Understanding How to Save Objects in AutoCAD
Saving objects and drawings in AutoCAD is essential for preserving your work. Below are detailed steps you can follow to ensure your designs are safely stored for future reference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Save Drawings in AutoCAD
1. **Using the Quick Access Toolbar**:
– Locate the Quick Access toolbar, typically situated at the top of the AutoCAD interface.
– Click the save icon, which resembles a floppy disk. This action executes the QSAVE command, which saves your current drawing.
2. **Employing the SAVEAS Command**:
– Navigate to the ‘Application Menu’ located in the top left corner.
– Select ‘Save As’ to access the Save Drawing dialog box.
– Choose your desired file location and type a new name for the drawing in the ‘File Name’ field.
– Click on the ‘Save’ button to complete the process.
3. **Saving Using Command Line**:
– You can also save your work by typing `SAVE` or `SAVEAS` directly into the command line and hitting Enter.
– Follow the prompts that appear to select your saving preferences.
Saving Specific Objects in AutoCAD
To save individual objects or blocks, you follow a slightly different approach:
1. **Creating and Saving Blocks**:
– Select the objects you wish to save as a block.
– Use the command `BLOCK` or go to the ‘Home’ tab and select ‘Create Block’.
– Fill in the block name and provide a base point.
– Ensure the ‘Convert to Block’ option is checked, then click ‘OK’.
2. **Accessing Design Center for Reuse**:
– Open the Design Center by navigating to the ‘View’ tab and clicking on ‘Design Center’ in the Palettes Panel.
– Browse through your folders to locate any saved blocks, including furniture or other components.
– Simply drag and drop your chosen objects into the desired location within your drawing.
Saving to Different Formats in AutoCAD
AutoCAD allows you to save your drawings in various formats:
1. **Exporting as PDF**:
– Select the layout you wish to export, right-click, and choose ‘Publish Selected Layouts.’
– In the dialog box that appears, select “PDF” from the ‘Publish To:’ dropdown menu and proceed to save.
2. **Saving for Web & Mobile**:
– Go to the Quick Access toolbar and select ‘Save to Web & Mobile’.
– Specify the folder and naming convention, then click ‘Save’ to ensure your file is accessible online.
How to Save a Finished Drawing
To save a completed drawing, follow these steps:
1. Click on the ‘Application Menu’ at the top left corner.
2. Select ‘Save As’ then ‘Other Formats’.
3. In the ensuing dialog box that appears, enter your desired file name.
4. Under the ‘Files of type’ dropdown, select the appropriate AutoCAD file format for saving.
5. Press ‘OK’ to finalize the saving process.
FAQs
Q1: What is the difference between the QSAVE and SAVEAS commands?
A1: The QSAVE command quickly saves the current drawing, while SAVEAS allows you to save a copy of the drawing under a new name or different location.
Q2: How can I view my saved files in AutoCAD?
A2: You can browse saved files directly through the ‘Open’ command in the ‘Application Menu’ or use the ‘Design Center’ to access specific blocks and objects saved earlier.
Q3: Is there a way to autosave my work in AutoCAD?
A3: Yes, you can enable autosave by going to the ‘Options’ dialog, selecting the ‘Open and Save’ tab, and adjusting the ‘Automatic Save’ settings to your preference.
