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Copyright 1988,89,90 by Mountain Software, all rights reserved
┌─┐ ┌────┐ ┌─┐ ┌─┐ ┌─┐ ┌─┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─┐ ┌─┐ ┌─────┐ ┌────┐ ┌─────┐
│ │ │ ┌┐ │ │ │ │ │ │ └┐│ │ │ ┌─┐ │ │ │ │ │ │ ┌─┐ │ │ ┌┐ │ │ ┌─┐ │
│ │ │ └┘ │ │ │ │ │ │ └┘ │ │ │ └─┘ │ └─┘ │ │ │ └─┘ │ └┘ │ │ │ │ │
│ │ │ ┌┐ │ │ │ │ │ │ ┌┐ │ │ │ ┌─┐ │ ┌─┐ │ │ │ ┌─┐ │ ┌┐ │ │ │ │ │
│ └──┐ │ ││ │ │ └─┘ │ │ │└┐ │ │ └─┘ │ │ │ │ │ │ └─┘ │ │ ││ │ │ └─┘ │
└────┘ └─┘└─┘ └─────┘ └─┘ └─┘ └─────┘ └─┘ └─┘ └─────┘ └─┘└─┘ └─────┘
┌─────────┐
┌─────┴───┐ │ (tm)
──│ │o │──────────────────
│ ┌─────┴╨──┐ │ Association of
│ │ │─┘ Shareware
└───│ o │ Professionals
──────│ ║ │────────────────────
└────╨────┘ MEMBER
LaunchCAD
(formerly Pull_DWG)
AutoCAD Pull Down Menu Front End
Version 3.41
January 26, 1991
Jerry Workman, P.E.
1579 Nottingham Road
Charleston, WV 25314
CIS 70717,3564
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Table of Contents
I U s i n g L a u n c h C A D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
What Does LaunchCAD Do ? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Startup Mode Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Shell Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Running LaunchCAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Looping LaunchCAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Test Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
File Lists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Processes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
STARTUP.LSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Creating a New Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Creating a File List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Using Scripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Special Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Hypertext Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Dual Monitor Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
AUTOEXEC.BAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
II A d d e n d u m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Revisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
III L i c e n s e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Shareware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Definition of Shareware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Registration Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Disclaimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Trademark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Site Licenses and Quantity Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
IV I n d e x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
I U s i n g L a u n c h C A D
Purpose
-------
After many major updates, the AutoCAD opening menu still does not present
an adequate user interface. In particular, the selection of a drawing
filename requires that the user type in the full drive path and filename of
the drawing. In addition, changing directories from the opening menu is not
possible.
What Does LaunchCAD Do ?
------------------------
LaunchCAD was designed specifically to replace the AutoCAD opening menu.
LaunchCAD is a high-speed, easy-to-use utility that makes it easy to select
a subdirectory, drawing file, and other functions provided by the AutoCAD
opening menu or the drawing editor.
Startup Mode Functions
----------------------
1> Easily select an AutoCAD drawing file from the popup directory display
and execute AutoCAD loading the selected file.
2> Select a script or AutoLISP program to automatically load and execute
after your drawing loads.
3> Enter a new drawing file name and optionally select a prototype
drawing file.
4> Select a drawing editor command which will execute after your drawing
has loaded.
5> Select a group of drawing files Select a script file to execute for
each drawing. (batch processing)
Additional User defined functions are provided to:
1> Type or list text files (perhaps a script, an AutoLisp program or an
ATTEXT definition file.
2> To call your editor or word processor,
3> To view a slide (with SLDMGR.EXE).
4> Call a drawing viewer.
5> To run an external utility program of your choice.
6> Execute a DOS command or temporarily exit to DOS.
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Shell Mode
----------
You may also run LaunchCAD from within the drawing editor. In this mode
LaunchCAD is executed through an AutoLisp program. This AutoLisp program
(LC.LSP) can be made a part of your ACAD.LSP and ACAD.MNU files so that
LaunchCAD is always available within the drawing editor. (The files
ACAD.LSP and ACAD.PGP must be modified.) Once executed, LC.LSP will shell
LaunchCAD, the current drawing may be optionally saved before selecting
another drawing. A script is created by LaunchCAD which will exit the
current drawing and load the drawing file that you select.
LaunchCAD can also be executed from within AutoCAD (with the command "LC")
to select a file and perform the following tasks:
end Save the current drawing, and specify a new drawing to be loaded
by AutoCAD.
wend Save the current drawing using WBLOCK * <filename>, and select a
new drawing to be loaded by AutoCAD.
quit Quit the current drawing, and specify a new drawing to be loaded
by AutoCAD.
insert Select a drawing file to insert into the current drawing at a
block.
dxfin Select a DXF file to load into the current drawing.
dxbin Select a DXB file to load into the current drawing.
vslide Select an AutoCAD SLD file to view.
menu Select an AutoCAD menu to load.
In order to utilize this feature the files ACAD.LSP and ACAD.PGP must be
modified. This can be accomplished as follows:
Installation
------------
Copy the files from the distribution diskette (or extract them from the
archive file) to your AutoCAD subdirectory.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 4
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
ACAD.LSP
If you use AutoCAD Release 10 or later add the following line to end
of your ACAD.LSP file:
(load"LC")
Be sure to place the files LC.LSP and STARTUP.LSP in your ACAD
directory or your AutoCAD library path. STARTUP.LSP is loaded by
LaunchCAD to initialize LaunchCAD.
If you use an older version of AutoCAD, then the contents of LC.LSP
must included in your ACAD.LSP file. This can be accomplished with an
ASCII text editor, or with DOS by executing the DOS command from your
ACAD directory:
COPY ACAD.LSP+LC.LSP ACAD.LSP
ACAD.PGP
Add the following line to your ACAD.PGP file:
LAUNCHCAD,LC,170000,*Parameters: ,4
this can also be accomplished with DOS as follows:
COPY ACAD.PGP+LC.PGP ACAD.PGP
Note: Values as low as 150000 works on some machines, but others
require more than 170000; if the message appears "not enough
memory to load program" after the LC command, then increase this
value. If you use AutoCAD 386 this value is not important.
ACAD.MNU (optional)
Add the following line(s) to any or your screen or pop menus (these
commands are contained in the file LC.MNU):
[LaunchCAD]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LC ^P
[Insert]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) INS ^P
[Lisp]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LISP ^P
[Menu]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) MNU ^P
[VSlide]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) VS ^P
[DXF]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) DXF ^P
[DXB]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) DXB ^P
[Menu]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) MNU ^P
Within the AutoCAD drawing editor you may call LaunchCAD to select a new
drawing file, or to perform any of the other shell commands. From the
AutoCAD "Command:" prompt enter the command "LC", if you have added the
above to your ACAD.MNU file, then select LaunchCAD from the menu. When
LaunchCAD loads you can select one of the shell functions from the popup.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 5
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Additional commands are added via the AutoLISP program that make file
selection much more convenient. The new commands are as follows:
LC Master function - displays a popup of the following, plus
END, WEND and QUIT to optionally save and select a new
drawing:
INS inserts a .DWG file.
LISP loads and executes an AutoLISP file.
DXF loads a DXF file.
DXB loads a DXB file.
VS loads and displays a SLD (AutoCAD slide) file.
(FI) Universal file picker for AutoCAD: at any filename prompt
from AutoCAD, this function "stuffs" the keyboard with the
filename and extension of the file that you select. Because
of the size limitations of the DOS keyboard buffer the drive
and path are not used. (The parentheses are required). Since
AutoLISP is not recursive it will not work if typed in
response to an AutoLISP program. This function can however
be added to any AutoLISP program to provide a filename.
You may press AltX or ESC at any time to abort LaunchCAD and return to your
drawing with no action.
The AutoCAD drawing editor commands END and QUIT are redefined by LC.LSP in
order to bypass the AutoCAD opening menu. If you do not desire this
feature, then you may delete those two functions from the LC.LSP file. The
original AutoCAD commands are still available in any case in the form .END
and .QUIT (precede the command with a period).
Running LaunchCAD
----------------
Previous versions of LaunchCAD (called Pull_DWG) prior to version 2.0
required that Pull_DWG (now LaunchCAD) execute from a batch file. LaunchCAD
can now chains to AutoCAD with out the use of a special batch file.
Therefore you may now execute LaunchCAD in the same manner that you now
execute ACAD. The file LC.EXE may be placed the same subdirectory as
ACAD.EXE, or any subdirectory, if a DOS path is set to this subdirectory.
LC.LSP must however be placed in your the same directory of ACAD.EXE or the
AutoCAD support directory, specified with the DOS SET command (SET
ACAD=<your support dir(s)>)
LaunchCAD can execute AutoCAD from the subdirectory where the selected
drawing resides, or from a subdirectory that you specify (eg your ACAD
directory or a project directory). This is determined by the configuration
of the "Starting Directory". If this field is left blank LaunchCAD will
execute AutoCAD from the drawing directory. If a drive:directory is
specified then AutoCAD will be executed from that directory.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 6
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Looping LaunchCAD
----------------
If you wish for LaunchCAD to execute again upon exit from AutoCAD then you
may do so. This is accomplished through the DOS ERRORLEVEL variable and a
batch file. When LaunchCAD exits either from the user pressing <ALT-X> or
<ESC>, ERRORLEVEL 1 is generated. Therefore, a batch file can test for
ERRORLEVEL 1, if false then the batch file can loop to rerun LaunchCAD as
follows:
:LOOP
LC %1
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO DONE
GOTO LOOP
:DONE
Configuration
-------------
You can set all of the following defaults:
1. The (external) program to view text files. (LIST.COM recommended)
2. The (external) program to edit text files. (QEdit, EDLIN, etc.)
3. The (external) program to view a slide file. (SLideManager)
4. The (external) program to view a drawing file. (AutoManager)
5. Any (external) utility program. (XTREE, PCTOOLS, AutoManager, etc.)
6. The drive and subdirectory from which AutoCAD will be executed. If
this field is left blank, then AutoCAD will be executed from the
drawing directory.
6. Default drawing directory
7. Filename to execute (normally ACAD.EXE) provided so that the programs
"Big Shell" or SHROOM can be utilized.
8. Mouse support mode level.
9. Screen fill background character.
10. Hardware error handler. LaunchCAD will trap hardware errors (eg floppy
disk drive door open) If your PC is on a network or if you use a non-
standard disk drive (eg a Bernoulli box or an optical disk) then
select the DOS handler.
11. Color selection. One of three color sets can be selected.
Select save to make your changes permanent. If you do not save then the
temporary settings will be used for the current session only. When the
configuration is saved the new values are saved to the file LC.CFG in the
same directory as LC.EXE.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 7
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Test Drive
----------
The operation should be intuitive. You may press the <F1> key everywhere
for help in context. The basic steps are: 1> select a menu acTion, 2>
Select a path and drawing file name, 3> Run AutoCAD. LaunchCAD will load
AutoCAD with the drawing file that you selected in the pull-down menus.
Since you can only select one of four processes from the acTion menu, only
settings in that selected pull-down menu apply. For instance a prototype
drawing can not be used when you edit an existing file. To quit, without
running AutoCAD press <ESC> at the top menu or press <ALT-X>.
File Lists
----------
LaunchCAD can be used for batch processing. A group of drawing files and be
selected to create a "file list". A script file and/or initial command can
then be selected, then AutoCAD executed with the file list. LaunchCAD will
then load each of the drawing files selected and run the selected script
commands on each drawing file. This batch processing feature can be used to
plot a group of drawings unattended, make conversions in mass to a group of
drawings, some example scripts are provided to plot and one to purge unused
layers, blocks, etc.
Processes
---------
acTion - Just like the AutoCAD opening menu.
Files - Selects a drawing file or create a file list.
ACAD - Run AutoCAD with the Drawing file(s) and action selected.
Extra - Select a prototype drawing, an initial drawing editor
command, and/or a script file.
Utility - Execute external utility programs.
DOS - Execute a DOS command or temporarily exit to DOS
Configure - Set up LaunchCAD.
STARTUP.LSP
-----------
STARTUP.LSP is a special file that, if it exists on the AutoCAD Library
path, is automatically loaded by LaunchCAD after the drawing loads,
ACAD.LSP loads, and S::STARTUP runs. It's purpose is to provide a means to
gain control after all of the load and initialization processes. It is used
by LaunchCAD to UNDEFINE the END and QUIT commands but could contain any
AutoLISP routines that you may wish to execute at startup.
Why not use S::STARTUP to initialize LaunchCAD? The function S::STARTUP, if
defined in ACAD.LSP, will execute after ACAD.LSP loads, but what if more
than one application wishes to use S::STARTUP ? An experienced user can
edit the ACAD.LSP (or other lisp files if they are not encrypted) to modify
S::STARTUP to merge these applications, but this can be very tricky unless
you are familiar with the workings of each application. Also, if (VMON) is
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 8
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
loaded it is not possible to detect and modify S::STARTUP on the fly.
STARTUP.LSP is a way to overcome this dilemma. So if you have two (or more)
applications that both need to load like ACAD.LSP, let one of them use
ACAD.LSP and put the others' AutoLISP into STARTUP.LSP. Any S::STARTUP
function that you wish to place into STARTUP.LSP should be changed to
inline code (ie take it out of the (defun) so that it will execute as it
loads).
Creating a New Directory
------------------------
You may create a new directory from the drawing path prompt. Simply enter
the directory name that you wish to create at the path prompt. You will be
prompted to confirm the creation of the new directory. You may then create
a new drawing in that directory.
Creating a File List
--------------------
While the directory window is displayed, select files with the space bar. A
diamond character will display by those files that you mark. The space bar
can also toggle the mark off as well as on. Once you have marked all of the
desired files in a directory, press <Ctrl><Enter> to add the selected files
to the file list. Files can be selected from as many directories as needed
by repeating this process. If you make a mistake you may clear the file
list with the "Clear" option from the "File" pulldown menu.
Using Scripts
-------------
Once a file list is active, you must either select a script, or an initial
command that will cause AutoCAD to do something with the selected drawings,
otherwise only the first drawing will load. At a minimum your script must
contain the commands necessary to exit back to the AutoCAD main menu (.END
or .QUIT Y from the drawing editor). This insures that processing can
continue with the next file.
There are two ways to batch process files. The first is with script files.
Scripts are the ONLY means to batch plot (or printer plot) a group of
files. Script files can be created with any ASCII editor. The script file
should contain all commands that you wish AutoCAD to execute. The commands
that you place into your script file will be executed by AutoCAD just as if
you had keyed them in from the keyboard, so be very careful to enter them
properly, and test the script on a non-critical drawing file. The script
file should always exit the drawing editor with .END or .QUIT Y and should
NOT contain any extra lines after the final command. Scripts can be created
to perform tasks such as plotting, extracting DXF files or other data,
redefining blocks, purging drawings, processing lines (eg with CLine), or
deleting a large group of entities.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 9
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
The second way to automate processing is with an AutoLISP program. This
program can be loaded and invoked with a script file or with the "Initial
Command" selection from LaunchCAD. The script or initial command must both
load and invoke the AutoLISP program. eg (load"myprog") myprog
Several sample scripts are provided:
PURGE.SCR purges unused blocks, styles, layers from a drawing
PLOTE.SCR plot EXTENTS using defaults
PLOTD.SCR plot DISPLAY using defaults
PLOTL.SCR plot LIMITS using defaults
PLOTPLOT.SCR plot VIEW to a view named plot using defaults.
COMMENTS.SCR a "demo" script that you may use to test the scripting
feature of LaunchCAD without changing any drawings.
This script also demonstrates the use of comments in
script files.
Special Keys
------------
Use the following keys to navigate throughout the program.
<F1> - Pull/pop the Help windows
<Esc> - Backs out of the current menu/window and exits the program when
only the top menu is displayed.
LTR - (any letter key) While in the menus, the HiLite will move to and
execute the menu line with that upper case letter or number.
While in the directory the cursor will jump to the next file
starting with that letter.
Mouse
-----
If you have a mouse connected and a Microsoft compatible mouse driver, then
you can use the mouse to navigate LaunchCAD. Two modes of "mousing" are
supported. In KEYS mode mouse movement simulates the arrow keys and in FULL
mode the mouse cursor is free moving. The left mouse button simulates the
return key, and the right button simulates the escape key.
The mouse feature can be disabled if necessary. Some tablet drivers use the
same interrupt as the microsoft mouse driver and the tablet will be
detected as a mouse by some (The Nth Engine drivers in particular).
Configure LaunchCAD to disable the mouse feature if your cursor runs away
or if cursor movements are erratic. Some machines may even "lockup". If
this occurs reboot and delete the file LC.CFG. Reconfigure with the mouse
mode set to NONE.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 10
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Directory
---------
Initially the directory sorts the file names in alphabetical order. The
names are in lower case and the extensions are right justified for easier
reading. Directory names are placed in a separate window to the left of the
file names. You may move to the directory window with left and right arrow
keys and the tab key.
Files can also be sorted by descending name, ascending date or descending
date. <Alt-S> selects the file sort popup menu.
Change directory by highlighting the directory and pressing return. You may
also change disk drives by pressing <Alt-D> and selecting another disk
drive.
Note that you can scan the directory not only with the cursor keys, but by
typing a letter to move to names starting with that letter.
Hypertext Help
--------------
The help system is activated with the <F1> key. An initial screen is
displayed showing information in context with the place at which help is
activated. Some subjects are more then one screen in length. You may move
through help on that subject with the <PgUp> and <PgDn> keys. Additional
subjects can be selected with the highlite bar such that the entire help
text on all subjects can be accessed.
Limits
------
The directory is limited to 1000 file names.
File lists are limited only to available memory, but only the first 16 will
display in the filelist window.
Dual Monitor Systems
--------------------
If you have a dual monitor system and wish to execute LaunchCAD on the
color monitor a script file has been provided (MONO.SCR) to make the mode
switch after you load the drawing editor. Enter "SCRIPT MONO" as the
Initial Command in LaunchCAD then save the configuration. This script run
when LaunchCAD loads the AutoCAD drawing editor and will cause the drawing
editor text to be displayed on the monochrome screen.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 11
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
AUTOEXEC.BAT
------------
Your AUTOEXEC.BAT file can control the way AutoCAD and LaunchCAD work. The
DOS commands PATH and SET can be used in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file to tell
other programs or your particular configuration and preferences. The PATH
tells DOS (and other programs) where to search for executable program files
(those with .COM,.EXE, or .BAT file extensions.
Example: PATH C:\;C:\DOS;C:\ACAD
Use the path command to tell ACAD and LaunchCAD the location of
ACAD.EXE and LC.EXE.
SET assigns values to variables in the DOS environment to communicate with
application programs.
Example: SET ACAD=C:\ACAD\SUPPORT
SET ACADCFG=C:\ACAD\TABLET
SET LISPHEAP=30000
SET LISPSTACK=15000
SET ACADFREERAM=20
Use SET to tell AutoCAD where to look for a specific
configuration's files (if you have more than one), the directory
that contains AutoLisp programs, INSERT blocks and fonts, and
AutoLisp parameters. AutoCAD will search for .LSP and .DWG files
in three possible subdirectories; the current directory (your
drawing directory?), the directory where ACAD.EXE resides, and
the directory specified by SET ACAD=
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 12
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
II A d d e n d u m
Error Messages
--------------
"Directory to large to load." - Not enough memory to load the entire
directory. If in "shell" mode, increase
the memory allocation for LaunchCAD in
ACAD.PGP.
"DOS can not open file." - a filename and or subdirectory was
selected which DOS can not accept.
(Usually a bad character in the
filename.)
"DOS Exec function failed." - an external command can not be executed
or COMMAND.COM can not be loaded.
"Drawing file not selected." - A drawing file is required for most
acTions to operate properly.
Suggestions
-----------
File Lister - The DOS command TYPE <filename> works, but BROWSE (PC
Magazine) or LIST (by Vern Berg) are much more flexible.
Editor - EDLIN if you have nothing else, but again a good ASCII file editor
like QEdit (Semware) make the job easier.
Slide Viewer - SLDMGR (Slide Manager) will display slide (.SLD) files
without AutoCAD and also provides complete slide library management.
Utility - Your choice, I use XTree Pro here.
BROWSE, LIST, QEdit, and Slide Manager are available on most major PC
bulletin boards as well as on Compuserve.
Liability
---------
This program modifies, alters, and even deletes data files! Careful testing
has been made to ensure that the processes perform correctly. No
liabilities are assumed in the use or misuse of this program resulting in
data loss or damage. It is the users responsibility to be sure that the
results are as expected.
Chapter 1, Using LaunchCAD Page 13
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Author
------
If you have any suggestions or comments, please contact me.
Jerry Workman, PE
1579 Nottingham Rd.
Charleston, WV 25314
CI$ 70717,3564
304-744-7748 (after 7:30 ET)
Copyright (c) 1988, 1989 by Mountain Software All rights reserved
Revisions
---------
Versions 1.0 to 2.4 were versions of the program Pull_DWG (Pull Drawing)
originally released in 1988.
Version 3.0 (5/26/90)
. Complete rewrite in C (compiled with Turbo C++ / Turbo Assembler).
. Hypertext help system implemented.
. Dual window file / directory display.
. menu mode added to shell commands.
. (fi) command added.
. "Free floating" mouse implemented (& lots of other stuff).
Version 3.01 (6/10/90)
. expanded help
Version 3.02 (6/16/90)
. bug fix on batch file modification routine
Version 3.03 (6/25/90)
. Expanded directory from 500 to 1000 files.
. Path input now recognizes a trailing \ as valid.
. PGP file modified to flip display to graphics.
. Delete .BAK files now displays the subdirectory for confirmation.
. MONO.SCR added for dual monitor systems.
. "garbage" path spec bug fixed.
Version 3.04 (7/18/90)
. "Drive not ready" prompt modified, sliding bar menu added to respond
to Retry, Abort, Ignore.
. "Shell" mode AutoLISP code modified, ACAD variables ACADPREFIX and
DWGPREFIX are now used as starting directories in any of the shell
modes according to the mode selected.
. A trailing "\" now allowed in command line directory spec
(eg lc d:\drawings\).
Chapter 2, Addendum Page 14
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Version 3.1 (7/28/90)
. Additional I/O error checking added (interrupt 24 handler)
. Batch Mode eliminated.
. Rename, Copy, and Erase file routines revised
. CAD program filename added to the configuration file to allow
executables other than ACAD.EXE to be executed from LaunchCAD (eg
BIGSHELL)
Version 3.11 (7/30/90)
. (oops) Fixed default config file problem created in 3.1
Version 3.12 (8/16/90)
. Fixed bug in disk error message routine (network error).
. Fixed error in documentation concerning ACAD.PGP file.
Version 3.13 (8/26/90)
. Changed Starting Directory to sTarting Directory in cfg avoiding key
duplication with Save.
. Action E,P,L now jump to directory bypassing path prompt.
. Action C now jumps to directly to Launch AutoCAD
Version 3.2 (9/12/90)
. Added color configuration.
. Added drawing (external) drawing viewer utility selection.
. Fixed file copy routine.
. Modified LC.LSP to attach to (but not replace) any existing S::STARTUP
function (some application startup lisp files are encrypted and can
not be edited).
Version 3.3 (10/19/90)
. LaunchCAD now swaps itself out to disk or EMS to execute utility
programs.
. File sort selection by date as well as name added.
. Additional mouse support added
. fixed directory creation, copy and path routines
. LC.SCR is now rewritten to an empty file on abort from LC.EXE
Version 3.31 (11/10/90)
. AutoLISP code modified to remain compatible with release 11.
. script file flush routine bug in LC.LSP fixed
. Menu "aCtion" is now properly initialized to "Existing Drawing" (Menu
item 2)
Chapter 2, Addendum Page 15
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Version 3.4 (12/30/90)
. File lists implemented
. Script file selection added
. STARTUP.LSP load implemented
. Expanded help
. Reworked documentation
Version 3.41 (1/27/91)
. If a file list is active and no script is selected a warning is
displayed.
. Menu jumps to script selection after a file list is selected.
. STARTUP.LSP and LC.HLP added to archive (oops).
. The menu directory now selects .MNX files instead of .MNU files.
Chapter 2, Addendum Page 16
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
III L i c e n s e
Shareware
---------
This version of LaunchCAD is NOT public domain or free software, but is
being distributed as "shareware". You may try it out to see if it is useful
for you. If you use it you must make a $20 contribution to the author for
one license per CPU concurrently in use. With the license, instructions
will be provided to eliminate the starting delay. The program in the form
of the original archived file only may be freely distributed, but not sold
(except under license).
Non-registered users of this software are granted a limited 14 day license
to make an evaluation copy for trial use for the purpose of determining
whether LaunchCAD is suitable for their needs. At the end of this trial
period, you should either register your copy, or discontinue using
LaunchCAD.
All users are granted a limited license to copy LaunchCAD only for the
trial use of others and subject to the above limitations. This license does
NOT include distribution or copying of this software package:
1. In connection with any other product or service.
2. For general use within a company or institution.
3. For any consideration or 'disk fee'.
4. For distribution in modified form; i.e., the file containing this
license information MUST be included, along with the full LaunchCAD
documentation.
Operators of electronic bulletin board systems (Sysops) are encouraged to
post LCADXXX.ZIP for downloading by their users, as long as the above
conditions are met.
Definition of Shareware
-----------------------
Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying
it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it, you are expected
to register. Copyright laws apply to both Shareware and commercial
software,and the copyright holder retains all rights, with a few specific
exceptions as stated below. Shareware authors are accomplished programmers,
just like commercial authors, and the programs are of comparable quality.
(In both cases, there are good programs and bad ones!) The main difference
is in the method of distribution. The author specifically grants the right
to copy and distribute the software, either to all and sundry or to a
specific group. For example, some authors require written permission before
a commercial disk vendor may copy their Shareware.
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find
software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it's commercial or
Chapter 2, Addendum Page 17
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because
you can try before you buy. And because the overhead is low, prices are low
also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use
the product, you don't pay for it.
Jerry Workman a member of the Association of Shareware Professionals (ASP).
ASP wants to make sure that the shareware principle works for you. If you
are unable to resolve a shareware-related problem with an ASP member by
contacting the member directly, ASP may be able to help. The ASP Ombudsman
can help you resolve a dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not
provide technical support for members' products. Please write to the ASP
Ombudsman at P.O. Box 5786, Bellevue, WA 98006 or send a message via
Compuserve mail to ASP Ombudsman 70007,3536
Registration Information
------------------------
A LaunchCAD registration licenses you to use the product on a regular
basis. Individual registrations for LaunchCAD cost $20 for registration
only, or $30 for the latest LaunchCAD diskette, with documentation on the
disk. West Virginia residents should include 6% sales tax.
Educational institutions, full-time students and BBS sysops can apply a 50%
discount - $10 per copy. PLEASE include your educational institution
letterhead (with your title), or a photocopy of your most recent
registration slip, or the name and number of your BBS along with any other
relevant information.
Disclaimer
----------
Users of LaunchCAD must accept this disclaimer of warranty: "LaunchCAD is
supplied as is. The author disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied,
including, without limitation,the warranties of merchantability and of
fitness for any purpose.The author assumes no liability for damages, direct
or consequential, which may result from the use of LaunchCAD."
LaunchCAD is a "shareware program" and is provided at no charge to the user
for evaluation. Feel free to share it with your friends, but please do not
give it away altered or as part of another system. The essence of
"user-supported" software is to provide personal computer users with
quality software without high prices, and yet to provide incentive for
programmers to continue to develop new products. If you find this program
useful and find that you are using LaunchCAD and continue to use LaunchCAD
after a reasonable trial period, you must make a registration payment of
$30.00 to Mountain Software. The $30.00 registration fee will license one
copy for use on any one computer at any one time. You must treat this
software just like a book. An example is that this software may be used by
any number of people and may be freely moved from one computer location to
another, so long as there is no possibility of it being used at one
location while it's being used at another.Just as a book cannot be read by
two different persons at the same time.
Chapter 3, License Page 18
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
Commercial users of LaunchCAD must register and pay for their copies of
LaunchCAD within 30 days of first use or their license is withdrawn.
Site-License arrangements may be made by contacting Mountain Software.
Anyone distributing LaunchCAD for any kind of remuneration must first
contact Mountain Software at the address below for authorization. This
authorization will be automatically granted to distributors recognized by
the (ASP) as adhering to its guidelines for shareware distributors, and
such distributors may begin offering LaunchCAD immediately (However
Mountain Software must still be advised so that the distributor can be kept
up-to-date with the latest version of LaunchCAD.).
You are encouraged to pass a copy of LaunchCAD along to your friends for
evaluation. Please encourage them to register their copy if they find that
they can use it. All registered users will receive a copy of the latest
version of the LaunchCAD system.
Trademark
---------
Mountain Software and LaunchCAD are trademarks of Mountain Software. MS-DOS
is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. PC-DOS is a registered
trademark of IBM Corporation.
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of AutoDesk.
Site Licenses and Quantity Purchases
------------------------------------
All corporate, business, government or other commercial users of LaunchCAD
must be registered. We offer quantity discounts as well as site licensing.
Corporate site licensing agreements allow duplication and distribution of
specific numbers of copies within the licensed institution. Duplication of
multiple copies is not allowed except through execution of a licensing
agreement. Site license fees are based upon estimated number of users.
Note that with a site license, only one copy of the program will be sent.
You will be responsible for distributing additional copies.
Please write for more information.
Chapter 3, License Page 19
LaunchCAD for AutoCAD User's Guide, version 3.41
IV I n d e x
.END . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 9 PCTOOLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
.QUIT . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 9 prototype drawing . . . . . . 3, 8
(FI) . . . . . . . . . . . . 6, 14 Pull_DWG . . . . . . . . 1, 6, 14
ACAD . . . . . . . . . 4-9, 12-15 QEdit . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 13
ACAD.EXE . . . . . . 6, 7, 12, 15 quit . . . . . . . . . 4, 6, 8, 9
ACAD.LSP . . . . . . . 4, 5, 8, 9 Revisions . . . . . . . . . . . 14
ACAD.MNU . . . . . . . . . . 4, 5 S::STARTUP . . . . . . . 8, 9, 15
ACAD.PGP . . . . . . 4, 5, 13, 15 screen fill . . . . . . . . . . . 7
aCtion . . . . . . . . . 6, 8, 15 script . . . . 3, 4, 8-11, 15, 16
AltX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 SET . . . . . . . . . . 6-8, 10, 12
archive . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 16 shareware . . . . . . . . 1, 17-19
ASCII . . . . . . . . . . 5, 9, 13 Shell . . . . . . . 4, 5, 7, 13, 14
ATTEXT . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Shell Mode . . . . . . . . . . . 4
AutoManager . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SHROOM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
batch . . . . . . . 3, 6-9, 14, 15 SLDMGR . . . . . . . . . . . 3, 13
Big Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 SlideManager . . . . . . . . . . 7
browse . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Starting Directory . . . . . 6, 15
bulletin boards . . . . . . . . 13 Startup Mode . . . . . . . . . . 3
color . . . . . . . . . . 7, 11, 15 subdirectory . 3, 4, 6, 7, 13, 14
Compuserve . . . . . . . . 13, 18 tablet . . . . . . . . . . 10, 12
Cursor . . . . . . . . . . 10, 11 Utility . . . . . . 3, 7, 8, 13, 15
directory . . . . . . 3, 5-7, 9-16 VS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 6
disk . . . . . . 7, 11, 15, 17, 18 vslide . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DOS . . . . . . 3, 5-8, 12, 13, 19 wend . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 6
drawing editor . . . 3-6, 8, 9, 11 XTREE . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 13
DXB . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 ZIP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
dxbin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DXF . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6, 9
dxfin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
EDLIN . . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 13
end . . . . . . . 1, 4, 6, 8, 9, 17
error . . . . . . . . . . 7, 13, 15
ERRORLEVEL . . . . . . . . . . . 7
ESC . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-8, 10
Extra . . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 9
Files . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 7-16
help . . . . 8, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18
Hypertext . . . . . . . . . 11, 14
INS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 6
insert . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 12
LC . . . . . . 4-7, 10, 12, 14-16
LC.EXE . . . . . . . 6, 7, 12, 15
LC.LSP . . . . . . . . 4-6, 15, 4
license . . . . . . . . . . . 17-19
LISP . . . . . . . . . 5, 6, 8, 15
LIST.COM . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Looping . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
menu . . . . . 1, 3-6, 8-11, 14-16
Monitor . . . . . . . . . . 11, 14
mouse . . . . . . . . 7, 10, 14, 15
path . . 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15
Chapter 3, License Page 20