Yes you can easily access the Sleep and Lock toggle from the start menu by clicking windows icon then the power icon then lock or sleep. That is easy and all but I'm just lazy like that. I want to add this 2 toggles directly on the taskbar.

Also you can use keyboard shortcut for lock which is "Windows Key + L". That is easy enough. But for sleep, it is a combination of keys. It's "Windows Key + X" then "U" then "S". That is easy and all but like I ssaid I'm just lazy like that.

So here is how to add this 2 toggles on the taskbar for easy access.

For the "Lock" Toggle:

• 1. Right click on the desktop and choose "New" then "Shortcut".
• 2. Below the "Type the location of the item:" space, copy and paste this "rundll32.exe User32.dll,LockWorkStation" then clic "Next".
• 3. Type the name of the shortcut, name it "Lock" instead of rundll32.exe then clic "Finish".
• 4. Right click on the newly created shortcut icon and select "Properties" (in win 11, click "Show more options" first).
• 5. Click on "Change Icon" button. It might say "Choose an icon from the list or spicify a different file", just click "Okay".
• 6. You should see a bunch of icons to choose from. Select any and click "Okay".
• 7. (Optional) You can use your own icons too. Try download this icon file (.ico file) save it anywhere in your computer. Instead of using the common icons, while choosing the icons, click on "Browse" and look for the ico file that you have downloaded. Select it and click "Open" then "Okay". Click "Apply" then "Okay".
• 8. You shortcut should have a new look using the icon you choose.
• 9. Drag the shortcut anywhere on the taskbar.
• 10. If you want to lock you computer just click on that icon.

For the "Sleep" Toggle:

• 1. Right click on the desktop and choose "New" then "Shortcut".
• 2. Below the "Type the location of the item:" space, copy and paste this "rundll32.exe powrprof.dll,SetSuspendState 0,1,0" then clic "Next".
• 3. Type the name of the shortcut, name it "Sleep" instead of rundll32.exe then clic "Finish".
• 4. Right click on the newly created shortcut icon and select "Properties" (in win 11, click "Show more options" first).
• 5. Click on "Change Icon" button. It might say "Choose an icon from the list or spicify a different file", just click "Okay".
• 6. You should see a bunch of icons to choose from. Select any and click "Okay".
• 7. (Optional) You can use your own icons too. Try download this icon file (.ico file) save it anywhere in your computer. Instead of using the common icons, while choosing the icons, click on "Browse" and look for the ico file that you have downloaded. Select it and click "Open" then "Okay". Click "Apply" then "Okay".
• 8. You shortcut should have a new look using the icon you choose.
• 9. Drag the shortcut anywhere on the taskbar.
• 10. If you want to put your computer to sleep, just click on that icon.

TL;DR

If you don't want to go into all that trouble, download this zip file which contains the shortcuts with the icons. Save and extract to your desktop. Change the icons then drag the shortcuts to your tak bar. EASY.

Copy the variables (%xxxx%) into the windows explorer address bar and hit enter.

%AppData% - "C:\Users\{username}\AppData\Roaming"

%ALLUSERSPROFILE% or %PROGRAMDATA% - "C:\ProgramData"

%CommonProgramFiles(x86)% or %CommonProgramW6432% - "C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files"

%LOCALAPPDATA% - "C:\Users\{username}\AppData\Local"

%OneDrive% - access your OneDrive folder

%ProgramFiles% - "C:\Program Files"

%SystemRoot% - "C:\Windows"

%TEMP% or \%TMP\% - "C:\Users\{username}\AppData\Local\Temp"

%SystemDrive% - "C:\"

%USERPROFILE% - "C:\Users\{username}"

%windir% - "C:\Windows"

There are other environmental variables, but the ones listed above are the most common I remembered from the top of my head.

For more examples and more information about environmental variables, check this out.

Additional:

I recently found out that shell can also open folder locations.

Typing "Shell:Startup" to the windows explorer address bar opens up the start up folder. You can paste a link or any executables here and it will run on windows startup.

Yes, Windows can be configured to prevent it from going to sleep mode or having the screen turned off. But, if your school or work set up your computer to do just that, there is no way to change it without administrative rights.

however, you can actually prevent your PC from entering sleep mode by constantly jiggling your mouse.

To do that automatically, here is a script (in exe format) that you can run to jiggle your mouse every minute interval.

Download this.

Save this exe file to your startup folder and run it.

How to load?

1. Download creatbeam.lsp (in zip archive need to extract).
2. Go to Tools > Load Application then browse for creatbeam.lsp and click load.
3. To load the AutoLISP file when AutoCAD startup add it to the StartUp Suite case.

How to use?

1. Type "zbeam" on the AutoCAD commandline.
2. Enter value for "Beam Height".
3. Enter value for "Flange Width".
4. Enter value for "Web Thickness".
5. Enter value for "Flange Thickness".
6. Enter value for "Root Radius".
7. Then click for Insertion Point.

For beam sizes and dimension reference download UK Steel Sections.

To draw a PG (Plate Girder) or built up section instead of a standard beams, follow the instructions then input zero on the root radius. The zbeam will draw plate girder section 3 separate rectangles for the top and bottom flanges and web.

The created section is a closed polygon for the beam sections and for the plate girder it's 3 rectangles.

The AutoLISP code has been heavily commented with notes so you can follow or study what or how the program is working or what this particular code does. It only has 2 if commands used and many a few coordinates locating points.

The concept of the code is select an insertion point (IP) then from there trace the beam sections using the values given for its beam height, flange width, thickness, etc and draw a polyline along those points.

Tested and working on AutoCAD 2019. Will work on other versions of AutoCAD but your millage may vary. This program is provided as is. The coding I have done is very simple and is based on available tutorials and references.

TL;DR: You can download all the steel section in AutoCAD here.

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There are other very useful tools in AutoCAD that are not installed by default. Working in a company with company owned computers gives you limited rights to install softwares or programs without administration rights. **"Express Tools"** is a built in feature in all AutoCAD releases but are not installed by default. Most of the times, your IT personnel are too busy or they don't have any idea when you come up to them and ask them to install the "Express Tools" for you and will lead to much confusion and sometimes debates.

To avoid those long talks and explanations, here is a guide on How to install the "Express Tools" on your AutoCAD without administration rights.This is a do it your self installation which involves downloading of files from the internet, extracting archives and a little bit of browsing your computer. I tested this on a AutoCAD Mechanical 2014 (full version, not LT) run on Windows 7 PC. I have not tried this on other versions, but it might just work. (You can try it at your own risk, well it's not even risky at all.)

Here goes:

• 1. Download Express.zip.
• 2. Extract contents to C:\Users\username\appdata\roaming\autodesk\autocad mechanical 2014\r19.1\enu\support\express (Make sure hidden files are shown in Folder Options to access "AppData" folder).
• 3. Right Click "express" folder then click "Properties" > "General" tab > "Attributes" then uncheck "Read-only" then "Apply" (Apply to subfolders as well).
• 4. Run AutoCAD Mechanical 2014.
• 5. Type in "CUI" command to open "Customize User Interface".
• 6. Go to "Customize" tab > "Customization in All Files" under "AMPP" look for "Partial Customation Files".
• 7. Right Click "Partial Customation Files" select "load partial customation files'.
• 8. Browse to your support folder C:\Users\username\appdata\roaming\autodesk\autocad mechanical 2014\r19.1\enu\support and open "acetmain.cuix", apply then close "Customize User Interface".
• 9. Go to "Tools" > "Options", under "Files" tab, expand "Support File Search Path" then add express folder path C:\Users\username\appdata\roaming\autodesk\autocad mechanical 2014\r19.1\enu\support\express.
• 10. Under "Files" tab, expand "Trusted Locations" then add express folder path C:\Users\username\appdata\roaming\autodesk\autocad mechanical 2014\r19.1\enu\support\express (If a warning says about express folder being read-only just agree and continue).
• 11. Hit "Apply" and close "Options" menu.
• 12. Go to "Tools" > "Load Applications" locate "Startup Suite", click "Contents".
• 13. Add 2 files "acettest.fas" and "acetultil.fas" which can be found inside the express folder.
• 14. Close "Load/Unload Applications" menu then restart AutoCAD.
• 15. Check "Express" menu if its loaded and try the command if they are working.

And just in case you have admin rights to your computer, here's how to install AutoCAD's "Express Tools" the normal way:

• 1. Verify that AutoCAD is already installed in your computer, go to "Control Panel".
• 2. Find AutoCAD, right click and select "Uninstall/Change".
• 3. AutoCAD install will start up, select "Add or Remove Features" from the pop-upped menu.
• 4. Click through the screen then scroll to a list of features and you would find that "Express Tools" is crossed out (Red).
• 5. Click on the cross to check it (Green) then click "Update".
• 6. Let AutoCAD finish updating the changes that you've made.
• 7. Verify that "Express Tools" is loaded ones you run AutoCAD.

Why the need to install "Express Tools"? Here is a list of all the commands that can be found under "Express Tools" and how to use them.

GStarICAD is based on the well-known IntelliCAD software which is the industry standard for low-cost CAD software. GStarICAD is the innovative alternative to AutoCAD that provides OpenDWG file compatibility, similar environment, as well as full support for AutoCAD commands, menus, scripts, styles, patterns etc. GStarICAD is the top quality version of IntelliCAD worldwide, 99% identical to AutoCAD and its speeds and performances with an attractive and competitive price are totally unbeatable.

Unrivaled AutoCAD compatibility

GStarICAD's native file format is .DWG, so when you open an existing Autodesk AutoCAD file (2.5 to 2007), there's no file conversion and no data loss. GStarICAD also provides a full compatibility with AutoCAD Command Line, menu (.MNU) and script (.SCR) files, hathes, fonts and true type fonts-Complex linetypes, Multiline Text, Lightweight polyline, Draw commands, Audit & Recover as well as AutoLISP and ADS. That means you can get to work immediately using the AutoCAD files, commands and applications you rely on.

Exceptional productivity

GStarICAD offers smooth Microsoft Windows integration plus many unique productivity features, including the ability to Multiple open drawings (MDI) at once; a Drawing Explorer that lets you review and exchange drawing content with drag-and-drop ease; and visual customization of menus and toolbars -- no programming required! And thanks to its ActiveX integration, you can insert GStarICAD drawings (or just parts of them) into a Microsoft Office application file or a Visio 2000 Technical Edition schematic.

Open Communication
Import-Export of DWG files (opendwg), DXF and SCR (script) files;
Import of mnu (menu) and dcl (dialog box) files;
Export of WMF, EMF (Enhanced Metafile) files and SLD (slides);
Reading of BMP, GIF, JPG, TIF, PCX images within DWG files;

Third Party Applications

GreatStar is a world-leading CAD full sets solutions service provider. We provide Building Solutions, Manufacturing Solutions, Building Industry Solutions to our users. Our Industry Software includes Architectural, Structural, Electrical, HVAC, Water Supply and Drainage, Mechanical Software.

Unbelievable Affordability

It's purchase cost is only 1/10 of the competitor's. In addition, considering an easy-understanding training plus the 30 days free support, our solutions manage to bring a surprising return for your investment.

Working with GStarICAD you are able to:

• Start immediately working on your existing work: If you have used AutoCAD, you will find GStarICAD so easy to use because of the same interface and operating style as AutoCAD. No learning time and learning cost are required, just install and begin to draw!
• Communicate with anyone else: When you open an existing Autodesk AutoCAD file (AutoCAD2.5 to R2007) there's no file conversion and no data loss.
• Feel Safe and absolutely Legal (owns Independent intellectual property rights)
• Save a lot of money, increase profits, reduce risk, and minimize inefficiency.

Learn more...

Tekla Structures is 3D building information modeling (BIM) software used in the building and construction industries for steel and concrete detailing. The software enables users to create and manage 3D structural models in concrete or steel, and guides them through the process from concept to fabrication.

With Tekla Structures, you can transform design into reality. It turns great ideas into complete construction projects and covers the entire building process, from conceptual design to fabrication and construction management.

Now this award-winning software for building information modelling (BIM) is even more user friendly. Expect faster and more reliable production of consistent high quality information for structural engineering design and construction projects.

New features:

• See what you get while modifying shapes with direct manipulation
• Drawing improvements for better documentation quality
• Interoperability improved for construction project collaboration
• Higher levels of automatic production with fewer human errors
• Increased creativity and productivity in 3D modeling

Retool yourself for reliable modeling, efficient BIM workflow and openly transparent project communication. Realize your world-class ideas and learn Tekla Structures today!

Tutorials: Tekla Structures v.10.0

• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 1 Basic Modeling
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 2 Creating System Connections
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 3 Creating Interactive Connections
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 4 Custom Components
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 5 Basic Modeling 2
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 6 Catalog
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 7 Steel Detailing
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 8 Concrete Detailing
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 9 Numbering and Reports
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 10 Principles of Working with Drawings
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 11 Assembly and Single Part Drawings
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 12 Cast Unit Drawings
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 13 GA Drawing
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 14 Multi-drawing and Multinumbering
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 15 Collaboration
• Tekla Structures Basic Training - Lesson 17 Analysis and Design

Tutorials: Tekla Structures v.11.0

• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Profiles and Materials
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Applied Precast Concrete Detailing
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Applied Steel Detailing
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Numbering and Reports
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Template Editor
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Principles of Drawings
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Assembly and Single Part Drawings
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Cast Unit Drawings
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - General Arrangement Drawings
• Tekla Structures 11.0 Basic Training - Project Manager

Tutorials: Tekla Structures v.12.0

• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Basic Modeling 1
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - System Components for Precast Concrete
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Creating System Components for Steel
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Interactive Precast Concrete Detailing
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Interactive Steel Detailing
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Custom Components for Precast Concrete
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Custom Components for Steel
• Tekla Structures 12.0 Basic Training - Basic Modeling 2

Tutorials: Tekla Structures v.13.1

• Tekla Full Detailing Basic Training Modeling
• Tekla Structures 13 - Keyboard Shortcuts

Updated: 2025-02-13

Note: PDF files are sourced through google search. Sharing for educational purposes only. No Copyright infringement intended.

Objective

As a sample (let’s make it as simple as possible), say you want to create a new command that “Create 2 Vertical viewports” (See my other post “AutoCAD Macros” for other sample command macro).

Steps

• 1. Open CUI by accessing menu tools > customize > interface (or by typing “CUI” on commandline). You will find a menu with 3 areas (see fugure below).
• 2. Click on “Create a new command” button.
• 3. Provide the name of command and the macro.
• 4. Above the properties, select/create/edit a command icon of your choice.
• 5. Drag the newly created command to any tootlbar of your choice. You can also drag it outside the CUI menu to any existing tool bar on your workspace.
• 6. Click “Apply” and “OK” to close CUI menu.

You’re done here. Try the new command by clicking the icon you created.

Tested on AutoCAD 2011 classic workspace enabled, it should work on all other version of AutoCAD specially on newer versions.

Update [March 2014]

I made some changes. You can't see the formula now, just click on the cell, right click select "Copy" then paste to command line in AutoCAD. I also included some common beam sizes and sections for easy reference. You can copy the dimensions of the beam you want to make, paste it in the section maker then copy the cell. Easy does it.

Draw beam sections easily in AutoCAD (at least version 2000 up) by simply inputting beam dimensions (in MS Excel). Then copy formula and paste to AutoCAD command line. Easy does it.

Download Beam Section Maker for AutoCAD “HERE”: [New Version]

For beam size download this UK Steel Section Properties.