7 Hidden Features in nanoCAD Plus You Should Know

7 Hidden Features in nanoCAD Plus You Should KnownanoCAD Plus is a cost-effective CAD application that mirrors familiar AutoCAD-like workflows while adding its own set of productivity-focused tools. Beyond the visible toolbars and common drawing commands, nanoCAD Plus contains several lesser-known features that can speed up drafting, improve file management, and make collaboration easier. This article uncovers seven hidden or underused capabilities, explains when to use them, and gives brief step-by-step tips to apply each in real projects.

1. Smart Commands and Command Auto-Completion

Many users rely solely on toolbars and menus, but nanoCAD Plus includes smart command entry and auto-completion that can greatly accelerate workflow.

• Why it matters: Typing commands is often faster than navigating menus, and auto-completion reduces typos and remembers recently used commands.
• How to use it:
  1. Click the command line at the bottom or press Ctrl+9 to toggle the command line.
  2. Begin typing a command name (e.g., “line”, “offset”); the interface suggests matching commands.
  3. Use the arrow keys or Tab to accept suggestions and press Enter to run.
• Tip: Customize frequently used aliases in the shortcuts/preferences to shorten common sequences.

2. Layer States and Layer Filters for Complex Drawings

nanoCAD Plus supports saving layer states and creating filters to manage visibility, color, and linetype across complex projects.

• Why it matters: Quickly switch between different layer configurations (e.g., presentation vs. construction) without manually toggling many layers.
• How to use it:
  1. Open the Layers panel (or type LAYER).
  2. Configure layers as needed (visibility, freeze, lock, color).
  3. Save the current configuration as a Layer State.
  4. Create Layer Filters to group layers by name, property, or custom criteria.
• Use case: Architects can create a “Client View” layer state that hides structural layers and highlights finishes.

3. Dynamic Blocks and Parametric Constraints

While dynamic blocks and parametrics are often associated with higher-end CAD packages, nanoCAD Plus offers basic parametric constraints and block behaviors that increase drawing intelligence.

• Why it matters: Parametric constraints and dynamic blocks let you create reusable objects that adapt instead of requiring multiple static blocks.
• How to use it:
  1. Create a block from geometry (BLOCK command).
  2. Apply geometric or dimensional constraints (found in the Constraints toolbar).
  3. Use grips and parameters when inserting the block to modify the object without editing the definition.
• Example: A parametric door block can flip orientation and change width via grips rather than swapping separate blocks.

4. Advanced Snapping (Aperçu) and Tracking

nanoCAD Plus includes enhanced snap options and tracking that help place objects precisely relative to existing geometry.

• Why it matters: Accurate snapping reduces the need for trimming and rework, and tracking helps align objects along construction lines or angles.
• How to use it:
  1. Toggle Osnap settings (bottom toolbar) to enable multiple snap modes like midpoint, perpendicular, intersection.
  2. Turn on Polar Tracking or Object Snap Tracking to lock movement along specified angles or relative positions.
  3. Use temporary tracking points by hovering over a snap and moving—this creates alignment guides.
• Tip: Combine endpoint snap with perpendicular snap when building frames to ensure corners align exactly.

5. Drawing Compare and Revision Tools

nanoCAD Plus has tools to compare drawings and visualize differences—handy for revision control and QA.

• Why it matters: Visual comparisons quickly reveal changes between versions without manually toggling layers or inspecting objects one-by-one.
• How to use it:
  1. Use the Drawing Compare utility (found under the Tools or File menu depending on version).
  2. Load the two DWG files to compare.
  3. Choose display options (highlight added/removed/modified entities, color coding).
• Use case: Engineering teams can validate contractor revisions and spot unintended modifications before approval.

6. Batch Plot and Publishing

Batch Plot lets you print or export multiple layouts and drawings in one operation—essential for large sets of construction documents.

• Why it matters: Saves time when producing multiple sheets/PDFs and enforces consistency in plotting settings.
• How to use it:
  1. Open the Publish or Batch Plot dialog (File > Publish or Printer/Plot manager).
  2. Add layouts or files to the list.
  3. Configure page setups, plotters, and output format (PDF, DWG, etc.).
  4. Run the job; nanoCAD Plus will process all entries in sequence.
• Tip: Create standardized page setups for title blocks and use them across projects to avoid layout issues.

7. Scripting and Macro Support (LISP and Script Files)

For repetitive tasks, nanoCAD Plus supports automation through scripts and LISP routines, enabling powerful customization.

• Why it matters: Automation reduces manual errors and frees time for design work. LISP support means many legacy routines can be adapted.
• How to use it:
  1. Create a .scr script file with command sequences (one command or input per line).
  2. Run scripts with the SCRIPT command.
  3. Load LISP routines via the APPLOAD command and call them from the command line or assign to toolbar buttons.
• Example script snippet:

  
  ; Example SCR content _Layer M  ; make a new layer MyLayer C 1 ; end 

• Tip: Keep a library of commonly used scripts (batch layer creation, dimension style setup, export tasks) and document their inputs.

Quick Workflow Examples

• Fast sheet production: use Layer States + Batch Plot + standardized page setups to go from model to published PDF in three steps.
• Repetitive annotation: create a LISP routine to place title blocks and update sheet numbers automatically.
• QA check before release: run Drawing Compare between last issue and current drawing, then export a redline PDF for the team.

Conclusion These seven features—smart commands, layer states/filters, dynamic blocks/constraints, advanced snapping/tracking, drawing compare, batch plotting, and scripting—are often overlooked but can transform efficiency when adopted. Start by trying one or two that match your workflow pain points, then gradually incorporate more to build a smoother, more automated drafting process.