[FAQ200] What you should know about purchasing Carlson Software
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About Carlson Software, the Company

Carlson Software is a software developer based out of Maysville, Kentucky. They have been developing land development-focused software since 1983 and their offerings include modules for the land surveying, civil engineering, construction and mining industries.

FAQ: About Carlson Software

About Carlson, the Software

Carlson’s desktop programs run on 64-bit MS Windows-based computers.

Carlson programs work natively and produce DWG format files. There is NO need to convert, import or export – only Open and Save.

The programs are primarily delivered as “vertical” modules that can be installed and run on top of a generic-CAD platform.

Carlson’s desktop modules for land surveying, engineering and construction are built to run on top of the ITC’s IntelliCAD and Autodesk’s AutoCAD platforms. The modules include: Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Geology, Underground Mining, Surface Mining, Natural Regrade, Field, CADnet, GeoTech, Trench, Construction and Point Clouds.

Additionally, Survey and Takeoff are developed and run on top of an embedded AutoCAD (OEM).

You Have Options!
Purchase Carlson with the Platform that's Best for You

Option 1: With IntelliCAD/for YOUR AutoCAD

Carlson’s desktop programs can be installed as a standalone program on top of IntelliCAD or on top of your separately-purchased, full-AutoCAD-based program.

Each purchase includes a license of the latest version of IntelliCAD – it doesn’t have to be purchased separately.

Your separately-purchased, full-AutoCAD-based program can be AutoCAD, AutoCAD Map, Land Desktop, Civil 3D or other vertical – but does NOT include AutoCAD LT.

The following modules are available with IntelliCAD/for YOUR AutoCAD: Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Geology, Underground Mining, Surface Mining, Natural Regrade, Field, CADnet, GeoTech, Trench, Construction and Point Clouds

 

Option 2: With embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

Carlson Survey and Takeoff can be purchased and installed standalone with embedded AutoCAD (also known as the OEM version).

Each purchase includes a license of the latest version of embedded AutoCAD (OEM) – it doesn’t have to be purchased separately.

Note that embedded AutoCAD (OEM) is more similar to AutoCAD LT than AutoCAD – so, experienced AutoCAD users may end up missing much of the functionality they are accustomed to.

The embedded AutoCAD (OEM) programs do not include IntelliCAD and do not require a separate purchase of AutoCAD.

Importantly, although both programs can be installed on the same computer, programs installed with the OEM platform will be completely separate from those installed with IntelliCAD/your AutoCAD.  This means that you will not be able to work in a DWG file and simply switch between menus – you’ll have to close the drawing in one program in order to open it in the other.

Carlson's Versions vs AutoCAD's Versions

Carlson Software typically releases a new version of their programs approximately 4-6 months after Autodesk releases each new version of AutoCAD.

Carlson Software will run on earlier versions of AutoCAD; however, you cannot run a version of Carlson that is older than the AutoCAD. For instance, Carlson 2024 will run on AutoCAD 2018-2024 but Carlson 2022 will only run on AutoCAD 2018-2022.

Which Program or Modules Do I Need?

We definitely recommend that you request a 30-day trial and test it for yourself – but here are links to help you decide!

Retail Pricing for Carlson Software

ProgramRetail Price of Standalone
(effective 10/16/2023)
Retail Price of Network
Select Suite - Pick 6 (from Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Point Cloud Basic, CadNet)$ 4,950$ 5,445
Select Suite - Pick 5 (from Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Point Cloud Basic, CadNet)$ 4,650$ 5,115
Civil Suite or Select Suite Pick 4 (from Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Point Cloud Basic, CadNet)$ 4,250$ 4,675
Select Suite - Pick 3 (from Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Point Cloud Basic, CadNet)$ 3,850$ 4,235
Select Suite - Pick 2 (from Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, Point Cloud Basic, CadNet)$ 3,350$ 3,685
Survey$ 2,150$ 2,365
Civil$ 1,950$ 2,145
Hydrology$ 1,550$ 1,705
GIS$ 1,250$ 1,375
Takeoff Suite
(Construction, CADNet, Trench, GeoTech)
$ 7,500$ 8,250
Construction$ 3,950$ 4,345
CADNet$ 1,750$ 1,925
Trench$ 1,595$ 1,755.50
GeoTech$ 1,595$ 1,755.50
Takeoff with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)$ 9,000$ 9,900
Survey with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)$ 3,250$ 3,575
Other Software or Hardware

Upgrading Carlson Software

IntelliCAD/for CAD Products

Upgrades are managed through the Annual Maintenance Plan which, essentially. allows users to pre-pay for future upgrades.  As long as your Maintenance is active at the time a new version is released, you are eligible for an automatic upgrade to the new version.

See additional information about Maintenance below…

 

Survey and Takeoff with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

Maintenance is NOT available for these products so upgrades are only available after a new version has been released.

The cost to upgrade Carlson’s OEM products is subject to change each year and varies depending on the program and how many versions behind you are.

However, Carlson never charges more than 50% of the current retail price to upgrade any license to the latest and greatest version of the software.

Carlson Software Annual Maintenance

Maintenance with New Licenses

Every new license of Carlson with IntelliCAD/for CAD includes 90 days of free Maintenance. This is Carlson’s way of ensuring that anyone who purchases a new license inside of that 90-day window can be assured of getting the free upgrade.

 

Renewing Maintenance Before it Expires

Renewing Maintenance is optional for users.

However, if you prefer to keep your software up-to-date when new versions are released, keeping the Maintenance plan active is the best way to do that.

If it is renewed prior to expiration, maintenance costs 10% of the retail price of the software.

 

Renewing Expired Maintenance

If your Maintenance has expired, you can pay the regular 10% Maintenance fee plus the expiration fee to activate your Maintenance for one-year. While Maintenance is active, you’ll be eligible for an immediate upgrade to the current version AND for automatic upgrades to any new versions released during the Maintenance year.

 

How Old is Too Old (to Renew)?

For licenses of Carlson with IntelliCAD/for CAD that are more than 4 years old, users can pay 50% of the retail price to activate Maintenance for 1-year.

While Maintenance is active, you’ll be eligible for an immediate upgrade to the current version AND for automatic upgrades to any new versions released during the Maintenance year.

See the tables below for sample pricing for Carlson Maintenance.

 

Carlson Software Maintenance Fees – per Product

Carlson’s policy on Software Maintenance can be viewed by clicking here

ProgramRetail Price
of Standalone
(effective 10/16/2023)
Annual Maintenance
for Standalone
Retail Price
of Network
Annual Maintenance
for Network
Select Suite Pick 6$ 4,950$ 495$ 5,445$ 544.50
Select Suite Pick 5$ 4,650$ 465$ 5,115$ 511.50
Select Suite Pick 4$ 4,250$ 425$ 4,675$ 467.50
Select Suite Pick 3$ 3,850$ 385$ 4,235$ 423.50
Select Suite Pick 2$ 3,350$ 335$ 3,685$ 368.50
Civil Suite$ 4,250$ 425$ 4,675$ 467.50
Survey$ 2,150$ 215$ 2,365$ 236.50
Civil$ 1,950$ 195$ 2,145$ 214.50
Hydrology$ 1,550$ 155$ 1,705$ 170.50
GIS$ 1,250$ 125$ 1,375$ 137.50
Takeoff Suite$ 7,500$ 750$ 8,250$ 825.00
Construction$ 3,950$ 395$ 4,345$ 434.50
CADNet$ 1,750$ 175$ 1,925$ 192.50
Trench$ 1,595$ 159.50$ 1,755$ 175.50
GeoTech$ 1,595$ 159.50$ 1,755$ 175.50

 

Carlson Software Maintenance & Expiration Fees

Carlson’s policy on Software Maintenance can be viewed by clicking here

Maintenance StatusAnnual Maintenance
(Percentage of Retail)
Expiration Fee
(Percentage of Retail)
Total Fee to Renew
(Percentage of Retail)
Active10%010%
Expired, up to 1 year10%10%20%
Expired, up to 2 years10%20%30%
Expired, up to 3 years10%30%40%
Expired, more than 3 years10%40%50%

 

Sample Pricing for Active and Expired Maintenance Renewal Fees

Carlson’s policy on Software Maintenance can be viewed by clicking here

Program# of Years ExpiredRetail PriceTotal Fee
(Percentage of Retail)
Total Fee to Upgrade and/or
Renew Maintenance for 1 Year
SurveyNot expired, maintenance is current$ 2,15010%$ 215.00
SurveyExpired for less than 1 year$ 2,15020%$ 430.00
Networked SurveyExpired for less than 1 year$ 2,365
20%$ 473.00
Civil Suite or Select Suite Pick 4Not expired, maintenance is current$ 4,25010%$ 425.00
Civil Suite or Select Suite Pick 4Expired for less than 1 year$ 4,25020%$ 850.00
Networked Civil Suite or Select Suite Pick 4Expired for less than 1 year$ 4,67520%$935.00

Carlson Licensing

Perpetual Licensing

A purchase of Carlson Software grants a perpetual license to the owner. This means that, once purchased, you “own it” and never need to pay additional fees to use it.

 
Network Licensing

Carlson allows users to “network” their licenses for an additional fee. The fee is 10% of the retail price of the software being networked.

 
Installing and Re-Installing

When installing their desktop software, Carlson recognizes 5 different “Reasons for Installation”:

 

 

 

 

 

After installation and registration, Carlson provides a Registration Report that includes a “Change Key” and it’s a good idea to save the report and the change key.

And here’s a Pro-Tip for you! The Serial Number screen on your That CAD Girl Customer Portal has a “Customer Notes” section – that’s a great place to save your Change Key and other important information about each license!

System Requirements for Desktop Software

Because it changes from version to version, my “go-to” answer is this FAQ which links directly to Carlson’s website and their recommendations for running Carlson with embedded AutoCAD (OEM), on top of AutoCAD and with IntelliCAD.

FAQ: What are the system requirements to run Carlson Software in the office? Do I need a monster computer?

Technical Support & Training

Carlson Software offers FREE technical support for Carlson Software and IntelliCAD. This is the case whether you are running the latest version of Carlson or one that’s 10 years old or, even, if you’re only trying before you buy.

You can see all the opportunities for training with That CAD Girl here and you can follow these links to see our FAQs about the training and technical support available from Carlson and That CAD Girl.

30-Day Trials

Want to try before you buy? Any Carlson desktop software is available for a 30 day trial – just Click here to request a 30 day trial.

Once you decide to purchase, you won’t even need to uninstall. You can activate your software by simply updating your registration with your purchased serial number.

Why Buy from That CAD Girl?

Want to try before you buy? Any Carlson desktop software is available for a 30 day trial – just Click here to request a 30 day trial.

Once you decide to purchase, you won’t even need to uninstall. You can activate your software by simply updating your registration with your purchased serial number.


    If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

    [FAQ220] What versions of AutoCAD & IntelliCAD & Windows does Carlson run on top of? Does it run on AutoCAD LT? (a running thread)
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    Carlson Desktop Software with IntelliCAD or for Your AutoCAD

    Carlson can be installed on top of any full-AutoCAD-based program such as AutoCAD, AutoCAD Map, Land Desktop or Civil 3d.

    Carlson cannot be installed on top of any version AutoCAD LT.

    Carlson VersionAutoCAD & IntelliCAD PlatformsWindows Platforms
    2024AutoCAD 2018-2024, IntelliCAD 10.1a and 11.164 bit Windows
    2023AutoCAD 2018-2023, IntelliCAD 10.1a and 11.064 bit Windows
    2022AutoCAD 2017-2022, IntelliCAD 10.0a and 10.1a64 bit Windows 10
    2021AutoCAD 2017-2021, Intellicad 10.0a64 bit Windows 10
    2020AutoCAD 2015-2020, IntelliCAD 9.264 bit Windows 10
    2019AutoCAD 2010-2019, IntelliCAD 932 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    2018AutoCAD 2010-2018, IntelliCAD 8.232 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    2017AutoCAD 2010-2017, IntelliCAD 8.232 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    2016AutoCAD 2007-2016, IntelliCAD 8.132 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    2015AutoCAD 2007-2015, IntelliCAD 8.0XP, 32 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1
    2014AutoCAD 2004-2014, IntelliCAD 7.2XP, 32 or 64 bit Windows Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1

     

    Carlson Desktop Software with Embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

    Carlson VersionEmbedded AutoCAD EngineWindows Platforms
    Survey 20242022264 bit Windows
    Survey 2023202264 bit Windows
    Survey 2022/Takeoff R12202264 bit Windows
    Survey 2021201864 bit Windows
    Survey 2020201864 bit Windows
    Survey 2019/Takeoff R11201864 bit Windows
    Survey 2018/Takeoff R102018Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    Survey 2017/Takeoff R92013Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    Survey 20162013Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    Survey 2015/Takeoff R82013Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10
    Survey 2014/Takeoff R72013Windows XP, 7, 8, 8.1, and 10


      If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

      [FAQ241] Is embedded AutoCAD (OEM) more like AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT?
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      The embedded AutoCAD (OEM) that ships with Carlson Survey (OEM) and Takeoff (OEM) is much closer to an AutoCAD LT than to full-AutoCAD.

      FAQ: Compared to AutoCAD or IntelliCAD, what would I miss in the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) versions of Survey & Takeoff? (a running thread)


        If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

        [FAQ240] Is IntelliCAD more like AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT?
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        I believe you will find the functionality of IntelliCAD to be MUCH closer to that found in full-versions of AutoCAD than to AutoCAD LT or even the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) programs that Carlson offers.

        Now, you also shouldn’t expect IntelliCAD to be the equivalent of today’s AutoCAD. IntelliCAD is a generic version of AutoCAD and will have the feel of an older “model” of AutoCAD and be missing some of the bells and whistles included in newer releases of AutoCAD.

        But, it’s more customizable, supports LISP routines and 3D drafting.

        Follow these links to see my FAQs that explain the differences between AutoCAD, Carlson’s IntelliCAD and the embedded AutoCAD  (OEM) platforms.

        You may also want to read this Software Review: AutoCAD and IntelliCAD that I wrote for Professional Surveyor Magazine several years ago.


          If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

          [FAQ242] What’s the difference between Carlson with IntelliCAD and with the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) platform?
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          The price is the biggest difference.

          Whether you’re using Carlson Survey or Takeoff on the IntelliCAD or embedded AutoCAD (OEM) platform, the Survey and Takeoff functionality will be identical. Any differences are going to be strictly limited to the underlying engine – IntelliCAD or embedded AutoCAD.

          • From a feature and functionality standpoint, IntelliCAD will be closer to a full AutoCAD and embedded AutoCAD (OEM) will be closer to an AutoCAD LT.
          • IntelliCAD is generic version of AutoCAD and tracks closer to a 4-5 year old version of AutoCAD. See this FAQ comparing IntelliCAD and AutoCAD
          • Embedded AutoCAD (OEM) will look more like today’s AutoCAD and may have more of the current bells and whistles – but it’ll also be missing some key functionality such as the ability to create aliases (command shortcuts) and load LISP routines. See this FAQ comparing embedded AutoCAD (OEM) and AutoCAD

          It’s a work in progress but you can check out this FAQ where I’m starting a list of the differences between the two programs.


            If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

            [FAQ275] About IntelliCAD
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            IntelliCAD is a cooperative CAD development platform that is becoming more and more accepted as an alternative to AutoCAD.

            IntelliCAD – An IntroductionThe development of IntelliCAD is overseen by the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium, “an organization of CAD software developers, who develop applications for IntelliCAD, a Computer-aided design engine. The IntelliCAD engine, which is based on the DWGdirect library from the Open Design Alliance reads and writes the ‘.dwg’ data format – a widely used file format for storing both graphic and textual information of CAD-related software applications.”

            The primary goals of the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium are to “research and develop CAD technology, the IntelliCAD platform, and to deliver CAD solutions to customers worldwide.” In other words, to provide the personal and commercial CAD markets with a cost-effective solution that is capable of reading and writing the common drawing (DWG) file.

            The ITC is a non-profit, independent organization of commercial software developers (members). The ITC has an elected, volunteer, member based Board of Directors which guide its strategic vision. An independent (non-member) President manages the tactical business operations. Members pay annual dues that fund the ITC. Today the ITC has over 50 members who support 13 languages and ship product in more than 35 countries.

            IntelliCAD – A Trip through Time

            Except where noted, each of the following items were obtained from An Outside Look in at IntelliCAD (used by permission) which requires the free Adobe Reader.

            “Where did the name come from? The name of the software ‘IntelliCAD’ comes from a programming company that was formed in the early 1990s in San Diego, CA, USA. Their main claim to fame was ADE (AutoCAD Data Extension), which they sold to Autodesk, and which eventually became part of Autodesk Map.”

            “IntelliCAD the software has a complex and fascinating history that winds its way through Softdesk, Autodesk, Boomerang, Visio, just missing Microsoft, then onto the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium, and now [includes] a variety of brand names, such as CADopia, Bricscad, and DWGEditor.”

            1994, August: “IntelliCAD is purchased by Softdesk of Henniker, NH.”
            1996, December: “Autodesk acquires Softdesk… Softdesk apparently did not tell Autodesk about its AutoCAD clone.”
            1997, March: “Autodesk investigated by the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) over the alleged monopoly status of AutoCAD… The FTC allowed Autodesk to purchase Softdesk after Autodesk agreed to: (1) spin off IntelliCAD; (2) not attempt re-acquire the technology; (3) not attempt to acquire any company that owns or controls IntelliCAD; and (4) not interfere with employees who leave Autodesk to work with IntelliCAD… IntelliCAD was spun off as Boomerang Technology in San Jose, CA.”
            1997, March: “Visio bought Boomerang.”
            1998, March: “IntelliCAD 98 ships. The price was originally pegged at US$495; upon release, the price dropped to $349 as a ‘special introductory price’; the price drops further to $149 at computer superstores, such as CompUSA. Through to the end of June, the first three months of sales for IntelliCAD were nearly 12,000 licenses, producing $3 million in gross revenue — an average of $250 per license.”
            1998, May: “IntelliCAD is suddenly incompatible with AutoCAD! Autodesk releases a maintenance release for AutoCAD R14.01 that makes a change to the .dwg format, and preventing IntelliCAD from reading drawing files… Visio updated IntelliCAD 98 to work with 14.01 files.”
            1999, July 27: “Visio cuts IntelliCAD loose by granting the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium a royalty-free, perpetual license for the source code of the IntelliCAD 2000 technology. The ITC was set up by Visio, but run by an independent board of directors.
            1999, September: “IntelliCAD Technical Consortium opens its Web site at http://www.intellicad.org/.”
            Subsequent releases of IntelliCAD through the ITC occur every year since its initial release (see the IntelliCAD version history link under the Press section of the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium web site).

            IntelliCAD Release History

            IntelliCAD 6.4 July 27, 2007
            IntelliCAD 6.3 February 28, 2007
            IntelliCAD 6.2 May 27, 2006
            IntelliCAD 6.1 September 5, 2005
            IntelliCAD 6.0 May 3, 2005
            IntelliCAD 5.1 January 12, 2005
            IntelliCAD 5.0 October 24, 2004
            IntelliCAD 4.0 March 14, 2003
            IntelliCAD 2001 version 3.3 July 19, 2002
            IntelliCAD 2001 May 22, 2001
            IntelliCAD 2000 March 6, 2000
            IntelliCAD 98 May 1, 1998
            Carlson Support for IntelliCAD

            The Carlson 2009 installation comes with IntelliCAD 6.4 built-in. When you choose IntelliCAD as the CAD platform during installation, the IntelliCAD engine is installed along with the Carlson program files. Carlson 2009 only works with this built-in version of IntelliCAD and not on any other version of IntelliCAD or other IntelliCAD based products like Bricscad.

            Running Carlson 2009 on IntelliCAD is largely the same as running on AutoCAD. IntelliCAD supports a development environment with a similar interface as AutoCAD which allows Carlson Software to use the same code base on both CAD platforms. Of the over 1700 Carlson commands across the Carlson 2009 products, there are 11 commands that are not supported with IntelliCAD for the Carlson 2009 release. These are:

            Editor Reactors (ie Link Points To Coordinate File)
            Point Object Snap (node snap does work)
            Text Explode To Polylines
            Edit Centerline On-Screen
            Extract Centroid Data
            Label Object Data Areas
            Drape Image On Surface
            Retaining Wall Placement
            Pillar Cut
            Calculate Variogram
            Production By Block Model
            IntelliCAD – AutoCAD Comparison

            IntelliCAD has a very similar user interface as AutoCAD, supports the core AutoCAD commands and uses the DWG drawing formats 2009 to R14. For some Carlson commands, creating entities in AutoCAD is twice as fast as IntelliCAD which makes a significant difference in routines that create lots of entities.

            The upcoming IntelliCAD 7 will be built on DWGdirect from the Open Design Alliance and will add a “DRX development environment” similar to ObjectARX with AutoCAD. Using DRX should greatly improve the speed of entity creation within IntelliCAD.

            While most of the AutoCAD commands Carlson clients use in AutoCAD can also be found in IntelliCAD 6.4, there are many features in AutoCAD that are not in IntelliCAD. Among these features are ones for architectural and mechanical applications that don’t apply to Carlson customers. For this initial release of Carlson 2009 on IntelliCAD 6.4, here are AutoCAD commands that Carlson customers might miss:

            Spell Check
            DGN import/export
            Orbit command
            Find command
            Express Tools
            Tool Palettes
            Annotative Text
            Sheet Set Manager
            Page Setup Manager
            Import .PC3 Files
            Irregular viewports
            Clipboard commands for copybase and paste to original
            VBA not supported for custom applications; VB with COM is supported
            Object Enablers for LDT points and contours
            User-interface for menu customizaiton (no CUI, old MNU method)
            Ctrl-pick cycle for object selection
            Dialog user interface for WBlock
            Dialog user interface for Purge command
            Dialog user interface for Filter command
            Right-Click menus
            Entity Properties as docked-dialog
            Grip snapping to other grips
            Highlighting of entities when dragging cursor over them
            Mudst hatch pattern
            If you identify any other AutoCAD feature that you miss when running Carlson with IntelliCAD, please email us at [email protected] and we willl add to this list which helps guide future developments.

            Bibliography

            “IntelliCAD Technology Consortium – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia”
            Available at:http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IntelliCAD_Technology_Consortium 09 April 2008

            “IntelliCAD® Technology Consortium: The intelligent alternative for CAD developers.”
            Available at: http://www.intellicad.org/join/index.php 09 April 2008

            “Natural monopoly – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.”
            Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_monopoly#Regulation 09 April 2008

            “An Outside Look in at IntelliCAD.”
            Available at: http://www.intellicad.org/WorldMeeting2004/presentations/OutsideLookAtIntelliCAD.pdf 09 April 2008

            Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of the vendor.

            IntelliCAD® is a registered trademark of the IntelliCAD Technology Consortium, Inc. and is used under permission.

            AutoCAD® is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc.

            Windows® and Visio® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

            All other registered or unregistered trademarks are the property of their respective holders.

            All links contained herein open in a new web-browser window.


              If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

              [FAQ243] If I buy Carlson, should I go with the embedded AutoCAD (OEM)? Or with IntelliCAD? or just buy AutoCAD?
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              In my opinion, if you’ve been using any program that includes a full-license of AutoCAD as a platform (AutoCAD, Map, Land Desktop, Civil 3d) for years, you will be greatly disappointed and frustrated with the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) version. You may think you’re getting AutoCAD, but you’re getting something closer to AutoCAD LT.
               
              So… long-time, mostly happy AutoCAD users should only consider running Carlson on IntelliCAD or installing on top of a separate license of AutoCAD.
               
              The next part is the hard part: IntelliCAD? Or AutoCAD? The answer to this will basically come down to $$$ dollar-signs $$$.
               
              If you already have a licensed version of AutoCAD, Map, Land Desktop or Civil 3d that can be installed under your Carlson then you are in great shape. You can hope for the best and install Carlson with IntelliCAD but you’re also prepared for the worst. If you’re not happy with IntelliCAD, you can install your same Carlson license on top of your AutoCAD.
               
              But, what if you don’t own a copy of AutoCAD or would need to pay to upgrade an old copy to run with Carlson? Is it worth it?
               
              It might be. If you’re a power-user and are truly losing productivity with IntelliCAD then I believe you can justify the cost to buy a new or upgrade an old AutoCAD. I usually recommend it this way, “If and when your frustration level reaches about 4000-bucks, buy AutoCAD!”.
               
              I know you’ll be shocked to learn that most sole-proprietors/business owners will stick with IntelliCAD much longer (or forever!) before they can justify the outlay of money for AutoCAD.
               
              For a more detailed look, see this Software Review: AutoCAD and IntelliCAD from Professional Surveyor magazine.
               


                If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

                [FAQ264] What is the relationship between Carlson and IntelliCAD?
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                Starting in 2009, Carlson Software began including a license of IntelliCAD with their desktop software that, previously, only worked on top of AutoCAD. So, now, each user has an option of installing and running these products standalone with IntelliCAD or on top of a separately purchased, full license of AutoCAD.
                 
                For more information about the version of IntelliCAD that currently ships with Carlson, refer to this FAQ What versions of AutoCAD & IntelliCAD does Carlson run on top of? And what about AutoCAD LT?.


                  If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

                  [FAQ024] GIS Starter Kit for Carlson’s IntelliCAD users
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                  Update July 2020: I’ve recently been informed that this offer is not being offered by Esri at this time.

                  Esri offers this promotion intermittently so I’ll just keep these details posted and will provide updates if and when I get word the promotion is currently “On” or “Off”…

                   
                  I can’t remember when I received the last confirmation so, until I hear differently, we’ll assume it’s ON…!
                   


                   
                  Those currently using Carlson with IntelliCAD are eligible for a FREE “GIS for surveyors Starter Kit” from ESRI. The Kit includes 3 books:
                   

                  • ArcGIS for Desktop Basic
                  • A to Z GIS: An Illustrated Dictionary of Geographic Information Systems
                  • Getting to Know ArcGIS for Desktop, Third Edition

                   
                  To take advantage of the offer, call 1-800-GIS-XPRT FREE (1-800-447-9778 FREE) and request the Carlson-IntelliCAD GIS Starter Kit and please have your Carlson Serial Number available.
                   
                  You can learn more about ESRI’s commitment to survey and engineering by attending the Esri AEC Summit or by visiting www.esri.com.


                    If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

                    [FAQ210] What should I buy if I need a basic CAD program (like AutoCAD LT)?
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                    Update October 2017

                    In September, Carlson Software introduced a new program in their lineup: Carlson iCAD. This program is comparable to AutoCAD LT with basic drafting and inquiry tools but is built on IntelliCAD 8.3.

                    FAQ: What features are in Carlson iCAD? (a running thread)

                    View Carlson iCAD in our online store


                    Original post is below

                    If you truly, truly only need generic-CAD functionality, I recommend purchasing Carlson GIS with IntelliCAD. It’s the cheapest of all the desktop products and you can load this basic IntelliCAD menu:

                     
                    2016_IntelliCADMenu
                     
                    by picking the IntelliCAD button from the Carlson Programs toolbar:
                     

                    2017_Programs_Toolbar

                     
                    Extra Bonus! IntelliCAD is much closer to AutoCAD than AutoCAD LT… you’ll have much more functionality at a cheaper price! And, if you ever need a little bit of GIS, you can do that too.


                      If you find the material on this website helpful, please consider supporting That CAD Girl by purchasing or referring others to us for CAD and Carlson Software support and training.

                      [FAQ023] Use DWG Convert to save DWG files to an earlier version
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                      With the 2018 version of the Autodesk products now released, anyone using an older version of AutoCAD (or IntelliCAD) can expect to start receiving 2018 .dwg files that they can’t access because it’s an incompatible version. This is where the DWG Convert function inside of DWG TrueView can be a lifesaver.

                      DWG TrueView is FREE utility available from Autodesk. They release a new version of this program every year, just like their other products.

                      With the True Convert utility you can convert any newer version DWG or DXF to any earlier version. I’d recommend you enable the option that creates a .bak file with the original just in case you need it later.

                      Inside the True Convert utility you can also enable several other options that will run routines such as Audit, Purge, XREF Binding, etc. during the convert process.

                      You can download DWG True View 2018 here.

                       
                      The image below shows how to access DWG Convert in True View:

                       
                      See below for some of the “cleanup” options available during the Conversion process:


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