Autodesk Inc has announced the next generation of its AutoCAD desktop computer-aided design software yesterday, as anticipated (CI No 3,611). AutoCAD 2000 marks the start of an increased focus on vertical markets, and Autodesk says it will be delivering several other versions of the package, optimized for the mapping, mechanical, architectural and civil/survey/land and entry-level design markets over the coming months.
The company’s Kinetix multimedia division has also made its 3D Studio VIZ Release 2 design conceptualization and visualization software compatible with the new products. Its integration with AutoCAD, which began shipping in November last year, has boosted the number of 3D Studio Viz users up to 25,000.
Retail price for the new version, which Autodesk says has over 400 enhancements, is $3,750. Upgrades from Release 14 are $495. Availability is set for later this Spring.
