Printing AutoCAD Files

Overview

AutoCAD is used by many professionals and students in the fields of design and construction. Due to this, printing documentation of a project is an important step in the design and construction process. When plotting to the printers we recommend converting your .dwg file into a .pdf file before sending the file to print. The conversion from .dwg to .pdf allows for smooth printing of your file if minimal errors occurring. It will also keep all have the line weights as they were set in AutoCAD.

Step 1 

Once your CAD file is open in Model Space, be sure your units are correct and choose "1:1" Scale

Step 2

Hit "Ctrl + P" to open the plot window to do the following:

A) Choose "DWG to PDF"

B) Plot to Window

Step 3 

Select the desired area to plot.

Step 4 

Choose your desired scale.

Step 5 

A) Choose adequate paper size, using the preview as a guide then 

B) Click on the arrow for more options

Step 6 

A) Setting custom or assigned plot tables can be done here, along with orientation changes

B) Click "Apply to Layout" 

C) View Preview 

D) Hit OK

Save your PDF and you are now ready to print or edit in Photoshop or Illustrator. Keep in mind that this PDF is an editable vector image.

If you have any questions or comments about this article or think it needs improvement, please contact us and we'll be happy to assist you!

ph: (979) 862-8584 | helpdesk@arch.tamu.edu