[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.

    [FAQ202] That CAD Girl Active Coupon Codes (a running thread)
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    Why Coupons...?

    Prices shown in our online store reflects Carlson Software’s Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP) policy but additional discounts may be available at checkout, using coupons, or by requesting a custom proposal.

    Takeoff Suite

    After adding Takeoff Suite to your cart, select the coupon Takeoff Suite at checkout for an additional discount.

    Includes FREE Maintenance and FREE access to RECORDINGS of January 2024 Takeoff Training

    Takeoff OEM

    After adding Takeoff OEM to your cart, select the coupon Takeoff OEM at checkout for an additional discount.

    Includes FREE access to RECORDINGS of January 2024 Takeoff Training

    Free Virtual Classroom Training

    With the purchase of any new license of Carlson Software, you will have the option of adding a FREE registration to an upcoming 2- or 3-day Virtual Classroom training event to your cart.

    Free Maintenance

    When adding select Carlson Software to your cart, you will have the option of adding 1-Year of Free Maintenance coupon to your cart.

    That CAD Girl Online Store Pricing

    After adding select Carlson Software products to your cart, add the online store coupon at checkout for additional discounts

    Discounted Maintenance Renewals and Upgrades

    Send us your report and receive an extra discount on maintenance renewals and OEM upgrades!

    Click here to upload your current maintenance or OEM upgrade report and request pricing for your maintenance renewal –

    Select Suite Pick 2

    After adding Select Suite Pick 2 to your cart, select the coupon Pick 2 Special at checkout for an additional discount.

    This offer will end on 10/31/2023

    Black Friday Discount

    Discount to add Survey, Civil, Hydrology, GIS, CADnet or Point Cloud Basic to any current license

    (regular price $750)

    Email [email protected] for custom proposal

    Black Friday Discount

    Coupon automatically applied at checkout after adding select Carlson Software to your cart

    That CAD Girl Standard Discount

    Coupon automatically available at checkout after adding select Carlson Software products to your cart

    Extra $100 Off

    After adding Select Suite Pick 3 to cart, a coupon for an extra $100 off will be available

    Available through 12/31/2021

    That CAD Girl Maintenance Discount

    After adding select Carlson Software AND maintenance to cart, use Coupon Code tcgmaintenance at checkout for additional discount. Currently available for Carlson Survey, Civil, Civil Suite, Pick 2 and Pick 4

    Black Friday Discount

    Coupon automatically applied at checkout after adding Carlson Takeoff Suite to your cart

    Discount Workshop Registration

    With the purchase of any new license of Carlson Software, you will have the option of adding 2022 Virtual Workshop Registration to your cart.

    At checkout, click on the coupon 2022 Virtual Workshop to apply a coupon for $100 off the registration price.

    Free Maintenance

    When adding select Carlson Software to your cart, you will have the option of adding 1-Year of Free Maintenance to your cart.

    No Coupon Code is required for this discount.

    Ends 12/31

    EXTRA $500 off

    After adding Civil Suite or Select Suite Pick 4 to your cart, use Coupon Code dogdays2022 at checkout for additional discount.

    This offer will end on 9/1/2022

    Extra $100 Off

    After adding Select Suite Pick 6 to cart, a coupon for an extra $100 off will be available

    Available through 12/31/2021

    End of Year Discount

    Coupon available at checkout after adding Carlson Takeoff Suite to your cart

    Expires 12/31/2021

    Extra $100 Off

    After adding select Carlson Software AND maintenance to cart, use Coupon Code extra100 at checkout for additional $100 discount.

    Currently available for Carlson Civil Suite, Pick 3 and Pick 4

    Free Maintenance

    When adding select Carlson Software to your cart, you will have the option of adding 1-Year of Free Maintenance to your cart.

    No Coupon Code is required for this discount.

    Expires 12/31/2022

    Extra $100 Off

    After adding Select Suite Pick 5 to cart, a coupon for an extra $100 off will be available

    Available through 12/31/2021

    End of Year Discount

    Coupon available at checkout after adding select Carlson Software to your cart

    Expires 12/31/2021

    Black Friday Discount

    Coupon automatically applied at checkout after adding select Carlson Software to your cart

    That CAD Girl Manuals

    $50 discount coupon will be automatically available at checkout after adding any new license of Carlson Software and That CAD Girl Self-Study Training Manuals to your cart

    Extra $250 Off

    After adding select Carlson Software AND maintenance to cart, use Coupon Code extra250 at checkout for additional $250 discount.

    Currently available for Carlson Takeoff Suite.

    That CAD Girl Maintenance Discount

    After adding select Carlson Software AND maintenance to cart, use Coupon Code “tcgmaintenance” at checkout for additional discount

    That CAD Girl P3D Hydro & Topo

    After adding Carlson P3D Hydro & Topo to your cart, use Coupon Code tcgp3dextra at checkout for additional discounts

    That CAD Girl Preferred Pricing

    After adding select Carlson Software products to your cart, use Coupon Code “tcg preferred” at checkout for additional discounts

     


      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.

      [FAQ308] What features & menus are in Carlson Trench? (a running thread)
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      Carlson Trench 2017

      Features and Benefits of Trench 2017

      Carlson Trench is for calculations related to installing pipes, sewers, or utility lines. The CAD software calculates the volume of the trench cut, the volume of backfill (excluding the pipe size), and the linear footage of pipe broken down by the pipe material, size, and/or depth.

      Carlson Trench is fully integrated with Carlson Civil and Carlson Construction, and also Carlson Hydrology to meet the variety of customers’ needs.

      Menus in Trench 2017

       

      Menu Bar in Trench 2017

       

      The menus below are available in Carlson Trench 2017

      Trench Menu

      Trench 2017 Trench Menu

      Utility Menu

      Trench 2017 Utility Menu

      The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

      (Click image to see more)

      Carlson Trench 2020

      Features and Benefits of Trench 2020

      Carlson Trench is for calculations related to installing pipes, sewers, or utility lines. The CAD software calculates the volume of the trench cut, the volume of backfill (excluding the pipe size), and the linear footage of pipe broken down by the pipe material, size, and/or depth.

      Carlson Trench is fully integrated with Carlson Civil and Carlson Construction, and also Carlson Hydrology to meet the variety of customers’ needs.

       

      Menu Bar in Trench 2020

       

      The menus below are available in Carlson Trench 2020

      Trench Menu

      Utility Menu

      The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2020 desktop software

      (Click image to see more)

      Carlson Trench 2022

      Features and Benefits of Trench 2022

      Carlson Trench is for calculations related to installing pipes, sewers, or utility lines. The CAD software calculates the volume of the trench cut, the volume of backfill (excluding the pipe size), and the linear footage of pipe broken down by the pipe material, size, and/or depth.

      Carlson Trench is fully integrated with Carlson Civil and Carlson Construction, and also Carlson Hydrology to meet the variety of customers’ needs.

      Menus in Trench 2022

       

      Menu Bar in Trench 2022

       

      The menus below are available in Carlson Trench 2022

      2022 Trench Menu

      2022 Utility Menu

      The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2022 desktop software

      (Click image to see more)

      Carlson Trench 2024

      Features and Benefits of Trench 2024

      Carlson Trench is for calculations related to installing pipes, sewers, or utility lines. The CAD software calculates the volume of the trench cut, the volume of backfill (excluding the pipe size), and the linear footage of pipe broken down by the pipe material, size, and/or depth.

      Carlson Trench is fully integrated with Carlson Civil and Carlson Construction, and also Carlson Hydrology to meet the variety of customers’ needs.

      Menus in Trench 2024

       

      Menu Bar in Trench 2024

       

      The menus below are available in Carlson Trench 2024

      2024 Trench Menu

      2024 Utility Menu

      The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2024 desktop software

      (Click image to see more)


        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.

        [FAQ204] That CAD Girl’s top reasons to purchase Carlson Software
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        1

        You have options as to the platform: embedded AutoCAD (OEM), on top of full-AutoCAD or IntelliCAD

        2

        Carlson has Free Technical Support regardless of whether your software is 1 year or 10 years old or even if you’re still trying it out before buying.

        3

         Carlson gives you the ability to design dynamically but does it with basic CAD entities such as lines, polylines, text and blocks which makes it easy to share drawings with others.

        No more proxy entities or AECC Objects to fight with!

        4

         Carlson doesn’t retire their products and never forces you to upgrade. Their annual maintenance is optional.

        5

         Carlson Plays Well With Others: Their goal is to have their software be compatible with as many other software and hardware manufacturers as possible. There is a seemingly endless list of “Import from…” and “Export to…” commands in the software.

        6

         Carlson gives you the tools you need.

        The first 7 or 8 menus in all programs are identical and have all the basic tools you need to be more productive. Here are just some of the things you can do in every program:

        Work natively in DWG files and import/export DGN, DXF & DWF
        Import and Export LandXML/RoadXML/Google Earth files
        Full management and editing of point data including point groups
        and edit tracking
        Esri-powered Search Published Control feature
        Export files for many GPS-guided machine control systems
        Customize project folders & sub-folders to organize project data
        Drawing Cleanup
        Join Nearest
        Drawing Inspector
        Layer Inspector
        Shrinkwrap Entities
        Twist Screen
        2D and 3D Polyline utilities such as reverse polyline, add/remove segments, add/remove vertices, daylight polyline to surface, etc
        Layer Tools such as Erase and Copy by layer, Isolate, Restore
        3D Viewer Window
        Surface 3D Viewer


          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.

              [FAQ452] When I upgrade, do I immediately lose access to the older version of my software?
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              No!

              Actually, when you purchase your upgrade or receive a new serial number by virtue of a maintenance upgrade, nothing happens until you want it to.

              Whenever you’re ready to install the upgrade, you can do so on the same computer or on a different computer. When you install and register the license with the new serial number, a 60-day “clock” starts counting down on the older installation. When the 60-days expire, the old license will de-activate and will revert to running in trial mode.


                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.

                [FAQ302] What features & menus are in Carlson Survey with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)? (a running thread)
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                Survey 2017 with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                Features and Benefits of Survey 2017 with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                Carlson Survey is a comprehensive program containing all of the tools that a surveyor needs. Here are some of the things you can do with Carlson Survey:

                • Access both the Carlson Survey and the full C & G menus,
                • Utilize the very best software tools for all your site design & subdivision design needs,
                • Enter deed descriptions and generate a variety of lot reports including fully customizable legal descriptions,
                • Enter deed descriptions and correlate field located property corners with deed property corners to find the best fit orientation & alignment,
                • Use the Deed Reader command to extract deed line and curve data from a text file (the text file can sometimes be generated using the OCR feature of scanning software),
                • Use the Lot Network feature to create a dynamic subdivision design that takes into account road centerline and right of way, building setbacks, wetland or poor soils areas and inserts one or more building footprints onto each lot,
                • Have full point CAD management capabilities including data collector download/upload, import/export points in text and most other formats including Civil 3d,
                • Process raw data files using various methods including SurvNet Least Squares,
                • Perform dozens of COGO functions,
                • Use Field to Finish (F2F) to process automatic linework and description key/description code definitions,
                • Utilize dozens of time-saving point stake out commands,
                • Import surfaces from Civil 3d and Google Earth®,
                • Create surface model files for existing and proposed conditions,
                • Edit the contours generated from a surface model and automatically update the underlying TIN file,
                • Design and balance cut and fill for one or more building pads at a time,
                • Calculate earthwork volumes between two surfaces including building pads, stockpiles and borrow pits,
                • Create, define, edit and draw centerline alignments using a variety of methods including best fit,
                • Create, define, edit and draw profiles using a variety of methods,
                • Automatically update stationing when centerlines change, profiles when centerlines or surfaces change, etc,
                • Automatically generate plan and profile sheets in model or paper space,
                • Import, edit and export GIS shape files,
                • Import a variety of image files including MrSid and geo-referenced TIF and JPG files.

                Menus in Survey 2017 with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                 

                Menu bar in Survey 2017 showing the compact version of the CG-Survey menu

                The menus below are available in Carlson Survey 2017 with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                File Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM File Menu

                Edit Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Edit Menu

                View Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM View Menu

                Draw Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Draw Menu

                Inquiry Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Inquiry Menu

                Settings Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Settings Menu

                Points Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Points Menu

                Survey Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Survey Menu

                COGO Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM COGO Menu

                Centerline Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Centerline Menu

                Area/Layout Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Area/Layout Menu

                Annotate Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Annotate Menu

                Surface Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Surface Menu

                GIS Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM GIS Menu

                CG-Survey Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG-Survey Menu

                Window Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Window Menu

                Help Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Help Menu

                Menu bar in Survey 2017 showing the expanded version of the CG-Survey menu

                 

                The menus below are available when using the expanded version of the CG-Survey menu

                CG File Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG File Menu

                CG Trav Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG Trav Menu

                CG Cogo Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG Cogo Menu

                CG Draw Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG Draw Menu

                CG Mngmt Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM CG Mngmt Menu

                CG Topo Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Topo Menu

                CG Tools Menu

                Carlson Survey 2017 OEM Tools Menu


                  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.

                  [FAQ301] What features & menus are in the non-OEM Carlson Survey program? (a running thread)
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                  Survey 2017 with IntelliCAD or for your AutoCAD

                  Features and Benefits of Survey 2017

                  Carlson Survey is a comprehensive, CAD software program containing all of the tools that a surveyor needs. Here are some of the things you can do with Carlson Survey:

                  • Access both the Carlson Survey and the full C & G menus,
                  • Utilize the very best software tools for all your site design & subdivision design needs,
                  • Enter deed descriptions and generate a variety of lot reports including fully customizable legal descriptions,
                  • Enter deed descriptions and correlate field located property corners with deed property corners to find the best fit orientation & alignment,
                  • Use the Deed Reader command to extract deed line and curve data from a text file (the text file can sometimes be generated using the OCR feature of scanning software),
                  • Use the Lot Network feature to create a dynamic subdivision design that takes into account road centerline and right of way, building setbacks, wetland or poor soils areas and inserts one or more building footprints onto each lot,
                  • Have full point management capabilities including data collector download/upload, import/export points in text and most other formats including Civil 3d,
                  • Process raw data files using various methods via CAD software including SurvNet Least Squares,
                  • Perform dozens of COGO functions,
                  • Use Field to Finish (F2F) to process automatic linework and description key/description code definitions,
                  • Utilize dozens of time-saving point stake out commands,
                  • Import surfaces from Civil 3d and Google Earth®,
                  • Create surface model files for existing and proposed conditions,
                  • Edit the contours generated from a surface model and automatically update the underlying TIN file,
                  • Design and balance cut and fill for one or more building pads at a time,
                  • Calculate earthwork volumes between two surfaces including building pads, stockpiles and borrow pits,
                  • Create, define, edit and draw centerline alignments using a variety of methods including best fit,
                  • Create, define, edit and draw profiles using a variety of methods,
                  • Automatically update stationing when centerlines change, profiles when centerlines or surfaces change, etc,
                  • Automatically generate plan and profile sheets in model or paper space,
                  • Import, edit and export GIS shape files,
                  • Import a variety of image files including MrSid and geo-referenced TIF and JPG files.

                  Menus in Survey 2017

                   

                  Menu bar in Survey 2017 showing the compact version of the CG Survey menu

                  Survey 2017 Menu with compact C & G menu

                  Survey Menu

                  Survey 2017 Survey Menu

                  COGO Menu

                  Survey 2017 COGO Menu

                  Centerline Menu

                  Survey 2017 Centerline Menu

                  Area/Layout Menu

                  Survey 2017 Area/Layout Menu

                  Annotate Menu

                  Survey 2017 Annotate Menu

                  Surface Menu

                  Survey 2017 Surface Menu

                  GIS Menu

                  Survey 2017 GIS Menu

                  CG-Survey Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG-Survey Menu

                  Menu bar in Survey 2017 showing the expanded version of the CG-Survey menu

                  Survey 2017 Menu with the expanded version of the CG-Survey menu

                   

                  The menus below are available when using the expanded version of the CG-Survey menu

                  CG File Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG File Menu

                  CG Trav Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Trav Menu

                  CG Cogo Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Cogo Menu

                  CG Draw Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Draw Menu

                  CG Mngmt Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Mngmt Menu

                  CG Topo Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Topo Menu

                  CG Tools Menu

                  Survey 2017 CG Tools Menu

                  The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                  (Click image to see more)


                    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.

                    [FAQ300] What features & menus are in ALL Carlson, non-OEM, desktop software programs? (a running thread)
                    +

                    Carlson 2017

                    Features and Benefits of all Carlson desktop programs

                    The list below includes some, but not all, of the commands and functionality that is currently available in ALL Carlson software desktop programs:

                    • Work natively in DWG format files – whether using the IntelliCAD or AutoCAD platform,
                    • Import DGN, DXF, DWF files,
                    • Import and Export LandXML/RoadXML files,
                    • Export Google Earth KML/KMZ files,
                    • Export files to be used in GPS guided machine control systems,
                    • Export DTM, Google, Idan, Microstation, MOSS, Peabody, Topcon, and 12D polyline files
                    • Customize project folders and sub-folders to organize your project data,
                    • Incorporate your own CAD Standards Tools into basic drafting functions,
                      Import, export and convert points using text or most any other format including Civil 3d,
                    • Access to the entirety of the Carlson software File, Edit, View, Draw, Inquiry, Settings, Points and 3D Solids menus including these popular commands:
                      • Drawing cleanup
                      • 2d and 3d polyline editing commands to reverse polylines, add/remove segments or vertices, etc.
                      • Shrinkwrap entities
                      • Boundary polyline
                      • Erase and Copy by layer
                      • 3d Viewer Window
                      • Surface 3d Viewer
                      • Search Published Control – an Esri-powered command

                    Menus in all non-OEM Carlson desktop programs

                    File Menu

                    Carlson 2017 File Menu

                    Edit Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Edit Menu

                    View Menu

                    Carlson 2017 View Menu

                    Draw Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Draw Menu

                    Inquiry Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Inquiry Menu

                    Settings Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Settings Menu

                    Points Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Points Menu

                    3D Solids Menu

                    Carlson 2017 3D Solids Menu

                    Window Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Window Menu

                    Help Menu

                    Carlson 2017 Help Menu


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                      [FAQ307] What features & menus are in Carlson CADNet? (a running thread)
                      +

                      Carlson CADNet 2017

                      Features and Benefits of CADNet 2017

                      Carlson CADnet, introduced in 2014, allows users to import faster images and PDF files and, if needed, even to merge multiple images into one file that can be digitized or otherwise converted by CAD software using a variety of raster-to-vector routines. CADNet also gives you many tools to help clean up text and linework generated from raster images.

                      Recent updates to CADNet gives you the ability to export drawing entities to 3D PDF files, import Sketchup files and import and export BIM models (doors, windows, walls, roofs, etc.) and bring them into CAD as CAD software entities; plus, CADnet includes a routine to export surfaces into BIM.

                      Menus in CADNet 2017

                       

                      Menu Bar in CADNet 2017

                       

                      The menus below are available in Carlson CADNet 2017

                      Digitize Menu

                      CADNet 2017 Digitize Menu

                      Raster Menu

                      CADNet 2017 Raster Menu

                      PDF Menu

                      CADNet 2017 PDF Menu

                      BIM Menu

                      CADNet 2017 BIM Menu

                      The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                      (Click image to see more)


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                        [FAQ306] What features & menus are in Carlson Construction? (a running thread)
                        +

                        Carlson Construction 2017

                        Features and Benefits of Construction 2017

                        Carlson Construction includes powerful Carlson software tools for designing and modeling different aspects of road design, from new construction to road widening and repaving.

                        Fully supporting all of the major 3D Machine Control formats for today’s heavy equipment with 3D Machine Control Systems, Carlson Construction gives you the tools you need for taking your data into the 3D environment. Whether your Carlson software need is “Data Preparation,” “Site Preparation,” or specifically creating Machine Control Guidance Models, Carlson Construction will get the job done for you.

                        Menus in Construction 2017

                         

                        Menu Bar in Construction 2017

                         

                        The menus below are available in Carlson Construction 2017

                        Elevate Menu

                        Construction 2017 Elevate Menu

                        Surface Menu

                        Construction 2017 Surface Menu

                        Takeoff Menu

                        Construction 2017 Takeoff Menu

                        Roads Menu

                        Construction 2017 Roads Menu

                        Survey Menu

                        Construction 2017 Survey Menu

                        Annotate Menu

                        Construction 2017 Annotate Menu

                        Display Menu

                        Construction 2017 Display Menu

                        The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                        (Click image to see more)


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                          [FAQ305] What features & menus are in Carlson GIS? (a running thread)
                          +

                          Carlson GIS 2017

                          Carlson GIS 2017

                          Features and Benefits of GIS 2017

                          Here are some of the things you can do with Carlson GIS:

                          • Take advantage of the Carlson/Esri® partnership with these and other CAD software commands:
                            • Import/Export Esri SHP files
                            • Export DWG file with Esri MSC data
                            • Export Esri Projection file
                          • Import and Export GIS Data between Carlson GIS and Carlson SurvCE
                          • Work with many image formats including:
                            • Geo-referenced images
                            • Google Earth images
                            • CAD software images
                            • MrSID images
                          • Convert GIS data to and from AutoCAD Map
                          • Query and Report GIS generated entities
                          • Hatch & Label GIS generated polylines
                          • Create, Audit and Erase links to GIS database
                          • Define Note file prompts for data collection

                          Menus in GIS 2017

                           

                          Menu Bar in GIS 2017

                           

                          The menus below are available in Carlson GIS 2017

                          GIS Data Menu

                          GIS 2017 GIS Data Menu

                          GIS Tools Menu

                          GIS 2017 GIS Tools Menu

                          Images Menu

                          GIS 2017 Images Menu

                          The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                          (Click image to see more)

                           


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                            [FAQ304] What features & menus are in Carlson Hydrology? (a running thread)
                            +

                            Carlson Hydrology 2017

                            Features and Benefits of Hydrology 2017

                            Carlson Hydrology provides CAD support comparable to the hydrology components of programs such as: DCA®/Softdesk®/Land Desktop, Civil 3d, Eagle Point®, TerraModel®, GeoPak® and InRoads®.

                            Here are some of the things you can do with Carlson Hydrology:

                            • Use it to perform all of your stormwater modeling and design or use it to compile data that can then be used in other hydrology programs,
                            • Link directly to other hydrology programs including HydroCAD®, Pizer HYDRA®, TR-20, SEDCAD, HEC-RAS and HEC-2,
                            • Analyze and design using either SCS or Rational method,
                            • Determine runoff volumes with easy-to-use, layer-based tools
                            • Track runoff and analyze watershed data within the entire watershed or just above a selected point – such as a catch basin,
                            • Create surface model files with CAD support for existing and proposed conditions
                            • Design and then report storage volumes for bench and valley ponds that can be designed using various design criteria such as adding multiple interior benches and automatically removing the berm in cut conditions,
                            • Create custom fields for pipe structures and inlet libraries,
                            • Tap extensive libraries for rainfall data, inlets, manholes and outlet structures,
                            • Pick a button to “Process” or have updates automatically occur when changes to road designs surfaces affect storm or sewer structures,
                            • Design sanitary sewer or storm pipe runs in a dockable palette or in a spreadsheet editor,
                            • Tie pipe design criteria to surfaces, centerlines and profiles
                            • Calculate inlet intercepted and bypass flows, gutter spread and depth, pipe flow depth and velocity, and hydraulic and energy grade lines
                            • Choose to match stormwater pipes at the crown or at the flowline
                            • Receive warnings for collisions and when pipe length, cover, slope, flow rates or other design criteria do not fall within an acceptable, customizable range
                            • Design ponds, spillways, orifices, weirs, multiple outlets, channels, culverts, pipes and lift stations
                            • Draft sewer pipe dynamically in plans, profiles and 3D

                            Menus in Hydrology 2017

                             

                            Menu Bar in Hydrology 2017

                             

                            The menus below are available in Carlson Hydrology 2017

                            Surface Menu

                            Hydrology 2017 Surface Menu

                            Watershed Menu

                            Hydrology 2017 Watershed Menu

                            Structure Menu

                            Hydrology 2017 Structure Menu

                            Network Menu

                            Hydrology 2017 Network Menu

                            HydroCAD Menu

                            Hydrology 2017 HydroCAD Menu

                            The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                            (Click image to see more)

                             


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                              [FAQ303] What features & menus are in Carlson Civil? (a running thread)
                              +

                              Carlson Civil 2017

                              Features and Benefits of Civil 2017

                              Carlson Civil is a fully dynamic, 3d civil design program that contains all the tools an engineer, designer or design build professional needs. Here are some of the things you can do with Carlson Civil:

                              • Utilize the very best Carlson software support tools for all your design build, site design & site grading, subdivision design & subdivision grading and road design & road grading needs,
                              • Perform tasks associated with civil BIM (Building Information Modeling),
                              • Use the Lot Network feature to create a dynamic subdivision design that takes into account road centerline and right of way, building setbacks, wetland or poor soils areas and inserts one or more building footprints onto each lot,
                              • Use vehicle path tracking to ensure adequate roadway clearance,
                              • Create, define, edit and draw centerline alignments using a variety of methods including best fit,
                              • Easily elevate 2d, zero-elevation polylines from points, text or text with a leader for detailed site grading,
                              • Label elevation, slope and other properties of polylines,
                              • Design a centerline and profile along a surface that maintains a maximum slope,
                              • Import surfaces from Civil 3d and Google Earth®,
                              • Create surface model files for existing and proposed conditions,
                              • Design and balance cut and fill for one or more building pads at a time,
                              • Edit the contours generated from a surface model and automatically update the underlying TIN file,
                              • Calculate earthwork volumes between two surfaces including building pads, stockpiles and borrow pits,
                              • Report storage volumes for bench and valley ponds that can be designed using various design criteria such as adding multiple interior benches and automatically removing the berm in cut conditions,
                              • Use the layer-based SiteNet commands to calculate and report volumes and/or quantities:
                                • Of an entire site or within a perimeter Polyline,
                                • Of cut & fill dirt; of topsoil removal & replacement; of materials such as asphalt, stone, concrete and curb; and of pipe and structure depth,
                                • That can be exported directly to Microsoft Excel®,
                              • Create cut & fill color maps or a grid of cut and fill labels,
                              • Create, define, edit and draw profiles using a variety of methods including best fit,
                              • Create, define, edit and draw cross sections using a variety of methods,
                              • Define, edit and draw typical cross sections to create a library of roadway templates that meet detailed design standards,
                              • Use the Road Network feature to dynamically design a network of highways or roads that automatically tie intersections together, allow detailed grading at each intersection and cul-de-sac and allow real-time volume determination as the road profile is adjusted,
                              • Design roads that that incorporate varying roadway widths, multiple templates, super elevation, topsoil removal & replacement, road rehabilitation including overlays after leveling or milling operations and more,
                              • Automatically elevate building pads and property lot lines using grading rules applied to a road design,
                              • Process Road Design for final sections, final contours and volumes,
                              • Pick a button to “Process” or have updates automatically occur when changes to centerlines or surfaces affect profiles, changes to profiles affect cross sections or changes to surfaces affect storm or sewer structures,
                              • Automatically generate a Carson software support plan and profile sheets in model or paper space where the plan and profile views can be shifted or rotated incrementally with the pick of a button,
                              • View your entities or surfaces in 3d or drive through them in a humvee, police car or school bus.

                              Menus in Civil 2017

                               

                              Menu Bar in Civil 2017

                               

                              The menus below are available in Carlson Civil 2017

                              3D Data Menu

                              Civil 2017 3D Data Menu

                              Surface Menu

                              Civil 2017 Surface Menu

                              SiteNet Menu

                              Civil 2017 SiteNet Menu

                              Centerline Menu

                              Civil 2017 Centerline Menu

                              Profiles Menu

                              Civil 2017 Profiles Menu

                              Sections Menu

                              Civil 2017 Sections Menu

                              Roads Menu

                              Civil 2017 Roads Menu

                              Area Layout Menu

                              Civil 2017 Area Layout Menu

                              Annotate Menu

                              Civil 2017 Annotate Menu

                              The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                              (Click image to see more)


                                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.

                                [FAQ211] I’m a land surveyor. What software do I need?
                                +
                                Carlson Survey, of course! And, if you truly need ONLY Carlson Survey, you have an option between Survey with IntelliCAD or For Your AutoCAD or Survey with embedded AutoCAD (OEM).

                                But, I find a lot of surveyors also need Carlson GIS for bringing in aerial photos, images of quad and soils maps.

                                And, this is a little out of the box, but if you’re a surveyor who does a lot of construction staking, I highly recommend Carlson Civil as well. Carlson Civil has a lot of tools that are meant to be used for design but, in my experience, can be invaluable for stakeout.

                                Most of these tools are in the 3D Data menu of Carlson Civil and include:

                                • 2D to 3D Polyline by Points and by Text with Leader
                                • Assign Contour Elevations
                                • Pad Polyline by Interior Text
                                • Draw Building Perimeter Polyline
                                • Convert Spot Elevations to Points
                                • Points by Slope

                                If you need Survey plus any of these other programs, you will have to use Carlson Survey with IntelliCAD or For Your AutoCAD because Survey and Takeoff are the only programs available on the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) platform.

                                And if you need Survey plus any of these other programs, you may want to consider the Civil Suite because the bundled pricing is often better than buying 2 or more individual modules.


                                  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.

                                  [FAQ212] I’m a civil engineer. What software do I need?
                                  +
                                  Primarily you’ll probably need Carlson Civil and Hydrology but GIS has a lot of nifty tools for importing images so you may also consider that program a “need” instead of just a “want” as well.

                                  Since all three of these modules are included in the Carlson Civil Suite, that’s usually the better deal.

                                   


                                    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.

                                    [FAQ213] I’m a contractor and need to do takeoffs and create machine control files.
                                    What software do I need?
                                    +
                                    Probably some version of Takeoff – either Takeoff Suite which is modular and includes Construction, CADNet, Trench and GeoTech or the Takeoff with embedded AutoCAD (OEM).

                                    The good thing about the Takeoff Suite is that you can buy the whole thing or just the pieces and parts you need. Many contractors only need the functionality of Construction and CADNet so, unless you need Trench and GeoTech as well, you could save a little money by just buying those modules. And you could always add the other pieces later if necessary.

                                    Construction includes most of the functionality you will need for building models and doing takeoffs: tools for elevating 2D to 3D, site and roadway surface modeling (including resurfacing), quantity calcs, exporting to machine control and more.

                                    CADNet includes the digitizing and imaging tools such as raster to vector, importing PDFs and BIM files and more.

                                    GeoTech is for importing borehole data for analyzing subsurface conditions and materials.

                                    Trench is for calculations related to installing pipes, sewers, or utility lines.

                                    One other thing to note is that Construction is mostly a blend of the functionality you’ll find in Carlson Survey & Civil. Since the pricing of Civil Suite is the same as Construction, you may find that purchasing Civil Suite and CADNet is a good alternative to Construction and CADNet.

                                    These images were current for the Carlson 2021 products but I don’t think much has changed…


                                      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.

                                      [FAQ020] Are Express Tools available in Carlson?
                                      +
                                      Technically, no. But through Carlson software training, you’ll learn that they have their own set of layer management commands that handles most of the functionality you might miss from the Express Layer Tools and Layers II Toolbar commands. These tools are available in programs with IntelliCAD software as well as those with embedded AutoCAD (OEM).

                                      Carlson Layer Tools are highlighted in the View menu below:

                                      2017_Carlson_Menu_View_LayersHighlighted

                                       
                                      And the Carlson Layers toolbar has many of those handy commands such as Isolate Layers, Restore Layers, Freeze or Off by Picking and Erase by Layer.

                                      2017_Carlson_Toolbar_CarlsonLayers


                                        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.

                                        [FAQ471] I lost my data collector with SurvCE, am I outta luck?
                                        +
                                        Not at all.
                                         
                                        Carlson allows you to purchase hardware and software separately so all you need to do is purchase a new collector and install your SurvCE on it. You will need your SurvCE serial number but, if you have trouble finding it, just email me and I’ll help you track it down.


                                          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.

                                          [FAQ268] If I use Carlson Survey in the office, do I have to use SurvCE on my data collector?
                                          +
                                          Nope.

                                          Carlson Survey allows you to import, export and convert points and raw data from dozens of different formats and from a wide variety of manufacturers. Carlson Software, as a company, does everything within their power to make their software and hardware compatible with as many other manufacturers’ products as possible. Carlson wants their users to have the option of mixing and matching their software and equipment in a way that works best for their individual needs.

                                          Here are just two examples of many throughout the program allowing you to import, export or convert external data.

                                          The Convert Point Format menu:

                                          2017_ConvertPointFormat

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                          The Import Raw File menu:

                                          2017_ImportRawFile

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           

                                           


                                            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.

                                            [FAQ315] What data collectors, GPS and total stations can I run with my Carlson SurvCE or SurvPC?
                                            +
                                            Click here for the list of data collectors, GPS and total stations that are supported in the various versions of SurvCE and SurvPC.
                                             
                                            It’s easy to overlook but the “micro-links” at the bottom of the table let you switch between Carlson data collectors, Carlson GPS and total stations.
                                             
                                            SurvCE_SupportedHardwareTable

                                             

                                             

                                             

                                             

                                             

                                             

                                             


                                              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.

                                              [FAQ221] What are the system requirements to run Carlson Software in the office? Do I need a monster computer?
                                              +
                                              Save your money! You only need a monster computer if you’re running it on top of an Autodesk product that requires a lot of horsepower. If you’re running Carlson on top of AutoCAD or one of their vertical applications like Civil 3d, then yes, you will want to make sure your computer is configured to meet Autodesk’s specifications.

                                              But, Carlson’s core product and IntelliCAD can run on pretty light-duty machines.

                                              The minimum system requirements for running Carlson with embedded AutoCAD (OEM), on top of AutoCAD and with IntelliCAD are posted here.

                                              Updated for 2020: Carlson 2020 software will no longer run on 32 bit machines.

                                              Note: If you are using an Nvidia video card, you will want to make sure you get the driver and updates directly from Nvidia.com and not just let Windows search for updates.

                                              See also: Carlson KB1123: Changing graphics card settings to use your dedicated GPU on a Windows computer

                                              See also: Carlson KB1131: NVidia video card: visual artifacts, pixelized lines, wrong text display


                                                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?
                                                +
                                                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?
                                                  +
                                                  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.

                                                    [FAQ231] Is it better to network Carlson than use standalone licenses?
                                                    +
                                                    This is another one of those maybes

                                                    The only time I’d recommend networking individual licenses such as Survey, Survey OEM, Civil, etc. is if you have 2 or more people who can literally share a license. For instance, if you have a technician who works in one office or on one computer from 8-12 and another who works in a different office or computer from 1-5 then, yes, network away!

                                                    Using this example, only one license will ever be in use at any one time so you would only need to buy one networked license that can be shared on multiple computers.

                                                    Networking one or more licenses of individual seats can also be beneficial if you have several people using the software part-time. Maybe you buy 3 licenses for 4 to share because only 3 people will ever be using it at the same time.

                                                    All that being said, networking one of Carlson’s Suites (Civil or Takeoff) can potentially save a lot of money. Civil Suite includes 4 programs: Survey, Civil, Hydrology and GIS. Takeoff Suite includes 4 as well: Construction, CADNet, GeoTech and Trench. If you network either of the Suites, each of those programs acts like an individual license. Sweet Suite!

                                                    So, if you buy one standalone license of Civil Suite, that license is registered to one user who can access any of the 4 programs at will. But, if you network that Civil Suite, you can have one person working in Survey at the same time someone else is working in Civil, while a 3rd person is working in Hydrology and a 4th is in GIS.

                                                    Even though this sounds like a great way to save money, you should also be aware that sharing licenses can also become a headache to your staff and lead to some loss in productivity. It’s like anything else, networking the Suites has its pros and cons.

                                                    You may also want to refer to this updated FAQ: Working with Carlson’s network license manager for more information.


                                                      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.

                                                      [FAQ314] What features are in Carlson Precision 3D? (a running thread)
                                                      +
                                                      Shortly after each new release of the program, we will update this FAQ to show the updated list of features in the new release.

                                                      Refer to this FAQ to see the latest improvements to Carlson’s desktop software products

                                                      Carlson Precision 3d Topo 2017

                                                      Features and Benefits of Precision 3D 2017

                                                      With Carlson Software’s Precision 3D Topo… True 3D Topo Editing in a 3D Environment is Here!

                                                      Carlson Precision 3D Topo’s editing ability of digital terrain models (DTMs) offers many benefits:

                                                      • Load and review the two most common formats for surfaces: LandXML and DXF files of 3D Faces, in addition to TIN and Grd files from Carlson Software.
                                                      • Overlay other LandXML file types such as points, alignments, parcels, storm and sanitary sewers, culvert pipes and other piping systems.
                                                      • View the 3D Surface with user-controlled textures to quickly spot errors in the DTM.
                                                      • Fix the errors in the DTM for re-saving and use in CAD programs, or for direct output for machine control and survey stakeout.

                                                      Never before has there been such an array of tools to locate and correct DTM errors, all in a sharp 3D interface. Surveyors, contractors and engineers alike can use the software to make sure the final DTM surface is of the highest quality. Editing tools include surface blending, spike and dimple removal, DTM vertex editing and surface pad placement by defined polygon and outslope conditions. Multiple undoes and redoes allow you to study your changes and makes things perfect.


                                                        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.

                                                        [FAQ312] What features & menus are in Carlson SurvCE and SurvPC? (a running thread)
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                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5.xx

                                                        Features and Benefits of SurvCE and SurvPC 5.x

                                                        Carlson SurvCE is the first choice in data collection software, combining advanced functionality, ease-of-use, and sheer capability:

                                                        • Get the software that supports a wide variety of equipment, old or new.
                                                        • Enjoy excellent, free (and prompt) technical support
                                                        • Be heard – Carlson listens to its customers’ input for new features or drivers for all of its products

                                                        Carlson SurvCE is a complete data collection system for Real Time (RTK) GPS and Total Stations with in-field coordinate geometry. It supports the widest range of popular and new release RTK GPS and conventional/robotic total stations.

                                                        SurvCE and its full-windows companion SurvPC can be configured with various combinations of 4 modules: Total Station (Basic), Robotics (requires Basic), Carlson GPS and Advanced Roading (Requires Basic or other Carlson GPS).

                                                        Refer to this FAQ to see if your hardware is supported in SurvCE & SurvPC

                                                        Refer to this FAQ for system requirements

                                                        Menus in SurvCE and SurvPC 5.x

                                                        File Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 File Menu

                                                        Equip Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Equip Menu

                                                        Survey Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Survey Menu

                                                        COGO Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 COGO Menu

                                                        Road Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Road Menu

                                                        Select Equipment

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC Select Equipment Options

                                                        Map View | FILE Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Map View | FILE Menu

                                                        Map View | VIEW Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Map View | VIEW Menu

                                                        Map View | DRAW Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Map View | DRAW Menu

                                                        Map View | COGO Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Map View | COGO Menu

                                                        Map View | TOOLS Menu

                                                        SurvCE and SurvPC 5 Map View | TOOLS Menu


                                                          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.

                                                          [FAQ311] What features & menus are in Carlson Takeoff with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)? (a running thread)
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                                                          Takeoff 2017 (R9) with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                                                          Features and Benefits of Takeoff 2017 (R9) with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                                                          Carlson Takeoff is a cut/fill volumes and data prep (for layout or machine control) program that can estimate jobs using paper plan digitizing, PDFs, or electronic CAD files which is ideal for CAD management.

                                                          Key features include:

                                                          • Calculate site cut & fill and topsoil
                                                          • Differentiate strata volumes & dirt vs. rock
                                                          • Accurately determine subgrade quantities
                                                          • Estimate trench and pipe quantities
                                                          • Estimate roadways from cross-sections
                                                          • Prepare the design info for exact staking
                                                          • Create a 3D model for machine control

                                                          Menus in Takeoff 2017 (R9) with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                                                           

                                                          Menu bar in Takeoff 2017 (R9)

                                                          The menus below are available in Carlson Takeoff 2017 (R9) with embedded AutoCAD (OEM)

                                                          File Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM File Menu

                                                          Edit Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Edit Menu

                                                          View Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM View Menu

                                                          Draw Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Draw Menu

                                                          Digitize Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Digitize Menu

                                                          Raster Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Raster Menu

                                                          Elevate Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Elevate Menu

                                                          Takeoff Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Takeoff Menu

                                                          Drillhole Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Drillhole Menu

                                                          Trench Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Trench Menu

                                                          Roads Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Roads Menu

                                                          Points Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Points Menu

                                                          Surface Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Surface Menu

                                                          Inquiry Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Inquiry Menu

                                                          Settings Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Settings Menu

                                                          Display Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Display Menu

                                                          Window Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Window Menu

                                                          Help Menu

                                                          Carlson Takeoff 2017 OEM Help Menu


                                                            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.

                                                            [FAQ310] What features & menus are in Carlson Point Cloud? (a running thread)
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                                                            Carlson Point Cloud 2019 - Basic and Advanced

                                                            Features and Benefits of Point Cloud 2019

                                                            With the release of their 2019 products, Carlson now offers Basic and Advanced versions of their Point Cloud program.

                                                            Comparison: Point Cloud Basic vs Point Cloud Advanced

                                                            Commands in Point Cloud Basic and Point Cloud Advanced

                                                            View product page for Point Cloud Basic

                                                            View product page for Point Cloud Advanced

                                                            Carlson Point Cloud is a modular program that provides this powerful ability to go from field scan to finished plat, all with seamless integration to Carlson Survey, Carlson Civil and Carlson Mining. Carlson Point Cloud delivers a whole new level of powerful automation for large data sets. It gives laser scanner users the ability to process millions of data points with Carlson Software ease-of-use.

                                                            Register your scan to local coordinates, filter or decimate the points, overlay raster images in 3D, snap to edges and code the descriptions for automated field-to finish processing of linework and symbols and create contours, profiles, sections, and breaklines. You will be able to read scan data from many instruments, view and process up to 1 billion points, and then perform the Field-to-Finish from the scanned data!

                                                            This Carlson Software office product allows users to export surface models, points, contours, breaklines, grid and profiles to CAD.

                                                            Carlson Point Cloud 2017

                                                            Features and Benefits of Point Cloud 2017

                                                            Carlson Point Cloud is a modular program that provides this powerful ability to go from field scan to finished plat, all with seamless integration to Carlson Survey, Carlson Civil and Carlson Mining. Carlson Point Cloud delivers a whole new level of powerful automation for large data sets. It gives laser scanner users the ability to process millions of data points with Carlson Software ease-of-use.

                                                            Register your scan to local coordinates, filter or decimate the points, overlay raster images in 3D, snap to edges and code the descriptions for automated field-to finish processing of linework and symbols and create contours, profiles, sections, and breaklines. You will be able to read scan data from many instruments, view and process up to 1 billion points, and then perform the Field-to-Finish from the scanned data!

                                                            This Carlson Software office product allows users to export surface models, points, contours, breaklines, grid and profiles to CAD.

                                                            Menus in Point Cloud 2017

                                                             

                                                            Menu Bar in Point Cloud 2017

                                                             

                                                            The menus below are available in Carlson Point Cloud 2017

                                                            Point Clouds Menu

                                                            Point Clouds 2017

                                                            The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                                                            (Click image to see more)


                                                              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.

                                                              [FAQ309] What features & menus are in Carlson GeoTech? (a running thread)
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                                                              Shortly after each new release of the program, we will update this FAQ to show the menus that come with the installation.

                                                              Refer to this FAQ to see the latest improvements to Carlson’s desktop software products

                                                              Carlson GeoTech 2017

                                                              Features and Benefits of GeoTech 2017

                                                              Carlson GeoTech provides the ability to import borehole data for analyzing subsurface conditions and materials.

                                                              “GeoTech will model all core samples and produce a detailed, easy-to-read report for drill logs, cross sections, and plan view,” says Dave Carlson, V.P. of Development for Carlson Software.

                                                              In addition, this information is fully integrated with Carlson Civil, for determining site stability and suitability, and also Carlson Construction, for accurate strata takeoff estimation.

                                                              Menus in GeoTech 2017

                                                               

                                                              Menu Bar in GeoTech 2017

                                                               

                                                              The menus below are available in Carlson GeoTech 2017

                                                              Drillhole Menu

                                                              GeoTech 2017 Drillhole Menu

                                                              StrataCalc Menu

                                                              GeoTech 2017 StrataCalc Menu

                                                              Grids Menu

                                                              GeoTech 2017 Grids Menu

                                                              Map Menu

                                                              GeoTech 2017 Map Menu

                                                              The menus below are in all non-OEM programs of Carlson 2017 desktop software

                                                              (Click image to see more)


                                                                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.

                                                                [FAQ244] Compared to AutoCAD or IntelliCAD, what would I miss in the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) versions of Survey & Takeoff? (a running thread)
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                                                                I can’t say that I use the embedded AutoCAD (OEM) version a lot because, to me, the platform underneath is much closer to an AutoCAD LT than it is to an AutoCAD and there are many functions I miss. And, since AutoCAD and IntelliCAD are so similar, it makes sense to also compare the features and functionality of the embedded AutoCAD products with IntelliCAD.

                                                                Some AutoCAD commands, such as the Layer Tools that used to be in Express Tools and are now in the Layers II toolbar of AutoCAD, have been built into the Carlson menus. So even though you may not find the Layers II toolbar you can still freeze and isolate layers by picking entities on the screen.

                                                                I’ll keep this post as a running thread and will add to it as I come across functions or features you may miss.

                                                                Differences between embedded AutoCAD (OEM) and full AutoCAD or IntelliCAD:

                                                                • In OEM – Can’t load LSP files (verified in 2016). This is possible in AutoCAD and IntelliCAD.
                                                                • In OEM – Can’t change command aliases (acad.pgp) or Carlson QuickKeys (verified in 2016) – although you may find a workaround in this Carlson KB Article:Bits and Pieces. This is possible in AutoCAD and IntelliCAD.
                                                                • In OEM – The command REGEN is available but REGENALL is not (verified in 2016). This is possible in AutoCAD and IntelliCAD.
                                                                • In OEM – Carlson Startup Settings (aka Launch Options) such as setting a default template (.dwt) file are not available in the OEM (verified in 2016). This is possible in AutoCAD and IntelliCAD.
                                                                • In OEM and IntelliCAD – Express Tools aren’t available. However, you can use Carlson’s Layer Tools and Layer Toolbar as a workaround to replace the Express Tools Layers commands and the Layers II toolbar.


                                                                  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?
                                                                  +
                                                                  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.

                                                                    [FAQ266] Does Carlson have student or academic licenses?
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                                                                    At this time, August 2016… Student? No, not to my knowledge.
                                                                     
                                                                    But, for Academic licenses? Yes.
                                                                     
                                                                     

                                                                    Carlson Software provides unlimited desktop licensing to qualified colleges and universities around the world.


                                                                      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.

                                                                        [FAQ269] What are the system requirements to run Carlson SurvPC?
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                                                                        Carlson’s field data collection software comes in two formats: Carlson SurvCE for mobile, hand-held collectors running on Windows Mobile and Carlson SurvPC which can be installed on PCs, tablets and laptops running full-Windows 7, 8, 10, etc.

                                                                        Click here to review the minimum system requirements for SurvPC.


                                                                          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.

                                                                          [FAQ270] P3D? or Point Cloud? then Point Cloud Basic? or Point Cloud Advanced?
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                                                                          With their 2023 release, Carlson Software has made dozens of improvements to both Point Cloud Basic and Point Cloud Advanced. So, I thought it was appropriate to “re-purpose” this blog post from 2019 as an FAQ and update it as the products continue to improve.

                                                                          Here is a handy chart – current as of the 2023 product release: Comparison: Point Cloud Basic vs Point Cloud Advanced

                                                                          Point Cloud Advanced 2023 – Quick Guide

                                                                           

                                                                          Point Cloud Advanced Videos

                                                                          Carlson Point Cloud Advanced 2023 – Part 1
                                                                          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2Sgk21HnPw&t=34s 

                                                                          Carlson Point Cloud Advanced 2023 – Part 2
                                                                          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ftIdxr9cPmU&t=36s 

                                                                          Carlson Point Cloud Advanced 2023 – Part 3
                                                                          https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXchPkwVPcE&t=33s 

                                                                           
                                                                          From the 2019 post:

                                                                          I don’t know about you but the new Carlson product offerings for P3D Topo and Point Cloud Basic and Point Cloud Advanced confuse me. Admittedly, these are products I haven’t dived into much and have relied on Mark Long and Doug Aaberg for their advice and direction. So, I put the question to them, “Who Needs Point Cloud? And Who Needs P3D Topo?”

                                                                          Doug Aaberg: I feel that while Carlson P3D topo is a good solution for producing, manipulating surface models as well as some hydrology capabilities while Carlson Point Cloud is a good solution for performing virtual surveys and extracting existing data out of a cloud. It is probably to simple to surmise by saying Engineers would like P3D while Surveyors would like Point Cloud but I sort of think that way. The truth is, there is a lot of overlap between the two products.

                                                                          Mark Long says: Carlson P3D Topo is intended to take large point clouds and create surface models for design professionals via Drones or Lidar.

                                                                           

                                                                          And as to the difference between Point Cloud Basic and Advanced? Doug says: Point Cloud Basic – designed to work within a CAD environment to manipulate and extract data from a point cloud. It has a very large capacity (up to a billion points) and is a great program for performing a “virtual survey” directly in a cloud. It allows the creation of Carlson points and 3D polylines utilizing a typical Carlson Field to Finish code table (FLD file) and draws entities directly into an open CAD drawing with no additional export function. A notable feature is Survey by Grid which sets points at any specified grid spacing.

                                                                          Point Cloud Advanced – contains all of the functionality of Carlson Point Cloud Basic plus the ability to extract features such as trees, hydrants and poles. It also allows the creation of solids and utilizes typical Carlson cross section alignments (mxs files) to extract cross sections and profiles. You can select cloud data by color or elevation and create regions for isolating portions of a cloud for editing or extracting features.. A notable feature is the ability to simplify a TIN and create smoother looking contour lines.


                                                                            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.

                                                                            [FAQ450] My Maintenance is Current… Where’s My Upgrade?
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                                                                            One of the best things about keeping your Carlson Software maintenance plan up-to-date is that you have access to the latest and greatest version of the software whenever you’re ready to take the plunge! Some users can’t wait to install the newest version as soon as it’s released but others wait for the first new Build to be posted and then go for it.

                                                                            With the building out of your That CAD Girl Customer Portal, we are doing our best to have all the information you need about your serial numbers easily accessible and available to you.

                                                                            As soon as possible after a new release, we will post your new, upgraded serial number(s) to your Customer Portal and will upload a new maintenance report showing your new serial number(s). However, if you get to this before we do… you can use the Carlson Software Serial Number Upgrade Lookup site to get your new serial number as soon as it’s released.

                                                                             

                                                                             

                                                                             

                                                                             

                                                                             

                                                                            You will need the items listed below. Your serial number and Carlson Customer ID can be found on your That CAD Girl Customer Portal:

                                                                            • Your current serial number
                                                                            • Your Carlson Customer ID
                                                                            • Phone Number
                                                                            • Email Address


                                                                              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.

                                                                              [FAQ230] Does Carlson Software Still Offer Perpetual Licenses?
                                                                              +
                                                                              Yes!!!

                                                                              The change from a perpetual license model (you purchase once and continue to use it forever) to a subscription license model (you pay by the month or by the year for access) in our little CAD corner of the world has sparked a lot of questions, debate and heartburn.

                                                                              In 2015 Autodesk announced they would be shifting toward a subscription model of delivery for their AutoCAD-based products. Although some Autodesk accounts and products were grandfathered in, any new purchases of AutoCAD are now available by subscription only. And, the kicker, you stop paying, you can’t access the software or your data.

                                                                              Carlson Software remains committed to the perpetual license model where you, the user, never have to worry about losing access to your software or data. Carlson’s desktop software includes a license of IntelliCAD so, if you ever stop paying for your AutoCAD, Carlson with IntelliCAD can give you another option to open your DWG files. If you want to ensure you have “perpetual” access to all your other data such as points, surfaces, road designs and more – make sure you archive your project data to Land XML files so that it can be retrieved with other land development, survey, civil and construction software programs.

                                                                              See also: How can I access and use my old Civil 3d, Land Desktop, Eagle Point or Terra Model data?

                                                                              See also: Get a Perpetual License with Carlson or download PDF

                                                                              See also: Robert Green’s CAD Manager’s Newsletter #350 Autodesk Goes Subscription-Only in 2016 or download PDF

                                                                              See also: Autodesk Courtesy Notice: End of Perpetual Licenses Sales, including individual products and suites


                                                                                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.

                                                                                [FAQ265] Does Carlson run on a Mac?
                                                                                +
                                                                                No, not at this time.
                                                                                 
                                                                                I have several customers who run Carlson and CAD software for Mac using Windows emulation apps. The two that I am aware of are Parallels and Boot Camp.


                                                                                  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.

                                                                                   

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