AutoLISPInstallationGuide

How to Load a LISP in AutoCAD: APPLOAD and the Startup Suite

·2 min read·Cadlisp

A step-by-step guide to loading .lsp and .vlx files once with APPLOAD, and making them load automatically every time AutoCAD starts.

Getting started with a LISP you downloaded takes less than a minute. This guide covers both a one-time load and loading it automatically every time AutoCAD starts.

1. Prepare the file

Cadlisp add-ins come as ZIP files. Extract the ZIP to a permanent folder such as C:\Cadlisp\. If you move the file later, AutoCAD won't find it, so don't leave it in your Downloads folder.

2. Load it with APPLOAD

3. Load it on every startup

In the APPLOAD dialog, click Contents under Startup Suite in the lower right, then Add the file to the list. From now on the LISP loads automatically whenever AutoCAD starts.

Common issues

  • "Unknown command": the file isn't loaded. Repeat the APPLOAD step.
  • Security warning: AutoCAD warns about files outside trusted locations. Choose Load once or Always load, or add the folder to OPTIONS > Files > Trusted Locations.
  • AutoCAD LT: LISP routines don't run on LT; you need full AutoCAD.

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