Once the installation process is complete, start Autodesk Civil 3D and navigate to the "Add-ins" tab on
the main ribbon.
You should now find a "ProjectExplorer" entry on the ribbon.
Click the new ProjectExplorer icon to start ProjectExplorer,
or hit "F1" to open the Quick Start help file. The product can also be started by typing "PROJECTEXPLORER" on the AutoCAD Command Line.
Unregistered Trial Mode
When you start ProjectExplorer for Autodesk Civil 3D for the first time, the product
will initially run in "unregistered trial mode" for up to 30 days.
When the product is running in unregistered trial mode, a dialog is displayed each time the
product starts. This dialog indicates the number of days remaining in your unregistered trial period, and
offers you three options to proceed:
Option
Comments
Continue Trial
Select this option to continue using the remainder of the
unregistered trial period. If the trial period has expired, this option will not be available.
Activate
Select this option to activate your ProjectExplorer license using a pre-purchased or
pre-issued license key. License keys are issued when you purchase a product license, or when
you request a registered trial.
Exit
Select this option to return to Autodesk Civil 3D without starting ProjectExplorer.
For instructions on how to activate a product license, refer to the License Activation topic.