How to Install and Load FireCAD in AutoCAD

Choose Your Version

FireCAD is available in two versions. Choose the one that matches your setup:

Version Description Requires
FireCAD 2026 Standalone Full application with built-in AutoCAD engine Nothing else — runs on its own
FireCAD Add-in for AutoCAD Plugin that adds FireCAD tools to your existing AutoCAD AutoCAD 2025 or 2026

FireCAD 2026 Standalone

Download and Install

  1. Download the installer: FireCAD 2026 Standalone

  2. Run the installer and follow the prompts. Restart your computer if prompted.

  3. Install the database and update utilities: FireCAD 2026 Database & Updates

  4. Launch FireCAD 2026 from your desktop shortcut or Start menu.

  5. Activate your license — enter your activation code when prompted. If you don't have a code, contact your administrator or email support@cadgen.com.


FireCAD Add-in for AutoCAD

Download and Install

  1. Close AutoCAD if it's currently running.

  2. Download the installer: FireCAD Add-in for AutoCAD

  3. Run the installer and follow the prompts. Restart your computer if prompted.

  4. Open AutoCAD (2025 or 2026). FireCAD loads automatically.

  5. Activate your license — enter your activation code when prompted.


Verifying Your Installation

After launching, confirm FireCAD is loaded:

  1. Look for the FireCAD ribbon tab at the top of the window
  2. Look for the FireCAD Project Palette docked on the side
  3. If the palette isn't visible, type ATSHOW in the command line

The FireCAD Interface

Ribbon

The FireCAD ribbon tab provides access to all commands organized by category: File, Devices, Circuits, Wirepaths, Reports, and Tools.

Project Palette

The dockable palette has three tabs:

  • Project Tree — Navigate your project structure and drawings
  • Device Palette — Browse and place devices from the database
  • Circuits — View and manage circuit connections

Type ATSHOW to display the palette if it's hidden.


Updating FireCAD

FireCAD checks for updates automatically on startup. When an update is available, you'll see a notification with a link to download. You can also check manually:

  • Standalone: Run the FireCAD 2026 Database Utilities shortcut from your Start menu
  • Add-in: The update check runs each time AutoCAD starts

Supported Versions

Version Supported
FireCAD 2026 Standalone Yes
AutoCAD 2026 (Add-in) Yes
AutoCAD 2025 (Add-in) Yes

Common Issues

FireCAD ribbon doesn't appear

  • Make sure the installation completed successfully
  • Restart AutoCAD (or FireCAD Standalone)
  • If using the Add-in, check that you're running AutoCAD 2025 or 2026

License activation prompt appears repeatedly

Palette is missing

  • Type ATSHOW in the command line to show it
  • The palette can be docked to the left or right side of the window

Need Help?


FireCAD is the industry-leading AutoCAD add-in for fire alarm system design — from circuit layout to wire routing to code-compliant reports.
Learn more and get started at getfirecad.com →

Inspect Point Integration — Fire alarm system device lists and bill of materials can be pushed directly from FireCAD into Inspect Point, eliminating manual data entry and ensuring every device is ready for inspection scheduling and ongoing asset management.
Learn more here →

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