Expert: Bob - 3/18/2008

Question
Aloha from Hawaii,

My question pertains to my copy of AutoCAD. I used to work for an architect as a draftsperson. My employer bought me a computer for me to use and had a legal copy of AutoCAD installed on it. I have since moved on from that company. When I left, I offered to buy the computer. I have since become a freelance draftsperson. Does that make the AutoCAD installed on my computer illegal since I don't work for him anymore? I am having some weird issues that someone suggested might be alleviated by re-installing AutoCAD. However, I don't have the original installation cd. I would like to contact Autodesk and ask for a backup cd, but not if that is going to send up red flags. I have the license name and id code. Did I paint myself in a corner or am I worrying about nothing?

Thanks,
Shaun

Answer
Aloha--

Sorry, this is an easy one.   Tools cost money.

You didn't buy a license and you are not working for the person who did  (the only way your duplicate copy would be legal).  Any arrangement you make with that person now would be in violation of his license.

For most purposes AutoCAD LT is excellent. Perhaps this is your opportunity to check that out, and learn LT2009, which will be released shortly (if not already, I didnt check). Go to Autodesk.com and look.  You can also often find older versions online -- but if you are using the program for client work and you have a non-legal copy, the clients could be drawn into any enforcement issues.

Good luck

BOB