There is self-selection for users that ask about Dynamo; they are usually familiar with Revit and are looking for higher-level ways to control the creation, arrangement, or analysis of BIM objects in a project. Dynamo, after all, was originally developed as a visual programming tool for Revit.

Over the past 10 years, however, it has since expanded its compatibility to Civil3D, Alias Design, Formit, and Advance Steel. Standalone flavors were created that do not depend on Revit et. al, and are available as a full version with Dynamo Studio, or the open-source developer version Dynamo Sandbox.

You may be wondering…

What are the differences between Dynamo Studio and Dynamo Sandbox and which one is right for me?

The following two articles from Dynamo experts Zach Kron and Sol Amour have the best descriptions of each product and for whom they were built:

Dynamo Studio

What is it?

Dynamo Studio is the core technology with Autodesk’s geometry tools, and access to cloud services without any other software prerequisites.

Who is it for?

For those of you in education, we hope this can become a more widely accessible teaching tool. For folks in offices, we hope this can be a bridge between non-Revit users and Revit based projects. We hope this enables you to work on Dynamo sketches on the subway, or talk with consultants and collaborators across other platforms like Navis and Rhino, and open up computation to users beyond traditional BIM.

Dynamo Sandbox

What is it?

DynamoSandbox.exe is the free Dynamo core technology (scripting language, node diagramming, execution engine) that can use some of the geometry tools available in Revit, and doesn’t have the ability to sign into cloud services.

Who is it for?

Dynamo Sandbox is for package developers and other folks working with Dynamo code who want to stay up to date with the latest and greatest stuff coming out. Sandbox can be used as a general programming or orchestration interface for other programs as it can run without any other Autodesk program installed. As a BIM Manager you can test host non-specific packages out in a safe environment prior to deployment.

Ultimately, I only recommend using Dynamo Sandbox for BIM Managers, package developers, or power users that are already intimately familiar with Dynamo. The latest builds for Dynamo Sandbox, including daily builds, can be found at DynamoBuilds.com.

For other users that want access to Dynamo’s visual programming interface but do not need access to Revit objects via the Revit API, then Dynamo Studio is the best option. As mentioned above, Dynamo Studio is stable and has access to cloud services, which gives it a leg-up on the Sandbox. Dynamo Studio can go places that Revit can’t go as easily, such as ultrabooks or tablets running Windows 10; expanding the places where you can be productive.

If you are still uncertain which product is right for you, then you may have an interest in developing for Dynamo, but just don’t have the experience. If this resonates with you, then I recommend the following links to get started developing packages for Dynamo:

Dynamo Developer Resources

Getting Started with Dynamo Custom Node Development

Do you have any sales or technical questions? Call us at 888-768-7568 or send us an email!

A hybrid course might be the right choice for you if you are looking for a way to supplement your traditional live classes with the flexibility of on-demand classes. With the hybrid course, you can go back and re-watch or review the information that you are having difficulty with.

Microsol Resources is offering a variety of training options from live in-person training to live online training, and with on-demand training to give you the flexibility you need for your ongoing professional development.

We offer our on-demand training with CADLearning by 4D Technologies and is a perfect extension to our current live Autodesk Certified Instructor-led training classes. As an Authorized Autodesk Publisher, CADLearning offers courses from AutoCAD to Revit and dozens of other software applications and is the premier learning partner for all things Autodesk.

For a limited time, our Autodesk training includes one-year of free access to CADLearning, our on-demand training partner to give you the best of blended learning.

What is included in the CADLearning on-demand training? You will able to find a list below of all the CADLearning courses that available to you as part of the subscription. Here they are listed from A-Z:

CADLearning for Advance Steel teaches the use of Advance Steel as a detailing software for fabricators, engineers, and designers working with structural steel. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for steel modeling, detailing, and documentation.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® teaches the use of AutoCAD as a world-class 2D and 3D design application. Its innovative interface, in combination with its powerful 3D tools, allows users to create nearly any design imaginable. The systematic project management tools make it easy to keep track of even the most complicated projects, and it makes for efficient coordination with colleagues. Its documentation and presentation tools allow users to share impressive presentations for both collaborators and clients.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® Architecture teaches the use of AutoCAD Architecture as an architectural drafting tool. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for creating and modifying geometry, organizing data, and presenting completed architectural designs.

CADLearning for AutoCAD Electrical® teaches the use of AutoCAD Electrical as an electrical systems modeling tool, tailored for use by professionals working with electrical components and systems based on the International Electrotechnical Commission standards. Lessons cover how to design a wiring schematic, starting with wires and working toward a completed schematic.

CADLearning for AutoCAD LT® teaches the use of AutoCAD LT as an essential 2D drafting application, used by engineers and designers across a myriad of disciplines. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for creating and modifying geometry and organizing data using AutoCAD LT.

CADLearning for AutoCAD Map 3D® teaches the use of AutoCAD Map 3D as a geospatial mapping and analysis tool. Users will gain all the necessary skills needed to complete a GIS or non-GIS map using the program. Lessons cover how to use data sources to create map features and stylized topologies. Then analyses and calculations can be performed using those feature sources, and complete map books can be created and plotted.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® Mechanical teaches the use of AutoCAD Mechanical as part of results-driven manufacturing. You will gain all the necessary skills needed to complete a design in the program. Lessons cover migrating existing designs from AutoCAD; using standards for consistency; using Mechanical-only tools to speed up design, such as layer groups, content libraries, and collaboration tools.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® MEP teaches the use of AutoCAD MEP as a design tool for the mechanical, electrical, piping, and plumbing disciplines. You will gain all the necessary skills needed to complete a system design using the program. Lessons cover adding MEP content from standardized catalogs; connecting intelligent MEP objects to form systems; project management tools to help speed up design, analysis tools for optimal system performance, and collaboration tools.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® P&ID teaches the use of AutoCAD P&ID as a tool for engineers in the power and process industry. You will gain all the necessary skills needed to complete a system design using the program. Lessons cover adding intelligent symbology to create process and instrumentation diagrams; annotating and validating a P&ID; project management tools to help speed up design; analysis tools for optimal system performance; and collaboration tools.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® Plant 3D teaches the use of AutoCAD Plant 3D as a tool for engineers in the power and process industry. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for creating 3D models that are based on, and linked to, process and instrumentation diagrams.

CADLearning for AutoCAD® Raster Design teaches the use of Raster Design, which converts raster data and images into vector data for use in DWG™ files. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for working with photographs, images, and scanned drawings to prepare them for use as vector objects in AutoCAD.

CADLearning for Autodesk® 3ds Max® teaches the use of 3ds Max, a 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software used by professionals in the fields of entertainment, design, and engineering. The content in this course has been devised so that users can quickly learn the versatility, functionality, and interoperability that 3ds Max provides for every stage of a project.

CADLearning for Autodesk® BIM 360™ covers the use of BIM 360 as a cloud-based management solution for building and construction project lifecycles.

CADLearning for Autodesk BIM 360 Field covers the use of BIM 360 Field (now called Autodesk Build) as a cloud-based software tool for the management of projects to and from the field. It allows team members at the construction site to collaborate with colleagues in the office via the internet in real-time using Wi-Fi, or, when no connection is available, any markups or changes done in the field can later be synchronized.

CADLearning for Autodesk BIM 360 Glue covers the use of BIM 360 Glue (now called Autodesk BIM Collaborate) as a cloud-based management solution for building and infrastructure projects. It provides easy access to project models, data, and collaborative workflows across authoring tools and project control applications. It allows users to coordinate and synchronize models across disciplines.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Formit® teaches the use of Formit as a Windows, browser-based, and mobile app for building information modeling, used by architects. The tutorials in this course have been devised to help users quickly learn to create innovative concept designs from a mobile device.

CADLearning for Autodesk Fusion 360 teaches the use of Autodesk Fusion 360 as a free-form digital prototyping tool. Users gain all the necessary skills needed to complete a workable model using the powerful 3D tools in Fusion 360. Lesson topics cover such subjects as getting started using the program, creating 3D models and designs, documenting and presenting designs, and model analysis.

CADLearning for Autodesk Hydraflow Extensions teaches the use of the Hydraflow Extensions within Civil 3D as a hydrology and hydraulics modeling tool. Lessons cover how to design a hydrology model and then analyze the design for optimization of the system. The Hydraflow Extensions for AutoCAD Civil 3D assists users in the creation of stormwater reports, watershed analysis, and hydraulic analysis of streams, rivers, and storm sewers.

CADLearning for Autodesk® ReCap™ teaches the use of ReCap™, and ReCap Pro™ reality capture software and services. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for capturing and editing 3D scanning data in order to integrate it into their designs.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Character Generator teaches the use of Character Generator, an online application that provides users a quick and simple way to create 3D human-based characters. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn how to create and modify characters complete with rigging and texture maps that can then be used immediately in animation software such as Autodesk® 3ds Max® and Autodesk® Maya®.

CADLearning for Civil 3D® teaches the use of Civil 3D as a surface construction modeling tool for infrastructure professionals. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for designing a surface model, starting with points and working toward a completed corridor.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Collaboration for Revit teaches the use of Collaboration for Revit (now called Autodesk BIM Collaborate Pro), a cloud-based worksharing service that allows team members from multiple disciplines, locations, and firms to collaborate by providing centralized access to Revit models. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn how to leverage the power of the worksharing and communication features in C4R with Revit.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Design Review teaches the use of Design Review, which allows users to view, mark up, print, and track changes to 2D and 3D views of designs, without the original design software. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for working with and marking up views of DWG™ and DWFx™ files.

CADLearning for Dynamo Studio covers the fundamental use of Dynamo. Dynamo Studio is a free program from Autodesk that uses visual programming to create its own geometry with parametric relationships. It can also read and write to and from external databases. Dynamo is a stand-alone program, but it can also be used as an add-on to Revit, the premier BIM tool from Autodesk.

CADLearning for Autodesk® InfraWorks® teaches the use of InfraWorks as an infrastructure design, modeling, and presentation tool. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn how to use real-world data to convey design intent within existing conditions, in real-time via the cloud.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Insight® teaches the use of Insight, a building analysis simulation tool that integrates with Revit and FormIt Pro to produce insights of whole-building energy analysis, heating and cooling loads, daylighting analysis, and solar radiation analysis. The resulting insights can represent millions of potential outcomes at once. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn how to generate a range of potential design effects, in real-time via the cloud.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Inventor® teaches the use of Inventor as a 3D digital prototyping tool used worldwide by mechanical and industrial engineers, designers, and professionals. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for creating and modifying parts and assemblies to complete a workable 3D model.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Inventor® Advanced Part Modeling teaches the use of the advanced functionality within Inventor, the premier digital prototyping tool. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn advanced 2D and 3D sketching techniques, as well as duplicating, deriving, and controlling features. Users who wish to expand their repertoire of skills in Inventor benefit by mastering these techniques.

CADLearning for Autodesk Inventor Professional® Cable & Harness teaches the use of the Cable & Harness add-in for Inventor. This add-in allows users to create and manipulate three-dimensional wire harnesses into an existing Autodesk Inventor assembly. Lessons cover how to configure and route a vast array of cable and wire harnesses, then analyze the results to achieve the greatest efficiency.

CADLearning for Autodesk Inventor Professional® Finite Element Analysis teaches the use of the Finite Element Analysis add-in for Inventor, better known simply as “FEA”. This add-in allows users to approximate the stress and strain within the complex geometry of an existing Autodesk Inventor assembly. Lessons cover how to create simulations and then analyze them, in order to make better manufacturing decisions.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Inventor Professional® Tube & Pipe teaches the use of the Tube & Pipe add-in for Inventor. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for creating and manipulating three-dimensional tube, hose, and pipe systems for existing Inventor assemblies.

CADLearning for Autodesk Inventor Sheet Metal teaches the use of the specialized functionality for sheet metal within Autodesk Inventor, the premier digital prototyping tool. Lesson topics cover every aspect of working with sheet metal, from standards to creation to documentation. Users who wish to expand their repertoire of skills in Inventor benefit by mastering these techniques.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Maya® teaches the use of Maya, a 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software for professionals in the fields of entertainment and design. The content in this course has been devised so that users can quickly learn the basic functionality within Maya to create complex 3D content in the form of images and animation.

CADLearning for Autodesk® MotionBuilder® teaches the use of MotionBuilder, a 3D character animation program used for motion capture, virtual production, and keyframe animation. The tutorials in this course have been devised so that users can quickly learn how to manipulate motion capture information and implement it in efficient ways, how to rig a character, and how best to use these animations in the digital world.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Navisworks® teaches the use of Navisworks , a premier project review software. Navisworks was developed for professionals in such fields as architecture, engineering, and construction. It allows users to review integrated models and data through animations and renderings, both for model analysis and project outcomes.

PlanGrid is a cloud-based construction project management software that is especially suited for mobile devices. It allows users to work from anywhere to collaborate with their teams, organize and share project tasks and data, mark up sheets, upload documentation and photos, report on issues, RFIs, and tasks, and much more—all from the field.

CADLearning for Autodesk Product Exam Preparation covers all of the topics included in the certification guides and exam objectives as described and provided by Autodesk. Realize that the lessons presented are a subset of the full CADLearning for Autodesk products, and prerequisite knowledge is needed to obtain a full mastery of the topics and exam objectives. Test taking skills as well as time management is also covered.

CADLearning for Product Installation teaches users how to install their Autodesk® software. The tutorials in this course have been devised so that users can properly install both stand-alone and network installation deployments, to get up and running with their Autodesk product as quickly as possible.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Revit® covers the use of Revit, the premier Building Information Modeling (BIM) tool for design and construction professionals in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. This content has been devised to help users quickly learn BIM methods for creating and modifying geometry, organizing data, performing analysis, and presenting designs using the specialized functions within Revit.

CADLearning for Autodesk Revit for Architecture covers the use of Revit as an architectural and construction modeling tool. Revit is the most popular architectural design tool from Autodesk, with capabilities for modeling, analysis, documentation, and collaboration. Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced users will learn the core and architectural functions of Revit as it works within the world of Building Information Modeling, or BIM.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Revit® for MEP covers the use of Revit, the premier Building Information Modeling (BIM) tool for engineering and design professionals in the industries of construction and architecture. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn BIM methods for creating and modifying geometry, organizing data, performing analysis, and presenting designs using the specialized MEP functions within Revit.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Revit® for Structure covers the use of Revit, the premier Building Information Modeling (BIM) tool for engineering and design professionals in the industries of construction and architecture. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn BIM methods for creating and modifying geometry, organizing data, performing analysis, and presenting designs using the specialized structural functions within Revit.

CADLearning for Autodesk Storm and Sanitary Analysis teaches the use of the Storm and Sewer Extension within Civil 3D as a hydraulic water analysis tool for a new or existing wastewater industry model for planning, rehabilitation, maintenance, and network extensions. Lessons cover how to design a gravity storm or gravity/pressure sanitary sewer model and then analyze the design for optimization of the system. The Storm and Sewer Extension for AutoCAD Civil 3D assists users in the creation of storm water reports, watershed analysis, hydraulic pump design and hydraulic analysis of streams, rivers, and storm sewers.

CADLearning for Autodesk Vault Basic covers the use of Vault as a data management tool. Lessons cover how to better share data, control versions, and manage revisions. Using Vault ensures accountability among users, provides file security and ease of reuse, and tracks a history of each design when used in conjunction with Autodesk design products.

CADLearning for Autodesk® Vehicle Tracking covers the use of the Vehicle Tracking integrated software for creating and perfecting transportation-related designs in conjunction with Civil 3D. The content in this course has been devised to help users quickly learn the most efficient methods for modeling and testing vehicular behavior within the confines of a proposed design.

Summary

CADLearning’s Library includes over 35,000 lessons and 15,000 assessment questions on more than 50 Autodesk products. Lessons are atomized to focus on just one concept or feature, providing short, digestible microlearning that is immediately actionable and leads to better knowledge retention.

Interested to try out the CADLearning on-demand platform, you can request your free 30-day trial today.

If you have questions or need additional information, please contact our Training Coordinator, training@microsolresources.com.

Let’s Talk

What’s New

SharePoint

• Updated support for SharePoint, so you can open PDFs stored in SharePoint securely in Revu from any current browser.

Studio

• When signing into Studio, you’ll now need to enter your email address before you’re prompted for a password.
• Admins now have the ability to securely reassign markup ownership when a collaborator permanently leaves a Session, saving time and reducing confusion in the process. New owners will also receive an email alerting them to their new status. Changes in ownership will be noted in the Session record and can be included in summaries and reports.

Markups

• A visual indicator will appear on Markups that have replied in the Markups list, so you’re always aware when comments require your attention. Clicking this icon will take you directly to the replies in the Markups list, or you can hover over the icon to see a preview of the reply.

• The “Apply to Pages” functionality for markups is improved, letting you apply markups to a custom range of pages or to all Even, Odd, Landscape, or Portrait pages.

• When placing several markups, you’ll now see a progress bar so you can track the process.
• The behavior of leader lines in Callouts and Text Boxes is improved and will now automatically adjust to prevent overlap when the shapes of those markups are changed.

Measurements

• Real-time measurement values are now shown in a small tooltip-style table in the lower-right corner of the drawing as you place measurements.

Plugins

• Added support for SolidWorks 2021.
• PDFs generated using the Batch PDF function in the Word plugin can now automatically generate bookmarks based on the names of files in the batch.
• Bookmark configurations can be saved in the ACAD plugin.

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