Autodesk Announces AutoSketch Release 5 Multi-Purpose Precision Drawing Tool; Intelligent Application Guides Users Through the Design Process

Business Wire, Nov 10, 1997

SAN RAFAEL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 10, 1997--To provide an extremely easy-to-use, 2D multi-purpose precision drawing tool to inexperienced CAD users who occasionally design simple drawings or sketches, Autodesk, Inc. announced today the availability of a major new release of AutoSketch software in December.

The new product is based on new technology and is a generational leap from its predecessor, AutoSketch Relnada at an estimated street price of U.S.$99. Aown for the first time at Comdex booth no. S4000 in Las Vegas next week.

AutoSketch Release 5 is idead to create simple 2D drawings and sketches. ter a blank page, requiring them to adapt these a "multi-purpose" software tool that providesgramming or even home projects. The interface is automatically tailored to the application and design options are based on the type of drawing selected. For example, w diagram or organizational chart can choose a wizard that provides special shape libraries and templates to speed creation of even the most complex diagrams. -0-

"With AutoSketch Release 5, we are introducing a completely new user interface that provides specific tools for w features are: -0-

-- Application Wizard helps users get started fast by customizing the drawing envile support lets users publish design data on thein Word or Excel.

-- Customizable Grids and Isometric Drawing Tools let users select rectangular, circo changing coordinates, lengths, angles and other parameters.

-- Multiple Document Interface (MDI) supatibility features enable users to save files iutoSketch Release 5 will fac ilitate the accessinoCAD LT software.

Autodesk offers the design industry's most complete line of drawing, drafting, desi, QuickCAD, AutoSketch Release 5, Picture This Home! and the Planix home design solutions for professional, occasional users and consumers and AutoCAD Release 14 for full-time professionals who need leading-edge technology and perhaps add-on applications.

AutoSketch Release 5 is one of the first new releases from Autodesk's new Personal Solutions group. PSG is developing affordable, easy-to-use tools for professionals, occasional users or consumers who design, draft and diagram. AutoCAD LT 97, the newest version of the only 2D CAD software under $500 that is 100 percent compatible with AutoCAD Release 14, was also just released. Planix Home Designer 3D Deluxe and Picture This Home! Bath are two other software titles recently released by this new market group, offering easy-to-use design software for consumers.

System Requirements

Minimum system requirements include Windows 95 or Windows NT 4.0, 486DX/66 CPU, 8MB of RAM (16 MB recommended), 41MB of free hard-disk space and 256 color VGA display.

Pricing, Availability and Upgrades

AutoSketch Release 5 will be available in December in U.S. English in the U.S. and Canada at an estimated street price of U.S.$99 from many software retail stores. The following offers are valid in the U.S. and Canada only: upgrade prices are U.S.$59 and are available direct from Autodesk by calling 800/435-7771. Further information about the upgrade offer can be found on the Internet at www.autodesk.com/autosketch .

Alternatate coupon inside the box. Anyone purchasing Auhave international language versions ava ilable at a later date. Prices may vary outside of the U.S. and Canada and local offices should be contacted for regional pricing information.

About Autodesk

Autodesk is the world's legame development and Web content development. Its Kinetix division is the leader in PC-based 3D modeling and animation software, providing a full range of products for digital media and design professionals.

The fifth largest PC software company in the world, Autodesk has three million customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, contact any Authorized Autodesk Dealer, call Autodesk at 800/964-6432, or fax requests for information to 415/507-5100. Outside of North America, fax requests for information to 415/507-6110 (Latin America), 408/616-1048 (Asia Pacific), or +41-22-929-75-01 (Europe). For more information on Autodesk, call 415/507-5000, type GO ADESK on CompuServe, or log in with a World Wide Web browser at http://www.autodesk.com . Autodesk shares are traded on the Nasdaq national market under the symbol ADSK. -0-

Note to Editors: Autodesk, the Autodesk logo, AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, Kinetix and AutoSketch are registered trademarks and Picture This Home!, and AutoPoint Indicators are trademarks of Autodesk, Inc. Netscape, CompuServe is a registered trademark of H & R Block. Microsoft, Windows and Windows NT are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other brand names, product names, or trademarks belong to their respective holders.

CONTACT: Autodesk, Inc.

Amal Abed, 415/507-6543

amal.abed@autodesk.com