Is BricsCAD compatible with LISP scripts?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — BricsCAD is compatible with LISP scripts and supports standard AutoLISP workflows through the APPLOAD command. The most common professional method is to load LISP files manually or from the startup suite, then run the custom command they define. Some legacy Visual LISP or Windows-specific routines may need adjustment.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: Not every LISP written for AutoCAD will run perfectly in BricsCAD without testing. Scripts that rely on ActiveX/COM, DCL dialogs, or hardcoded support paths commonly fail, especially when moved between different BricsCAD editions or user profiles.

How to Load and Run LISP Scripts in BricsCAD

  • Command: APPLOAD

  • Shortcut: AP

  • Quick Steps:

    1. Type APPLOAD or use the menu/Ribbon location for application loading, then browse to your .lsp file.
    2. Select the file and click Load to bring the LISP routine into the current drawing session.
    3. To automate it, add the file to the startup load list, then run the command name defined inside the LISP.

  • Use the Startup Suite or equivalent startup load option if you need the routine available every session.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Startup load list / startup suite

  • Expert Setting: If the LISP is only loaded manually, it works only in the current session. Adding it to the startup load list ensures the routine is available automatically whenever BricsCAD starts, which is the standard approach for office-wide tools.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The LISP may expect specific entity types, such as lightweight polylines instead of splines or 3D polylines, causing selection or processing errors.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): If the routine tries to modify objects on locked layers, BricsCAD may reject the edit and the script can stop or partially complete.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Some LISP routines call AutoCAD-specific Visual LISP, COM, or dialog logic that BricsCAD does not fully support in the same way.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use APPLOAD to load the LISP manually, test it on a copy of the drawing, and unlock affected layers before running the routine.

  • Manager’s Verdict: BricsCAD is a solid platform for LISP-based automation, especially for standard AutoLISP office tools. Use it confidently for production, but validate older or highly customized scripts before rolling them out to a team.

FAQ

Can BricsCAD run AutoLISP files from AutoCAD?
Yes, many standard AutoLISP files run with little or no change.

Does BricsCAD support automatic LISP loading at startup?
Yes, you can add routines to the startup load list.

Why does a LISP load but not run?
Usually the file loaded correctly, but you must call the command name defined inside the script.

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