Understanding DraftSight 2020 Crashes Upon Opening
DraftSight, a popular 2D and 3D CAD software, has been reported to crash when users attempt to open it, particularly affecting versions from DraftSight 2015 to 2017. Users often encounter error messages indicating that "DraftSight has stopped working." This issue may be frustrating, especially if you rely on the software for your projects. Below, we explore potential causes and solutions to tackle this problem effectively.
Common Causes of Crashes
Expired Certificate: One of the primary reasons behind the crashing issue is the expiration of software certification. Software licensing often includes certificates that assure the application is validated for use; if these certificates are outdated, the application may fail to launch properly.
Incomplete Installation: Another possible cause could be an incomplete or interrupted installation process. If essential files were not correctly installed, the program may malfunction.
- Software Conflicts: Conflicts with other installed programs are also common culprits, especially if they utilize similar resources or services.
Steps to Diagnose and Fix the Issue
Step 1: Check for Updates
Ensure that you are using the latest version of DraftSight. Updates often include fixes for bugs and compatibility issues. You can visit the DraftSight official site to check for available updates.
Step 2: Repair Installation
If DraftSight continues to crash, consider repairing the installation:
- Open the Control Panel.
- Navigate to Programs and Features.
- Find DraftSight in the list and select it.
- Click on the repair option (if available) and follow the prompts to repair the installation.
Step 3: Deactivate Other Software
Determine if there are other software programs interfering with DraftSight. Temporarily uninstall or deactivate such applications, then try to launch DraftSight again.
Step 4: Reinstall DraftSight
If the above steps do not resolve the crashing issue, a complete reinstallation may be necessary:
- Uninstall the current version of DraftSight from your device through Programs and Features.
- Visit the DraftSight download page and select the correct version for your operating system.
- Follow the instructions provided to download and install the software afresh.
Step 5: Check System Requirements
Review your computer’s specifications against the system requirements for DraftSight. Insufficient hardware or outdated drivers can cause the software to crash. Upgrade hardware or update drivers as necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How can I prevent DraftSight from crashing in the future?
To minimize future crashes, keep the software and your operating system up-to-date, regularly check for known issues on forums, and maintain sufficient system resources by closing unnecessary programs when using DraftSight.
Q2: What should I do if reinstalling DraftSight doesn’t fix the issue?
If reinstalling does not resolve the problem, consider reaching out to DraftSight support for personal assistance. They may provide additional tools or troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific situation.
Q3: Is there an alternative to DraftSight for CAD use?
Yes, several alternatives are available if DraftSight continues to be problematic. Programs like AutoCAD, LibreCAD, and FreeCAD can serve as substitutes depending on your CAD needs.