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Installing AutoCAD Architectural Desktop (ADT R14) on Windows 11

Posted on February 28, 2024 by simonbooth

As an existing AutoCAD Architectural Desktop (ADT R14) User, you most likely cannot do without your beloved AutoCAD ADT. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD gives an error like this one…

Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC — Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC

“FATAL ERROR: HEAP ERROR”

MEM_BAD_POINTER

…all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your ADT R14 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

Just before we start note that Windows 11 comes with a Ransomware Protection which includes Controlled Folder Access. Controlled folder access blocks applications from writing to your Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Public and Favorites folders. AutoCAD versions all the way to AutoCAD 2021 write to certain user Public folders and are therefore blocked by this feature. This can cause issues with all sorts of things including activating your AutoCAD license and even running AutoCAD. Ransomware Protection is an important feature of Windows 11 but it will affect your AutoCAD unless you allow AutoCAD and its dependent applications access to the controlled folders.

How to install AutoCAD ADT R14

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any problems…

If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…

1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“

Now reboot your PC

Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…

Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

In the AutoCAD setup program…

navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

In the AutoCAD setup program…

navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
1. Now place your AutoCAD ADT R14 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
  1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD ADT R14 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and click OK…

Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
1. Now place your AutoCAD ADT R14 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
  1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD ADT R14 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the newly installed program files for you automatically (inside folder c:\adtR14). You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
Once rebooted, you can now run your AutoCAD ADT R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\adtR14 and double click acad.exe (we recommend creating a Desktop shortcut for easy access)

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD LT98 on Windows 11

Posted on March 14, 2023 by simonbooth

AutoCAD LT98 users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD LT98 gives an error like this one…

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…

“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98”

…all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your AutoCAD LT98 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

How to install AutoCAD LT 98

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any

problems…

If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…

Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
1. Now place your AutoCAD LT98 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT98 installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
  1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT98 setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD LT98 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadlt98 (not Program Files\AutoCADLT98 as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD LT98’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadlt98\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD LT98 setup has completed the installation…
1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadlt98 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
3. Now reboot your PC
You can now run your AutoCAD LT98 as normal, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadlt98 and double click aclt.exe

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD LT98 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing LT98 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD LT98 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadlt98 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadlt98
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD LT97 on Windows 11

Posted on August 15, 2022 by simonbooth

AutoCAD LT97 users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD LT97 gives an error like this one…

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…

“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98” …all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your AutoCAD LT97 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

How to install AutoCAD LT97

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any

problems…

If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…

Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
1. Now place your AutoCAD LT97 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT97 installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
  1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT97 setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD LT97 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadlt97 (not Program Files\AutoCADLT97 as usually prompted)**

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD LT97’, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadlt97\aclt.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadlt97 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
3. Now reboot your PC
You can now run your AutoCAD LT97, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadlt97 and double click aclt.exe

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD LT97 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing LT97 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting an application failure with Unhandled Exception 0x800F0922
- The security software (ESET Nod 32) must uninstalled; suspending it not effective
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft

If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD R14 on Windows 11

Posted on January 14, 2022 by simonbooth

As an existing AutoCAD R14 user, you most likely cannot do without your beloved AutoCAD R14. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD R14 gives an error like this one…

“FATAL ERROR: HEAP ERROR”

MEM_BAD_POINTER

…all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your R14 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

How to install AutoCAD R14

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any problems…

If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and click OK…

Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
1. Now place your AutoCAD R14 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD R14 installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
  1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD R14 setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD R14 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD R14 setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadR14 (not Program Files\AutoCAD R14 as usually prompted)**

You must change the install path to c:\acadR14

Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD R14’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD R14 setup has completed the installation…
1. 1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
  2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadr14 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
1. Now reboot your PC
You can now run your AutoCAD R14, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadR14 and double click acad.exe

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD R14 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Uninstalling all Autodesk Products from your Computer

Posted on October 14, 2017 by simonbooth

Here’s a good one for you. We added a new tool in our Longbow Converter App which allows you to uninstall all Autodesk products from your computer in one go…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Start the Converter tool
Click the Tools->Advanced->Uninstall all Autodesk Products menu…
Uninstall All Autodesk Products
The Converter will now list all of the Autodesk products installed on your computer, you can press F5 to refresh. Select which ones you want to be uninstalled, then click Uninstall/Clean
Uninstall and Clean
Note that you will have to interact with the setups, but the software does a really good job of cleaning everything off.

Making the Calcomp Digitizer work in old versions of AutoCAD

Posted on September 17, 2017 by simonbooth

Some users have experienced issues where their Calcomp Digitizer works just fine in new versions of AutoCAD (like AutoCAD 2009, but doesn’t work on older versions of AutoCAD (like AutoCAD 2000) even though both versions are installed on the same computer.

We have reports that simply disabling the Windows User Access Control (UAC) seems to fix this issue!

Before you disable UAC – read all about UAC here

Click here to Disable UAC

Installing AutoCAD R14 Express Tools Volume 6 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on March 13, 2017 by simonbooth

If you are having trouble installing AutoCAD R14 Express Tools with “This app cannot run on your PC” then read on…

Installing AutoCAD R14 Express Tools Volume 6 (et1-6.exe) on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Next, make sure you have AutoCAD R14 already installed – follow these steps Installing AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10
Unzip this zip to c:\Autodesk
Start the Longbow Converter tool
1. select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“,
2. pick the newly created c:\Autodesk\Express Tools R14 Volume 6 folder
3. now click the “Run Old installer” button.
4. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK.
Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD R14 Express Tools setup.exe program to fully appear. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadR14 (not Program Files (x86)\AutoCAD Express Tools as usually prompted)**
1. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Now you can happily run your Express Tools inside of AutoCAD R14 running on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10 – using Windows Explorer, simply navigate to c:\acadr14 and double click acad.exe to start AutoCAD R14 and to use Express Tools R14

Troubleshooting:

If your Express Tools R14 setup is not starting after 45 minutes, try rebooting, then restart the steps above. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try the same steps as above in Windows Safe Mode

Opening AutoCAD DWG file gives “Drawing File was created by an incompatible version” message

Posted on January 19, 2017 by simonbooth

If you are trying to open a DWG file with AutoCAD and you get the message “Drawing File was created by an incompatible version” it’s because somewhere along the line your AutoCAD DWG files were saved with a newer version of AutoCAD.

All is not lost, you can make them open again in your version of AutoCAD, you just need to download the free DWGTrueView App from Autodesk – http://www.autodesk.com/products/dwg/viewers

Once installed, start DWGTrueview and open the DWG file in question, then save as making sure to select the lowest DWG file version that matches your version of AutoCAD.

Installing CSG V3 for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on June 14, 2016 by simonbooth

If you are having problems installing your CSG V3 for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit with errors like…

Unsupported 16-bit Application – the program or feature cannot start or run due to incompatibility with 64-bit versions of WIndows

…then read on…

Installing your CSG V3 for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Reviver tool here – you need version 4.10 or newer
Unzip the contents of this zip file CSG Editor V3 for R14 into C:\InstallDisks\CSGR14
Start the Longbow Reviver tool and select the 2^nd tab called “Old Program Reviver”
1. Select the path to C:\InstallDisks\CSGR14
2. Select the ‘Run As” option to Windows 2000
3. Next, click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button.
4. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK. Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your CSG setup.exe program to appear.
Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
1. If your CSG setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
2. In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder input dialog, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to your existing AutoCAD R14 folder – install to c:\acadR14 (not c:\Program Files\CSG as usually prompted)**
3. Now carry on with the install (do not reboot once the install is complete).
  1. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once installed, start AutoCAD R14
1. If CSG doesn’t startup automaticaly, run the APPLOAD command, navigate to c:\acadR14 and load the CSG3.arx
Now you can happily run your CSG V3 in AutoCAD R14 running on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting:

If your CSG V3 setup is not starting after 45 minutes, try rebooting, then restart the steps above.
- If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing CSG from Windows Safe Mode

Installing AutoCAD Map Release 3 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on October 13, 2015 by simonbooth

Most current AutoCAD Map R3 users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD gives an error like this one…

Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC

…all is not lost, just read on…

How to install AutoCAD Map R3

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10, in fact, we strongly advise using Windows 10 for this product.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Before starting, we recommend turning off Windows UAC before installing AutoCAD Map R3
Start the Longbow Converter tool by double clicking the Longbow Converter shortcut on your Desktop… .
1. Insert your AutoCAD Map R3 CD
2. Select the 2nd tab titled “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver” by clicking on it
3. Next, using the ‘…’ button select your AutoCAD CD
4. Now click the “Run Old Installer” button.
  1. Read, understand and follow all the prompts.
  2. Read the next step!
Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your AutoCAD 2000 setup.exe program to fully appear
1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\mapR14 (not Program Files (x86)\Land Desktop as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install, ignore any errors related to:
1. not being able to “…create the folder ‘AutoCAD Map Release 3”, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\mapR14\acad.exe by hand.
2. Failing to register DAO3032.dll, this will be automatically fixed later by the Converter
3. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once installed, go back to the Converter tool
1. select the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
2. Using the “. . .” button pick the newly installed c:\mapR14 folder
3. click Fix Old Program.
Now you can happily run your AutoCAD Map R3 on Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit

Installing AutoCAD Map R3 Service Pack 1

Download AutoCAD R14 Map R3 sp1 from here
Unzip your newly downloaded sp to folder path c:\Autodesk\sp
Start the Converter, select the 2nd tab, pick the c:\Autodesk\sp\AutoCAD R14 Map R3 sp1 folder and click ‘Run’
Wait for the setup to appear, it could take up to 45 minutes, then install as normal

Troubleshooting

If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD Map R3 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says.
If the Converter complains that “Cannot convert this AutoCAD R14, there was a problem updating the dependencies” – AutoCAD R14 must be installed first, please contact Longbow Software Support and explain this comment to them
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Upgrading your existing AutoCAD to Windows 10 and Windows 11

Posted on June 13, 2015 by simonbooth

So you have an old PC with a working copy of AutoCAD and you want to upgrade to Windows 10? STOP and read this whole blog first before you wipe your working PC…

Autodesk License Activation for older versions of AutoCAD

That’s right, Autodesk no longer support versions of AutoCAD (at the time of writing 2014 or earlier) which means that they will not give you a new authorization code. That means you will have to activate your AutoCAD license without Autodesk – you do have some options:

First try activation via this offline process that Autodesk recently added
If you have an activation code, try an Offline Activation
Transfer your existing AutoCAD license from your old PC to your new PC. Your AutoCAD install CD comes with utility to do the job, see below…
NOTE: A good idea (before transfering the AutoCAD license from your old PC to the new PC) is to setup AutoCAD to run in offline mode then clone your old PC hard drive. This ensures you have a backup of your old PC with a valid license.

NOTE: Apparently, the license transfer will fail if your license is invalid. Some examples we heard about failing are: it’s a USA license running in a different country or it’s an Education License or you used a serial number that was compromised
1. AutoCAD 2009 or older – transfer license using the Autodesk Portable License Transfer Utility
  
  NOTE: AutoCAD 2006/2007 users – you MUST install this patch so you do not lose your activation through a bug in the software once it is transferred to the new PC
2. AutoCAD 2010 or newer – transfer license using the License Transfer Utility
If you have an Autodesk Network licensing setup, keep it. Apparently, if you have this you are completely safe from shutdown and you can move to new systems without problems.
Call Autodesk an explain your situation, we heard some people managed to get an activation code because their existing one was lost through software fault.
Go back to an older version of AutoCAD. AutoCAD R13, R14, 2000, 2000i, 2002, 2004 and some versions of 2005 don’t require online activation therefore, as long as you have the original activation codes, they can still be used.
- They all run perfectly on Windows 10, but you will need to install them using our Converter App (click for install instructions R13 R14 2000 2000i 2002 2004 2005)
- If you have DWG files saved by newer versions of AutoCAD then simply use the free Autodesk DWGTrueview App (which is a cut down version of AutoCAD) to convert your DWG file save versions back to an earlier version.
For information purposes only: There is an AutoCAD Keygen application online called “X-Force” which you can use to generate your authcode. NOTE: using a keygen is highly illegal when using hacked serial numbers, we don’t recommend it. Some ask if it is still illegal to use a keygen with a paid/valid serial number? You need to do your own legal checks on that question before using a keygen.

Is it possible to protect your working AutoCAD from losing its license?

Yes. The latest version of our Converter App (12.30 or newer) has a new “Block Internet Connection” feature which disables all internet access to and from your AutoCAD, this makes it impossible for your AutoCAD license to be deactivated at some point in the future (with the disadvantage that you lose any internet based features in AutoCAD)

Windows XP and Windows Vista AutoCAD users upgrading to Windows 10

For those of you who are still running AutoCAD on Windows XP and want to upgrade to Windows 10, you will need to

Get a new Windows 10 PC, preferably one without (or disabled) Intel onBoard graphics.
Once you have a Windows 10 PC, run Windows Update until there are no more updates left to be installed.
Next, install your AutoCAD using the Converter app…
1. click on the version of AutoCAD you have (it explains all that you need to do) : AutoCAD R14 AutoCAD 2000 AutoCAD 2000i AutoCAD 2002 AutoCAD 2004 AutoCAD 2005 AutoCAD 2006 AutoCAD 2007 AutoCAD 2008 32bit AutoCAD 2009 32bit AutoCAD 2010 32bit AutoCAD 2011 32bit AutoCAD 2012 32bit AutoCAD 2013 32bit AutoCAD 2014 32bit
2. NOTE: If you can’t find your version listed, use the “Search” at the top left of this page
3. Transfer the AutoCAD license as described above

Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 AutoCAD users upgrading to Windows 10

Here’s how to upgrade your PC to Windows 10 so that you can carry on using AutoCAD…

Transfer your existing AutoCAD license from your old PC to your new PC. Your AutoCAD install CD comes with utility to do the job, see below… (A good idea is, before you transfer the AutoCAD license from your old PC to the new PC clone your old PC hard drive. This ensures you have a backup of your old PC with a valid license)
1. AutoCAD 2009 or older – transfer license using the Autodesk Portable License Transfer Utility
  
  NOTE: AutoCAD 2006/2007 users – you MUST install this patch so you do not lose your activation through a bug in the software once it is transferred to the new PC
2. AutoCAD 2010 or newer – transfer license using the License Transfer Utility
Next, uninstall all AutoCAD versions on your system; it’s very important that you do this, if you don’t the Autodesk licensing system may get corrupted when you upgrade to Windows 10 at which point you will have to wipe the computer and start again.
Now Upgrade to Windows 10
Obtain the latest Longbow Converter supporting Windows 10 here
Next, install your AutoCAD using the Converter app…
1. click on the version of AutoCAD you have (it explains all that you need to do) : AutoCAD R14 AutoCAD 2000 AutoCAD 2000i AutoCAD 2002 AutoCAD 2004 AutoCAD 2005 AutoCAD 2006 AutoCAD 2007 AutoCAD 2008 32bit AutoCAD 2009 32bit AutoCAD 2010 32bit AutoCAD 2011 32bit AutoCAD 2012 32bit AutoCAD 2013 32bit AutoCAD 2014 32bit
2. If you can’t find your version listed, use the “Search” at the top left of this page
3. AutoCAD 2006/2007 users – you MUST install this patch so you do lose your license activation randomly

What happens if you already upgraded to Windows 8.1 with your existing AutoCAD installation – most likely your AutoCAD will not run, nor will you be able to repair it. The best thing to get your AutoCAD running again is to carry out a Windows Reset.

Users of 32bit AutoCAD versions 2002 thru 2013 and running or Windows 7 upgrading to Windows 8.1

If you have a working Windows 7 machine and you are thinking to upgrade to Windows 8.1 best just stay where you are. Better to upgrade to Windows 10, aside from being a free upgrade, it seems to be a much better platform too.

With that said, if you must upgrade your working Windows 7 system to Windows 8.1, then it is of course possible using our Longbow Converter tool – you ***must*** first uninstall all AutoCAD products before doing the upgrade. Once Windows 8.1 has been installed, just use the Longbow Converter to re-install your 32bit AutoCAD software as before.

What happens if you already upgraded to Windows 8.1 with your existing AutoCAD installation – most likely your AutoCAD will not run, nor will you be able to repair it. The best thing to get your AutoCAD running again is to carry out a Windows Reset.

Users of 64bit AutoCAD versions 2002 thru 2013 and running or Windows 7 upgrading to Windows 8.1

With that said, if you must upgrade your working Windows 7 system to Windows 8.1, then it is of course possible using our Longbow Converter tool – you ***must*** first uninstall all AutoCAD products before doing the upgrade. Once Windows 8.1 has been installed, install your 64bit AutoCAD products as normal then use the Longbow Converter to fix all 64bit AutoCAD 2008 thru 2013 Windows 8 issues

Installing AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on May 28, 2015 by simonbooth

Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC, check software publisher

“FATAL ERROR: HEAP ERROR”

MEM_BAD_POINTER

You can solve these problems easily using our Longbow Converter App – fix and manage your AutoCAD R14 on new versions of Windows 7, 8 and 10 64bit

How to install AutoCAD R14

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
NOTE: We recommend turning off Windows UAC before installing AutoCAD R14
Start the Longbow Converter application…
1. Place your AutoCAD R14 CD in the CDRom Drive
2. Select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD R14 installation CD
4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions
  1. Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD R14 setup.exe program to appear, be patient…
5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD R14 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
In the AutoCAD R14 setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
  1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
  2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadR14 (not .\AutoCAD R14 as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD R14’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadR14\acad.exe by hand.
3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once your AutoCAD R14 setup has completed the installation…
1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadr14 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
3. Reboot your PC
Now you can happily run your AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8, or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit…
1. Using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadR14 and double click acad.exe

Troubleshooting

If your AutoCAD R14 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing R14 from Windows Safe Mode
If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD R14 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadR14 as stated in step (7) above.
When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If the setup displays an error message
InstallError (IUO)
(X) not enough space(IUO)

try unplugging any External USB drives
Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
2. If the problem persists
  1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
  4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
  5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadr14
  6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD R14 Architectural Desktop (ADT) on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on February 10, 2015 by simonbooth

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10, in fact, we strongly advise using Windows 10 for this product.

Installing your AutoCAD Architectural Desktop (R14.01) on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

NOTE: These steps do not bypass normal Autodesk licensing/authorization, you should expect to use your own serial numbers in the normal way.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Start the Longbow Converter tool
1. select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
2. Using the ‘…’ button pick your AutoCAD ADT R14 CD and follow the instructions
3. Be patient – expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your AutoCAD R14 setup.exe program to appear.
4. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\adtR14 (not .\AutoCAD or .\AutoCAD Architectural Desktop as usually prompted)**
1. Now carry on with the install (do not reboot once the install is complete). Ignore any errors related to not being able to “…create the folder ‘AutoCAD Architectural Desktop'”, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\adtR14\acad.exe by hand.
2. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once setup has finished
1. go back to the Converter tool
2. select the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
3. pick the newly installed c:\adtR14 folder and click “Fix Old Program“
Finally, create a shortcut to c:\adtR14\acad.exe – make sure the shortcut Target: is set to C:\adtR14\acad.exe /p “C:\adtR14\Desktop.arg”
Now you can happily run your AutoCAD Architectural Desktop R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting:

If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD Architectural Desktop then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says.
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing Softdesk 8 Imaging for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on December 8, 2014 by simonbooth

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10

Installing Softdesk 8 Imaging for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

First, obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Install your AutoCAD R14 by carefully following the steps detailed here
Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire Softdesk 8 Imaging CD contents to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\Autodesk\imagingR14
Start the Longbow Converter tool, select the 2nd tab, pick the c:\Autodesk\imagingR14 folder, and click Run.
1. When asked “Is this an installation media, a service pack/update or plug-in/app for AutoCAD?” say Yes
2. Next, read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK… Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your Softdesk setup.exe program to appear. Once the setup starts, install as normal (simply accept all defaults).
Next, start your AutoCAD R14. Once AutoCAD starts up fully, simply type preferences at the command line, select the Profiles tab, double click the Softdesk profile and make it the Current Profile. Finally, OK out of the preferences dialog.
Now you can happily run your Softdesk 8 Imaging inside of AutoCAD R14 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting

If your setup is not starting after 45 minutes, try rebooting, then restart the steps above.

If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing from Windows Safe Mode

Installing Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 3 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on December 5, 2014 by simonbooth

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10

Installing your Autodesk Mechanical Desktop R3 (otherwise known as MDT 3 and built on the AutoCAD R14.01 platform) on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

Instructions on installing Autodesk Mechanical R2 can be found here…

NOTE: These steps do not bypass normal Autodesk licensing/authorization, you should expect to use your own serial numbers in the normal way.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire MDT 3 CD to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\Autodesk\mdt3R14
Start the Longbow Converter tool
1. select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
2. pick the c:\Autodesk\mdt3R14 folder and click the “Run Old Installer” button.
  1. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK.
  2. Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your Mechanical 3 setup.exe program to appear.
  3. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal **except** when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\mdt3R14 (not .\Mechanical as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install…
1. Do not reboot once the install is complete.
2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut folder “Autodesk Mechanical 3”, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop pointing to your c:\mdt3R14\acad.exe by hand.
3. You will also be prompted that Adobe reader 3.01 needs to be installed – when you press OK, again, expect to wait up to 45 minutes for the Adobe setup.exe program to appear install as normal accepting all defaults this time.
4. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so…
Once installed, go back to the Converter tool…
1. select the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
2. pick the newly installed c:\mdt3R14 folder and click “Fix Old Program“.
At this point, you can actually run AutoCAD, simply run c:\mdt3R14\acad.exe using Windows Explorer… However…
You will notice that you are running raw AutoCAD, to enable your Mechanical Desktop features, carry out these next steps, either…
1. Add a shortcut (recommended) to C:\mdt3R14\acad.exe making sure that the Target Property of the shortcut is set to:C:\mdt3R14\acad.exe /p C:\mdt3R14\desktop\desktop.arg
2. or update your AutoCAD support path by hand…
  1. At the AutoCAD Command line, type the command ‘Preferences’, add new Support path folders c:\mdt3R14\acadm and then also c:\mdt3R14\acadm\support, now click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’ out of the dialog.
  2. Next, restart AutoCAD.
  3. When you are back in AutoCAD, type ‘Menuload’ at the command line, click browse, then navigate to C:\mdt3R14\acadm\support, change the file filter at the bottom to *.mnu, then open acadm.mnu, finally click Load, then pick Close.
  4. Now restart AutoCAD
Now you can happily run your Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 3 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting:

If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

AutoCAD File->Save or File->Open Crash…

Posted on June 27, 2014 by simonbooth

If are experiencing crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialog inside of AutoCAD (or any other Autodesk product), there are a few items that can cause this:

New HP Machine If you have recently purchased a new HP computer or you have an HP computer for which you have recently carried out an HP update on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1…Check if you have any of these applications installed:
- HP Trust Center
- HP Client Security Manager
  
  If so, uninstall them and reboot. We recommend you find an alternative as they cause this issue.
For AutoCAD versions >= 2008, you can try disabling the InfoCenter toolbar at the top right of AutoCAD.
1. If you know LISP, this code will work for all versions of AutoCAD 2008 or higher
  1. add this code to the end of your acad.lsp (vl-registry-write (strcat “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\\” (vlax-product-key)”\\Applications\\InfoCenterAcConn”) “LOADCTRLS” 0)
2. If you do not know LISP
  1. Start Regedit.exe
  2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Autodesk\AutoCAD\<Release.Number>\ACAD-<VerticalCode>:<LanguageCode>\Applications\InfoCenterAcConn
  3. Set the LoadCtrls value to 0
  4. To turn it back on, simply set LoadCtrls value to 76
Remove all USB devices – older versions of AutoCAD don’t understand what a Samsung Phone is, and this can cause crashes.
If you have been opening DWG files from an external drive (e.g. USB drive) try re-connecting the drive…
The latest Windows Operating systems (Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10) correctly enforce permission settings for your personal files (Documents folder etc). The problem is that your older version of AutoCAD does not understand these new permission settings, and this can stop you being about to open your DWG files and even cause AutoCAD crash. As a quick test, copy the DWG files that always crash when you save to a USB drive, then create a new folder called c:\MyDwgs, now copy the files from your USB to the c:\MyDwgs folder. Finally, try AutoCAD with the DWG files in c:\MyDwgs – is AutoCAD working now? If so, you can either leave your DWG files in that folder, or you’ll need to relax the permissions on your DWG folder to allow access to AutoCAD.
MSN Plugin – if you see MSN as an entry in your Windows Explorer, uninstall MSN – AutoCAD doesn’t like this.
For versions of AutoCAD >= 2000i here’s a quick fix to bypass the problem (although hard to remember each time) – on starting AutoCAD, type “Options” at the command line, select the ‘Files’ tab, click ‘Browse’, then simply click cancel. Now cancel out of the Options dialog altogether. Try your File->Open… Does it work? If so, you should now be good until the next time you start AutoCAD.
If you have a non-HP machine that is giving you this issue or (2) didn’t work for you, please record below in the comments section:
1. What computer make you are running
2. What specific Windows version you are running
3. What exact version of AutoCAD you are running (e.g. AutoCAD Architecture 2008 32bit)
4. What AutoCAD service packs (if any) you have applied
5. What anti-virus software you are running. We’ll see if we can solve this for you…
Check out this page Interactions with the AutoCAD Ribbon crashes AutoCAD on Windows 10
If all this fails, you can of course set FILEDIA = 0 at the command line to turn off the File Dialog User Interface

Installing Softdesk 8 for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1

Posted on June 27, 2014 by simonbooth

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10

Installing your Softdesk 8 for AutoCAD R14 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

First, obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Install your AutoCAD R14 by carefully following the steps detailed here
Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire Softdesk CD to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\Autodesk\softdesk
Start the Longbow Converter tool, select the 2nd tab, pick the c:\Autodesk\softdesk folder, and click Run. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK. Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your Softdesk setup.exe program to appear. Once the setup starts, install as normal (simply accept all defaults).
Next we need to initialize Softdesk on startup, so depending on what works best for you – either
1. Start your AutoCAD R14 by running c:\acadR14\acad.exe. Once AutoCAD starts up fully, simply type preferences at the command line, select the Profiles tab, double click the Softdesk profile and make it the Current Profile. Finally, OK out of the preferences dialog.
2. Another way to intialize Softdesk on startup is to create a Desktop shortcut to c:\acadR14\acad.exe – make sure the shortcut
  1. Target: is set to C:\acadR14\acad.exe /c c:\sdsk\programs /p “softdesk 8”
  2. Working Directory: is set to C:\acadR14
Now you can happily run your Softdesk tools inside of AutoCAD R14 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting

If your setup is not starting after 45 minutes, try rebooting, then restart the steps above.

If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing from Windows Safe Mode

Installing AutoCAD Mechanical Desktop Release 2 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1

Posted on June 26, 2014 by simonbooth

NOTE: We have had the best success installing this product using our Converter solution on Windows 8 and Windows 10

Installing your Mechanical Desktop R2 (built on AutoCAD R14.01) on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

Instructions on installing Autodesk Mechanical 3 can be found here…

NOTE: These steps do not bypass normal Autodesk licensing/authorization, you should expect to use your own serial numbers in the normal way.

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire Mechanical Desktop Release 2.0 CD to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\Autodesk\mdtR14
Start the Longbow Converter tool, select the 2nd tab, pick the c:\Autodesk\mdtR14 folder, and click Run. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK. Now, I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your Mechanical Desktop setup.exe program to appear. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\mdtR14 (not .\Mechanical as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install (do not reboot once the install is complete) Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\mdtR14\acad.exe by hand. You will also be prompted that Adobe reader needs to be installed – when you press OK, expect to wait at least 45 minutes for the Adobe setup.exe program to appear install as normal accepting all defaults this time.
1. Do not reboot if prompted to do so…
Once installed, go back to the Converter tool, select the 3rd tab, pick the newly installed c:\mdtR14 folder and click Fix.
Now you are ready to run AutoCAD, simply run c:\mdtR14\acad.exe using Windows Explorer.
You will notice that you are running raw AutoCAD, to enable your Mechanical Desktop features, carry out these next steps…
1. At the AutoCAD Command line, type the command ‘Preferences’, add new Support path folders c:\mdtR14\acadm and then also c:\mdtR14\acadm\support, now click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’ out of the dialog.
2. Next, restart AutoCAD.
3. When you are back in AutoCAD, type ‘Menuload’ at the command line, click browse, then navigate to C:\mdtR14\acadm\support, change the file filter at the bottom to *.mnu, then open acadm.mnu, finally click Load, then pick Close.
4. Now restart AutoCAD
Now you can happily run your Mechanical Desktop Release 2.0 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit

Troubleshooting:

If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD LT97 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Posted on June 26, 2014 by simonbooth

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…

“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98”

…all is not lost…

How to install AutoCAD LT97

Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
1. Because Windows is constantly updating you will need the latest version of the Converter App
Start In the Converter App
Insert your AutoCAD LT97 CD into your CDRom drive…
1. Select the 2nd tab titled “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
2. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT97 installation CD
3. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the instructions
4. Please be patient as the Converter starts your AutoCAD LT97 Setup…. expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT97 setup.exe program to appear.
  1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal except when you get to the installation folder input – **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadLT97 (not .\AutoCAD LT97 as usually prompted)**
2. Now carry on with the install…
3. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut Cannot create folder “AutoCAD LT 97” you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadLT97\aclt.exe by hand.
4. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
5. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadLT97 program files.
1. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver“
  1. Now, close the Converter App
  2. Reboot your PC
Now you can happily run your AutoCAD LT97, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadLT97 and double click aclt.exe

Troubleshooting

If you are getting an application failure with Unhandled Exception 0x800F0922
- The security software (ESET Nod 32) must uninstalled; suspending it not effective
If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft

If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD LT98 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10

Posted on June 25, 2014 by simonbooth

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…

“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98”

…all is not lost…

How to install AutoCAD LT98

Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
Start In the Converter App
Insert your AutoCAD LT98 CD into your CDRom drive…
1. Select the 2nd tab titled “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“
2. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT98 installation CD
3. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the instructions
4. Please be patient as the Converter starts your AutoCAD LT98 Setup…. expect to wait at least 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT98 setup.exe program to appear.
  1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program…
1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal except when you get to the installation folder input – **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadLT98 (not .\AutoCAD LT98 as usually prompted)**
2. Now carry on with the install…
3. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut Cannot create folder “AutoCAD LT 98” you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadLT98\aclt.exe by hand.
4. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once installed, go back to the Converter tool…
1. select the 3rd tab – “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver”
2. Using the “. . .” button, select the newly installed c:\acadLT98 folder
3. Once you have selected the c:\acadLT98 folder simply click the “Fix Old Program” button.
4. Once the Converter has completed with “Success!”, close the Converter app, reboot your PC!
Now you can happily run your AutoCAD LT98! Simply use Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadLT98 and double click aclt.exe.

Troubleshooting:

If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
If your wheel mouse zoom is erratic (random zoom in / outs while scrolling), update the Control Panel->Mouse->Wheel->”Roll the wheel one notch to scroll” set to 3 lines or less

If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Installing AutoCAD R14 from Windows Safe Mode

Posted on March 4, 2014 by simonbooth

If you are reading this post, it’s because your AutoCAD R14 setup program is not starting after following the R14 installation steps that we documented here and you have reached the Troubleshooting section.

Why the setup is not starting is a big question, most likely it’s because a Windows Update or some other installer update is pending (in which case a reboot should solve) or it could be a security ‘feature’ a 3rd party anti-virus application or similar is imposing on your system which is in turn blocking your R14 setup. The thing is, it’s impossible for us to realistically diagnose the exact problem for you, so we came up with a fail safe solution – install using Windows Safe Mode, here’s how…

NOTE: These steps do not bypass normal Autodesk licensing/authorization, you should expect to use your own serial numbers in the normal way.

Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here, install it.
Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire AutoCAD R14 CD to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\Autodesk\acadR14
Boot your computer into Safe Mode using these instructions
Once in Windows Safe Mode, start the Longbow Converter tool, select the 2nd tab “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“, pick the c:\Autodesk\acadR14 folder, and click Run. Read and understand all the prompts before pressing OK.
1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next step…
In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadR14 (not .\AutoCAD R14 as usually prompted)**
Now carry on with the install (do not reboot once the install is complete). Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadR14\acad.exe by hand.
1. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
Once installed, go back to the Converter tool, select the 3rd tab, pick the newly installed c:\acadR14 folder and click Fix.
Now reboot your computer back into normal Windows mode
Open Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadR14 and run acad.exe – you can now happily run your AutoCAD R14 on Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 8.1 32bit or 64bit

AutoCAD 32bit/64bit side-by-side installation compatibility chart

Posted on January 6, 2014 by simonbooth

This blog has been written to help advise those who require 32bit versions of AutoCAD to reside on the same computer system as 64bit versions of AutoCAD.

Before we start, when installing 32bit AutoCAD on 64bit Windows, you should take care not to mix the same version/series of AutoCAD 32bit with the same version/series of the corresponding 64bit version of AutoCAD, on the same computer. The reason is that they were not designed to run in a side-by-side configuration and therefore may conflict. The same rule can generally be made for all Autodesk products.

NOTES:

When installing 32bit AutoCAD, we advise that you uninstall all previous versions of 64bit AutoCAD before installing your 32bit version of AutoCAD.
If you are installing multiple versions of AutoCAD, you should always install in chronological order, in other words, oldest to newest.
- e.g AutoCAD 2004, Architecture 2004, Map 2005, AutoCAD 2007, Civil3d 2015
- Failure to follow this simple rule can render you with missing entry point errors, un-explained crashing, un-installable Autodesk software and more.
For best results, we recommend that you install only 32bit versions of AutoCAD on your computer system, however, mixing is possible with care – refer to the chart below if you must have the 64bit version installed on the same computer.

This chart shows which 32bit AutoCAD versions can be installed on the same system as 64bit AutoCAD versions…

Green means Should be OK
Red/Dark Red means Problems will occur, you should not do this

AutoCAD 32bit 64bit side by side configurations

Shows which versions of 32bit AutoCAD can be installed side by side to 64bit versions of AutoCAD

by Simon Booth

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