Compatibility
What Zirkle works with. If your setup isn't listed, write to support before buying.
CAD programs
| CAD | Versions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| AutoCAD | 2022 and later | Full AutoCAD on Windows. Any language. |
| ZWCAD | 2022 and later | Any language. |
| GstarCAD | 2022 and later | Any language. |
- Your CAD can run in any language: Zirkle reads names and messages from your CAD as they are and speaks to you in English or Spanish.
- Several CAD programs on one PC are fine. Setup lists what it finds and whether each is supported; you choose which one Zirkle opens when you ask it to start your CAD.
- Not supported: AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD for Mac, AutoCAD Web, versions before 2022, and editions that don't let other programs control them. Zirkle names the reason when it meets one (ZK-CAD-012).
- Not supported yet: BricsCAD and other CAD programs.
Windows
- Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit. Setup refuses anything else.
- Setup needs no administrator rights. Your CAD must not run as administrator either, or Zirkle can't reach it (ZK-CAD-004).
- Not supported: macOS and Linux. Windows on ARM is untested.
AI apps
| AI app | Supported | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Claude Desktop | Yes | Zirkle's entry goes into Claude's settings; skills are added by you in Claude's settings. |
| ChatGPT Desktop | Yes | Local tools need a ChatGPT Plus plan or higher. |
| Codex CLI | Yes | Shares ChatGPT Desktop's settings file, so Zirkle appears there as well. |
- The AI app must run on the same PC as your CAD. Claude or ChatGPT in a web browser, and on a phone, can't reach Zirkle.
- Both apps can be connected at the same time. Each one starts its own Zirkle; the Read-only switch applies to all of them.
Languages
- Zirkle's Setup, Settings and messages: English and Spanish. Zirkle Settings → General → Language follows Windows by default.
- Your CAD: any language.
- Skills and the operator guide stay in English, because only the AI reads them.
Trademarks
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc. ZWCAD and GstarCAD are trademarks of their respective owners. Zirkle is not affiliated with or endorsed by any of them. Claude and ChatGPT are trademarks of their respective owners.