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---------
LaunchCAD
---------
AutoCAD Front End and File Manager
Version 4.0 Documentation
April 25, 1992
_______
____|__ | (R)
--| | |-------------------
| ____|__ | Association of
| | |_| Shareware
|__| o | Professionals
-----| | |---------------------
|___|___| MEMBER
Autodesk Registered Developer
Mountain Software
Jerry Workman, P.E.
1579 Nottingham Road
Charleston, WV 25314
CIS 70717,3564
Orders: 1-800-2424-PsL
Copyright 1988-92 by Mountain Software
all rights reserved
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 2
Table of Contents
I U s i n g L a u n c h C A D . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Shell Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Looping LaunchCAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Batch Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Command Line Switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Test Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Configuration Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Batch Processing and File Lists . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Pulldown Menu Command Structure . . . . . . . . . . . 11
STARTUP.LSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Creating a New Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Creating a File List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
File Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Using Scripts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Networking LaunchCAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
ACAD and ACADCFG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Special Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Mouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Auto-Log Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Viewing or Editing a Log File . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
The Poor Man's Drawing Viewer . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Hypertext Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Dual Monitor Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
AUTOEXEC.BAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Problem Fixes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
II A d d e n d u m . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Suggestions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
III L i c e n s e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Shareware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Definition of Shareware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Registration Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Disclaimer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Trademark . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Site Licenses and Quantity Purchases . . . . . . . . . 25
IV I n d e x . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 3
I U s i n g L a u n c h C A D
Introduction
------------
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.
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. In addition LaunchCAD also adds many features for file
and configuration management, usage logging, and a "poor man's"
drawing viewer.
LaunchCAD operates in two basic modes, first as a front end for
AutoCAD, and second within the AutoCAD drawing editor.
As a front end, LaunchCAD provides a "super" file dialogue with
many features:
* A Directory menu tree for easy directory navigation
* Batch plotting and processing.
* User editable file descriptions.
* Drawing time and usage logging.
* A "Poor Man's" drawing viewer (really a slide viewer).
* An ASCII text file viewer.
* Edit using your editor or word processor,
* View an AutoCAD slide file (with VS.EXE).
* Call your drawing viewer.
* Auto script loader
* Execute any external utility program of your choice.
* Execute any DOS command from a pick list.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 4
Shell Mode
----------
You may also run LaunchCAD from within the drawing editor (with
the command "LC") as a file dialogue to select a file and perform
the following tasks, many these can executed two ways. Each can
be executed by entering the command LC and then selecting from a
popup menu, or with by their command name:
menu Command: description
---- ------- -----------
LC Master function - displays a popup of the
following, plus END, WEND and QUIT to
optionally save and select a new drawing:
end LCE Save the current drawing, and specify a new
drawing to be loaded by AutoCAD.
wend WEND Save the current drawing using WBLOCK *
<filename>, and select a new drawing to be
loaded by AutoCAD.
quit LCQ Quit the current drawing, and specify a new
drawing to be loaded by AutoCAD.
insert INS Select a drawing file to insert into the
current drawing as a block.
*insert *INS Select a drawing file to insert into the
current drawing as an exploded block.
lisp LISP Load and execute (providing the filename and
function name are the same) an AutoLISP
program.
dxfin DXF Select a DXF file to load into the current
drawing.
dxbin DXB Select a DXB file to load into the current
drawing.
vslide VS Select an AutoCAD SLD file to view.
menu MU Select an AutoCAD menu to load.
style STY Select an .SHX file for a text style.
ads ADS Select a .EXP program to load and execute.
xref XREF Select a .DWG file to "XREF ATTACH"
(FI) Universal file picker for AutoCAD: at any
filename prompt from AutoCAD, this function
"stuffs" the keyboard with the filename and
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 5
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.
Installation
------------
If you are installing from the diskette, log to the floppy drive
and enter "INSTALL" then follow the instructions to extract and
copy the files to your hard disk.
If installing from the "ZIP" file then extract all files to your
AutoCAD directory (usually C:\ACAD).
Modifying your batch file
------------------------
If you presently execute AutoCAD from a batch file (eg ACAD.BAT
or ACAD386.BAT, etc) and use DOS 3.0 or later, then you need only
to replace the line containing "ACAD" or "SHROOM" with "CALL
LCAD" to execute LaunchCAD.
example: SET ACAD=C:\ACAD\SUPPORT
SET ACADCFG=C:\ACAD\TABLET
ACAD <== replace this line with: CALL LCAD
SET ACAD=
SET ACADCFG=
The batch file LCAD.BAT contains additional code to allow
LaunchCAD to loop or to operate in "batch" mode.
LAUNCHCAD CAN _NOT_ EXECUTE A BATCH FILE! LaunchCAD executes
AutoCAD without first returning to DOS or your batch file. You
must execute LaunchCAD from the batch file instead.
[=====]
If you wish to use the "shell" mode functions of LaunchCAD the
following modifications to ACAD.LSP and ACAD.PGP are required.
You may make these changes manually with any ASCII editor. or you
can let LaunchCAD make these changes automatically for you by
selecting "Auto Setup" from the configuration menu.
[=====]
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 6
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,180000,*Parameters: ,4
this can also be accomplished with DOS as follows:
COPY ACAD.PGP+LC.PGP ACAD.PGP
Note: If you use AutoCAD 386 or release 11 then this value is
not important. For other versions of AutoCAD values as
low as 150000 works on some machines, but others
require more than 180000; if the message appears "not
enough memory to load program" after the LC command, or
if a "memory allocation error" appears in LaunchCAD
then increase this value.
If the last field is a "4" then AutoCAD will flip to
the graphics screen (and sometimes redraw) after a
LaunchCAD command. If this is not desirable then change
this value to "0".
ACAD.MNU (optional)
Add the following line(s) to your menu file, usually
ACAD.MNU. These commands are contained in the file LC.MNU.
You can easily accomplish this by executing the DOS command
from your ACAD directory:
COPY ACAD.MNU+LC.MNU ACAD.MNU
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 7
***POP10
[LaunchCAD]
[LC Menu]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LC ^P
[~--]
[Insert]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) INS ^P
[*Insert]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) *INS ^P
[XRef]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) XR ^P
[Lisp]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LISP ^P
[ADS]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) ADS ^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
[Style]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) STY ^P
[~--]
[End]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LCE ^P
[WEnd]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LCW ^P
[Quit]^C^C^P(IF (NULL C:LC) (LOAD"LC")) LCQ ^P
Looping LaunchCAD
----------------
If you wish for LaunchCAD to execute again upon exit from AutoCAD
then you may do so. This can be accomplished by using a batch
file to run LaunchCAD. You can use (and modify if necessary) the
file LCAD.BAT or add the following to your ACAD.BAT file.
:LOOP
LC %1
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 GOTO DONE
GOTO LOOP
:DONE
If you now execute AutoCAD from a batch file then add the above
lines to your existing batch file in place of the line containing
"ACAD" (or SHROOM if you use SHROOM to start AutoCAD).
Configuration
-------------
You can set all of the following defaults:
Utilities
* The (external) program to view text files. (LIST.COM
recommended)
* The (external) program to edit text files. (QEdit, EDLIN,
etc.)
* The (external) program to view a slide file. (VSlide or
SlideManager)
* The (external) program to view a drawing file. (AutoManager)
* Any (external) utility program. (XTREE, PCTOOLS, etc.)
Files
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 8
* Filename to execute (normally ACAD.EXE). This option is
provided so that the programs "Big Shell" or SHROOM can be
utilized. This MUST be an .EXE or .COM executable file only,
enter the full path name. If you use the shareware version
of SHROOM then you can also enter parameters. (eg
C:\ACAD\SHROOM.COM C:\ACAD\ACAD.EXE)
* The default script file for file lists.
* Log / Reference file extension. The log file is an ASCII
file with the same name as the drawing file. This file can
be viewed from the directory and automatically updated by
LaunchCAD each time you load, save and end a drawing.
Directories
* The drive and subdirectory from which AutoCAD will be
executed. IF THIS FIELD IS LEFT BLANK, THEN AUTOCAD WILL BE
EXECUTED FROM THE DIRECTORY WHERE THE DRAWING RESIDES.
* Default drawing directory. If left blank the directory last
used will "stick" between drawing sessions.
* Default Script directory.
* Default AutoLISP (& ADS "*.EXP") directory.
* Default Block directory.
* Default Menu directory.
* ACADCFG directory - This is the same as using SET
ACADCFG=<path> from DOS or a batch file and will override
any previous setting. If you leave it blank LaunchCAD will
not modify the previous setting.
* ACAD directories - This is the same as using SET ACAD=<path>
from DOS or a batch file and will override any previous
setting. If you leave it blank LaunchCAD will not modify the
previous setting.
Other
* Mouse driver mode. Set to OFF if you have mouse problems in
AutoCAD. Double Click for CUA type mouse action, or Single
click for one click selects in pick lists.
* Screen fill background character.
* DOS shell swap mode, LaunchCAD can swap most of itself to
memory when executing external DOS utilities (edit/view a
file, etc). Some machines will lock up if this is activated.
If it doesn't work on your machine don't use it. The swap to
disk is safer that a swap to EMS/XMS.
* Color selection. One of three color sets can be selected.
* AutoSetup - select this item to let LaunchCAD modify
ACAD.LSP and ACAD.PGP and also verify the existence of key
files.
* Save - save the configuration. 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 or to <USERNAME>.CFG where <USERNAME> is an
environment variable set prior to executing LaunchCAD (eg SET
USERNAME=J_Smith). This file is placed in the same directory as
LC.EXE.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 9
Batch Mode
----------
Some tablets, when also used as a mouse expect ACAD.EXE to be
executed from DOS. LaunchCAD executes AutoCAD without returning
to DOS. If you find that your tablet does not work after starting
AutoCAD with LaunchCAD, but works OK when AutoCAD is started from
DOS then running in "Batch" mode is the solution.
Configure "CAD Program Filename" with no filename (delete
ACAD.EXE or whatever the field might contain). Save the
configuration. Start LaunchCAD using the batch file LCAD.BAT.
LaunchCAD exits with a DOS ERRORLEVEL 2 when the "CAD Program
Filename" field is blank, which the batch file detects to execute
AutoCAD using the script that LaunchCAD creates. Note that the
ACAD and ACADCFG configuration fields will have no effect if this
mode is utilized.
Command Line Switches
---------------------
DOS Command line switches can be used to control LaunchCAD's
various modes of operation. These switches must start with a / or
- character, and are not case sensitive. Switches must come
before and path specification.
LC <switches> <drawing directory>
Switches must start with / or - and are not case sensitive.
/K#### Keyboard macro string example: /KTP
/U#### Username example: /UJ_Smith
/R ACAD.EXE is in a read only directory
/S Shell mode
/E END shell mode
/W WEND shell mode
/Q Quit shell mode
/X XREF insert shell mode
/I Insert shell mode
/* Exploding Insert shell mode
/A ADS shell mode
/L LISP shell mode
/V VSLIDE shell mode
/D DXFIN shell mode
/B DXBIN shell mode
/M Menu shell mode
/T Style shell mode
/F File shell mode
/? /H This message
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 10
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. 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> or
select "Quit/Yes" from the menu.
Configuration Issues
--------------------
You may now execute LaunchCAD in the same manner that you now
execute ACAD. LaunchCAD does NOT remain in memory, leaving all
available memory (except for a small amount of environment
memory) for AutoCAD. 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 the
same directory of ACAD.EXE, or the an 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.
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.
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).
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 11
Batch Processing and 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, or to make conversions in
mass to a group of drawings. Some example scripts are provided to
plot and one to purge unused layers, blocks, etc.
Pulldown Menu Command Structure
-------------------------------
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.
Quit - Quit 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, SAVE 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 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).
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 12
Directory
---------
LaunchCAD's file dialogue is unique. 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. You may click the Left
mouse button while the pointer is in either window to select
either window.
Files can also be sorted by descending name, ascending date or
descending date. <Alt-S> selects the file sort popup menu. You
can click the left mouse button on the "Select Sort" button to
popup the sort window.
Change directory by highlighting the directory and pressing
return. You may also change disk drives by pressing <Alt-D> and
selecting another disk drive. You can click the left mouse button
on "Drives" to popup the Drive select window.
Note that you can scan the directory not only with the cursor
keys, but by typing a letter to move to file names starting with
that letter. You can click the mouse on the top and bottom window
borders to page-up or page-down respectively.
The file description is displayed for the highlighted file in a
window below the directory. A full file description window can be
selected by pressing <Alt-F> while the directory is displayed. A
file can be selected while in this window and the descriptions
can be edited by pressing <Alt-E>.
Alt-D - select Disk drive
Alt-S - select file Sort method
Alt-O or F2 - popup file Options menu
Alt-R or F3 - View log / reference file
Alt-L or F4 - Edit log / reference file.
Alt-E or F5 - Edit file description
Alt-I or F6 - View drawing slide icon
Alt-F - popup File description window
spacebar - tag file
<Ctrl>Enter - Select tagged files as file list
Creating a New Directory
------------------------
You may create a new directory from the drawing path prompt.
First select Files/Directory then press <Tab> or Left/Right arrow
to select the directory window, then press <F2>. 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.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 13
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.
File Descriptions
-----------------
A short (67 character) description can be added to files. This
file description can be added and edited from the directory for
the highlighted file by pressing <Alt-E> or <F5>.
An alternative directory file description window is activated
from the directory window by pressing the <Alt-F> key. A file can
be selected from this window just as in the directory window and
the file description can be added or edited for a file by
pressing the <Alt-E> key to pop up the edit window. The file
description is stored in a normal ASCII file named DESCRIPT.ION
in each subdirectory and in the same format used by 4DOS and
NDOS.
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.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 14
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:
MSLIDE.SCR creates an AutoCAD slide file for the
selected drawing(s).
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.
Networking LaunchCAD
--------------------
Multiple users can now use a single copy of LaunchCAD on a Local
Area Network. Each user can have a unique LaunchCAD and AutoCAD
configuration. If the environment variable USERNAME has been set
then LaunchCAD will attempt to load %USERNAME%.CFG instead of
LC.CFG as its configuration file, and will create a script file
named %USERNAME%.SCR instead of LC.SCR. Each users USERNAME can
set in his AUTOEXEC.BAT file using the DOS command SET (eg SET
USERNAME=J_Smith).
Using this approach each user can configure LaunchCAD to his/her
specific preferences
ACAD and ACADCFG
----------------
If the LaunchCAD configuration items "ACAD" and "ACADCFG" are not
blank, then LaunchCAD will modify the DOS environment variable of
the same name to the directory(s) that you specify. This allows a
specific AutoCAD configuration for each user on a network. On
single user systems this feature in combination with USERNAME can
be used to maintain multiple configurations on a single machine.
NOTE: Any ACAD or ACADCFG settings that are present in the DOS
environment prior to executing LaunchCAD will be overwritten in
the DOS environment passed to AutoCAD, but will be restored upon
exit from AutoCAD. If you do not wish to use this feature then
leave these fields blank.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 15
Special Keys
------------
Use the following keys to navigate throughout the program.
<F1> - Help: Display context sensitive help.
<F2> - Options: Pop up directory from a file name entry
window.
<Esc> - Cancel: Backs out of the current menu/window and
exits the program when only the top menu is
displayed.
<AltX>- eXit Immediately exit LaunchCAD
A-Z - (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.
While in the menu certain "Hot Keys" will jump the menu to the
major menus by pressing <Alt><key> where <key> is the first
letter of the menu title.
Mouse
-----
If you have a mouse connected and a Microsoft compatible mouse
driver, then you can use the mouse to navigate LaunchCAD. The
mouse cursor is free moving, the left mouse button is the pick or
select button. You can configure the mouse to select either using
a single or double click in pick lists.
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.
Auto-Log Feature
----------------
LaunchCAD can log of the editing time by user for each drawing.
When this feature is enabled LaunchCAD will append a record to an
ASCII file of the same name as the drawing but using a user
defined file extension (default ".LOG"). A log entry is made each
time a drawing is opened and saved.
The log file is a comma delimited ASCII file that can be easily
imported into any database or spreadsheet program. The fields are
as follows:
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 16
Command, Drawing Name, Username, Date, Time, Elapsed Time (hours)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
"OPEN", "D:\DWG\HOUSE", "J_Smith", "04/1/92", "10:45:27", 0.046
"QUIT", "D:\DWG\HOUSE", "J_Smith", "04/1/92", "10:46:16", 0.459
"OPEN", "D:\DWG\HOUSE", "B_Jones", "04/13/92", "19:47:22", 0.456
"END", "D:\DWG\HOUSE", "B_Jones", "04/13/92", "19:47:42", 1.168
Viewing or Editing a Log File
-----------------------------
You can view the log file with the internal file browser from the
directory window. Move the cursor the desired file and press
<Alt-R> or <F3>. You may also edit the file (using an external
ASCII editor) from the directory by pressing <Alt-L> or <F4>.
The Poor Man's Drawing Viewer
-----------------------------
With LaunchCAD you can create and view AutoCAD slides of any and
all drawings. Using this system you can maintain a slide for each
AutoCAD drawing and view that slide from the LaunchCAD directory.
A slide can be displayed quicker by LaunchCAD's slide viewer than
any drawing viewer can display a drawing file. And since you
select the view of the drawing for the slide, a meaningful
drawing "icon" can be created. The result is a method to view a
graphical representation of a drawing from LaunchCAD's unique
drawing file dialogue window.
Creating the Slide Files
------------------------
When you SAVE or END any drawing that does not have an associated
slide file, LaunchCAD will create the slide file using the
current view. You can at any time create a slide file using the
using the AutoCAD command MSLIDE. Just zoom to the desired view
and then enter MSLIDE<Enter><Enter> from the AutoCAD Command:
prompt. A slide with the same name as the drawing will be
created.
Viewing the Slide Icon
----------------------
From the LaunchCAD directory window, press either the <Alt-I> or
<F6> keys. The LaunchCAD slide viewer is an external program
(VS.EXE) that is provided as a "bonus" program to LaunchCAD
users.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 17
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 highlight bar such that the entire help text on all subjects
can be accessed.
Limits
------
The directory is limited to 2000 file names. File lists are
limited 100 files, and only the first 16 will display in the
filelist window. The ASCII file viewer is limited to 2000 lines
and available memory.
Dual Monitor Systems
--------------------
If you have a dual monitor system with a monochrome display
adapter and monochrome monitor (not a VGA mono) for the AutoCAD
text screen 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. This may not work on systems with monochrome
VGA monitors.
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.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 18
Example: SET ACAD=C:\ACAD\SUPPORT
SET ACADCFG=C:\ACAD\TABLET
SET LISPHEAP=30000
SET LISPSTACK=15000
SET ACADFREERAM=20
SET USERNAME=J_Smith
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=
Problem Fixes
-------------
AutoCAD does not load when I select "Launch AutoCAD":
This occurs because LaunchCAD and/or DOS can not find
ACAD.EXE (or SHROOM.COM). Change the LaunchCAD
configuration: Config/Files/CAD program filename to the full
drive:directory\filename.ext of ACAD.EXE (eg
C:\ACAD\ACAD.EXE). In addition add the AutoCAD directory to
your DOS PATH statement (eg PATH C:\DOS;C:\UTILITY;C:\ACAD
in AUTOEXEC.BAT).
My AutoLISP program or Menu item does not work, that worked OK
previously, when I use LaunchCAD:
If you have added LC.LSP to your ACAD.LSP file, then the
additional node and heap space required (LC.LSP is a
relatively small file) may have caused AutoLISP to "hit the
wall". You can create additional heap and node space for
AutoLISP. Check your AutoCAD manual as the steps differ with
various versions of AutoCAD and your machine configuration.
If this step does not work then take some of the less used
functions out of ACAD.LSP, or at last resort take LC.LSP
out. You will no longer be able to use any od the "shell
mode" functions but the "front end" will still work.
The mouse doesn't work in AutoCAD
If you use a Logitech mouse, then use the Microsoft driver
instead of the Logitech driver. Configure AutoCAD for the
Microsoft driver.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 19
A "sharing violation" error occurs during a shell mode operation
DOS 4 and some peer to peer networks require that the DOS
program SHARE.EXE be loaded. SHARE provides file locking on
NETBIOS networks and allows the use of disk partitions
greater than 32MB. SHARE issues the message because AutoCAD
does not close script files after they execute. To correct
this problem load SHARE with the /NC parameter (eg SHARE
/NC).
The cursor runs wild in LaunchCAD:
Some digitizer drivers (the Nth driver in particular) uses
the same software interrupt as the Microsoft mouse driver.
If the mouse is enabled LaunchCAD will interpret the
digitizer signals as mouse movements. If this happens then
delete the file LC.CFG (or USERNAME.CFG) and reconfigure
LaunchCAD. Make sure mouse mode is set to NONE.
Can I use my digitizer for a pointing device in LaunchCAD?
Yes and No. If the digitizer can emulate a Microsoft mouse,
then you can use it. Some digitizers come with drivers for
Microsoft mouse emulation. If you have a Summagraphics
digitizer or one that emulates one, then the program SMOUSE
(available on many bulletin boards) will cause some
digitizers to emulate a mouse.
AutoCAD runs very slowly or; My protected mode display driver
won't load; or; My menus don't work or; My AutoLISP programs
don't work, etc.
LaunchCAD uses DOS environment variables to pass
configuration information to AutoCAD. If the amount of
memory is not sufficient for the additional variables and
data in the DOS environment area, then some of the
variable's data can be lost. The solution is to allocate
additional memory to the DOS environment. This can be done
by adding the following to your CONFIG.SYS file:
SHELL=C:\COMMAND.COM /E:600 /P
This will expand the memory available for environment
variables to 600 bytes. Check you DOS manual for the correct
syntax as older versions of DOS allocated memory in
paragraphs (16 bytes).
My menus, LISP programs, styles, etc won't load:
LaunchCAD can execute AutoCAD from either the same directory
as the drawing file that you select, or a specific
directory. If you find that AutoCAD can't find some files
that it could previously, then you are probably executing
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 20
AutoCAD from a different directory than you did before using
LaunchCAD. You can control the directory from which AutoCAD
is executed by changing the LaunchCAD configuration item
"Starting Directory". If the field is blank, then AutoCAD
will be executed from the same directory as the drawing file
that you select. If you enter a directory in this field then
AutoCAD will be executed from that directory. If you, prior
to using LaunchCAD, executed AutoCAD from C:\ACAD then you
can enter that directory into the "Starting Directory" field
to make things just as they were before. Or, preferably, you
can make those LSP, MNX, SHX, etc files available to AutoCAD
by setting the environment variable ACAD to the directory
where they are located. (eg SET ACAD=C:\ACAD\SUPPORT). Then
you can execute AutoCAD from any directory.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 21
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 - VSlide is a bonus program provided to LaunchCAD
users, a small and fast program to view AutoCAD slide files
(.SLD) without AutoCAD.
Utility - Your choice, I use Xtree Pro here.
BROWSE, LIST, and Qedit 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.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 22
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 7:30PM ET)
Copyright 1988-92 by Mountain Software All rights reserved
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 23
III L i c e n s e
Shareware
---------
This version of LaunchCAD is NOT public domain or free software,
but is "Shareware". You may try it out to see if it is useful for
you. If you use it you must register and pay for one license per
CPU. 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 or by ASP approved vendors). A disk
with the latest version will be provided for and additional $10
media fee + $4 shipping and handling.
Non-registered users of this software are granted a limited 30
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 except for
evaluation purposes.
3. For any consideration other than a nominal copying charge.
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.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 24
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 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.
Registration Information
------------------------
A LaunchCAD registration licenses you to use the product on a
regular basis. Individual registrations for LaunchCAD cost $30 +
$4 S&H for the latest LaunchCAD diskette and printed manual. West
Virginia residents must include 6% sales tax.
Educational institutions, full-time students and BBS sysops can
apply a 50% discount. 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.
Commercial users of LaunchCAD must register and pay for their
copies of LaunchCAD within 30 days of first use or their license
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 25
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.
Trademark
---------
Mountain Software, LaunchCAD, Custom#Menu and -=Tab123=- are
trademarks of Mountain Software. AutoCAD is a registered
trademark of AutoDesk, Incorporated. CompuServe is a registered
trademark of CompuServe Incorporated. DESQview is a trademark of
Quarterdeck Office Systems. IBM is a registered trademark of
International Business Machines. LIM and EMS are trademarks of
Lotus, Intel, and Microsoft Corporations. Lotus is a registered
trademark of Lotus Development Corporation. Microsoft and Xenix
are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Site Licenses and Quantity Purchases
------------------------------------
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 the number of users.
Number of Copies Cost
1-10 $10 media + $20 for each CPU
11+ $10 media + $15 for each CPU
Note that with a site license, only one copy of the program will
be shipped. You will be responsible for distributing additional
copies.
LaunchCAD Version 4.0 Documentation Page 26
IV I n d e x
.END . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 13 QEdit . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 21
.QUIT . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 13 quit . . . . . . 4, 9-11, 13, 16
(FI) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 S::STARTUP . . . . . . . . . . 11
ACAD . . 5-11, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21 screen fill . . . . . . . . . . 8
ACAD.EXE . . . . . . 8-10, 17, 18 script 3, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14, 17, 19
ACAD.LSP . . . . 5, 6, 8, 11, 18 SET 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17-20
ACAD.MNU . . . . . . . . . 6, 10 shareware . . . . . . 1, 8, 23-25
ACAD.PGP . . . . . . 5, 6, 8, 21 Shell . . . 4, 5, 8-10, 18, 19, 21
aCtion . . . . . . . . 8, 10, 11 Shell Mode . . . . . 4, 9, 18, 19
AltX . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 15 SHROOM . . . . . . . 5, 7, 8, 18
ASCII . 3, 5, 6, 8, 13, 15-17, 21 slide . . . . 3, 7, 12, 14, 16, 21
AutoManager . . . . . . . . . . 7 Starting Directory . . . . 10, 20
batch . . . . . 3, 5, 7-9, 11, 13 subdirectory . . 3, 8, 10, 13, 21
Big Shell . . . . . . . . . . . 8 tablet . . . . . . . 5, 9, 15, 18
browse . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Utility . . . . . 3, 7, 11, 18, 21
bulletin boards . . . . . . 19, 21 VS . . . . . . . . . 3, 4, 7, 16
color . . . . . . . . . . . 8, 17 VSlide . . . . . . . 4, 7, 9, 21
Compuserve . . . . . . . . 21, 25 wend . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 9
Cursor . . . . . . 12, 15, 16, 19 XTREE . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 21
directory . . 3, 5, 6, 8-10, 12-21 ZIP . . . . . . . . . . . . 5, 23
disk . . . . . . 5, 8, 12, 19, 23
DOS . 3, 5, 6, 8-11, 14, 17-19, 21
drawing editor 3, 4, 10, 11, 13, 17
DXB . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 7
dxbin . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 9
DXF . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 7, 13
dxfin . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 9
EDLIN . . . . . . . . . . . 7, 21
end 1, 3, 4, 6, 8-11, 13, 16, 18, 23
error . . . . . . . . . 6, 19, 21
ERRORLEVEL . . . . . . . . . 7, 9
ESC . . . . . . . . . . . . 10, 15
Extra . . . . . . . . . . . 11, 13
Files . . . . . 5-8, 11-14, 16-21
help . . . . . . . . . 10, 15, 17
Hypertext . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Icon . . . . . . . . . . . 12, 16
INS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4, 7
insert . . . . . . . . . 4, 9, 18
Install . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
LC . . . . 4, 6-10, 14, 15, 17-19
LC.EXE . . . . . . . . 8, 10, 17
LC.LSP . . . . . . . . 6, 10, 18
license . . . . . . . . . . 23-25
LISP . . . . . . 4, 7, 9, 11, 19
LIST.COM . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Looping . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
menu . . . 3-6, 8-13, 15, 18, 25
Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
mouse . . . . 8, 9, 12, 15, 18, 19
path . . . 3, 5, 6, 8-12, 17, 18
PCTOOLS . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
prototype drawing . . . . . 10, 11