Vectorworks Spotlight FAQ
[+] Who uses Vectorworks Spotlight?
Just about every lighting designer out there uses it. Vectorworks Spotlight is the gold standard for CAD software in the United States entertainment industry, which includes lighting design, set design, exhibition design, event planning, and audio/visual design.
[+] How quickly can I learn Vectorworks Spotlight?
Vectorworks Spotlight is known for its streamlined user interface and workflow. Getting you up and running quickly is our goal. Typically, after a two-day training course you’ll be able to understand the basics of Vectorworks Spotlight and you'll be able to start designing. We also have a number of self-training options available, so that you can learn at your own pace. We offer tutorials with illustrated, step-by-step instructions and sample designs. See our
training page for a list of tutorials.
Yes. Students around the world use Vectorworks Designer, which combines all the functionality of Vectorworks Landmark, Architect, Spotlight, and Machine Design into a single application. For more information, go to our
academic website.
Institutions of higher education and other schools throughout the world have already discovered Vectorworks Spotlight. To effectively prepare your students for a successful career in lighting, scenic, event, or exhibit design please contact our educational team on our
academic website.
You are not obligated to upgrade at any time. If you choose to upgrade, you’ll find it is for only a fraction of the original cost. Nemetschek North America offers a variety of services (many of them free) to help users succeed with Vectorworks products. Take advantage of free options like service pack updates, technical support, the eDispatch online newsletter and tech tips. Or, for more personalized training, you can purchase workbooks, training CDs, online training options, premium support services, and group or individual training courses. Check out the many resources on our
training page.
Vectorworks Spotlight handles a large variety of import and export formats. You can export your plan in a DXF/DWG format, which will work accurately with the application your client colleague may be using. You can also exchange data in real-time with Lightwright to synchronize your paperwork and your design. With Spotlight, you can export the entire model to ESP Vision for complete, real-time lighting visualization. You can create PDFs, JPGs, TIFs, and MOVs of your visualizations and designs to help your clients see your vision. Many other formats (Parasolid X_T, SAT, 3DS, EPS, PICT, STL, and IGS, among others) allow you to exchange data freely with almost every application.
[+] Can I install my licensed software on both a Macintosh and a PC?
No. Your license is based on a single platform of your choice. When ordering your license, please specify Macintosh or Windows as your operating system. If you need to switch operating systems in the future, simply contact your sales representative.
[+] Can I design a 3D model in Vectorworks Spotlight?
Yes. Yes. Yes! In fact, we specialize in 3D, with best-in-class modeling now available in Vectorworks Spotlight 2009. You’ll see many 3D objects such as lights, trusses, curtains, furniture, walls, and stairs. Additionally, Vectorworks Spotlight offers a set of sophisticated tools that facilitate true, free-form modeling.
[+] Can I draw light plots directly in Vectorworks Spotlight?
Yes. In Vectorworks Spotlight you can draw the light plots directly. The program shows different layers, so that different parts of the drawing can be arranged for light plots, scenic designs, sketches, elevations, details, sections, and schedules.
[+] Can I create renderings, videos, and path animations with Vectorworks Spotlight?
Yes, with Vectorworks Spotlight you have the ability to create videos, path, and solar animations. With the Renderworks add-on, you'll have the ability to create high-quality photorealistic and non-photorealistic rendered models that you can use for producing stunning images, rendered solar animations, and rendered path animations.
[+] What graphics options does Vectorworks Spotlight offer?
We want you to have a lot of freedom while designing, and we're known for our graphics capabilities—so we have tons of options: colored fills, gradients, unlimited colors, variable line weights, and many other tools to help you realize your exact vision.
[+] Are object libraries included in the purchase price?
Yes. There are no extra charges for all of the extra objects you’ll get—symbols for single source lighting, LED lighting, moving light instruments from manufacturer catalogs, audio speakers, human figure, furnishings, designer furniture, Gobos, light accessories, details, and scenic elements. We update all libraries constantly, this content is completely customizable, and you can even add your own.
[+] Is Vectorworks Spotlight a full CAD software?
You bet. With Vectorworks Spotlight you have all of the power of modern CAD software, plus tools made specifically for the entertainment industry. Therefore, you’re not limited to light plots or scenic construction plans; you can design anything you need.
[+] Can I pre-visualize my show with Vectorworks Spotlight?
Yes. You can draw your show in Vectorworks Spotlight and then transfer it to our partner product, ESP Vision, for pre-visualization to see how your lights will work in the context of the environment. There’s no need to rig it all to visualize it. And when you’re done, you can simply save your pre-cued show and load it to your console to run the show.
[+] Can I make seating layouts?
Yes. Vectorworks Spotlight offers a robust function that creates seating layouts. This tool offers you flexibility to choose the type of seat, the row spacing, and even the focus point for aiming the chairs. It works great for all types and configurations of seating areas.
[+] Who can get the free Vectorworks Viewer?
You, your colleagues, your clients—anyone who wants to open, view, or print Vectorworks documents can get the free Viewer. The Viewer helps the plot service or printer who needs to work with Vectorworks files. Owners and clients can use the Viewer to see the documents without the need for a full version of Vectorworks. The files cannot be changed; all tools except those for revision control are blocked. With the Viewer, you can open drawings from all Vectorworks products.
Download it from our website, free of charge.
Windows: Minimum of 2GB RAM, typically 4GB
Windows XP SP3, Vista SP1
Macintosh: Minimum of 2GB RAM, typically 4GB
Mac OS X, starting from 10.4.11
Return to Top
