Can I set an automatic save interval in BricsCAD?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in BricsCAD, you can set an automatic save interval using the SETTINGS command and adjusting the automatic save time value in Program Options. This is the most common professional method for controlling autosave frequency and reducing data loss during drafting sessions. It does not replace regular manual saves.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: Autosave in BricsCAD creates temporary recovery files, not always a fully updated version of your main DWG. If BricsCAD closes abnormally before a proper save, recent edits between autosave intervals can still be lost.

How to Set an Automatic save interval

  • Command: SETTINGS

  • Shortcut: [SETTINGS]

  • Quick Steps:

    1. Type SETTINGS on the command line, then press Enter.
    2. In the Settings dialog, go to Program Options and locate the Autosave time interval setting.
    3. Enter the desired interval in minutes and make sure autosave is enabled if that option is available in your version.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Autosave time interval in the Settings panel

  • Expert Setting: A shorter interval reduces potential data loss but can briefly interrupt performance on large drawings or slow network locations. Many production teams use 5 to 10 minutes as a practical balance.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): Very large or complex drawings can make autosave slow, so users may think it is not working when the save process is simply taking longer.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): If the drawing is stored in a protected or unstable network folder, BricsCAD may fail to write autosave or recovery files correctly.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Autosave does not mean every command state is recoverable; unsaved changes inside interrupted commands or before a crash may not restore cleanly.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Run SETTINGS and set the Autosave time interval to 5 minutes, then manually save with QSAVE before plotting, batch edits, or external reference changes.
  • Manager’s Verdict: Use autosave as a safety net, not as your primary file protection method. In real workflows, combine a short autosave interval with disciplined manual saves, especially on large projects.

FAQ

Can I turn off autosave in BricsCAD?
Yes, you can disable it in SETTINGS, though it is not recommended.

What is a good autosave interval for BricsCAD?
For most professional work, 5 to 10 minutes is a practical setting.

Does autosave overwrite my dwg file?
No, it usually creates a recovery file rather than replacing your main drawing directly.

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