjusting multiple sketch lines of a floor at the same moment.
• Improves stability when editing the gutters on a roof object with the Add/Remove Segment tool.
• Improves stability when renaming a Stair run type or landing to ‘none’.
• Improves stability when using the ribbon Cancel Edit Mode button to exit Stair Edit Mode. 
• Improves stability when using an open profile for a wall sweep.
• Improves stability when splitting a wall.

Autodesk Revit Structure 2013 Enhancements

• Enables the Area, Area Boundary and Tag Area ribbon commands.
• Improves stability when using Beam Systems.
• Improves the respect of the Top In-Plane parameter for Analytical Models Walls after wall is modified.
• Improves the joining of Rebar to the host surfaces.
• Improves retention of Rebar Shapes upgraded within Revit 2012 projects.
• Improves stability when editing Rebar Shapes in the Family Editor.
• Improves display of underlay items in non-wireframe Structural Views.

Autodesk Revit MEP 2013 Enhancements

• Improves stability when sizing Duct.
• Corrects the use of tees when specified in duct routing preferences within projects upgraded from Revit 2012.
• Improves stability when upgrading a pipe fitting connected to multiple systems.
• Improves stability when editing duct fitting size in the active view and then editing the duct fitting type in the Property Palette.

Autodesk Revit LT

Just like with AutoCAD there is AutoCAD LT, there will be a Revit LT with lower price than Revit but limited functionality. Take a look and see if it may be relevant for you.

Here’s some info about the upcoming Autodesk Revit LT 2013.

Revit LT could help to make the move to BIM.
The features in Autodesk Revit LT are specifically built to support Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows for high-quality design and documentation. Use the intuitive 3D modeling tools to visualize and communicate your designs more clearly, and meet the demand for BIM deliverables. And create photorealistic 3D architectural renderings in the cloud with Autodesk 360 Rendering, available with Autodesk Subscription.

How does Revit LT support the BIM process?
Revit LT supports the BIM process by creating coordinated, consistent, and quantifiable information about a building project throughout design and construction. BIM helps give design professionals insight to their projects with the ability to keep design information upto-date, and extract information from the building model during any stage of design. This insight helps professionals design more efficiently, obtain earlier approvals, and deliver higher quality, more easily constructible projects with fewer complications during the construction process.  

Who is Revit LT for?
Revit LT is intended for building design professionals working on projects that can be completed independently or with limited internal collaboration but could benefit from a BIM-based workflow to produce more accurate, coordinated designs and documentation. Revit LT is ideal for single users who do not need to collaborate in the same project file simultaneously with others in the firm, and who do not need access to energy or structural analysis tools. 

What is AutoCAD Revit LT Suite 2013 software?
AutoCAD Revit LT Suite 2013 is a bundle consisting of Autodesk Revit LT 2013 and AutoCAD LT 2013 software with a single serial number and a single authorization code. This combination enables you to maintain your investment in AutoCAD LT, while, when you’re ready, offering the flexibility to move to BIM with help from Revit LT.

What are the differences between Autodesk Revit and Revit LT?
Autodesk Revit LT contains a subset of the features in the Autodesk Revit software, available in Autodesk Building Design Suite Premium and Ultimate editions. A basic summary of additional functionality included in Autodesk Revit is below:

Included in Revit LT: Single, Coordinated Model, Autodesk 360 Rendering, Intelligent (Parametric) Components

Not included in Revit LT: Worksharing (Multiuser Environment),Autodesk 360 Energy Analysis for Autodesk Revit, Near-Photorealistic Rendering within the Product, Conceptual Massing, Adaptive Components, Exports to gbXML, and  IFC file format, Interference Checking, Copy/Monitor, Construction Modeling - Parts and Assemblies and Autodesk Revit LT does not support 3rd party API.

Price?
Autodesk Revit LT 2013 stand alone price will be $1200 (MSRP in USD) and the AutoCAD Revit LT Suite 2013 will be $1500 (MSRP USD). You can save up to 50% when you upgrade from AutoCAD LT to AutoCAD Revit LT Suite.

Sounds interesting? If so visit www.autodesk.com/revitlt. September 18, 2012 the 30 day trial for Autodesk Revit LT will be available and to purchase it you also have to wait a while more.

• Launch Territories: North America, Northern Europe, UK, Central Europe, and Japan
• Launch Languages: English, German, Japanese

The old Project Spark Technology Preview (pre-Revit LT) is still available on Autodesk Labs at: http://labs.autodesk.com/utilities/spark

Revit 2013 Update Release 1

Revit 2013 Update Release 1 is now available and this time there is no need to do a full install instead service pack technology is being used. Download links below as well as a list of all enhancements.

Downloads:

Revit Architecture 2013 Update Release 1: DL20121970 (Applies to: AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite 2013 and Autodesk Revit Architecture 2013)

Revit Structure 2013 Update Release 1: DL20122015 (Applies to: AutoCAD Revit Structure Suite 2013, Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite Ultimate 2013, Autodesk Plant Design Suite Ultimate 2013 and Autodesk Revit Structure 2013)

Revit MEP 2013 Update Release 1: DL20122070 (Applies to: AutoCAD Revit MEP Suite 2013 and Autodesk Revit MEP 2013)

Revit 2013 Update Release 1: DL20121968 (Applies to Autodesk Building Design Suite Premium 2013, Autodesk Building Design Suite Ultimate 2013 and Autodesk Revit 2013)

Improvements made in Update 1 build (20120716_1115):

Autodesk Revit Platform 2013 Enhancements
- Improves stability when opening projects from previous versions of Revit.
- Improves stability during Copy/Paste operations.
- Corrects display of solid filled regions with transparent backgrounds.
- Allows exporting of materials painted on elements to ODBC.
- Improves performance of opening and closing sketch mode in projects with many families.
- Improves stability when setting a Design Option as the Primary.
- Improves stability when Fixed Distance option for a divided path.
- Improves stability while browsing to Revit Server when there is no network connectivity.
- Improves export consistency of Space and Zone elements when multiple elements have the same name and number.
- Allows Raytrace mode to work with DirectX 9.
- Improves stability when using Raytrace mode with Hardware Acceleration disabled.
- Improves Raytrace mode rendering output.
- Improves Surface Transparency override by element for multiple selection.
- Improves printing consistency when tone mapping is enabled.
- Disables Sun and SunPath from being rendered in Raytrace mode.
- Improves stability when using manual exposure in Raytrace mode.
- Improves stability when rendering views.
- Improves stability and performance when using visualization features like Sky, Exposure, and Anti-Aliasing.
- Improves stability when importing IFC data which contains special characters.
- Improves the setting of custom parameter values during import of IFC data.
- Improves stability when importing IFC data which contains an invalid line pattern.
- Allows Markups from DWF to be exported to DWF.
- Improves stability when drag and drop a DWG file into a Revit project.
- Improves stability when importing DXF data.
- Improves dimension fidelity when exporting to DWG with export units set to Meter.
- Improves alignment of hatch and fill patterns when exporting to DWG.
- Improves stability when selecting a new host for an element within an In-place Wall.
- Improves section creation within a project with linked model.
- Improves stability when working with Materials.
- Improves the displayed Pattern Type assigned to an element with the Material Editor.
- Corrects the display of the materials category within the Paint interface.
- Corrects the printed display of fill patterns within perspective views.
- Improves stability of Type editing when multiple element types are in the selection set.

Autodesk Revit Architecture 2013 Enhancements 
- Improves stability when closing a sketch editor, such as slab, site, etc., which create a large number of points. 
- Improves creation of U-shaped winder stairs. 
- Improves stability when editing winder stairs.
- Improves performance when many railings exist within a project.
- Improves stability when support type is not defined for stair. 
- Improves railing representation in coarse view.

Autodesk Revit Structure 2013 Enhancements 
- Improves placement of analytical nodes when in 3D views. 
- Improves stability when enabling “Show Analytical Model Categories in this View” when the Warning dialog is open.
- Improves creation consistency with Physical Wall when coping an Analytical Model Wall.
- Improves stability when editing an Opening within an object which spans to the boundary of an Analytical Surface.
- Corrects the reporting of the “Structural Parameter” on slabs.
- Improves masking of linked files by Mask and Filled regions in Structural Views.
- Improves stability when placing Rebar.
- Improves stability when copying Area or Path reinforcement between projects which have differing value for the Reinforcement Project Setting: “Host structural rebar”. 
- Improves visibility of round rebar when displayed in fine detail level.
Autodesk® Revit® MEP 2013 Enhancements
- Corrects the Slope value on placeholder pipe when slope is greater than 15 degrees. 
- Improves consistency when applying a slope to a layout which contains a transition. 
- Improves stability when splitting pipes which belong to different systems. 
- Corrects visibility of the center line when displaying rise/drop symbols.
- Improves stability when opening a Revit 2012 project which contains a pipe placeholder schedule. 
- Improves consistency of unit formatting within Panel Schedules .
- Improves consistency of adding circuits to equipment that are connected to a pipe or duct system.
- Improves stability when adding a device, which is connected to a wire, to a circuit.
- Improves display of annotation on duct and pipe transitions. 
- Improves stability when inserting duct fittings. 
- Improves stability when viewing Routing Solutions.

There are also several Autodesk Revit API 2013 Enhancements:
- Allows Document.PostFailure to be used to post multiple errors during a single transaction that do not reference an ElementId.
- Improves stability using UIApplication.DoDragDrop when a Revit command (such as the Wall tool) was active.
- Improves stability by disabling keyboard shortcuts (except view zoom shortcuts) when a PreviewControl is active.
- Improves stability in ReferenceIntersector.FindNearest() when no matching target pick is found.
- Corrects validation logic to allow NewFamilyInstance to place face-based families on transformed family instances.
- Dimension.Above and Dimension.Below now update the dimension after their data is changed without requiring any user action.
- The properties MechanicalSystem.SystemType, ElectricalConnector.SystemType,
PipeConnector.SystemType are obsolete in Revit 2013. Instead query the parameter
RBS_DUCT_CONNECTOR_SYSTEM_CLASSIFICATION_PARAM on ConnectorElement.
- Corrects data reported with ConnectorManager.UnusedConnectors.
- Fixes a file corruption that could occur when extensible storage data was added to an element in a central file.
- Improves stability when saving a file with extensible storage data that overwrites an existing file that also contains extensible storage.
- RVT Links created with RevitLinkType.Create will remain loaded when the RVT containing the link is reopened.
- Previously, setting 'suppressBendRadius' to true in method Rebar.GetCenterlineCurves() would cause both fillet bends and user-drawn, parameterized arcs to be omitted from the collection of curves returned by the method.  The method now omits only the fillet bends; the drawn arcs are included along with the straight edges.
- Updates Rebar.GetCenterlineCurves() method with an additional argument: a MultiplanarOption (enum), which should be set to IncludeAllMultiplanarCurves or IncludeOnlyPlanarCurves.  This argument controls whether all curves of a multi-planar Rebar instance are returned, or only those which lie in the primary plane.
- Enables method Rebar.ComputeDrivingCurves().  This method returns a collection of curves that includes the lines and arcs that drive the shape, but excludes fillets and hooks.  It is equivalent to calling GetCenterlinCurves(adjustForSelfIntersection=false, suppressHooks=true,  suppressBendRadius=true, multiplanarOption=IncludeOnlyPlanarCurves)
- Improvements have been made in RebarShape methods that deal with matching RebarShapes to collections of curves: CreateFromCurvesAndShape(), RebarShapeMatchesCurvesAndHooks().
- Corrects behavior ot RebarShape.Create() method to not ignore the out-of-plane bend diameter specified in the RebarShapeMultiplanarDefinition argument object, and always used an internal
default value.

Software Vendor Audits are Increasing

Gartner has recently published the study “The Software Vendors That Are Auditing Now and What to Do About It”.

At Gartner's IT Financial, Procurement and Asset Management Summits in September 2011, they asked 228 attendees about software vendor audits. That survey revealed that 65% of respondents reported at least one software vendor audit in the previous 12 months, up from 61% the year before. Back in 2007 only 35% of respondents had been audited.

The vendors doing most audits were IBM, Adobe, Microsoft, Oracle and SAP and during recent years the audits has increased. Other vendors mentioned were McAfee, Attachmate, HP, Autodesk and VMware. Even WinZip Computing was included (if you can’t afford or want to pay for WinZip there is the 7-Zip open source).

Gartner recommends that CIOs and IT managers should proactively look at SAM and license compliance as ongoing disciplines, to manage audits and improve financial responsibility and accountability, rather than leaving them as audit-driven projects when it may be a case of too little, too late. There is also the recommendation to identify the significant financial risks facing from software license compliance issues to help justify investment in the software asset management (SAM) discipline.

One solution that can help with companies SAM is JTB World’s JTB FlexReport.

JTB FlexReport is a report tool for applications using the FlexNet / FLEXlm (flexlm license manager), IBM LUM (IBM License Use Management), SPLM (Intergraph SmartPlant License Manager), SLM/Sentinel LM/Sentinel RMS, LM-X, Solidworks SNL License Manager, T-Systems license manager product LICMAN, Primavera from Oracle or 12D software licensing.

See also our free JTB FlexReport LT that can easily be distributed within your company to anyone that needs to see current usage of FlexNet/FLEXlm based products.

Turn point clouds into pipes in AutoCAD and Revit

ClearEdge3D has a pretty groundbreaking technology for extracting features from laser scan point clouds.  Their clients are reporting time saving in their modeling workflows of more than 50%. The company is exhibiting at Autodesk University where they are debuting their plug-in for AutoCAD and Revit, which will allow users to extract geometry from point cloud data directly in the AutoCAD and Revit platforms.  Check them out at booth number 919.

Autodesk 360 for BIM

Autodesk Showcases Project Collaboration, Data and Lifecycle Management to More Than 8,000 Autodesk University Attendees in Las Vegas according to this press release.

Autodesk brought the power of the cloud, mobile computing and its industry-defining Building Information Modeling (BIM) portfolio together at Autodesk University. The design, engineering and entertainment software leader showcased a BIM solution to dramatically improve how AEC project team members connect, collaborate and communicate on building projects.

Autodesk’s BIM offering is part of Autodesk 360 solutions: flexible, easy to use and affordable solutions developed to streamline product and project business processes. The solutions are capable of scaling from individual users connecting to a regional office, up to larger teams working on projects across continents.

“Today’s AEC projects are often hindered by widely dispersed teams relying on inefficient communications and collaboration services,” said Jim Lynch, vice president, Architecture, Engineering and Construction Solutions, Autodesk. “Autodesk 360 for BIM is a powerful and comprehensive set of cloud-based and on-premise tools that can have project teams up and running with collaboration and data management in a matter of days. It represents a significant step toward enabling a BIM workflow from design through to construction.”

The Autodesk 360 for BIM solution is designed to handle multi-discipline models, thousands of drawings and other project information. Autodesk 360 for BIM comprises:

• Autodesk Vault Collaboration AEC ― Currently available, Autodesk Vault is an on-premise data management solution that lets project teams manage and track digital models without leaving their BIM design tools, including Autodesk Revit Architecture, Autodesk Revit MEP, Autodesk Revit Structure, AutoCAD Civil 3D and Autodesk Navisworks. Complete project documents and content are centrally managed and integrated with enterprise systems like Microsoft Outlook and SharePoint. Integration with the Autodesk Buzzsaw cloud service provides more complete external collaboration and mobile access.
• Autodesk Buzzsaw ― The Autodesk Buzzsaw cloud-based project collaboration solution provides for secure exchange designs and documents with external partners and distributed teams from any location. Autodesk Buzzsaw Mobile enables users to have the most up to date information, wherever it’s needed. Autodesk Buzzsaw is enabled by Autodesk Cloud technology and integrates with AutoCAD WS for DWG review and edit workflows.
• Autodesk 360 Nexus — Autodesk 360 Nexus, introduced today initially for the manufacturing industry, is also planned to support configurable AEC workflow and business process management needs.

About Autodesk 360

Enabled by Autodesk Cloud, Autodesk 360 solutions provide a powerful and complete digital view of information and processes, combined with the ability to securely manage data, so that the right information is accessible wherever and whenever it is needed. Easily accessible to both technical and non-technical professionals within or outside the enterprise, Autodesk 360 represents an intuitive way to view business information, manage and share data, and integrate with existing systems and software. The low up-front and ongoing costs of cloud-based solutions present the most affordable path by virtually eliminating largely unnecessary capital expenditures and deployment costs. Autodesk 360 also provides customers with built-in security and regular back-ups. For more information about Autodesk 360 solutions, see today’s related announcement “Autodesk Introduces Cloud-based Product Lifecycle Management.”

A related press release says:

Autodesk Agrees to Acquire Horizontal Systems

Autodesk, announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Horizontal Systems, a provider of innovative cloud-based Building Information Modeling (BIM) collaboration solutions for the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.

Horizontal Systems technology will be an important contributor to the Autodesk 360 for BIM vision for collaboration, data and lifecycle management, which was announced yesterday at Autodesk University (see related release). The acquisition of Horizontal Systems will help accelerate the movement of BIM to the cloud by providing users with the ability to more easily access and coordinate multi-discipline project data wherever and whenever it is needed throughout the entire project lifecycle.

“Horizontal Systems technology will help accelerate our Autodesk 360 for BIM capabilities by allowing multi-discipline teams to more easily communicate and synchronize information--helping reduce waste and errors during the design and construction of AEC projects and leading to faster, more efficient project delivery,” said Jim Lynch, vice president, Architecture, Engineering and Construction Solutions, Autodesk. “The integration of Horizontal Systems technology with other Autodesk BIM solutions will streamline business processes and workflows for increased efficiency, improved profitability, and higher quality outcomes for both Autodesk and Horizontal Systems customers.”

Horizontal Glue brings BIM to the cloud with technology that supports multi-discipline model collaboration and intelligent object data exchange for the building and infrastructure industries. This approach enables architects, engineers, owners and builders across the globe to collaborate in real time in over 40 different 3D formats, while providing a solution to distribute BIM data into external business systems.

“Autodesk has long been a valued business partner, sharing our dedication to advancing BIM across multi-discipline teams, workflows, and projects,” said Jordan Brandt, CEO and Cofounder at Horizontal Systems. “Our customers will experience the benefit of ‘gluing’ together Horizontal Systems’ cloud technology with the comprehensive portfolio of Autodesk BIM software. The Autodesk 360 for BIM vision is a perfect fit for our customers, as this integrated and flexible strategy makes it easier than ever for everyone to collaborate.”

Autodesk intends to integrate Horizontal Systems solutions into its Autodesk 360 for BIM solution. During the transition, Autodesk will continue to fully support existing Horizontal Systems customers.

About Horizontal Systems

Horizontal Systems is a global cloud technology company focused on the needs of design firms, construction companies and building owners. Through unique web streaming Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology, Horizontal unites all project stakeholders in a live collaborative 3D environment for more effective and efficient coordination. With accessible, intelligent BIM data hosted on an open platform, Horizontal Systems’ clients leverage seamless workflows across project and facilities management systems for a truly integrated building enterprise. Horizontal Systems was incorporated in 2009 and is based in New York, New York.

Make a wish for AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D or Inventor

AUGI Wish list is available 2 weeks more. What do you wish for?

You can add wishes for these products: AutoCAD, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Inventor, Revit, Revit Architecture, Revit MEP and Revit Structure.

LaunchPad and other Autodesk news

LaunchPad

Autodesk Labs presents LaunchPad. The LaunchPad Technology Preview accelerates design efforts by providing a single portal into Product Design Suite applications, project data, and workflows. The LaunchPad’s one-click workflows prepare your design data in the Suite environment that is most appropriate to your task so you can quickly start designing, engineering, simulating, and visualizing your design. The LaunchPad is intended for users who already have Product Design Suite installed.

Video showing LaunchPad:

Via Autodesk Labs Blog

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AutoCAD crashes while trying to locate the target for transparent orbit

Problem:

Your AutoCAD based product crashes when you try to orbit the model using the shift + Center mouse button.

Solution:

1. Use the orbit command in the navigation tools instead of shift + center mouse button to orbit the model.
2. Start the orbit command, right click and in the right click menu uncheck the item “Enable Orbit Auto Target”. Use the transparent orbit as normal.

Via GS17773959

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Cloud Computing and Your Autodesk Product Plug-ins

Overview

The world of computing is always changing:  corporate mainframe computers were replaced by desktops; desktops became laptops; phones became mobile and then became smart; mobile data streaming allowed smartphone, handheld and tablet device users to be connected anywhere in the world. These advances were ‘game changers’ – new technology that made older systems obsolete almost overnight. They were revolutions not evolutions, and those businesses that couldn’t adapt quickly enough were replaced by those that could.

A revolutionary change is happening now - the move to cloud computing (or Software as a Service (SaaS)). Cloud computing is essentially just renting processing power and storage space on a virtual server that is managed in a remote datacenter and which you access over the internet. The technology is now mature – it is reliable, low cost, and simple to use. Vendors such as Amazon, Microsoft and Google are competing with each other to make their cloud services more reliable, cheaper, and easier to use than their competitors. Autodesk is experimenting extensively with cloud services. See labs.autodesk.com for some of our technology previews, or visit www.autodesk.com to discover some of our mature solutions, such as Autodesk Homestyler® or Green Building Studio®, that are available now.

So why might your applications benefit from the cloud? The answer is simple - for the same reasons Autodesk applications do. Consider these simple example scenarios:

• Your application performs a processor intensive task, such as photo-realistic rendering, FEA analysis, or feature recognition. Instead of tying up your customer's computer for hours, why not send the raw data to a virtual machine on the cloud and then send the results back when they are finished. While your cloud service is grinding away at the data, your customer can carry on with their work.
• Your application, or the reference data it uses, frequently changes. Instead of shipping frequent updates for your customer to install, you can just update one application on your cloud server and your updated algorithm or data is immediately available to all your customers.
• Your customers are accessing a common dataset from geographically distributed locations. That data needs to be stored somewhere, so do you buy a set of servers, rent a room to house them in, and pay a server admin to maintain them; or do you just rent space in the cloud and let your cloud provider take care of all the maintenance and administration for you?

• Demand for your services varies significantly through the day. Perhaps you have thousands of customers accessing your services during peak hours, but only one or two during the night. Should you scale your server farm to cope with the peak demand and accept that most of the time your processors will be idle, should you plan for the average demand and accept that customers will be frustrated during peak demand; or should you use a cloud provider that can automatically bring additional servers online for you at the peak and remove them when they’re no longer needed – and you only pay for the additional servers when you’re using them?

Startup costs for cloud computing are so low that you can easily afford to experiment with the technology. And the learning curve is shallow, so it's an easy step from writing desktop applications to cloud applications.

Getting Started

To help you get started, the Autodesk® Developer Network team has put together the following informational DevTV videos:

• Up in the Cloud — An overview of the benefits of cloud computing by Jim Quanci, Director for the Autodesk Developer Network.
• Getting Started with Cloud Computing — An introduction to the basics of creating a cloud computing application with demonstrations of integrating a cloud service with an AutoCAD® plug-in application by Stephen Preston, Autodesk Developer Network.
• Cloud Computing Revit Demo — A demonstration of integrating a cloud service with an Autodesk® Revit® plug-in application by Jeremy Tammik, Autodesk Developer Network.
• Cloud Computing Inventor Demo — A demonstration of integrating a cloud service with an Autodesk® Inventor® plug-in application by Philippe Leefsma, Autodesk Developer Network.
• Cloud Computing Civil 3D Demo — A demonstration of integrating a cloud service with an Autodesk® Civil 3D® plug-in application by Augusto Gonçalves, Autodesk Developer Network.

The sample code used in the demonstration is available here.

Further Reading

For additional information and tutorial material, please visit the website of your favorite cloud computing provider. We can't list them all here, but here are three:

• Amazon Web Services™
• Google App Engine™
• Microsoft® Windows Azure™

Read more here

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General Licensing: Do I need IPv6 Network License Manager for Windows?

If you wonder if you need Autodesk Network License Manager update for IPv6 or if you can stay with IPv4 then read the post at Up and Ready

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Top Autodesk Sign in Questions & Answers

What is an Autodesk ID?
How do I create an Autodesk ID?
I can’t remember my Autodesk ID
I forgot my Autodesk ID and I don’t remember what e-mail address I used when I created my account
I forgot my password
I followed the steps to reset my password but haven’t received an e-mail
How do I change my password or e-mail address?
What are the minimum character requirements for my Autodesk ID account?
How can I get additional help if I can’t resolve my sign-in issues?
What is an Autodesk ID?

For answers visit GS17837889

Revit Architecture 2012 Update 2 + Revit Structure 2012 Update 2

Revit Architecture 2012 Update 2 and Revit Structure 2012 Update 2 is required to install the add-in for the new Cloud Rendering available for subscription customers.

Enhancement list will be updated within two days to include Update 2 improvements. See bottom with the updates on Update 2.

Revit MEP 2012 Update 2 is not ready yet.
UPDATE: Sept. 29 is Update 2 ready fro Revit MEP 2012 too.

Shouldn’t it be Service Pack instead of Update like the recent AutoCAD 2012 SP1?

Improvements made in Revit Architecture 2012 Update 2 build (20110916_2132):

• Regenerates Stair and Railing after making adjustments in Edit Baluster Placement or Edit Rail
• Placement dialogs and selecting the Apply button.
• Improves the regeneration of a detail number, within an elevation view on a sheet, when the detail number is updated within the properties palette.
• Improves stability when switching the visibility setting of linked file from By Linked View to By Host View.
• Corrects Ambient Shadow on objects which are contained within a mirrored linked file.
• Improves the import of IFC files which contain overlapping walls.
• Improves stability when exporting a project to DXF which contains a dimension style that is referenced more than 255 times within the project.
• Corrects the resolution of the background image when calculating offset and scale.
• Corrects duplicate column creation when using Create columns by Grid when some columns are already created on the grid.
• Improves stability when setting a view to Realistic display mode.
• Improves stability when navigating in 3D view after canceling a Print operation.
• Corrects silhouette display for perspective views in projects with linked files.
• Corrects the angle of Photometric Web based light sources when exported to FBX.
• Retains the original IES files when exporting to FBX.
• Reduces the scenarios where element IDs may become remapped or removed when
  Synchronizing to Central.
• Improves stability when removing layers from floors, roofs and walls.
• Corrects gbXML export of curtain walls where window openings were classified as air opening when using simple complexity mode.
• Improves stability when accessing Help.
• Corrects mapping of Cable Tray, Cable Tray Fittings, Conduit and Conduit Fittings when exported to IFC.
• Improves the consistency of beams being unique objects when exported to IFC.
• Improves the placement of slabs when exported to IFC.
• Improves the creation of beams, such as length, when imported from IFC.
• Disables switching to 3D view if current view only is set when exporting to IFC.
• Enables the export of filled regions to IFC.
• Enables mass based curtain panels and mullions to be individual elements when exported to IFC.
• Enables Structural Columns to be exported to IFC.
• Allows elements hidden by category to be ignored when project is exported to IFC.
• Enables Unicode support for both Import and Export of families.
• Changes setting for “Export views on sheets and links as external references” to be enabled when exporting to DGN.
• Allows exporting to DWFx if the view is blank.
• Improves stability when exporting to DWG.
• Improves the export of custom wall hatch patterns to DWG.
• Improves stability after displaying a warning message.
• Enables the use of Family Parameter when using the Material Browser Paint tool.
• Improves stability when modifying part assemblies.
• Improves stability when working within the Phases dialog.
• Improves placement of linked point clouds based upon their origin.
• Improves stability when printing to PDF in batch mode.
• Improves stability when saving a family into the same folder as the type catalog.
• Improves stability when upgrading projects.
• Improves stability when setting a workset from Editable to non-Editable.
• API: Corrects the sheet size calculation when exporting to one sheet to DWFx.
• API: Improves stability during Reload Latest/Sync to Central when the document is not allowed to be modified.
• API: Retains schemas during Sync to Central and allows central file to remain correct.
• API: Reduces file corruption introduced by extensible storage. 

Improvements made in Revit Structure 2012 Update 2 build (20110916_2132):

• Sets the level Underlay to NONE, instead of below level, when creating a new level.
• Maintains graphical display of Rebar when upgrading a project to Revit Structure 2012.  Rebar which was displayed using Medium level of detail in Revit Structure 2011 will updates to use Coarse level of detail with the project is upgraded.
• Improves stability when adjusting rebar settings which cause the number of rebars in a set to exceed 1000.
• Restores display cutting of Slanted Columns in plan view when Course level of detail is used.
• Removes ½” cutback on wood framing members when using medium or fine level of detail.
• Maintains the alignment method parameter on manually adjusted walls when a Revit Structure 2011 project is upgraded to a Revit Structure 2012 project.
• Hides analytical nodes that are connected to hidden elements when in Analytical Model edit mode.
• Improves analytical node display when isolating by either Element or Category.
• Improves use of analytical model Rigid Link when overlapping beam and column are moved away from each other.
• Adds Analytical Reset to the right-click menu for an analytical model.
• Improves stability when setting Alignment Method on an analytical model element, such as a structural wall.
• Maintains the visibility of analytical models in linked files when upgrading a Revit Structure 2011 project to Revit Structure 2012.
• Improves floor analytical model shape when boundary line references a curved beam.

Improvements made in Revit MEP 2012 Update 2 build (20110916_2132):

• Improves stability when routing ducts which utilize an elbow or takeoff to complete the run.
• Improves stability when dragging a Panel Schedule into a sheet.
• Corrects the classification of embedded windows within a curtain wall contained within a linked file which is used as the boundary to create spaces.
• Improves the regeneration time of Ducts after applying a Visibility/Graphics Override.
• Improves stability when creating a new zone in the zone editor and specifying an already existing name in the properties palette.
• Improves performance when adding an air terminal to a system.
• Retains System Type when coping elements from one project to another.
• Retains pipe and fitting connections when moving piping layout to another level.
• Improves the display of duct with insulation and lining for hidden line views when contained within a linked file.
• Improves display of insulation on segments when viewed in ceiling plans.
• Maintains the type parameter values for panel schedules viewed on a sheet.
• Maintains circuits when upgrading Revit MEP 2011 projects in Revit MEP 2012

AutoCAD Plant 3D 2012 and AutoCAD P&ID 2012 released

Autodesk Adds Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Revit Structure to Autodesk Plant Design Suite 2012

Users of Plant Design Suite Ultimate 2012 will have access to the combination of Autodesk Inventor 2012 software for plant equipment and skid design, and Autodesk Revit Structure 2012 software for structural design and detailing for the first time. The company also announced the 2012 versions of AutoCAD P&ID and AutoCAD Plant 3D.

A few of the larger new things in AutoCAD Plant 3D 2012 and AutoCAD P&ID 2012:

Items with a * are for both P&ID and Plant 3D

• *MS SQL Server and SQL Server Express support
• *New Report Creator
• AutoCAD Isometrics
• Piping performance improvements – particularly with orthos.
• Cadworx and Autoplant spec conversion

Via AutoCAD Plant 3D 2012 & Autodesk Plant Design Suite 2012 Released and press release. See also the earlier post Autodesk Design Suits bundles and Cascading Sequences for Autodesk 2012 Products.

Free Tooltips Translator for AutoCAD, Inventor, Revit, 3ds Max

Autodesk Labs has released TransTips.

TransTips uses the Bing Translator web service to translate tooltips into one of 36 languages on-the-fly, as they are displayed by AutoCAD, Inventor, Revit, 3ds Max and the products based upon them.

Via September’s Plugin of the Month live on Autodesk Labs: TransTips

Revit LT? Project Spark from Autodesk Labs

Project Spark is a technology preview of a simplified 3D building information modeling (BIM) solution. Using Project Spark, building professionals can create designs efficiently with real-world building objects, produce more reliable documentation faster, and share files (not with the preview product) with consultants using Revit or AutoCAD-based products.

Project Spark is based on the Revit Architecture code base, but does not support conceptual design, analysis, rendering, advanced collaboration, and API.

Try this Revit product for free for almost a year. The technology preview will operate until July 7, 2012.

Project Spark supports linking models created in Autodesk Revit Architecture 2012, Autodesk Revit MEP 2012 and Autodesk Revit Structure 2012 but the supported applications cannot actually open models created in Project Spark. Project Spark cannot open Revit 2012 files.

More information is available on the Project Spark Wiki page

Time will tell if there might be a future Autodesk Revit LT 2013 or maybe Autodesk Revit Architecture LT 2013.

Via Revit LT-ish Product Available for Download from Autodesk Labs

Asset tracking - JTB FlexReport 6.3 released

JTB FlexReport is an asset management software that can create reports of network license usage and other software usage. JTB FlexReport helps to make purchase decisions with more confidence knowing historically how much your applications have been used.

JTB FlexReport is a report tool for license statistics monitoring of applications using the FlexNet / FLEXlm (flexlm license manager), IBM LUM (IBM License Use Management), SPLM (Intergraph SmartPlant License Manager), SLM/Sentinel LM/Sentinel RMS, LM-X, Solidworks SNL License Manager, Licman, Primavera from Oracle or 12D software licensing as well as any Windows application like Microsoft Office, MS Project, single licensed AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT.

JTB World’s JTB FlexReport has been updated to version 6.3 and adds among other things support for the license system Licman. For more details on the news and fixed bugs see the revision history.

Example of a report showing unique users that on a daily basis are using AutoCAD.

Existing customers with current maintenance (includes support and upgrades) are encouraged to install this new version.

Are you a IT manager, Software manager, IT assets manager, CAD manager or in the position of handling software licenses?

Make your network license management easier, request a free trial of JTB FlexReport. Contact us for a license to activate the time limited fully functional version for a few weeks.

Autodesk Seek adds New Quality Assurance Icons

Autodesk Seek will be enhanced with a file quality rating.

Here is a chart showing the file quality icons.

This is an example showing one rated product an one that is not yet rated.

From the press release:

New Quality Assurance Icons Expand Evaluation Support to Meet Needs of Growing Customer Base

Autodesk has announced the integration of a new quality rating system within Autodesk Seek, a free web service that enables architects and design professionals to quickly discover, preview and download branded and generic Building Information Modeling (BIM) models, drawings and specifications. To help architects, designers and manufacturers ensure quality when using intelligent models, drawings and specifications found in Seek, Autodesk will evaluate and rate each item using a set of seven icons. Additional ratings will be introduced over the coming months, beginning with ratings for chairs, doors, tables and benches. Additional model types will be evaluated throughout the year.

“The steady growth in the number and variety of models we have made available through Autodesk Seek has proven the system’s value as a key component in our BIM initiative,” said Jonathan Rydz, co-leader of the Bradley BIM Development Team, Bradley Corporation. “The addition of the rating system will ensure that our users know they have the best quality models.”

Some stats: Autodesk Seek is right now averaging 850,000 searches per month and 1,800,000 visitors this year alone, with nearly half of all visitors downloading files.

Via AutoCAD 2012’s Content Explorer, Autodesk Seek can be explored. Not sure though if the ratings will show up there.

Prior version support and license usage of Autodesk 2012 Suite products

Below you find an explanation to why one user can have multiple licenses of for example AutoCAD checked out from the network license manager. This can be seen in for example JTB FlexReport’s license reports or by checking the status with FlexNet’s lmtools.exe or lmutil.exe commands.

From Autodesk’s Knowledge base: TS16961119

How prior version support affects license usage in Autodesk 2012 Suite products

Issue

You are a Subscription customer who has received a package license for your network Autodesk Suite product and you want to know how prior version support affects license consumption in your pool of available licenses.

Solution

Prior Version Support is a Subscription benefit wherein you can receive a package license that allows you to run the current version of an Autodesk product plus the three previous versions of that same product. Each version you run concurrently consumes a single license from the available pool of licenses.

Example:

You are a Subscription customer and you have received a package license for AutoCAD 2012. This allows you to run AutoCAD 2012, as well as AutoCAD 2011, AutoCAD 2010 and AutoCAD 2009. If you launch AutoCAD 2012 and AutoCAD 2011 on the same machine at the same time, you will consume two licenses - one for each version of AutoCAD you are running.

For more details, please refer to the solution, Understanding package licenses and prior version support.

Suite Products

In the case of Suite products, such as Autodesk Design Suite or Autodesk Factory Design Suite, the following rules apply to how licenses are consumed:

1. Running multiple 2012 suite products concurrently will always consume only one license per user.

Example:

In Autodesk Design Suite 2012: running AutoCAD 2012, Mudbox 2012, and Showcase 2012 on the same workstation at the same time, only consumes a single license. This is because they are all from the current year.

2. If the Autodesk Suite product did not exist in the previous year then each prior version of a product that is launched will consume a separate license.

Example:

In Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite 2012: running AutoCAD 2010 and 3ds Max Design 2010 on the same workstation at the same time, consumes two licenses.  If AutoCAD 2012, 2011 and 2010 are run together, three licenses are consumed. This is because 2012 is the first release year of the Infrastructure Design Suite so there is no prior version of this suite.

3. No Autodesk Suites exist prior to the 2011 release year so launching a previous version of all 2010 and 2009 products will consume one license each.

Example:

In Autodesk Design Suite 2012: running AutoCAD 2010, Mudbox 2010, and Showcase 2009 on the same workstation at the same time, consumes three licenses. This is because they are all versions of products that were never included in a Suite for the respective release year.

How is Previous Version support managed for future versions of Suites?

The first version of a Suite manages Previous Version (PV) access by individual products in the Suite. For example:

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2012

AutoCAD 2012 (PV: 2011-2009)
Autodesk Sketchbook Designer 2012 (PV:2011 - 2011 was the first release of this product)
Autodesk Showcase 2012 (PV: 2011—2009)
Autodesk Mudbox 2012 (PV: 2011-2009)

With each subsequent release of the Suite, Previous Version support is provided using earlier versions of the Suite and any older products that were in a previous Suite:

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2013

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2013 (PV: 2012)
AutoCAD 2011 (PV: 2010)
Autodesk Sketchbook Designer 2011 (no PV)
Autodesk Showcase 2011 (PV: 2010)
Autodesk Mudbox 2011 (PV: 2010)

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2014

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2014 (PV: 2013-2012)
AutoCAD 2011
Autodesk Showcase 2011
Autodesk Mudbox 2011

Once the fourth version of the Suite has shipped, Previous Version manages the current plus three previous versions of the Suites:

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2015

Autodesk Design Suite Standard 2015 (PV: 2014-2012)

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From Autodesk’s Knowledge base: TS15255311

Not all Previous Version licenses are available after activating an Autodesk Design Suite

Issue

You have purchased and activated one of the Autodesk Design Suites or a product that is also available in an Autodesk Design Suite, e.g., AutoCAD 2011, AutoCAD Architecture 2011, etc.  Later, you purchase and activate a different Autodesk Design Suite and notice that you do not have access to all the licenses you expect for the previous versions of the products that are common between those suites.

Example #1:

You purchased and activated five licenses of Autodesk Design Suite Premium 2011 and, on another day, you purchased and activated two licenses of Autodesk Design Suite Advanced 2011.  Because you are on Subscription and have previous version support, you expect to have access to seven licenses of AutoCAD 2010-2008 (a common product between the two Suites) however only two licenses are available for these product versions.

Example #2:

You purchased and activated five licenses of AutoCAD 2011 and, on another day, you purchased and activated two licenses of Autodesk Design Suite Advanced 2011.  Again, because you are on Subscription, you expect to have access to seven licenses of AutoCAD 2010-2008 (a product that is available in the Suite and as a separately installed product) however only two licenses are available for these product versions.

Note: Previous Version Support is a Subscription benefit that allows you to run the current version of a product plus the three previous versions (if they exist).

Solution

There is a known issue when combining Autodesk Design Suite licenses where the license manager will evaluate the previous product versions that are common between an Autodesk Design Suite and a previously installed product or Suite and provides only the number of licenses for the last Suite that was activated.  Using the first example from above, you would have access to all seven licenses of AutoCAD 2011 but only two licenses of AutoCAD 2010-2008.  This is because the Suite with two licenses was added at a later date than the Suite with five licenses.  If both Suites had been activated on the same day, all seven licenses would be available for the previous product versions.

To resolve this issue you need to obtain a new package license file containing all the licenses (old and new) in a single file, issued on the same day. The issue date can be determined by inspecting your license file and looking for the ISSUED= section in each increment.  For example:

PACKAGE 64300ACD_F adskflex 2.000 COMPONENTS="71200ACD_2010_0F \
             57600ACD_2009_0F 54600ACD_2008_0F 51200ACD_2007_0F" \
             OPTIONS=SUITE SUPERSEDE ISSUED=25-May-2010 SIGN="1242 937A \

Please contact Customer Service Assistance to submit a service request for a new, consolidated, package license file.

Note: This issue does not affect the current version of products that are common between the Autodesk Design Suites (or between an Autodesk Design Suite and an installed product that is common to both); it only affects the previous versions of products that are common between the product installations.

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From Autodesk’s Knowledge base: GS16842730

Use of Previous Versions of Autodesk software

Scenario
You are an active Subscription Customer and have upgraded to one of Autodesk’s 2012 Design & Creation Suites, and you would like to know what previous versions of Autodesk software may be available to you.

Solution
As a Subscription Customer, you can download and activate the latest release, or use previous versions, of eligible Autodesk products. You can activate one release of a product, suite, or the components of a suite, per license, purchased on Subscription.

Generally, if you purchased a license on Subscription for the first release of a Design & Creation Suite, then you can download and activate a previous version of the Autodesk software components within the Suite.

For a listing of previous versions of Autodesk software available to those of you who purchased a license, on Subscription, for one of Design & Creation Suites, see the table below.

To see the specific product software for which you are eligible, follow the instructions for How to download a previous version of Autodesk software.

Autodesk® Building Design Suite Standard 2012

AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® MEP 2011
AutoCAD® MEP 2010
AutoCAD® MEP 2009
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2011
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2010
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias Sketch 2011

Autodesk® Building Design Suite Premium 2012

AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® MEP 2011
AutoCAD® MEP 2010
AutoCAD® MEP 2009
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2011
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2010
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias Sketch 2011
Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2011
Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010
Revit® Architecture 2009
Autodesk® Revit® MEP 2011
Autodesk® Revit® MEP 2010
Revit® MEP 2009
Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2011
Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2010
Revit® Structure 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® Building Design Suite Ultimate 2012

AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® MEP 2011
AutoCAD® MEP 2010
AutoCAD® MEP 2009
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2011
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2010
AutoCAD® Structural Detailing 2009
Autodesk® Inventor® 2011
Autodesk® Inventor® 2010
Autodesk® Inventor® 2009
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2011
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2010
Autodesk® NavisWorks® Manage 2009
Autodesk® Quantity Takeoff 2011
Autodesk® Quantity Takeoff 2010
Autodesk® Quantity Takeoff 2009
Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2011
Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010
Revit® Architecture 2009
Autodesk® Revit® MEP 2011
Autodesk® Revit® MEP 2010
Revit® MEP 2009
Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2011
Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2010
Revit® Structure 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010

Autodesk® Design Suite Standard 2012

Autodesk® Design Suite Standard 2011
AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011

Autodesk® Design Suite Premium 2012

Autodesk® Design Suite Premium 2011
AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010

Autodesk® Design Suite Ultimate 2012

Autodesk® Design Suite Advanced 2011
AutoCAD® 2011
AutoCAD® 2010
AutoCAD® 2009
Autodesk® Alias® Design 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Design 2010
Autodesk® Alias® Design 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® Factory Design Suite Standard 2012

AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009

Autodesk® Factory Design Suite Premium 2012

Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2009
Autodesk® Inventor® 2011
Autodesk® Inventor® 2010
Autodesk® Inventor® 2009
Autodesk® Navisworks® Simulate 2011
Autodesk® Navisworks® Simulate 2010
Autodesk® NavisWorks® Simulate 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2012

Autodesk Factory Design Suite Advanced 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2011
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2010
Autodesk® Navisworks® Manage 2009
AutoCAD® Architecture 2011
AutoCAD® Architecture 2010
AutoCAD® Architecture 2009
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2009
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2009
Autodesk® Showcase 2011
Autodesk® Showcase 2010
Autodesk® Showcase 2009

Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite Standard 2012

Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite 2011
Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite 2010
Autodesk® Maya® Complete 2009
Autodesk® Maya® Unlimited 2009
Autodesk® MotionBuilder® 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009

Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite Premium 2012

Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite 2011
Autodesk® Maya® Entertainment Creation Suite 2010
Autodesk® Maya® Complete 2009
Autodesk® Maya® Unlimited 2009
Autodesk® Softimage® 2011
Autodesk® Softimage® 2010
Autodesk® Softimage® 7.5
Autodesk® MotionBuilder® 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009

Autodesk® Product Design Suite Standard 2012

AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2010
AutoCAD® Mechanical 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011

Autodesk® Product Design Suite Premium 2012

AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Suite 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® Product Design Suite Ultimate 2012

Autodesk® Alias® Design 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Design 2010
Autodesk® DesignStudio 2009
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2011
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2010
AutoCAD® Inventor® Professional Suite 2009
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2011
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2010
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® Showcase® 2011
Autodesk® Showcase® 2010
Autodesk® Showcase® 2009
Autodesk® SketchBook® Designer 2011
Autodesk® Alias® Sketch 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2011
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2010
Autodesk® 3ds Max® Design 2009

Autodesk® Softimage® Entertainment Creation Suite 2012

Autodesk® Softimage® Entertainment Creation Suite 2011
Autodesk® Softimage® Entertainment Creation Suite 2010
Autodesk® Softimage® 7.5
Autodesk® Mudbox™ 2009
Autodesk® MotionBuilder® 2009
Autodesk® MotionBuilder® 7.5

See also:

Network license news in AutoCAD 2009

Package license file introduced with AutoCAD 2009

Package licenses and prior version support