Solved: Help AutoCAD LT 2005

Anonymous · ‎12-30-2019

I have changed computers from running Windows XP on an old computer to a new HP computer with Windows 10.

I have downloaded AutoCAD LT 2005 into the new computer and it works fine providing the Compatibility is switched to Windows XP Service Pack 3.

I have tried to re-register for a new set of keys without success. Yes I know its old software, but it has served me so well over the years. Can anyone suggest a useful solution?

David

steven-g · ‎12-31-2019

Unfortunately, you are just too late from August 29th 2019 Autodesk will no longer activate any version 2010 or older, if you still have the old computer (working) then that is your only option with that old software. Otherwise, it is time to update to the new subscription model of using Autocad or start looking for something else.

Anonymous · ‎12-31-2019

Thank you for the courtesy of a response.

I don't know if you work for AutoCAD or not. Since my software was registered with AutoCAD I wonder why "they" could not have have had the equal courtesy to inform me about the cessation of support?

I could accept that.

Once the cards are on the table it would have been helpful to me what software would be available that was broadly similar to AutoCAD 2005 LT.

I am now 71 years of age with not that much time left on the planet and can still afford to pay a reasonable fee for replacement software that would support my amateur mechanical engineering interest. I have spent 23 years designing, constructing, building, modifying and improving the finest stainless steel combined roasting spit and BBQ in Hong Kong which is also designed to last for 100 years or more with a caring owner. All done with AutoCAD 2005 LT.

Life is rather cruel to senior citizens these days. I wonder why AutoCAD staff cannot be more supportive? After all, they will be old one day.

David

steven-g · ‎12-31-2019

No just about everyone here on the forums are users just like yourself, and as much as I sympathise with your case, the fact is older software is obsolete, so remaining with Autodesk products you only have the option of the new yearly subscription method, or find an alternative. Good luck and keep going for a long time yet.

Anonymous · ‎12-31-2019

But you misunderstand.

Calling my software obsolete is quite right, but it still serves a purpose in life. I do not need support, nor do I need upgrades, all I want is for it to work 'as is' for a few more years and I would be happy to pay a subscription to achieve this end.

I am of the opinion that AutoCAD could be earning more money by keeping old software going without upgrades and updates on an 'as you have got installed' and I would happily pay the price.

The only problem is the printer end of the equation because I now have a Brother printer which is non compatible with AutoCAD 2005 LT and Windows XP I can work around that and buy an old printer that will work with Windows XP and my AutoCad 2005 LT on the old computer and it has no life cut off date.

Its a shame that money making without a limited option never seems to focus in peoples minds.

David

steven-g · ‎12-31-2019

Here is a webpage about the reasons, and here is a special forum for outdated software, but the problem still remains 2010 or older can no longer be activated the servers required for that are gone. I seriously doubt that there is any business model that could allow older versions to remain supported, where would you draw the line, newer OS systems are not compatible to the older programs and it would be a full time project to keep issuing patches and fixes for every previous version, at which point do you just pull the plug, as the user base for older versions dwindle, as some people do update and others try to stay with an old version, eventually there would only be a few people paying a ridiculous subscription fee to keep old software going.

mdavis22569 · ‎12-31-2019

It's 15 years old .....

It's time to upgrade / update. Trade in your 2005 license for a 2020 subscription. Rent it for as long as you need it. If you're not using it, then don't use the subscription ( go monthly)

This is how most softwares are going out there.

You're working with an old OS that you even said your printer isn't compatible with.

Did you find this reply helpful ? If so please use the Accept as Solution or Kudos button below.

---------
Mike Davis

Anonymous · ‎12-31-2019

Your reply seems absurd. "Its 15 years old so update etc".

Why? I have no need to. As a moment of last resort all I need to do is buy a second hand printer that works with Windows XP and I am back in business with a perpetual AutoCAD License.

I think I will do that.

What I was suggesting was that AUTOCAD company could still make money from old software without upgrading, and new software developments bar a printer interface.

Do any of the top brass or the CEO of AutoCAD ever read these worthwhile comments from delightfully satisfied customers?

Regards, and a Happy New Year.

David

mdavis22569 · ‎12-31-2019

Do any of the top brass or the CEO of AutoCAD ever read these worthwhile comments from delightfully satisfied customers?

Regards, and a Happy New Year.

David

Happy New Year ..

Honestly Andrew the CEO does read things. He's on Twitter and will reply to some of the posting / tweets he gets.

Did you find this reply helpful ? If so please use the Accept as Solution or Kudos button below.

---------
Mike Davis

Anonymous · ‎12-31-2019

But I don't do Twitter, Linked in, Facebook or any of these new fangled things and I don't even know that you (whoever you are) write the truth that the CEO of AutoCAD ever reads what end users write in a forum? I am still learning how to use iPhone 10! And that is not as easy as it seems.

Who am I to believe when people write in polite response to my comments?

Are they employees of AutoCAD trying to put someone off the trail of enquiry and then hope they will go away?

David

mdavis22569 · ‎12-31-2019

Are they employees of AutoCAD trying to put someone off the trail of inquiry and then hope they will go away?

David

For this:

Former employee .... MANY MANY years ago. Could almost say 2 decades ago.

For me ... I'm a user / Autodesk Expert Elite and someone who likes helping others...

Have a small little Autodesk Support Company called YCG INC ( www.yourcad.guru)

I'm also on the Services Marketplace and help on Directly for Autodesk support.

So while I'm not an employee... I do a lot for and with them.

Did you find this reply helpful ? If so please use the Accept as Solution or Kudos button below.

---------
Mike Davis

pendean · ‎12-31-2019

Non-maintenance perceptual-license customers are "not our customers" because they don't give us money anymore. - Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost (source: https://twitter.com/upFronteZine/status/930590879412310017 )

Autodesk's Subscription seems to be working quite well for them https://www.fool.com/amp/investing/2019/12/03/autodesks-cash-surge-shows-no-signs-of-letting-up.aspx

AutoCAD/LT2005 is not supported in Win10, which means Autodesk is not interested ever in helping with any issue, it does not mean anything else you might read into "supported" http://autode.sk/1IY4C2X

Autodesk killed off reauthorizing of 2010 and older software as of August 31 2019, read all about it here https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/autocad/learn-explore/caas/simplecontent/content/previous-ver...

Sorry, you missed the deadline. There is nothing you can do about it today. If you still have your old WinXP PC and all works well, hang on to it for as long as it will last, then figure out a new option if you are unable to join Autodesk Subscription for newer software.

If you find Autodesk software subscriptions too expensive, there are many other CAD packages out there with no subscription options (initial cost may still be comparably high) that you can go get and use.

HTH