Understanding LISP in AutoCAD
LISP (LISt Processing) is a powerful programming language used to automate tasks in AutoCAD. With AutoLISP, users can create custom routines to enhance productivity and streamline workflows. The following sections outline how to change, edit, and manage LISP files within AutoCAD effectively.
Steps to Load a LISP File in AutoCAD
- Initiate the CUI Command: Open AutoCAD and type the command CUI in the command line, then press Enter.
- Access the Customization File: Click on the ‘acad.cuix’ file, or open a relevant custom partial .cuix file if available.
- Locate LISP Files: Navigate to the LISP Files section. Right-click in the area to bring up a context menu.
- Add Your LISP File: Choose Load LISP from the context menu. Browse to find the desired LISP file on your computer.
- Finalize the Load: Click Apply and then Close to exit the CUI editor.
Editing Existing LISP Files
- Launch the APPLOAD Command: Type APPLOAD in the command line and hit Enter.
- Access Startup Suite: Find the Startup Suite section and click on the Contents button to view loaded routines.
- Add New Routines: Click the Add button to choose additional LISP files you wish to include. Browse and select the files, then click Open.
- Save Changes: After you’ve added all necessary LISP routines to the Startup Suite, close the dialog by clicking Close.
Removing LISP Files from AutoCAD
- Open APPLOAD: Enter APPLOAD in the command line and press Enter.
- Select Startup Suite Contents: Click on the Contents button to view all the current LISP routines.
- Choose the LISP to Remove: Highlight the specific LISP routine you no longer need and click on Remove.
- Exit the Window: Click Close to finish the removal process.
Location of AutoCAD LISP Files
To find where AutoCAD stores its LISP files, navigate to the default directory, typically found at C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2025\Support. This folder and its subdirectories contain the LISP files that can be accessed when running commands. You can also verify these paths in the options dialog under the Files tab to confirm locations.
Opening and Editing LISP Files
- Start AutoCAD: Open the application to begin the process.
- Open Visual LISP Editor: From the menu, click on Tools, select AutoLISP, and choose Visual LISP Editor. Alternatively, type VLIDE in the command prompt and press Enter.
- Load LISP Files: Within the Visual LISP Editor, you can open existing LISP files to make necessary edits. Browse and select the desired file.
- Edit and Save: Make any modifications required and remember to save your changes.
Compiling VLX Files
VLX files are compiled versions of LISP files and cannot be directly edited. To modify a VLX file, you need access to the original source code. If you do not have this, you may need to contact the original author for a copy, make your changes, and recompile it.
Learning More About LISP
If you are interested in enhancing your knowledge of LISP programming, various resources are available. For beginners, consider reading “Practical Common Lisp” by Peter Seibel. Additionally, “Successful Lisp” by David Lamkins offers valuable insights and is accessible online. You can also look into more advanced texts such as “Lisp in Small Pieces” by Christian Queinnec and “Artificial Intelligence in Lisp” by Peter Norvig.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use LISP with AutoCAD LT?
AutoCAD LT does not support AutoLISP nor the APPLOAD command. Automation features available in full AutoCAD are not accessible in AutoCAD LT.
How do I find my custom LISP routines after loading them?
Once you have loaded your custom LISP routines via APPLOAD, you can access them by typing the routine name directly into the command line to execute them.
What should I do if I encounter errors when running a LISP routine?
Errors can arise from syntax issues, incorrect file paths, or compatibility problems. Check for any error messages in the command line, and review your LISP code for any mistakes. Using the Visual LISP Editor can help identify and debug errors more efficiently.
