AutoCAD compatible schematic editor

[FreddyNurk]

After much searching and asking of numerous questions around the office, it has come to looking for new software packages that would allow us to automate some of the more tedious tasks for schematic editing, such as wire and part numbering and automated parts list generation.

Which brings me to my problem, options for schematic editing software. I'm familiar with Protel, and as such understand how easy it is to add components and generate parts lists, and auto update changes to components. Our drawings are currently done in a similar style. However, we don't need the circuit simulation or PCB layout capabilities as we generally manufacture switchboard layouts rather than circuit boards. We also need AutoCAD compatibility as Autocad is what we use currently, and we use it for more than electrical schematic and layout functions.

Switchboard layout capabilities would be nice, but not critical. More importantly is the ability to automatically change wire and part numbers, and change parts lists as schematic changes are made.

We're aware of AutoCAD Electrical, but we're not that keen on switching to the ladder diagram format. Does anyone have any other suggestions, or suggestions as to whether AutoCAD electrical has other capabilites that we're not aware of?

Your assistance in this matter would be much appreciated.

Cheers,

Fred Nurk.

 

[chicopee]

HAVE CHECKED OUT THE USE OF ATTRIBUTES AND ATTRIBUTED BLOCKS?

 

[MadMango]

With some LISP programs/creation, you should be able to automate the majority of schematic work with your current AutoCAD software.

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[mrMikee]

I agree with chicopee's suggestion as long as there isn't a commercial program available. In Autocad you could create blocks of your components with attributes that either show on the drawing or are invisible (or a mixture of both.) Alternaltely there is a way to "tag" objects which like blocks could be counted for the parts list. This would require some programing in AutoLISP or VBA, but might also be found on the internet.

http://cadalog.com/

http://www.freecadapps.com/

Autocad Mechanical (not Mechanical Desktop) has a parts list and part counting function built-in based on the block and tag idea. It is very similar to basic Autocad but has extra customization available for mechanical engineers.

Regards,
-Mike

 

[mrMikee]

I forgot to mention the Autocad forum here at eng-tips. I've found interesting stuff there too.

forum555

-Mike

 

[lrob]

Autodesk makes an add-on package for AutoCad. I am currently looking for the same type of software. I have yet to get in touch with an AutoCad vendor. I also know that ECT has a product called Promis-E that can run in Autocad or you can get stand-alone version.

 

[looslib]

There are 3 packages for electrical work within AutoCad that I am aware of: AutoCad Electrical, E-Plan and Vesys.


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