How to Execute Python Scripts in nanoCAD 24

In the world of CAD (Computer-Aided Design), nanoCAD is gaining popularity because of its powerful tools and open approach. If you’re a nanoCAD user and want to make your work even easier with Python scripts, then you’re in the right place. Starting from nanoCAD 24, you can now use Python scripts to automate tasks and improve your workflow.

In this guide, we'll walk you through how to set up Python in nanoCAD 24 and run scripts like a pro. Don't worry—this guide is simple enough for anyone to follow, whether you're new to programming or just getting started with nanoCAD.

What You Need to Get Started

Before you can run Python scripts in nanoCAD, you need a few things:

1. nanoCAD 24: Make sure you have nanoCAD 24 installed on your computer.
2. Python 3: Specifically, you need Python 3.13.1. You can download it from python.org.
3. Active Scripting Extension: This is a tool that helps Python scripts interact with nanoCAD.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Let’s break this down into simple steps:

1. Install Python 3

• First, head to the Python download page and download Python 3.13.1 for Windows.
• During installation, make sure to check the box that says, "Add Python 3.13 to PATH." This step ensures that Python is available to other programs, like nanoCAD.

2. Install Active Scripting Extension

• To run Python scripts, nanoCAD requires the Python Active Scripting extension.
• Open a Command Prompt (you need Administrator rights for this) and run the following command to install the extension:

If you encounter any errors, don’t worry! Simply run this command to fix the issue:

3. Verify nanoCAD Python Setup

• Launch nanoCAD 24 and check if the Python script options (PY and -PY commands) are visible in the Command Line.
• If everything is set up correctly, you’re good to go!

How to Run Python Scripts in nanoCAD 24

Now that Python is set up, let’s try running a script.

There are two main ways to run Python scripts in nanoCAD:

1. Using the PY Command:
• This will open a dialog box where you can select and run a Python script you’ve already written.
2. Using the -PY Command:
• This command prompts you to input the path to your Python script, and then executes it.

For example, if you write a script to display a simple message, it could look like this:

Once you run the script, nanoCAD will show the message in the Command Line.

A Fun Example: Drawing a Star with Python

Here’s a fun script that lets you draw a star in nanoCAD using Python. Just paste this code into a Python script file:

This code will prompt you for the centre of the star, the number of points, and the radii. It will then draw the star in nanoCAD!

Conclusion

Now you know how to run Python scripts in nanoCAD 24! Whether you're automating tasks or drawing shapes, Python can make your CAD work a lot easier. Just follow the simple steps above to set up your environment, and you’ll be scripting in no time. Happy coding and enjoy using nanoCAD with Python!