Introduction. This article will cover how to write MicroStation text nodes, using multi-line text and text elements as list attrib... FME Support Center Creating PDF Files from MicroStation DGN Files - TN.gov In the MicroStation Print dialog go to File> Print or click the printer icon on the dialog. The Save Print As dialog opens. Adjust... TN.gov llms.txt - Bentley Systems We understand that this may disrupt your intended experience, and we would like to offer additional information regarding the pote... Bentley Systems Place Label in MicroStation CONNECT Edition Jan 30, 2020 —
As of 2024, Bentley Systems (the creator of MicroStation) has moved away from a traditional "download now" free trial button on their main consumer-facing pages. They now operate primarily on a contact-based model for high-end CAD software. However, you can still access and use MicroStation for free through their developer program or by requesting a trial license. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to get access.
Method 1: The Bentley Developer Program (Free 3-Month Access) This is currently the most reliable way to get hands-on access to MicroStation without purchasing a license immediately. Bentley offers a free 3-month trial for developers and evaluators. Steps:
Visit the Bentley Developer Portal: Go to developer.bentley.com . Sign Up / Log In: You will need to create a Bentley ID (using your email) if you do not already have one. Register for the Program: You may be asked to fill out a brief profile. Access the "Software": Once logged in, navigate to the Software or My Products section. Download MicroStation: Look for the latest version of MicroStation (currently MicroStation CONNECT Edition). Licensing: When you install the software, it will detect your Developer Program status and grant you a limited-time license (usually 3 months) to test the API and software capabilities. microstation free trial
Method 2: Requesting an Enterprise Trial (Official Route) If you are evaluating the software for a company or a major project, Bentley prefers you go through their sales team. Steps:
Go to the main Bentley MicroStation Product Page . Look for a button labeled "Contact Sales" or "Request a Trial" (this varies by region). Fill out the form with your professional details (Name, Company, Phone Number, Use Case). A Bentley representative will contact you to set up a guided trial or provide a temporary activation key.
System Requirements (Before you download) MicroStation is resource-heavy. Before attempting the trial, ensure your PC meets these minimum specs (for CONNECT Edition): Introduction
Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11. Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD equivalent (i7 recommended). RAM: 8 GB minimum (16 GB recommended for large 3D models). Graphics Card: A dedicated GPU with 1 GB+ VRAM (NVIDIA Quadro or GeForce RTX series recommended). Hard Drive: 20 GB+ free space (SSD is highly recommended).
How the Trial Licensing Works Unlike some software that restricts features during a trial, the Bentley Developer trial usually gives you the full version of the software.
Activation: You do not typically get a "serial number." Instead, you log into the Connection Client application (which installs with MicroStation) using the email address you registered with the Developer Program. Entitlements: The software queries the Bentley cloud servers, sees you have a trial entitlement, and activates the full suite of tools. The Save Print As dialog opens
Important Tips for New Users If you are coming from AutoCAD, MicroStation operates differently. Keep these points in mind during your trial:
The Interface: It uses a "Ribbon" interface now (similar to Microsoft Office), but the workflow relies heavily on "AccuDraw" for precision input. Learning Curve: The software is complex. During your trial, utilize the Bentley Learn Server (available via the Connection Client) for free tutorials on how to use the basics. File Formats: MicroStation uses .dgn files natively, but it can read and write .dwg (AutoCAD) files very well.