Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
AutoCAD LT also has limited 3D support. You can view and edit 3D objects in AutoCAD
LT, so you can work with drawings created in AutoCAD that contain 3D objects.
However, you can't create true 3D objects in LT.
Although you may hear claims that AutoCAD LT is easier to master and use than
AutoCAD, the truth is that they're about equally difficult (or easy, depending on your
NQ
[nerd quotient]). The LT learning curve doesn't differ significantly from that of AutoCAD.
AutoCAD was originally designed for maximum power and then modified somewhat to
improve ease of use. AutoCAD LT shares this same heritage.
Fortunately, the minimal differences between LT and AutoCAD mean that after you climb
that learning curve, you have the same great view. You have almost the full range of the
AutoCAD 2D drafting tools, and you can exchange DWG files with AutoCAD users
without data loss.
This topic covers AutoCAD 2012, but most of the information in it (except for
the 3D chapters in Part V) applies to AutoCAD LT 2012 as well. The icon that you
see to the left of this paragraph highlights significant differences.
Checking System Requirements
If you're upgrading from AutoCAD 2011 or another recent release, and you work mostly
or entirely in 2D, you're probably already current with system requirements. In fact, if
your work is mostly or entirely 2D — and therefore, this applies especially for LT users
— AutoCAD 2012 will run fine on pretty well any computer that will run Windows 7,
Vista, or XP.
AutoCAD's requirements for running in Windows 7 or Vista are substantially higher than
for running in XP. This section covers the details.
You should know the following before you upgrade from any older AutoCAD release:
Wash those old Windows:
AutoCAD 2012 does
not
support older versions of Win-
dows, such as Windows 2000, NT, 98, or Me. For AutoCAD 2012, you have three
choices of operating system:
• Windows XP (Home or Professional, SP3 or later)
