Important Compatibility Update: Support Changes in Upcoming Release
Automesher Application and Automapki Application are widely used CAD plugins that enhance DWG file handling, meshing, and mapping. They integrate seamlessly with leading DWG-based editors like AutoCAD, BricsCAD, and ZWCAD.
Starting with the next release, support will be discontinued for:
- BricsCAD versions earlier than V18
- ZWCAD versions before 2018
- AutoCAD versions prior to 2010
This change means that users on these older platforms will no longer be able to run Automesher or Automapki on their systems.
Why Upgrade? Benefits of Modern CAD Versions
The majority of our user base has already upgraded to recent versions of AutoCAD, BricsCAD, and ZWCAD. Continued support for outdated versions is no longer practical and offers diminishing value. Key advantages of using up-to-date CAD software include:
- Advanced Design Tools: Newer CAD platforms provide powerful features that enhance modeling accuracy and productivity.
- Faster Performance: Upgraded versions deliver better speed and system stability.
- Regular Security Updates: Latest platforms receive patches to address vulnerabilities and keep your designs safe.
Additionally, dropping support for legacy versions allows us to streamline the installer package, reducing file size and installation time for all users.
Technical Constraints: BRX, ZRX, and ARX Library Differences
Another reason for this change is the growing complexity of maintaining compatibility with legacy plugin libraries:
- ARX - Used for AutoCAD plugin development
- BRX - Used for BricsCAD plugin development
- ZRX - Used for ZWCAD plugin development
Older versions of BRX and ZRX lacked full compliance with the ARX specification, which forced us to maintain separate codebases. This created unnecessary overhead in development time, maintenance costs, and error risk.
Future-Focused CAD Plugin Development
This compatibility update is part of our commitment to delivering high-performance, modern CAD solutions. By focusing on widely adopted versions of AutoCAD (2010+), BricsCAD (V18+), and ZWCAD (2018+), we can provide better features, ensure more reliable performance, and accelerate innovation for CAD professionals.
We strongly recommend all users still operating on older DWG platforms to upgrade their CAD software for optimal compatibility with Automesher and Automapki. This change aligns with industry standards and helps us support your workflow more effectively.