IronCAD Getting Started tutorials
Getting Started with IronCAD
The IronCAD Getting Started tutorials help new users quickly become familiar with IronCAD basics. The series is designed for users who have just installed IronCAD, are using a trial version or have just started using the software.
In these tutorials, you will learn step by step how IronCAD works and how to get started creating 3D models and engineering drawings.
Structure of the Getting Started series
The series is made up of four parts. We recommend following these in order.
Installation
Start and settings
Drawing modules
User interface layout
1 – Installation
The installation files can be downloaded from the IronCAD website under Support → Product Updates. When installing IronCAD for the first time, choose the latest version and download the Full Installation.
This downloads the IronCAD download manager. After you start it, the manager automatically downloads the appropriate installation file to a location of your choice. Once the download is complete, the installation starts automatically or can be started manually later.
During the installation process, we cover the most important steps:
- start the installation and accept the license agreement
- choosing installation components
- Installing the IronCAD Design Collaboration Suite.
- Selecting the character standard Default ISO Metric Units
After installation, IronCAD offers several options to complete the process, such as migrating existing settings or starting the software immediately.
2 – Start and settings
When IronCAD is started for the first time, a screen of introductory exercises appears. This window can be closed for now, so that we can set up IronCAD according to our preferences. The exercises can always be reopened later via Menu → Help → Interactive Tutorial.
Additionally, on the Welcome Window you will find the Learning Center, which includes a link to the IronCAD Academy, a comprehensive resource with information on how to use the software.
From the Welcome window, we open a 3D Scene and view the Options menu. IronCAD can be customized in many ways, for example:
- default file locations
- keyboard shortcuts
- camera settings
- settings for technical drawings
These settings can be adjusted manually, but for new users, we recommend loading our recommended settings all at once.
In the Options window, click Load and select the settings file that we make available for download. After opening this file, the settings will be loaded and you can close the window with OK.
3 – Drawing modules
In this tutorial, we will show you how to create an engineering drawing from a 3D model in IronCAD’s Drawing module.
The Drawing environment is used to create working drawings based on the 3D model. Different views of the model can be placed in this environment, such as front, side and top views. Sections and detail views can also be added.
In addition, we cover how dimensions are added and how a drawing is constructed for documentation or production.
Because IronCAD works according to a 3D-first workflow, the 3D model always remains leading. When the model is modified in the 3D Scene, the working drawings can easily be updated to match the latest version of the design.
4 – Interface of the 3D Scene
In this tutorial, we will look at the 3D Scene interface and the main windows within IronCAD. A good understanding of the interface helps to work faster and more efficiently with IronCAD.
The 3D Scene is the central working environment in which 3D models are built and edited. In this video we show you how the interface is laid out and which parts are used most often.
Topics covered include:
- the structure of the user interface
- the menu bar and available tools
- The Scene Browser for model structure
- the Catalogs with standard parts
- navigating and working in the 3D environment
Next Step
After following these tutorials, you will have a good foundation for working with IronCAD and building your first designs and drawings.
Would you like to deepen your knowledge or use IronCAD optimally within your workflow? Then there are several follow-up steps possible.
Personal demo
Want to see how IronCAD fits your specific application or workflow? Then schedule a customized personal demo where we’ll tailor the software to your situation.
Price and capabilities
Are you curious about the possibilities within your organization? Then request a quote and receive an appropriate proposal.
Deepen your knowledge
In the IronCAD Academy you will find extensive training and additional learning materials to further develop your skills and work more efficiently.