First AutoCAD MEP Deployment... Suggestions?

[BlackBox]

I'm going to be deploying AutoCAD MEP 2012 for the first time.

 

I've never used the software before, and am curious to know how this may, or may not differ from the other vertical products I've used like Civil 3D, Map 3D, etc.???

 

I've not yet received the software on my work computer to begin doing my own research (short of abusing Google). I know this is quite an ambiguous question... I do hope to have more specific questions moving forward, but I need the software first! LoL

 

In any event, I know some of you use/have used MEP, and am simply trying to learn from your experience.

 

Cheers!

[tzframpton]

Make sure Express Tools is checked to be installed.

 

At the Profiles selection, make sure to install the following, including the Desktop Icon:

 

AutoCAD

AutoCAD Architecture (US Imperial)

AutoCAD MEP (UK)

AutoCAD MEP (US Imperial)

 

If you need the Metric profiles then add those as well. The reason for these setups is through the years I've learned that sometimes I just want the plain vanilla AutoCAD to be opened, and if you open the vertical product profile, it drags along everything with it. It just saves the need for a copy/pasted icon with a command switch. Plus, it gives you the vanilla AutoCAD 2012 icon. If you don't choose this icon to be installed, AutoCAD doesn't put it anywhere in the install directory. Just my OCD I guess.

 

The Architecture profile is good to have for when you want to utilize the architectural tools. I want to say if you don't use this, they don't install some of the really helpful content and styles, like the Structural Member Catalog. I could be wrong though.

 

The reason for the UK profile is if you want to utilize automatic hangers and hanger rods. You can only accomplish this in the UK profile. And I choose US Imperial profiles because Global has confusing content and I surely don't need Metric, so I just leave those out.

 

When you get familiar with this release, your next install, you can Append your AEC Support Paths. So when (if) this happens I can guide you through that as well, especially if you'll be using a network directory.

[BlackBox]

Thanks, Styk!

[tzframpton]

Out of curiosity, why the endeavor into AutoCAD MEP? Work related, or a personal goal you're trying to obtain?

[BlackBox]

Working in Transportation was the byproduct of choosing the industry which had the most availability for me back when, and not my first choice. It also happened to be the open door at the time I wanted to work for my current employer, so I came on board and worked to become a subject matter expert. Originally, I sought a position within the electrical-mechanical-utility-based design realm... Unfortunately that was not available in the area in which I chose to live.

 

Currently though, my employer (former) was bought out +1.5 years ago, and now there's a lot more engineering discipline diversity. We have a group here locally now that does nothing but what I sought to do back when. Coincidentally, I now also have a couple of long-time coworkers that were transplanted into that group at the time of acquisition, and we're about to team up for a joint-discipline project. One of the client requirements is that we work in their CAD Standard, and version... enter Civil 3D 2012, and MEP 2012. My company's current recommended platform for production is Civil 3D 2011, hence my not having the software as of yet.

 

Hope that makes sense. LoL

[tzframpton]

Yeah, it makes sense... somewhat. haha jk!!

 

That's cool that you and your co-workers are teaming up. AutoCAD MEP is a software I thoroughly enjoy using although it has its limitations. Remember the guys over at the Swamp are very keen with using AutoCAD MEP as well. I have a ton of real-world usage from my contracting background and now engineering background so I can definitely be of assistance when you may need.

[BlackBox]

I really appreciate your help, Styk... I know where to find you, and the others. :wink: