Understanding Printing in AutoCAD
Printing from AutoCAD involves sending designs to a printer or creating PDF files for distribution. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for various scenarios related to printing in the latest version of AutoCAD, ensuring you can efficiently manage your printing tasks.
Printing Directly from AutoCAD
To print your drawing directly from AutoCAD, follow these steps:
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Access the Layout Tab: Navigate to the bottom-left corner of the drawing area and click on the layout tab for the drawing you wish to print.
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Open the Print Settings: Click on the "Output" tab, then select "Plot" from the panel options to open the Print dialog box.
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Select the Printer: Under the "Printer/Plotter" section, choose the desired printer or plotter from the drop-down menu.
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Configure Print Settings: Adjust the paper size, plot area, and other relevant settings.
- Finalize and Print: After configuring, click "OK" to send your drawing to the printer.
Printing to PDF in AutoCAD
Generating a PDF from your AutoCAD drawing is straightforward:
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Select Layout Tab: Click on the layout tab located at the bottom-left of the drawing area.
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Open the Plot Dialog: Navigate to the "Output" tab and select "Plot." This opens the Plot dialog box.
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Choose PDF Plotter: In the Printer/Plotter section, select your preferred PDF plotter configuration (usually called "AutoCAD PDF").
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Check Plot Settings: Make sure to verify the settings like paper size, plot style, and scale.
- Create the PDF: Click "OK," specify the save location, and enter a filename for your PDF file before saving.
Configuring Print Settings in AutoCAD 2025
The latest AutoCAD version allows for fine-tuning of printing options:
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Set Paper Size: Determine the correct paper size for your drawing using the plot settings.
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Define the Plot Area: Decide whether to print the entire drawing, the visible portion, or a specific window selection.
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Adjust Plot Offset: Set margins to position your drawing accurately on the page.
- Select Plot Scale: Specify the scale for your plotted drawing to ensure it prints at the desired size.
Adding or Modifying Printers in AutoCAD
To add a new printer or modify an existing one, follow these steps:
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Access the Layout Tab: Go to the layout tab for the drawing you want to modify.
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Open Page Setup Manager: Select "Page Setup Manager" from the layout tab area.
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Modify Page Setup: Choose the page setup you wish to alter, then click "Modify."
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Select Printer: In the Page Setup dialog box, navigate to the Printer/Plotter section, and pick your printer from the list.
- Save Changes: Apply any additional settings required and click "OK" to confirm your modifications.
Exporting a DWG as a PDF in AutoCAD
To convert a DWG file into a PDF format, proceed with these instructions:
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Layout Tab Selection: Locate and click on a layout tab at the bottom-left corner of your drawing area.
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Export to PDF: Go to the "Output" tab and select "Export," then choose "Export PDF" from the available options.
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Review Settings: In the Save as PDF dialog box, check your current settings to ensure they meet your requirements.
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Select Layouts for Export: If needed, specify if you wish to export all layouts or just the current one.
- Finalize Export: Click "Save" to complete the PDF generation process.
Common Printing Questions
What is the difference between plotting and printing in AutoCAD?
Plotting generally refers to producing high-quality representations of a drawing, including complex features suitable for large format prints, while printing typically involves standard document printing on typical printers.
Can I print from AutoCAD to a network printer?
Yes, AutoCAD allows printing to network printers. Ensure the printer is properly configured on your system and select it in the Printer/Plotter options in the Plot dialog box.
How do I change the default printer in AutoCAD?
To set a default printer, input "OPTIONS" in the command line, navigate to the Plot and Publish tab, choose the desired printer under default plot settings, and confirm your selection to save the changes.
