Free software for viewing AutoCAD Autodesk DWG files TrueView is free multimedia software that allows users to view AutoCAD and other DWG files. Because DWG TrueView is just a viewer, you cannot use it to edit a drawing. However, you can measure and print your drawings and convert DWG files between AutoCAD formats. It is especially useful for architects, engineers and construction. Free DWG TrueView? The Autodesk DWG TrueView app is a free standalone DWG viewer. It is built on the same platform as AutoCAD, a computer-aided design and drawing (CAD) and drawing program. With DWG TrueView you can view the latest DWG, DWF and DXF file formats, just like in AutoCAD, but without paying a license (function () {(‘review-app-page-desktop’);}); DWG Trueview is a Windows program and is not available for Mac operating systems. There are different versions of the DWG TrueView product since 2007. DWG TrueView 2019, 2018 and 2017 are available in 64 bits and 32 bits. Autodesk DWG Trueview 2020 is only available in 64-bit. The system requirements for the latest version include Windows 10 Anniversary Update (version 1803 or later), Windows with KB2919355 update, and Windows 7 SP1. Downloading Autodesk DWG Trueview for Windows could not be easier. Just download and run .exe and follow the on-screen instructions to extract the installation files, which will take a few minutes. After extracting the files, proceed to the actual installation (when accepting the Autodesk license and service agreement). The installation took about five minutes. Installation instructions for this version are in English only, although other language versions are available. When the installation is complete, you can press Finish – the program will not open automatically. What is DWG TrueView used for? DWG is a file extension used to draw software, such as Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. DWG TrueView is primarily intended for professionals who take input from AutoCAD DWG or DXF drawings but do not need to edit or prepare the drawings. Architects, engineers and construction professionals are likely to find this program useful. TrueView can be configured to automatically open DWG and other compatible files. Alternatively, it is very easy to open files from the user interface. After opening a file, a toolbar appears at the top of the interface that divides the tools into different functions. The tools are grouped under different tabs, including basic navigation for panning, zooming and rotating your drawing. As you hover over the icons, expanding tooltips appear and offer fairly detailed advice. This is useful for new users. Users also have options for customizing the user interface using the tools under the User Interface tab. This includes displaying the tiles horizontally or vertically, as well as cascading. You can also choose how to display the tabs in the drop-down menu next to Home. Alternatives to Autodesk DWG Trueview include AutoCAD Drawing Viewer, DWG Fastview and Draftsight DWG viewers, all of which are very user friendly. DWG DXF Converter allows users to convert DWG to DXF files. A non-editing tool suite Virtually all features not edited with AutoCAD are available in DWG TrueView. These include DWG Convert,which allows users to create older DWG versions (such as AutoCAD 2000, 2004, etc.) from the current file. The icons on the Output tab are related to plotting, such as the plot icon, which the canvas uses to make a hard copy. The stack chart icon is useful for publishing a drawing or group of drawings in DWF, DWFx, or PDF format. It can also be used to plot a collection of patterns. On the View tab, you can select and set a visual style such as 2D wireframe or 3D conceptual, while AutoCAD layer actions are available on the Layers tab. A particularly useful tool in DWG TrueView is the Measuring Tool, which allows users to measure and see any dimension in the open drawing. The drawing aid under Object Snaps can be used to measure your drawing more accurately. These helpers let you snap to a specific object location when selecting a point. Finally, the export function is in the application menu and is convenient for exporting DWG or DFX files to DWF, DWFx and PDF files. Limited Edition Features Autodesk DWG TrueView has limited functionality by nature. Anyone looking for more editing tools should consider using AutoCAD. It has industry-standard features and libraries that meet the needs of different professionals. With AutoCAD you can create floor plans, sections, walls, windows, doors and other layouts. It is not as easy to use as the Autodesk DWG Trueview, but it has detailed help menus with information about its tools and features. But taking full advantage of the software’s features comes at a high cost, with licenses costing thousands of dollars a year. Useful Additional Enhancements You can enhance the features of DWG TrueView by adding Design Review, another Autodesk product. This add-on extends DWG Viewer functionality by allowing you to view, comment, print and track changes to 2D and 3D files for free. This is especially useful in a collaboration setting as it allows you to add comments, information and other files. Instead of DWG TrueView, Autodesk Viewer lets you easily view and share designs in your browser rather than downloading software. Use it to inspect patterns, create screenshots for presentations and measure components. Files displayed in Autodesk Viewer can be shared via URL, so it’s convenient to work with someone who does not have Autodesk applications installed in their free DWG view. Buying individual licenses for complete CAD software can quickly become unaffordable. Autodesk DWG Trueview provides a useful solution for those who only need to view, convert and export DWG files and do not need design features. Although the program is easy to use for non-professionals, DWG TrueView will inevitably appeal to architects, advertising materials, engineers and designers.