AutoCAD Architecture (abbreviated as ACA) is a version of Autodesk's flagship product, AutoCAD, with tools and functions specially suited to architectural work.
Architectural objects have a relationship to one another and interact with each other intelligently. For example, a window has a relationship to the wall that contains it. If you move or delete the wall, the window reacts accordingly. Objects can be represented in both 2D and 3D.
In addition, intelligent architectural objects maintain dynamic links with construction documents and specifications, resulting in more accurate project deliverables. When someone deletes or modifies a door, for example, the door schedule can be automatically updated. Spaces and areas update automatically when certain elements are changed, calculations such as square footage are always up to date.[1]
AutoCAD Architecture uses the DWG file format but an object enabler is needed to access, display, and manipulate object data in applications different from AutoCAD Architecture.[2]
AutoCAD Architecture was formerly known as AutoCAD Architectural Desktop (often abbreviated ADT) but Autodesk changed its name for the 2008 edition. The change was made to better match the names of Autodesk's other discipline-specific packages, such as AutoCAD Electrical and AutoCAD Mechanical.
As of AutoCAD 2019 all discipline-specific packages are included as Industry-Specific Toolsets with AutoCAD subscription but still as individual installers.[3]
Version history
Official name
Version
Release
Date of release
Comments
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop 1
14
1
1997, February
Platform: AutoCAD R14
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop 2
15.0
2
1998, July
Platform: AutoCAD 2000
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop 2i
15.1
(port only)
2000, July
Platform: AutoCAD 2000i
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop 3
15.1
3
2000, December
Platform: AutoCAD 2001
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop 3.3
15.6
(port only)
2001, June
Platform: AutoCAD 2002
Architectural Desktop 2004
16.0
4
2003, March
Platform: AutoCAD 2004
Architectural Desktop 2005
16.1
5
2004, April
Platform: AutoCAD 2005
Architectural Desktop 2006
16.2
6
2005, April
Platform: AutoCAD 2006
Architectural Desktop 2007
17.0
7
2006, April
Platform: AutoCAD 2007
AutoCAD Architecture 2008
17.1
8
2007, March
Platform: AutoCAD 2008
AutoCAD Architecture 2009
17.2
9
2008, March
Platform: AutoCAD 2009; first release available for the x86-64 windows version of XP and Vista.