AutoCAD 2012: option to start without opening file

Do you remember in the old days, we can show this startup dialog?

I like it because when I start AutoCAD, it doesn’t automatically open a new file. It let me choose to open an existing DWG or create a new one by choosing appropriate template.

Apparently in 2012, we have more options. I’m not aware about this until I read Dean Saadallah post in his blog here.

The STARTUP system variable is not only let us to choose open AutoCAD with a startup dialog box, but also let us to start it without opening anything. Now we have new value.

Snipped from the help file, now STARTUP system variable has these values:

0	Displays the Select Template dialog box, or uses a default drawing template file set in the Options dialog box, on the Files tab.
1	Starts without opening a drawing template file, and displays the Startup or the Create New Drawing dialog box.
2	Starts without opening a drawing template file. If available in the application a custom dialog box is displayed.

I’m aware that Revit now doesn’t open a new file when we start it. It shows a startup page. Probably this is something AutoCAD users will also love.

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About Edwin Prakoso

I work as an Application Engineer in Jakarta, Indonesia. I've been using AutoCAD since R14 and Revit since Revit Building 9. I occasionally write for AUGIWorld magazine and also active in Autodesk discussion forum.
I'm certified as Revit Architecture 2014 and AutoCAD 2014 certified professional. I'm also a member of Autodesk Expert Elite, appreciation for individuals who give contribution to Autodesk community.
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8 Comments on "AutoCAD 2012: option to start without opening file"

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NO ONE IS REALLY ANSWERING THE QUESTION

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Edwin Prakoso

What is the question?

ACAD noob

It doesn't startup like the old days XD… I typed FILEDIA in the command prompt and typed 1 as value.. did I do somethin wrong?

ah never mind… I tried STARTUP command.. hehe sorry…

I was wondering if I'm the one who can't understand the question :)
Yes, it's for startup dialog. filedia is for file dialog box.

Seteve

I have just started using 2012 and just yesterday when I clicked the 'open' button, instead of opening the pop up file box, it gave me a prompt on the command line, 'enter file path'
Can anyone help me to change this back.
Even if I click on New, it does open the pop up selection box, just a prompt in the command line.
Thanks,

Steve.

Steve,
Type FILEDIA in command line then press enter. Change the value to 1. HTH.

Steve

Edwin,
thank you for the assistance

AutoCAD 2012: option to start without opening file

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