Draftsight Won’t Open? | Tutocad

Understanding Why DraftSight Fails to Launch

Experiencing difficulties with DraftSight not initiating is a common frustration among users. Several factors can contribute to this issue, with one prevalent cause being an expired certificate. This is particularly noticeable in versions like DraftSight 2015 to DraftSight 2017. Users may find that after installation and activation, the software unexpectedly crashes or displays an error message stating that "DraftSight has stopped working."

To troubleshoot this problem, it may be beneficial to restart your computer after installation. This simple yet effective step can help refresh system resources and resolve potential conflicts that might be preventing the software from running smoothly.

Steps to Open a Drawing in DraftSight

1. Initiate the application by selecting the DraftSight icon.
2. Access the File menu located in the upper left corner.
3. Click on "Open" or enter the command "Open" in the command line.
4. From the "Files of Type" dropdown, choose the relevant file format you wish to access.
5. Navigate through the "Look In" section to locate your drawing file.
6. Highlight the drawing you wish to open and either click "Open" to edit it or "Open Read-Only" to view it without making changes.

Availability of DraftSight’s Free Version in 2020

DraftSight continued to offer a trial version in 2020, allowing users to test the features of DraftSight Premium for a limited period. Prospective users could easily download the software from the official website and opt for the "Free 30-Day Trial" during the installation process.

Activation Process for DraftSight 2020

Upon successfully installing DraftSight 2020, users must activate the software to begin using it. This can be done by following these steps:

1. Launch DraftSight from the applications menu.
2. When prompted, click on "Activate Now."
3. If required, input your admin username and password. If you possess admin rights, this prompt might not appear.
4. Follow any additional instructions that may appear on-screen to complete the activation process.

Instructions for Obtaining DraftSight for Free

Acquiring DraftSight at no cost is straightforward:

1. Navigate to the DraftSight download portal on its official website.
2. Select the appropriate download button corresponding to your Windows architecture (64-bit or 32-bit).
3. Read through and accept the DraftSight License and Subscription Service Agreement.
4. The download will commence automatically once you agree to the terms.

Updating DraftSight

Upgrading to a more advanced version of DraftSight is possible for users wanting enhanced features. Here’s how to update:

1. Decide whether to upgrade to DraftSight Premium or other higher tiers like Enterprise or Enterprise Plus.
2. Purchase your desired subscription online for DraftSight Premium.
3. For the Enterprise versions, reach out to your reseller to arrange the purchase.
4. Note that downgrading to a previous version is not currently available, so ensure the upgrade meets your needs before proceeding.

Software Compatible with .dwg Files

To open .dwg files, Windows users may opt for DWG TrueView, a program recognized for its effectiveness in managing these types of file formats. This can be particularly useful if you require a dedicated viewer.

SolidWorks Compatibility with DraftSight

DraftSight Premium and Enterprise Plus versions include advanced functionalities that support 3D modeling. This capability allows users to work effectively with drawings created in SolidWorks, providing features for both 2D drafting and 3D modeling, making it suitable for various design needs.

Navigating Drawing Areas

To manage different open drawing areas in DraftSight, follow these steps:

1. Click on the "View" tab.
2. Locate the "Windows" panel.
3. From the "Switch Windows" dropdown, review the available views.
4. Click on any listed view to bring it into focus.

Transitioning from Free Versions of DraftSight

As of December 31, 2019, the free versions of DraftSight were no longer accessible. Users migrating to new iterations must opt for the paid service or rely on the provided 30-day free trial. To continue utilizing DraftSight beyond this date, purchasing a proper license is necessary.

Dual Computer Usage for DraftSight

DraftSight licenses allow for installations on multiple computers, provided that only one machine actively uses the software at any given time. If you need to switch devices, deactivate the license on one computer to activate it on another.

Pricing Structure for DraftSight

Here are the costs associated with different DraftSight offerings:

• DraftSight Standard: $99 annually
• DraftSight Professional: $199 annually
• DraftSight Premium (3D): $499 annually
• DraftSight Enterprise and Enterprise Plus: Pricing available upon request

FAQs

1. What should I do if DraftSight crashes during activation?
Try restarting your computer and ensure that you have administrative privileges. Reinstalling the application may help if issues persist.

2. Can users access previous versions of DraftSight after installing the latest version?
No, once you install DraftSight 2019 or newer, you can no longer access or download previous free versions.

3. Is there a way to transfer my DraftSight license to another computer?
Yes, you can deactivate the license on your current computer from the Help menu and then activate it on the new machine.