AViCAD & Mech-Q FAQ

AViCAD FAQ

Do I have to relearn CAD commands?

No. AViCAD uses AutoCAD-style commands, menus, and shortcuts, so most users are productive right away

Will my DWG drawings work?

Yes. AViCAD opens, edits and saves DWG files from various AutoCAD versions natively, with no conversion step.

Can I use the CAD commands I already know?

Yes. Familiar commands, layers, blocks and dimensions work the way you expect.

What actually changes when I switch to AViCAD?

Mostly the cost and licensing. You choose subscription or perpetual with no forced renewals, and Mech-Q is included. Your drawings, blocks and layers carry straight over.

How does AViCAD compare with AutoCAD?

It covers the 2D drafting and 3D modeling most users need, at a much lower cost. See our full AViCAD vs. AutoCAD comparison.

Is AViCAD right for the way I work?

The quickest way to know is to try it. The 30-day trial has full features and needs no credit card.

Does AViCAD include the Mech-Q engineering tools?

AViCAD includes the Mech-Q suite at no extra cost, covering mechanical, HVAC, and piping tools ideal for engineering. AutoCAD requires third-party add-ons for these features.

Do I need to install Mech-Q?

Mech-Q is fully integrated within AViCAD, so no installation is required. Right out of the box, it provides seamless access to mechanical, HVAC, piping, and structural tools.

Is AViCAD Plus always delivered, and what does it include?

Yes, AViCAD is always delivered as the Plus version, including PDF to DWG, SolidWorks import/export, 3D PDF export, EasyArch, and IcadLibrary.

Can AViCAD convert PDFs directly into DWG files?

AViCAD has a built-in PDF-to-DWG converter, allowing easy conversion and editing of PDF drawings.

Does AViCAD support the creation of 2D and 3D PDFs?

AViCAD exports 2D and 3D PDFs, making it easy to share drawings without CAD software.

Are advanced AEC tools available for architects in AViCAD?

AViCAD includes AEC tools, making it easy to create walls, doors, and windows for architectural projects without extra modules.

Can AViCAD import and export SolidWorks files?

AViCAD supports SolidWorks file compatibility, enabling easy collaboration with SolidWorks users.

Does AViCAD provide templates for various projects?

AViCAD supports many industries with ready-to-use templates that are suitable for architecture, engineering, mechanical, and electrical projects.

Does AViCAD offer an interface and commands like AutoCAD?

AViCAD’s interface is very similar to AutoCAD, with commands and functions. Many AutoCAD users can’t tell the difference/

Is AViCAD similar to AutoCAD?

Yes, AViCAD closely resembles AutoCAD regarding commands, interface, and file compatibility, making it easy for AutoCAD users to adapt quickly.

Does AViCAD offer network licensing for multiple users?

Yes, AViCAD provides both Flex and Network Licensing, allowing multiple users to access the software simultaneously. These options are ideal for both small and large offices.

Are 3D modeling tools available in AViCAD for beginners?

Yes, AViCAD includes 3D tools through both Mech-Q and AEC modules, enabling users of all experience levels to create 3D models.

Mech-Q FAQ

What is Mech-Q?

Mech-Q is a suite of engineering tools that includes modules for piping, structural, ducting, and mechanical design.

How quickly can I learn Mech-Q?

Mech-Q is dialog-driven, so little training is needed. Free tutorials and our support team are there to help.

What Do I Need Besides CAD?

Just CAD with Mech-Q that’s it. Mech-Q adds Piping, Ducting, Structural and Mechanical tools to the CAD you already use. If you dont have CAD check out AViCAD.

Will Mech-Q work with my existing CAD workflow?

Yes. It runs inside AutoCAD, BricsCAD and IntelliCAD-based platforms, using your normal layers, blocks and dimensions.

What if I already use Plant 3D or something similar?

Mech-Q runs in full AutoCAD and its vertical applications, so it can sit alongside Plant 3D for quick 2D and isometric work. (Please confirm or reword this one.)

Will other people be able to use my drawings?

Yes. Mech-Q draws standard CAD entities, so anyone with DWG-compatible CAD can open and edit your drawings.

Does Mech-Q create normal CAD objects?

Yes: lines, polylines, blocks and 3D solids, plus an automatic Bill of Materials.

What’s inside Mech-Q?

Mech-Q includes four main modules: Piping, Structural, Ducting, and Mechanical. You can purchase all or a single module, depending on your needs.

Does Mech-Q offer a library of standard components and symbols?

Yes, Mech-Q includes metric and imperial components like pipes, flanges, pumps, motors, and more, which are dynamically generated based on your chosen settings.

How to install Mech-Q?

To install Mech-Q, download the installer from our website, select the compatible CAD version, and follow the on-screen prompts to integrate it with your CAD program. Vew our 2-minute video 

Is Mech-Q compatible with popular CAD platforms?

Mech-Q works with AutoCAD, BricsCAD, ZWCAD, and many IntelliCAD-based programs.

Can I use Mech-Q without CAD?

If you don’t have CAD software, you can use AViCAD, which includes Mech-Q for a complete, standalone solution.

Are tutorials provided for Mech-Q?

Yes, our video library offers a range of tutorials and training resources covering Mech-Q features for beginners and advanced users alike.

How can Mech-Q benefit engineers and designers?

Mech-Q is built for engineers who need to streamline their workflow, automate drawing tasks, and enhance overall project drawing quality.

Is network licensing available for Mech-Q?

Mech-Q offers team network licenses, allowing multiple users to share access across a central server.

What’s a good place to start with entry-level tutorials?

Check out our video library or our basic getting started page. If you need additional help, let us know!

Plate ‘n’ Sheet FAQ

What is Plate ‘n’ Sheet?

Plate ‘n’ Sheet is a sheet metal pattern creation tool in CAD, designed for HVAC, ductwork, and other mechanical applications.

Can Plate ‘n’ Sheet work with AutoCAD and BricsCAD?

Yes, Plate ‘n’ Sheet integrates with CAD platforms via DXF export, providing tools for creating and managing sheet metal layouts.

General FAQ

How long will your trials run for?

Evaluation copies of Mech-Q and AViCAD are provided at no charge, for a 30-day evaluation period.

What payment methods do you accept?

Any of the following methods can pay the license fee:

Credit Card – Order Online through a Secure Server
PayPal – Select option at checkout
Purchase Orders – We accepted them from recognized businesses and institutions

How do I register your software?

If you have purchased Mech-Q, an application serial code (ASN) is provided within the software during the trial. The ASN can be found on the startup screen and within the Menu under Maintenance and Authorize.

After purchasing our Mech-Q, copy down the ASN and email it to us at support @ cadavenue.com. We will then email you a permanent registration code to activate the software and turn off the trial reminder notice on the start-up screen.

When will I receive my registration?

Once you send us your ASN, a Mech-Q license will be electronically issued within a few hours, but it may take up to 1 day after the purchase is completed. If you are in a rush, it’s recommended to check with us to get an accurate estimate of the license delivery time.

What will I receive after I order?

We will immediately send your registration information and instructions (using the same e-mail provided at checkout).

You will also receive a printable receipt for your records, indicating that the program is registered correctly.

What are the benefits of registering?

Registration of our Mechanical Software allows us to develop the software further and provides additional benefits:

• Free technical support is available via email within the program’s existing capabilities.
• Notification of any new releases via email.
• Free upgrades within the release you purchased 12 months via direct download from CADavenue.com *

What license types do you offer?

Single User Licenses

The “User License” allows one copy of the software to be used on any machine by one individual at a time. We only allow a single Mech-Q or AViCAD license per computer. If you need a second license, we offer Flex Licensing as an option for AViCAD. For Mech-Q, please contact us for more.

Network Licenses

The Network License allows multiple copies of the software to be used simultaneously. Users who wish to run the application request a license from a central license server. For example, with two floating licenses, any number of users can have the software installed, but only two can use it at a time – the others must wait for them to finish using it.

The Network License option is available for AutoCAD, BricsCAD, AViCAD, and Plate ‘n’ Sheet.

Site Licenses

For larger companies, we also offer site licensing. Please contact us for a quote.

How do I request a feature?

Please feel free to send your suggestions for improvements and additional features. We will consider your feedback seriously.

How do I remove your program?

Program removal Steps

Step 1: Click the “Start” button and the “Control Panel” icon in the Start menu. This opens the Control Panel window.

Step 2: Click the “Add or Remove Programs” icon in the Control Panel window. This opens the Add or Remove Programs window.

Step 3: Click to select Mech-Q, AViCAD, or Plate ‘n’ Sheet in the “Currently installed programs” list.

Step 4: Click the “Remove” button in the Control Panel window. This starts the uninstall wizard.

Step 5: Follow the prompts in the uninstall wizard. Close the wizard when it finishes, and then close the Control Panel to complete the process.

And by all means, let us know if you have any questions! Before you get started, please click on the 2-minute video below on how to install it. Let us know if you have any questions about the installation process.