There are so many tools on the market that are unknown or underestimated when they could make a huge difference in a drafter’s working experience, or anyone spending long hours working on a computer.

1. Mouse devices

Over the past few years, hi-tech mouse devices have been growing more and more buttons, like Logitech’s G700 mouse that boasts no less than 13 extra buttons you can customize for different actions! Without going to such extremes, a mouse with programmable buttons shouldn’t be overlooked because it really can save a lot of clicks to open your frequently used softwares, simulate a key from the keyboard or launch a series of preprogrammed actions.


2. 3D Mouse devices

3D pointer devices are not new to the industrial design industry. Those who have adopted them for years swear by their qualities and couldn’t work without them. 3D mouse devices come really handy to control the movement inside the 3D model and allow the user to navigate in it by moving slightly the controller. Used in conjunction with a conventional mouse, the 3D pointer will considerably reduce the amount of clicks and movements required by the conventional tasks of a 3D drafter.

For those working with Tekla Structures, it’s also possible to choose from the few 3D mouse devices that also have programmable buttons. This allows the user to keep all his frequent functions within fingers’ reach. Such devices are supported by the software since version 16.0, by installing the appropriate extension, available for download.

For more information, visit 3dconnexions.com.


3. AutoHotkey

AutoHotkey is a free programming software to automate common functions with a simple programming language, accessible to anyone. It can create hotkeys for repetitive functions such as saving as a specific file format, launch an application or open a website. It can also replace text automatically as you type, like changing the word em@il by your own email address, and much more. It’s also possible to create personalized menu like the one shown here, that appears at the end of the cursor with a hotkey.

For more information, visit autohotkey.com.

4. Rename Master

We’ve all been through the fastidious task of renaming a whole bunch of files manually. It’s now possible to save a lot of time and mistakes with a free software that turns this problem into a simple operation. Rename Master can make all the necessary modifications to the files’ names with just a few clicks.

It’s available for download on joejoesoft.com.

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This is just a brief overview of all that’s available to make daily tasks easier and faster. We hope they are helpful to you and we encourage you to share with our readers and the community what your favorite tools are to make your working experience better.