In Windows 10, in some cases, AutoCAD freezes when pressing the F keys (eg: F3 object snap or F8 ortho mode) while we are running a command.
When pressing one of these Function keys, AutoCAD becomes unresponsive for a while, even preventing mouse movement. After a few seconds, the system returns to normal.
This is an error recognized by Autodesk, which occurs in Windows 10 starting from the Anniversary update. Affected versions of AutoCAD include 2015, 2016, and 2017.
Fortunately, we can easily fix these annoying AutoCAD freezes and use the F keys normally.
Temporary solution
It is possible to temporarily resolve the issue by typing TEMPOVERRIDES in the command line and setting its value to 0.
However, it has the major disadvantage that we will lose the changes once we close AutoCAD, so we will have to deactivate the command every time we start the program again.
Permanent solution
The permanent solution involves updating Autodesk, or installing a Hotfix created by Autodesk specifically to resolve these freezes.
For AutoCAD 2017
Update to AutoCAD 2017.1.2, or install the following updates
- AutoCAD 2017 Service Pack 1
- AutoCAD 2017 SP1 Windows 10 F Key Hotfix
For AutoCAD 2016
Install the 2016.0.10 update, or update to the AutoCAD 2017 version.