Topic Title

Way back when there used to be DataCAD Sample Drawings installed with the software and I'm looking for current ones that show how basic architectural plans are setup using the current state of DataCAD for modeling and smart entities and symbols, etc., etc.

If I were trying to give someone example DataCAD drawings for them to train with to become familiar withe DataCAD where could I find these?

Hi Joseph,

I hoped that somebody else would reply to your question with information on such drawings, but as far as I know there are not any. There is however a Smart Entities Tutorial that you should find in DataCAD's Help folder.

Rgds,
David H.

Yes thanks David I'm aware of the written tutorial.

I was a little surprised to not find any example DataCAD drawings, which would be very helpful for someone that is not familiar with all the latest DataCAD stuff but looking to learn.

This isn't limited only to DataCAD - it seems to be a common malady within CAD software, whether it's Dcad, BricsCAD, Vectorworks, etc.

The info sent through is pretty basic and useful for beginners focusing on 2D drafting but doesn't really showcase the potential of what DataCAD is capable of. The main thing with the smart entities is you need to invest time creating your own database of walls, doors and windows. We've done this over years and simply create what is needed on a project by project basis. In most situations it only takes a couple of minutes. The key is to establish a workable nomenclature for the various file types. My database is pretty messy as it includes a lot of trial and error examples as I got to understand what they can do. The smart entities, is really what has kept my current practice, and past practices with DataCAD, even though progress as slowed to a snail pace, what is there does work and is a big time saver, especially when you continue the 3D/2D model from concept through to documentation drawings. I'm not a big believer in full BIM and think DataCAD's midway approach is a good balance without needing to model everything down to 3D nuts and bolts as I've seen on some BIM drawings. I've found the easiest way to learn is simply open a blank drawing,, click the '=' key to turn on Walls (make sure Auto3D in the Architect menu is on so smart entities are used in lieu of the older multi 2D lines option), pick a Wall Type and draw. Go through the What's New PDF starting around DataCAD X3 as the earlier releases focused more on these newer features. DataCAD includes some samples American doors/windows/walls to start off with.

Mark, thanks for the detailed response & your time.

The Revision History probably is the one file I rely on heavily (as most do) to keep up with or refer to when searching out the latest capabilities.

There's a lot in DataCAD I have learned over the years just by 'clicking' through things to see what it is when time permits, being involved with 2D 'Shop Drawing' architecturals & NC part production drawings in DataCAD for years.

I guess it surprises me a bit that with the great progress that DataCAD has made over the years that there's not a full set of example drawings showing those 'smart' and 3D capabilities to help 'sell it'.

If you have a browse through the DataCAD / Downloads page - https://www.datacad.com/download/index.html it includes all the manuals including a Smart Entities Tutorial under DataCAD X3 which may be of use.