Draftsight 2018 Crashes When Opening?

Understanding the Crashes in DraftSight 2018 Upon Opening

DraftSight is a popular software application used for CAD designs, and encountering crashes, especially during startup, can be frustrating for users. Specifically, versions like DraftSight 2018 are known to crash upon opening for various reasons. Below are the primary causes of this issue, potential fixes, and detailed steps to ensure a smoother experience with DraftSight.

Causes of Crashes When Opening DraftSight 2018

1. Expired Software Certificate: If DraftSight has been installed recently, especially in earlier versions, an expired activation certificate may cause the application to malfunction and crash upon opening.

2. Conflicts with Other Software: DraftSight may conflict with other software applications that utilize similar resources or services. This can inadvertently interrupt its operation.

3. Improper Installation: Errors during the installation process or missing files can lead to instability, causing the program to fail during startup.

4. System Compatibility Issues: Running DraftSight on an unsupported operating system or an outdated computer can impede functionality, leading to crashes.

Steps to Diagnose and Fix Crashing Issues

Step 1: Verify Certificate Status

• Check if the certificate for your DraftSight installation is still valid. If you recently installed the software, it may require re-activation.

Step 2: Check for Software Conflicts

• Identify any other software that may be utilizing Licensing or Activation services. Temporarily uninstall any conflicting programs to see if this resolves the issue with DraftSight.

Step 3: Reinstall DraftSight

1. Uninstall DraftSight:

   • Go to your computer’s settings and choose the option to uninstall programs.
   • Select DraftSight and proceed with the uninstall process.

2. Clean Installation:

   • After uninstallation, ensure that all related files and registry entries are removed.
   • Use a reliable uninstaller tool or manually delete any leftover files.
3. Reinstall DraftSight:
   • Download the latest version from the official DraftSight website.
   • Follow the installation instructions carefully to prevent any errors.

Step 4: Update Your Operating System and Drivers

• Ensure that your operating system is up-to-date.
• Check for updates for graphic drivers, as an unsupported or outdated driver can cause crashes in CAD applications.

Step 5: Run Compatibility Troubleshooter

1. Right-click on the DraftSight shortcut.
2. Select "Properties".
3. Go to the "Compatibility" tab.
4. Click on "Run the Compatibility Troubleshooter" and follow the on-screen instructions.

Keeping Your DraftSight Operational

• Avoid opening multiple demanding applications alongside DraftSight to free up system resources.
• Regularly check for updates from DraftSight and apply them promptly to ensure the software runs on the latest patches and versions.
• Backup critical files before making changes to the installation or system settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if DraftSight keeps crashing despite reinstalling?
If crashing persists after reinstallation, consider checking your system for malware, perform a registry cleanup, or consult DraftSight support for more technical assistance.

2. Is there a free version of DraftSight available?
As of the end of 2019, all free versions of DraftSight have ceased operation. Users now only have the option of a 30-day trial before a subscription is required.

3. Can DraftSight replace AutoCAD for my projects?
DraftSight is designed to be compatible with DWG files and offers similar features to AutoCAD, making it a suitable alternative for many users, especially for those looking for more affordable options.