Loading a LISP Program in AutoCAD 2016
Loading a LISP program in AutoCAD allows users to enhance their design capabilities through automation and customization. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to load a LISP file in AutoCAD 2016:
Step 1: Access the APPLOAD Command
Begin by initiating the command line in AutoCAD. Type APPLOAD and press Enter. This command opens the Load Application dialog box, where you can manage your LISP files.
Step 2: Open the Startup Suite
In the Load Application dialog, locate the "Startup Suite" section. Click on the “Contents” button. This will present you with the current list of LISP routines that are set to load at startup.
Step 3: Add Your LISP File
To include your LISP file in the Startup Suite, click the “Add” button. A file browser will prompt you to navigate to the directory where your LISP file is saved. Select the desired LISP file and then click on the “Open” button to proceed.
Step 4: Finalize Addition of LISP Files
Once you have added all necessary LISP files you wish to load automatically during startup, click the “Close” button. This action saves your changes and exits the Startup Suite dialog.
Step 5: Verification
To ensure the LISP routine has loaded correctly, you may run the specific function associated with the LISP file by typing its name in the command line and pressing Enter. If the LISP file has loaded successfully, the command will execute as expected.
How to Run a LISP Program in AutoCAD
Running a LISP program in AutoCAD is straightforward once the file has been loaded. Follow these instructions:
Step 1: Access the Command Line
Open AutoCAD and ensure your command line interface is active.
Step 2: Type the Function Name
If you know the command or function name from the LISP file, simply type that name into the command line and press Enter. The LISP routine should initiate, executing all predefined instructions.
Downloading and Opening a LISP File in AutoCAD
To use a LISP program, you may need to download it first. Here’s how:
Step 1: Download the LISP File
Right-click on the link to the LISP file you wish to download, then choose “Save link as” or “Save as” to store it in your local directory.
Step 2: Rename the File (if necessary)
Ensure the downloaded file has a .lsp extension. If it doesn’t, rename the file accordingly.
Step 3: Load the File in AutoCAD
Follow the earlier steps for accessing the APPLOAD command and adding your file to the Startup Suite or loading it for immediate use.
Location of LISP Files in AutoCAD
AutoCAD typically stores LISP files in specific support directories. You can find these files in the following locations by navigating through your file explorer:
C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Autodesk AutoCAD 2025\Support\- Subfolders in the above directory may also contain additional LISP files.
Check the Options dialog in AutoCAD under the Files tab to verify the directories included in your support file paths.
Usage Limitations of AutoLISP in AutoCAD LT
For users operating AutoCAD LT, it is crucial to note that this version does not support AutoLISP programming. Features like the APPLOAD command are unavailable, meaning users cannot load or run LISP routines in this lighter version of AutoCAD.
Understanding AutoLISP
AutoLISP is a specialized dialect of the Lisp programming language, specifically designed for AutoCAD. It enables users to automate repetitive tasks, create custom commands, and enhance the functionality of AutoCAD products like AutoCAD Architecture and AutoCAD Mechanical.
Creating an LSP File in AutoCAD
To create a new LISP file, navigate to “Tools,” then “Options.” From there, find the “File Locations” section and then “Support File Search Path.” Click on “New” to add a folder where you want to store your LISP files. Afterward, restart AutoCAD to ensure the new settings take effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use LISP routines in AutoCAD LT?
No, AutoCAD LT does not support LISP routines or the APPLOAD command as it is designed primarily for 2D drafting.
2. What file extension should a LISP file have?
LISP source files must have the .lsp extension, while compiled AutoLISP files use the .fas extension.
3. How can I troubleshoot if my LISP isn’t running correctly?
Ensure that the LISP file is correctly loaded in AutoCAD. You can try reloading the file using the APPLOAD command or check for syntax errors within the code itself.
