2009

Chapter 4. Overview
The basis of Autodesk NavisWorks Freedom 2009 is its ability to walk through any size model in real
time. NavisWorks guarantees a user-defined frame rate using a unique algorithm which automatically
calculates which items to render first during navigation, based on the size of items and distance from the
viewpoint. Items which NavisWorks does not have time to render are, therefore, sacrificed or "dropped
out" in the name of interactivity. These items are, of course, rendered when navigation ceases. The
amount of drop-out depends on several factors including: hardware (in particular graphics card and driver
performance), as well as the size of the NavisWorks navigation window and the size of the model. If you
wish to reduce drop-out during navigation, you have the option to reduce frame rate and, therefore, trade
it off against drop-out.
When working with truely large "supermodels" in NavisWorks, you will require a sufficient amount of RAM
to load and review the data. NavisWorks employs JetStream technology which optimizes the usage of the
available RAM. Before running out of memory, NavisWorks will page unnecesary data to the hard disk,
freeing up space for loading to continue. JetStream technology also enables the user to commence
navigating the supermodel, before it has completely loaded into memory.
NavisWorks is large address aware, utilizing any additional memory assignment following the 3GB switch
available on Windows XP systems.
To start NavisWorks, double-click the NavisWorks icon on the desktop, or go to Start > Programs >
Autodesk > Autodesk NavisWorks Freedom 2009 > Autodesk NavisWorks Freedom 2009. The
following sections will describe the interface in more detail.
NavisWorks contains full context-sensitive Help. Click , and click the toolbar button or menu option
to display the appropriate Help topic. Or, alternatively, go to the Help menu.
14