Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of a wide range of computer-based tools that assist engineers and architects in their design activities. It involves both software and special-purpose hardware.

 

CAD is sometimes translated as "computer-assisted design", "computer-aided drafting", or a similar phrase. Related acronyms are CADD, which stands for "computer-aided design and drafting", and CAAD, for "computer-aided architectural design". All these latter terms are essentially synonymous, and refer to the designing and technical drawing of various projects by use of a computer rather than a traditional drawing board.

 

The spectrum of architectural and engineering projects commonly created with computer-aided drafting is broad, and include architectural design, mechanical design, electrical & electronics design, and other forms of design communication. Today they constitute part of a broader definition of computer-aided design.