Deploying AutoCAD with a custom shortcut and profile

Issue

Solution

To create a deployment installation of AutoCAD® with a shortcut that will load a custom profile, you first need to install the program, and then you need to export a custom profile and create a custom icon. See Start AutoCAD with different profiles for instructions on how to create a custom icon to launch a profile.

Notes:

• This process only applies to AutoCAD 2004, 2005, 2006 or 2007-based products. It does not apply to AutoCAD LT®.
• This process can be used with either Network or Multi-seat Stand-alone Deployments.
• Autodesk Architectural Desktop and Building Systems products contain custom options to include AutoCAD profiles. Refer to the Network Administrator’s Guide for instructions with those products.

Once you have a custom icon and an exported profile (ARG) file, use the following steps to configure your deployment: 

1. Install and run the Autodesk Deployment Wizard. Note: To force users to run your custom profile, clear the "Display the AutoCAD shortcut on the desktop" check box. This option is only available in AutoCAD 2006 and 2007-based products.
2. On the Install Additional Files page of the Deployment Wizard, click Select Files.
3. Highlight the Installation directory folder and click Select Files.
4. Locate the AutoCAD profile (ARG) file and click Open. The ARG file will appear under the Installation Directory.
5. Click Add Drive. This will create a C:\ drive icon.
6. Click Add Folder to create a new folder icon below C:\. Name the folder, "Documents and Settings."
7. Click Add Folder to create a new folder icon below C:\Documents and Settings. Name this folder, "All Users."
8. Click Add Folder to create a new folder icon below C:\Documents and Settings\All Users. Name this folder, "Desktop." Note: Instead of or in addition to the Desktop folder, you could add a Start Menu folder, and then continue adding folders to create a custom Start Menu icon.
9. Highlight the Desktop folder icon and click Select Files.
10. Browse for the custom icon and click Open. The LNK file will appear below C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Desktop. Note: Your custom icon must have a name that is different from the default program icon.
11. Click OK to exit the Select Files to Install dialog box.
12. Complete the Deployment Wizard to create your deployment.

Client installations performed from this deployment will now install your custom desktop shortcut and profile.

See also

Start AutoCAD with different profiles