1. Optimized DWG File Format

The optimized AutoCAD LT 2004 DWG file format cuts file sizes in half compared to AutoCAD LT 2002* reducing of the amount of required disk space on hard drives and servers. The new DWG file format enables drawings to be quickly transmitted via networks, email, and collaboration services such as Autodesk® Buzzsaw™.

*Autodesk tests show an average file compression of 52 percent. Measurement is a preliminary indicator based on automation testing over a controlled network. Results are approximate and still subject to change. Product information and specifications are subject to change without notice. Autodesk, Inc., provides this information “as is,” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied.

2. Tool Palettes

Save time locating predrawn content by storing frequently used design content on tool palettes. Simply drag symbols and hatches from the DesignCenter™ feature or DesignCenter Online—your point of access to predrawn content on the Web—onto the tool palette for efficient drafting and improved design consistency. Plus you can modify the appearance of tools to suit your workstyle and environment by adjusting the tool palette view options.

3. Multiline Text (mtext) Editing

The Multiline Text Editor dialog box has been replaced by a new frameless editor, which lets you easily view, size, position, and edit text relative to nearby geometry. Easily create multiline paragraphs with professional-quality formatting by applying styles, fonts, and other text properties, and by setting indentation and tab stops for paragraphs.

4. Multisheet DWF (Design Web Format)

The new DWF™ (Design Web Format™) file format is the most secure way to exchange drawings over the Internet with team members who need to view and plot, but not edit, your AutoCAD LT drawings. DWF is a lightweight view-and-plot-only format that yields the same viewing and to-scale plotting fidelity as a native DWG file. Publish multiple drawing sheets to a single DWF file to minimize the number of files being transmitted, and avoid confusion over the file order for viewing and printing. Multipage files can be easily viewed and printed with Autodesk’s free DWF viewer, Autodesk® Express Viewer.

5. Electronic Viewing and Printing of Documents

The Autodesk Express Viewer is a small, fast, free* viewer with easy-to-use tools for anyone who needs to view and print to-scale DWF files. The Autodesk Express Viewer supports viewing of all DWF file formats, including the new DWF 6. Find out more.

*This product is subject to the terms and conditions of the end-user license agreement that accompanies the download of the software.

 

6. Digital Signatures

Digital signatures ensure the security of your digital design data. Digitally signed drawings can be verified for origin (confirming the identity of the person(s) who sign drawings), state (the drawings have not been changed), and nonrepudiation (signers cannot claim they never signed drawings).

7. Communication Center

The Communication Center provides access to current product-related information within the AutoCAD LT 2004 software user interface. Live Updates instantly notify you when an update or maintenance release is available for AutoCAD LT software. You can configure the Communication Center by specifying geographic locations, frequency of updates, and specific information to be displayed. Plus you can selectively enable, disable, or configure the Communication Center on a user-by-user basis and in this way control which users have access to information on the Internet.