What’s New in AutoCAD Electrical 2025

This blog will examine what’s new in AutoCAD Electrical 2025.

Automatic Reports Enhancement

In AutoCAD Electrical 2025, you can now create or update a drawing list report with the Automatic Reports tool. The Drawing List report provides valuable information by extracting and displaying the settings of each drawing within the project.

Bill of Materials Report Enhancement

The Bill of Materials (BOM) report now offers an enhanced sorting capability by TAG, providing more control on how the BOM report is organised. Additionally, the existing Schematic, Panel, and Automatic Reports options, you can now sort the BOM report by TAG.

This new option allows you to easily group and categorise the BOM based on specific tags assigned to each component.

Furthermore, the sorting options have been expanded to include two types of sort orders:

·        Alphanumeric

·        Numeric to alphanumeric

Activity Insights Enhancement

In AutoCAD Electrical 2025, the Activity Insights feature has been enhanced to provide more detailed information about events related to project-wide updates.

Wire Type Synchronisation

When the wire type connected to the source arrows is updated, the wire type is synchronised for all destination wires in the network that share the same signal code across multiple drawings. If the destination drawing does not contain the new wire type, new wire layers are automatically created along with their properties. However, if the wire layer already existed in the destination drawing when synchronised, any modified properties of the wire layer from the source were not propagated to the destination.

Now, when wire layer properties such as wire colour, size, line weight, line type, and wire layer user attributes are modified, and the wire type is updated at the source arrow, the synchronisation process ensures that all wire layer properties are overwritten in the destination wire layers from the source drawing.

Note: When propagating wire layer properties, including colour changes, from the source drawing to the destination drawing, a save action is required in the destination drawing to reflect the colour changes.

 

Wire Number User Attributes Synchronisation

Previously, editing the wire number user attributes of one block did not trigger automatic updates for other wire number blocks within the same network. This lack of synchronisation often led to inconsistencies and required time-consuming manual adjustments.

In AutoCAD Electrical 2025 toolset, when you make edits to the user attributes of a wire number block, the changes are automatically synchronised to all wire number blocks within the network that share the same wire number across multiple drawings.

 

Note: Wire number user attributes synchronisation feature is supported only when editing the source/destination wire segments that already have wire numbers assigned to them. It does not propagate to wire numbers created when inserting a new destination arrow.

 

Quality improvements

·        Catalogue Lookup - Catalogue assignment changes for components and using the Catalogue Browser to insert components no longer cause delays.

·         Symbol Builder - AutoCAD Electrical now retrieves family names from the SQL database within the Symbol Builder.

No more random crashes when adding attributes or performing other actions in Symbol Builder.

·         Cross-Reference - When removing a child component, the graphical cross-referencing format in a project now only changes the display of the removed xref values on the parent component to SPARE.

The SHEET attribute in source and destination arrows also updates the XREF value.

·        Copy Project - The destination folder in the Copy Project dialog box now retains the user-set location.

·        Reports - Splitting a PLC with accessories no longer causes duplicate counts in the BOM report.

The Symbol list report now displays the descriptions in the .dat file without automatic conversion to uppercase.

·        Wire Type Update - When transferring a wire layer with the same wire color name as another layer in the second drawing, the wire color and size are now copied to the other drawings.

·        Project Manager—Quick renaming of drawings in large projects or selecting multiple items in Project Manager no longer causes crashes.

·        Library—The Panel Library folder from PILZ now has the correct name, CR, for the Control Relays folder.

·         Symbol List Report - Generating the Symbol list report no longer produces an error when the User Attributes file has the same name as the project name.

The Symbol List report now supports symbol block names with up to 60 characters.

·         Component Wire List Report - Generating the Symbol list report no longer produces an error when the User Attributes file has the same name as the project name.

The Symbol List report now supports symbol block names with up to 60 characters.

·         Insert Footprints - Inserting panel footprints using the schematic list for Peer-to-Peer Cross Discipline components no longer results in an error.

·         Panel BOM—The Panel BOM (Displayed in Purchased list) is now correctly sorted according to the .set file in Automatic Reports and Panel Report.

 

·         Marking Menu - The correct Change/Convert Wire Type icon now displays in the marking menu.

·         Location View - Wire connection details are now displayed for Plug and Jack connectors with standard pins, even when the value of [X1TERM01] is blank.

When a wire number is deleted on one side of the parent Plug and Jack connector with a common pin, the Plug and Jack are no longer combined.

·         Migration Utility - No more invalid entries in the AB PINLIST table after migration.

Customisation of AEMIGRATION behaviour is now restored using the .map file.

A CATEGORY column is now added if the source database does not have one, such as in PLC database migration.

·         Other Features - Clicking the Cancel button in the File(s) Unavailable for Processing dialogue box now correctly reverts to the previous state.

The shortcut menu no longer disappears within floating drawing windows.

 

If you would like further information on the benefits of using AutoCAD Electrical for your electrical design, please contact Symetri to arrange a consultation. We offer scheduled AutoCAD Electrical Essentials training and bespoke training to help you work smarter for a better future. 

 

The Truth About Autodesk Construction Cloud - Secrets Revealed!

 

The construction industry has been revolutionized by the advent of digital technologies, and Autodesk Construction Cloud stands at the forefront of this transformation. In this comprehensive article, we unveil the secrets behind Autodesk Construction Cloud, shedding light on its features, benefits, and the profound impact it has on modern construction practices.

What is Autodesk Construction Cloud?

Autodesk Construction Cloud is a unified platform that connects workflows, teams, and data across the entire building lifecycle. It combines powerful tools like BIM 360, PlanGrid, BuildingConnected, and Assemble under one umbrella, providing a seamless experience for construction professionals. This integration facilitates better collaboration, improved data management, and enhanced project outcomes.

Key Features of Autodesk Construction Cloud

1. Unified Platform

The integration of various Autodesk tools into a single platform ensures that all project stakeholders have access to the same information. This unification reduces the risk of data silos and ensures consistency across all phases of the project.

2. Enhanced Collaboration

Autodesk Construction Cloud offers real-time collaboration features, allowing teams to work together more efficiently. With tools like PlanGrid and BIM 360, team members can share updates, access documents, and communicate effortlessly, regardless of their location.

3. Comprehensive Data Management

Managing project data effectively is crucial for the success of any construction project. Autodesk Construction Cloud provides robust data management capabilities, ensuring that all project information is stored securely and is easily accessible when needed.

4. Advanced Analytics

The platform leverages advanced analytics to provide valuable insights into project performance. These insights help in identifying potential issues early on, enabling proactive decision-making and ensuring that projects stay on track.

5. Seamless Integration

Autodesk Construction Cloud integrates seamlessly with other tools and platforms, enhancing its versatility and functionality. This interoperability allows users to connect their existing systems and workflows, creating a cohesive and efficient project environment.

Benefits of Using Autodesk Construction Cloud

1. Improved Project Efficiency

By streamlining workflows and enhancing collaboration, Autodesk Construction Cloud significantly improves project efficiency. Teams can complete tasks faster, reduce errors, and minimize rework, leading to cost savings and timely project delivery.

2. Enhanced Communication

Effective communication is the backbone of successful construction projects. Autodesk Construction Cloud facilitates real-time communication, ensuring that all team members are on the same page and can address issues promptly.

3. Increased Transparency

Transparency is vital in construction projects to maintain trust and accountability. The platform provides comprehensive visibility into all aspects of the project, from planning and design to execution and handover.

4. Better Risk Management

With its advanced analytics and data management capabilities, Autodesk Construction Cloud helps in identifying and mitigating risks early. This proactive approach to risk management ensures that projects are completed successfully without major disruptions.

5. Scalability

Whether you are working on a small project or a large-scale development, Autodesk Construction Cloud can scale to meet your needs. Its flexible architecture allows it to adapt to projects of any size and complexity.

Autodesk Construction Cloud: A Game Changer in Construction

The construction industry is known for its complexities and challenges. From managing multiple stakeholders to ensuring timely project delivery, there are numerous factors that can impact the success of a construction project. Autodesk Construction Cloud addresses these challenges head-on, offering a comprehensive solution that brings together all aspects of construction management.

Transforming Project Management

Traditional project management methods often involve manual processes and disparate systems, leading to inefficiencies and errors. Autodesk Construction Cloud revolutionizes project management by providing a unified platform that automates processes, enhances collaboration, and improves data accuracy.

Empowering Teams with Real-Time Data

One of the standout features of Autodesk Construction Cloud is its ability to provide real-time data to project teams. This real-time access to information ensures that everyone is working with the most up-to-date data, reducing the likelihood of mistakes and ensuring that decisions are based on accurate information.

Driving Innovation with Advanced Tools

Autodesk Construction Cloud is equipped with advanced tools that drive innovation in construction. From Building Information Modeling (BIM) to predictive analytics, the platform leverages cutting-edge technologies to enhance project outcomes and deliver superior results.

Why Autodesk Construction Cloud is Essential for Modern Construction

1. Streamlined Workflows

The ability to streamline workflows is one of the biggest advantages of Autodesk Construction Cloud. By connecting different tools and processes, the platform ensures that projects move smoothly from one phase to the next, eliminating bottlenecks and reducing delays.

2. Comprehensive Document Management

Managing documents in construction projects can be a daunting task. Autodesk Construction Cloud simplifies document management by providing a centralized repository where all documents are stored and can be accessed easily by authorized personnel.

3. Enhanced Compliance

Compliance with industry standards and regulations is critical in construction. The platform helps ensure compliance by providing tools for tracking and documenting all necessary requirements, making it easier to meet regulatory obligations.

4. Improved Quality Control

Quality control is a top priority in construction. Autodesk Construction Cloud offers robust quality management features that help in monitoring and ensuring the quality of work at every stage of the project.

5. Facilitating Remote Work

In today's digital age, the ability to work remotely is more important than ever. Autodesk Construction Cloud supports remote work by providing cloud-based access to project data, enabling teams to collaborate effectively regardless of their location.

The Future of Construction with Autodesk Construction Cloud

As the construction industry continues to evolve, the role of digital technologies will become increasingly important. Autodesk Construction Cloud is at the forefront of this digital transformation, providing the tools and capabilities needed to tackle the challenges of modern construction.

Embracing Digital Transformation

The adoption of digital technologies is no longer optional in the construction industry. Autodesk Construction Cloud represents a significant step towards embracing digital transformation, offering a comprehensive solution that addresses the needs of today's construction professionals.

Sustainable Construction Practices

Sustainability is a growing concern in the construction industry. Autodesk Construction Cloud supports sustainable practices by providing tools for better resource management, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

Future-Proofing Your Business

Investing in Autodesk Construction Cloud is an investment in the future. The platform's advanced features and capabilities ensure that your business is well-equipped to handle the demands of future construction projects.

Fusion 360 Update – Users now have access to Fastener Library

 

Autodesk are continually developing Fusion 360, the cloud-based 3D computer-aided design (CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) platform.

The recent developments brought configurations to the Fusion 360 workflow. These developments now allow users to access an adaptive fastener library to improve assembly workflows.

To access the fastener library, users must ensure they have all the latest updates installed in Fusion 360. To check this, open Fusion 360 and select the Icon, then select Check for Update to see if there are any available updates. Users must also ensure the timeline history is active on their model space. If there is no history tab at the bottom of the design space, right-click Document Settings and select Capture Design History.

Once this has been verified users can insert fasteners into their models within a few clicks. You can select a centre point or the edge of any hole component within their model, then select Insert, then select Insert Fasteners from the dropdown menu.

The library has an extensive range of standard nuts, bolts, screws, and washers available, which are all adaptive parts. The library will automatically choose the correct size fastened for the space when you select a hole component. Then, the length and material can be adapted, as well as being able to assign a part number. If multiple of the same fasteners are needed, a user can select multiple holes by hovering over another hole and selecting when the yellow preview shows in the correct place.

The addition of the fastener library brings a time-saving option for Fusion 360 users to make assembly modelling more efficient.

 

To learn more about Fusion 360, please visit our website https://www.symetri.co.uk/products/fusion-360/  or contact us on………..

To learn more about Fusion 360, please contact us at Symetri via email at info@symetri.co.uk or telephone at 0345 370 1444.

 

Six reasons why you should consider ISO 19650 Certification

The ISO 19650 Standard has been around for a little while, with the UK Government mandating public construction projects since 2012 due to the benefits to be gained.

10 years on, the accreditation was further strengthened at the end of 2022 with three providers being accredited by the UK Accreditation Service, UKAS, one of them being LRQA (previously Lloyd's Register) who Symetri work in partnership with, in the delivery of the ISO 19650 Certification process.

With this standard being around for some time, you may have been considering company ISO 19650 Certification for some time. Therefore, in this short video, Daryn Fitz provides six reasons why now could be a good time to start your journey: 

If you would like to know more about the standard or the process towards gaining accreditation, you can book an appointment with us to discuss your company's journey: https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/bim-surgery/

Autodesk AutoCAD Learning Guide – Explore Symetri’s range of AutoCAD training with Geoff Alder

Are you ready to set out on your journey towards mastering Autodesk AutoCAD? This learning guide provides an overview of the diverse AutoCAD training options offered by Symetri.

Whether you're an aspiring CAD design professional or a seasoned expert, Geoff Alder, Application Specialist, along with our dedicated team, is here to elevate your AutoCAD proficiency to new levels through a variety of AutoCAD training courses.

Beginning with the fundamentals, our courses progressively equip you with the skills needed for advance your skill.

Watch our video to find out more: 

Or explore our range of AutoCAD training courses: https://www.symetri.co.uk/training/autocad-training-courses/

What are the five steps towards reaching ISO 19650 Accreditation?

ISO 19650 is an International suite of standards for managing information over the whole life cycle of a built asset using building information modelling (BIM).

Since the end of 2022, the construction industry experienced a shift in organisations investigating this standard and the accreditation process in more detail since the UK Accreditation Service, UKAS, announced the accreditation of three certification providers under this banner.

If you would like to know more about the ISO 19650 standard or you are ready to start moving towards certification, Daryn Fitz Principal Consultant and Special Projects Lead at Symetri, explains the 5 steps you need to follow in this short video: 

For more information, read of blog: 

https://www.symetri.co.uk/insights/blog/how-do-we-become-bim-iso-19650-2-accredited/

Or to book an appointment to discuss your company's journey, complete the form on this page https://www.symetri.co.uk/campaigns/bim-surgery/

I need help defining a building project or organisation strategy with BIM Information Management

 

Client organisations are increasingly employing Information Managers to support their capital investment projects and protect their interests. This is achieved with a well-defined protocol for recording, storing, disseminating and destroying data.

So, if you are a client asset owner organisation starting a new project or an architect who has been asked to provide BIM information management services directly to a client, but need assistance, watch this video to see how Symetri can support you:

If you would like support from Symetri, explore Symetri’s range of BIM Information Management Services: https://www.symetri.co.uk/buildings-infrastructure/buildings-infrastructure-consultancy/bim-advisory/iso-19650-accreditation-and-certification/#Services

Webinar recording | Bringing an idea of design to life with Twinmotion

Twinmotion is a real-time 3D immersion software that produces high-quality images, panoramas and standard or 360° VR videos in seconds for architects, engineers, construction specialists, consumer products, transportation, and more. It allows users to bring their ideas easily and quickly to life by creating high-quality visual images for architects, engineers and construction specialists.

During this conversational webinar, Craig Schonborn, Business Development Manager, and Geoff Alder, Application Specialist, discuss:

-          How Twinmotion can sync with several design tools

-          It’s capabilities and how it fits within your workflows

-          How it can demystify traditional 2D CAD design and technical drawings

-          The different ways it can support Architects, Engineers and Construction specialists

-          How it can support storytelling when designing or planning

If you would like to find out how you can get the most out of Twinmotion, please do not hesitate to call us on 0345 370 1444 or email us on info@symetri.co.uk.

WHAT'S NEW IN AUTODESK FUSION 360 WITH POWERMILL 2024

Autodesk PowerMill 5-axis CAM software provides expert CNC programming strategies for complex 3- and 5-axis subtractive, high-rate additive and hybrid manufacturing.

During this video, Autodesk's, Clinton Perry will introduce you to Autodesk Fusion 360 with PowerMilll 2024 and show you the new features that have been added to this release.

The agenda will provide you with a quick overview of the release before going into more detail about the latest updates. If you’re entirely new to PowerMill there is some guidance on how you can learn more and try PowerMill for yourself.

• Release overview
• What's New
• How to learn more 
• Are you new to PowerMill

Watch the recording here:

If you have any questions around Autodesk Fusion 360 or need any support please contact Symetri on 0345 370 1599.

Sovelia Vault Property Compliance versus Autodesk Vault Peer Review

Autodesk Vault can manage, track, and organise design and engineering data throughout its lifecycle as a product data management (PDM) tool. It includes features for document management, version control, and collaboration.

Vault 2024 Professional has added new capabilities for Peer Review. Peer review refers to having colleagues or team members review and provide feedback on design files or documents stored within the Vault. This product data management tool has collaborative quality control measures where individuals within the organisation can examine, evaluate, and comment on the content before it moves forward in the workflow or is released for production.

Sovelia Vault, specifically designed as an automation platform for Autodesk Vault, offers additional features and functionality that enhance the capabilities of Autodesk Vault. These enhancements provide greater flexibility, control, and customisation options for peer review and property compliance, including implementing an accurate "4-eye check." This ensures that at least two individuals review a document or design file before proceeding to the next stage or being released.

The table below compares the functionality between Vault and Sovelia Vault:

Functionality	Autodesk Vault	Sovelia Vault
When applied	On lifecycle transition before any other actions	Configurable when in order of actions transaction check applied
Where applied	Client Only	Client or job processor
Rules for files applied to	Defined per transition state individually	Defined in action, which can be applied to multiple different transition states in action sets.
Rule Change	It must be applied to every transaction where the rule is applied	A single change in action
Properties compared	A user attempting state change with a Version Created By the User	ANY  property with the current user, computed values, any vault properties or fixed text.

While Autodesk Vault focuses on individual transition states and requires changes to be applied to every transaction, Sovelia Vault provides more flexibility with actions, allowing rules to be applied to multiple states in action sets with a single change. Moreover, Sovelia Vault offers greater flexibility in comparing properties, enabling comparisons with various values and properties beyond just the versions created by the user.

The standard Vault peer review has limitations, as it can be influenced by actions performed by the job processor, which may update the file version. For example, if a revision block update or state change is applied to the title block, the last user shown in the review may be the job processor user instead of the user who initiated the state change.

Additionally, achieving an accurate "4-eye check" in a multi-review process is not feasible with the standard Vault peer review functionality. While users may be restricted from performing the initial check state change, they may not be prevented from performing subsequent approval state changes.

In summary, Sovelia Vault expands upon the core product data management features of Autodesk Vault and offers advanced automation, customisation, and flexibility for property compliance and peer review.

If you require extensive customisation, automation, and additional capabilities, choosing Sovelia Vault alongside Autodesk Vault can provide significant benefits.

For more information about Sovelia Vault, visit the official website at https://www.symetri.co.uk/products/sovelia-vault/

Alternatively, contact us via email or telephone:

info@symetri.co.uk

0345 370 1444

Sovelia Vault PDF, STP, DXF generation versus Vault PDF, STEP, DXF generation

Autodesk Vault can manage, track, and organise design and engineering data throughout its lifecycle as a data management tool. It includes features for document management, version control, and collaboration.

You can generate PDF files within Autodesk Vault to capture and share design documentation.

Vault 2024 Professional has added new capabilities. STEP files can be generated to exchange 3D models with other software or systems that support the format. DXF files can also be created to share drawings in a widely compatible format.

Sovelia Vault is specifically designed as an automation platform for Autodesk Vault. It offers additional features and functionality tailored to enhance Autodesk Vault's capabilities. These features provide enhanced flexibility, control, and customisation options for secondary file format generation.

So, what are the differences between Vault and Sovelia Vault, and why would you want to use Sovelia Vault instead? The table below compares functionality:

Functionality	Autodesk Vault	Sovelia Vault
PDF Generation	Drawings only	Drawings and 3D models. Word and Excel files
STP Generation	Yes	Yes
DXF Generation	Yes	Yes
SAT, IGES, DWG, BMP	No	Yes
Manual Generation	Admin Option On or Off option for each type	Options for manual generation are fully configurable based on user, file type, and property criteria separate for each type of file. Multiple configurations are possible for different requirements of the same file type. Options to remove previous versions.
Automatic Generation	On lifecycle state change. Applies to all files on the file lifecycle state change.	Fully configurable on Add, Check-in, and File and item State change. Different criteria can be applied to control precisely when and what is generated based on location, properties, user, and category.
Run Location	Job Processor Only with fixed queue priority	On-client or Job Processor with configurable queue priority
Destination Location	Vault or external Same as the source file structure or a single folder	Vault and/or external Same as the source or any folder configuration using the folder path tool based on properties and/or calculated and fixed values.
Naming	The limited option is adjustable in the server .config file—same naming configuration for all files.	Fully configurable based on any property or fixed information. Naming is flexible and can be fully and separately controlled. For example, the file generated to vault can have a different name than a file generated to an external folder, including the revision in the external file name.
Property Copy	Can sync lifecycle state and revision to the vault properties of the generated file. The single option applies to all generated files of that type.	Any properties from the source file can be synchronised to the generated vault file. Fully and selectively configurable.
Format Options	Admin configuration option applies to all.	Any number of file-specific configurations can be configured and applied according to selected criteria.
PDF Watermarking	No	Configurable options based on any property information.
PDF Sheet Options	All or All, including excluded from print	Fully configurable as to First, All or Specific Sheet

 

In summary, Sovelia Vault builds upon the core functionality of Autodesk Vault and provides advanced automation, customisation, and flexibility for secondary file format generation. If you require extensive customisation, automation, and additional file format generation capabilities, Sovelia Vault can be a beneficial choice over Autodesk Vault alone.

Secondary file generation is just one of many automation tools available within Sovelia Vault.

For more information about Sovelia Vault, visit our website   https://www.symetri.co.uk/products/sovelia-vault/

Alternatively, contact us via email or telephone:

info@symetri.co.uk

0345 370 1444