AIMS OF THIS CHAPTER
The contents of this chapter are designed to introduce features of the AutoCAD 2017 window and methods of operating AutoCAD 2017.
OPENING AUTOCAD 2017
AutoCAD 2017 is designed to work in a Windows operating system. In general, to open AutoCAD 2017 double-click on the AutoCAD shortcut in the Windows desktop (Fig. 1.1).
When working in education or in industry, computers may be configured to allow other methods of opening AutoCAD, such as a list appearing on the computer in use when the computer is switched on, from which the operator can select the program he/she wishes to use.
Fig. 1.1 The AutoCAD 2017 shortcut on the Windows desktop
When AutoCAD 2017 is opened, the Start page appears, giving access to recent drawings, system information and the Start Drawing button (Fig. 1.2). After starting a new drawing a new window is shown, depending upon whether a 3D Basics, a 3D Modeling, or a Drafting & Annotation workspace has been set as QNEW (in the Options dialog). In this example, the Drafting & Annotation workspace is shown and includes the Ribbon with Tool panels (Fig. 1.3). The Drafting & Annotation workspace shows the following details:
Ribbon: which includes tabs, each of which when clicked will include a set of panels containing tool icons. Other tool panels can be seen by clicking an appropriate tab.
Menu Browser icon: A left-click on the arrow to the right of the A symbol at the top left-hand corner of the AutoCAD 2017 window causes the Menu Browser menu to appear (Fig. 1.4).
Workspaces Switching menu: appe...