Is this the best programming language?

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I am looking to do a course in a programming language that will enable me to program add-ons to Autocad and Autocad Lite. I have been looking through the options but am frankly confused. I am heading towards C# but can someone give me advice on whether this or .net or even java is preferable for use with cad & lite?

[Anonymous]

have a look Diesel, I think it works with lite

[Anonymous]

C# is the ultimate language,trust me!!!

[michael_robertson]

If you are targeting AutoCAD LT you are very limited. See this webpage: http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/pc/compare/index?siteID=123112&id=13723825

LISP & .NET languages are not supported in LT, as far as I know only DIESEL is supported (there are supposedly 3rd party software that will add LISP & .NET support to LT but I've never tried them)

[Anonymous]

Not necessarily, we have an add-on programme for Autocad, but as it's so expensive we are looking to re-write it either as a stand alone programme or as an add-on to Lite. I was under the impression that C# would do both?

[michael_robertson]

From what I've seen you can't use LISP, .NET, or program externally via COM for LT.

At this point I would call your Reseller to clear up what is possible with AutoCAD LT.

[norman.yuan]

If you want to target AutoCAD LT, then whatever language would not help you much: the LT sufix of the AutoCAD says all: it light AutoCAD, there is no much you can do other than use whatever it is out of box.

If your primary objective is to save money by replacing an expensive third party add-on with your home-group solution, starting from scratch (or even from learning programming), it is very likely (90-99% of chance) you end up expending more than using the third party add-on.

If you have determine to go ahead with your own development, then AutoCAD's managed API (Object RAX .NET API) would be the most viable choice. That mean you are going to learn one of the .NET language (C#, VB.NET, F#) of your preference. Here which language is not important, .NET framework is, besides HAVING mastered basic programming concepts.

[dgorsman]

Can you tell us which program you are trying to replace?  It would give us a better idea of the requirements, and some might be able to point you at a lower cost option.  Virtually any program, whether third-party or in-house will require the full AutoCAD package.

If you are learning programming from scratch (let alone programming for AutoCAD) then as was mentioned you will not be saving money.  Advanced application design is not a good place to start learning programming.  You can get away with pretty sloppy code for smaller ad-hoc customizations but with large application-sized programs that method will only make it more difficult in the long term.  Start with some small customizations while you get the hang of the languages syntax, debugging methods, and IDE features.  Also try to establish a regimented protocol for how you organize your code, name properties/methods, and comments.

[Anonymous]

Since you're looking to take a course in programming I would recommend C#.

1. It is fairly "future proof" as far as AutoCAD goes.

2. The syntax is similar to other languages.

3. You will find help on-line if you get stuck.

In my opinion you should forget about automating AutoCAD LT.

I say that because you are just starting to learn programming.