AutoCAD API Development: Custom Plugins with .NET, ObjectARX & AutoLISP
We build AutoCAD plugins, commands and cloud automation on every AutoCAD API, from quick AutoLISP routines to high-performance ObjectARX applications and server-side Design Automation.
The right AutoCAD API for every job
AutoCAD offers several programming interfaces, and choosing the right one decides how fast, maintainable and future-proof your tool will be. AutoLISP is perfect for quick drafting helpers. The .NET API (C# / VB.NET) is the modern choice for most professional plugins, with rich UI and database access. ObjectARX (C++) gives maximum performance and custom objects. Autodesk Platform Services (APS) Design Automation runs AutoCAD in the cloud with no desktop install.
As an official Autodesk Development Partner, ENGIMANDI works with all of them. We recommend the best approach for your requirement, build clean and well-documented code, and support you across AutoCAD versions. Read our guide: AutoLISP vs .NET vs ObjectARX.
What you get
- Custom commands & ribbon tabs
- WPF palettes and dialogs
- Custom entities & object overrules
- Batch processing of DWG files
- Database, Excel & ERP connectivity
- Design Automation for AutoCAD (cloud)
- Installer & Autodesk App Store packaging
- Multi-version support (2018 to latest)
AutoCAD APIs we work with
Full coverage of the AutoCAD development platform.
AutoCAD .NET API
C# / VB.NET plugins with WPF UI, transactions, events, jigs, overrules and database access.
ObjectARX (C++)
High-performance ARX / DBX modules, custom objects and deep integration for demanding apps.
AutoLISP / Visual LISP
Fast drafting routines, DCL dialogs and modernisation of legacy LISP libraries.
APS Design Automation
Run AutoCAD in the cloud to generate, convert and process DWGs from web apps and APIs.
JavaScript & Web UI
Modern HTML palettes inside AutoCAD using WebView2 and the AutoCAD JavaScript API.
VBA & ActiveX Migration
Convert legacy VBA / COM macros to supported .NET plugins before they stop working.
AutoCAD development stack
Autodesk-native tools and proven libraries.
Typical projects
- Parametric drawing generator from Excel or web input
- Batch title-block update across thousands of DWGs
- Custom object for a proprietary product line
- Cloud service that converts orders into shop drawings
- Migrating a 20-year-old LISP library to .NET
- AutoCAD plugin published on the Autodesk App Store
How we build AutoCAD plugins
Understand
Your drawings, standards, pain points and AutoCAD versions.
Specify
Commands, inputs, outputs and the right API choice.
Develop
Iterative builds tested on your sample drawings.
Validate
User testing with your drafters and engineers.
Deploy
Installer, training, documentation and upgrades.
AutoCAD API questions
Does the plugin work with AutoCAD LT?
AutoCAD LT does not support .NET or ObjectARX. Since the 2024 release LT supports AutoLISP, so some automation is possible. For full plugins, AutoCAD (full) or a vertical product is needed.
Which AutoCAD versions do you support?
We typically support AutoCAD 2018 up to the latest release, including verticals such as AutoCAD Mechanical, Electrical, MEP, Civil 3D and Plant 3D.
Can AutoCAD run without a desktop?
Yes, with Autodesk Platform Services Design Automation. Your web app sends data, AutoCAD runs in the cloud and returns DWG, PDF or DXF files.
Can you fix or extend an existing plugin?
Yes. We regularly take over, debug, upgrade and extend plugins written by other developers.