Getting Started with AUTOCAD

Hello everyone,

I am new to this forum, I have never used AUTOCAD and I am looking to advance my career in the Cable plant field by advancing to Cable Plant Design/engineer, which I am currently studying to test out for the CFOS/D (Fiber Optic Specialist/Design) Certification, and I would like to learn how to use AUTOCAD and get certified online as well.

Does anyone have any recommendations?

Thank you

Haroldpaul

Is AutoCAD the right program for the type of job you are seeking?

Yes, I was told AutoCAD is needed to update and maintain cable plant drawings and once I get AutoCAD training, certification and experience applying cable plant designs using AutoCAD the next step is GIS(Geographical Information System).

Thank you!

You can start by taking a basic AutoCAD class with your local AutoDesk reseller. Where are you located?

I am currently a contractor in Afghanistan.

I'm guessing then your options are very much limited at the moment. There are a couple of online AutoCAD courses you can take. Avoid the one offered by Penn-Foster. It's a rip -off.

AutoCAD has many socalled verticals.

I think this one suites your needs..

http://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad-electrical/overview

Thank you Halam! I will look in to this site...

Much appreciated.

As other have mentioned i would also look into other programs outside of vanilla AutoCAD. AutoCAD is useful and looks like is part of the job you are going for, but i would ask around to see what others in your filed are using and take a little time to study it as well. AutoCAD from my experience is more used in maintaining older designs and not as much in the design of new things. It never hurts to keep an eye out for what new in your industry.

I did an early trial with Global eTraining (http://www.globaletraining.ca/etraining-courses/product/autodesk-library/). I was not the biggest fan of the interface but the information was all there. Given you situation in the filed the may be a good one to look into.

I strongly recommend you look into Ascent (http://www.ascented.com/courseware-solutions/autodesk/autodesk-certification) I have used and liked their printed material. It looks like they are also doing some online stuff these days as well in addition to certification prep, so definitely check them out.

Getting an actual Autodesk certification may be something you have to travel for. I'm not sure if they are certified means of testing online yet. http://www.autodesk.com/training-and-certification/certification

TheCADnoob, Thank you for the detailed information I will surely look into these sites, I'll let you know how If I am able to get what I need from these sites for other people who maybe interested.