How to Insert Lisp in AutoCAD?

Introduction to LISP in AutoCAD

LISP (LISt Processing) is a powerful scripting language utilized in AutoCAD to automate tasks and enhance functionality. Knowing how to insert and use LISP routines can significantly improve your efficiency in AutoCAD. Below are detailed steps to guide you through the process of inserting a LISP routine in AutoCAD.

Step-by-Step Guide to Inserting LISP in AutoCAD

Step 1: Obtain the LISP File

• Download the LISP File: Right-click on the download link for the LISP file and select either "Save as" or "Save link as."
• Rename the File: After downloading, ensure the file extension is changed to .lsp if it is not already. This is essential as AutoCAD recognizes LISP scripts with this extension.

Step 2: Opening AutoCAD

• Launch AutoCAD: Open your AutoCAD application to get started. Ensure you are using AutoCAD 2025 or a later version to have the latest features and compatibility.

Step 3: Load the LISP File

• Access the Command Line: At the bottom of the AutoCAD window, find the command line where you will input commands.

• Load Command: Type APPLOAD or AP and press Enter. This opens the Load/Application dialog box.

  Alternatively:

• CUI Method: You can also load your LISP file through the Customize User Interface (CUI). Type CUI in the command line and press Enter.

Step 4: Using the APPLOAD Dialog

• Selecting the File: In the APPLOAD dialog box, navigate to where you saved your .lsp file. Click on it to select it.
• Load the File: Click the "Load" button. This will insert the LISP routine into AutoCAD so that you can use it immediately.
• Closing the Dialog: Once the file is loaded, click "Close" to exit the dialog.

Step 5: Executing the LISP Routine

• Run the Routine: To execute the loaded LISP routine, type the name of the function defined in the .lsp file at the command line and press Enter. This will activate the functionality provided by the LISP script.

Common Locations for LISP Files

Default Save Paths

LISP files can typically be stored in the following locations:

• Typical Directory: Many users save their LISP files in custom folders, but the default directory usually includes paths such as:
  • C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 2025\Support

Make sure that the directory is added to the "Support File Search Path". You can configure this in the Options menu under the "Files" tab.

Understanding LISP Routines in AutoCAD

A LISP routine is essentially a set of instructions that automates certain tasks within AutoCAD. These routines can streamline repetitive workflows, enabling you to focus on more complex design tasks. Users can create customized commands or modify existing routines to cater to specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can LISP be used in AutoCAD LT?
No, AutoCAD LT does not support LISP programming. The commands necessary for loading LISP routines are not available in this version.

2. What file extensions are associated with LISP routines?
LISP scripts are typically saved with the .lsp file extension. Compiled LISP files use the .fas extension for faster loading.

3. How can I view existing LISP files in AutoCAD?
You can find existing LISP files by accessing the ‘Support File Search Path’ in AutoCAD’s Options. This list will show all directories where AutoCAD looks for LISP files.