By Dennis Collin
This is a common question received all year around, but especially around the month of April each year when new versions of software become available!
There are often concerns when installing new AutoCAD versions of what to do with the old version. The simple answer often is to leave it alone! Modern operating systems are quite happy having multiple versions of software co-existing on the same system. This ensures that migrating users have a safety net of their old system to fall back upon whilst getting to grips with a new version. Of course, individual license circumstances may require the removal of the old AutoCAD, so if in doubt, call one of our team who will be able to advise on the transfer process. Usually there is a grace overlap period to ensure that the new software is working correctly.
The other big issue facing customers is the migration of settings from the old AutoCAD to the new version. This is handled by a migration assistant that runs either during the install, or if skipped, can be applied after the install process.
Migration settings can be found within the program group, along with import and export options as well as license transfer tools.
To transfer AutoCAD settings, run the Migrate from a Previous Release tool. This will then display a dialogue screen where custom AutoCAD settings can be transferred from a previous release, in this example 2019. Profiles, user menus, tool palettes, plotters, templates, hatches and keyboard shortcuts etc. can all be transferred. If a section is not required simply deselect it on the menu.
Once your options have been verified click the confirmation and the settings will be migrated to your latest AutoCAD version.
After a successful transfer, the following dialogue is displayed. A log file can be checked for specific migration details or problems.
If transferring settings to another CAD workstation, there are also some tools to transfer the AutoCAD configuration. From the ‘old’ CAD workstation simply choose export AutoCAD 20?? Settings.
Clicking export will then create a ZIP file, which will typically be placed on a network share. On the ‘new’ CAD workstation choose import settings and locate the exported ZIP file. The custom settings will then be transferred.