How to Add Raster Image in AutoCAD 2017?

Understanding Raster Images in AutoCAD 2025

Raster images are essential for enhancing drawings in AutoCAD. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to import, manipulate, and use raster images within AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Import a Raster Image into AutoCAD 2025

1. Open the External References Palette
   First, ensure the External References palette is visible. Navigate to the View tab on the ribbon, and click on the Palettes panel to access it.

2. Attach Your Image
   Once the External References palette is open, click on the "Attach Image" option. This will prompt you to locate the image file you wish to attach to your drawing.

3. Select Your Image File
   Browse through your directories to find the desired image file. After selecting it, click the "Open" button to proceed.

4. Determine Insertion Parameters
   In the Image dialog box that appears, you will need to specify the insertion point, scale, and rotation for the image. Adjust these settings based on your requirements to ensure optimal placement within your design.

5. Finalize the Import
   After setting the parameters, click "OK" to insert the image into your drawing workspace.

Creating a Raster Plan

To generate a raster plan from an image followed by tracing over it, follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Image
   Make sure your raster image is properly imported into your drawing using the steps outlined above.

2. Activate Raster Tools
   Go to the Raster Tools tab in AutoCAD. If this option is not visible, it may need to be activated through the Options menu. In the command line, type “OPTIONS,” then navigate to the Files tab, and expand the Support File Search Path to include your installed version.

3. Clean Up the Image
   Locate the Cleanup button on the Edit panel. Use the Deskew option to straighten and properly align your image—this will assist in accuracy during tracing.

4. Layer Management
   Create a new layer specifically for tracing. This helps keep your drawing organized and allows for easier modifications later.

5. Trace Over the Image
   Using AutoCAD’s drawing tools, begin tracing the pertinent parts of the raster image on your new layer.

Inserting an Image Without References

If you prefer to insert an image directly into your drawing without linking it as a reference, use the following method:

1. Copy the Image
   Start by copying the image file you wish to insert. This can be done by selecting the image in its original location and pressing CTRL+C.

2. Access Paste Special
   Switch to AutoCAD, and in the Edit menu, select “Paste Special.” This opens up a dialog box with various options.

3. Select Your Paste Options
   Choose the "Paste" option, ensuring that you select "Picture (Metafile)" in the available formats, then click "OK."

4. Position Your Image
   After pasting, click within your drawing area to place the image at your desired insertion point.

Editing Raster Images

Post-insertion, images can often require adjustments:

1. Accessing Image Modification Tools
   Select the image, navigate to the Modify menu, and then choose "Object" followed by "Image." This opens up options to refine the image, including Adjust, Quality, Transparency, and Frame.

2. Using the IMAGEADJUST Dialog Box
   Through the IMAGEADJUST dialog, you can modify attributes like brightness and contrast to achieve the desired visibility of the raster image within your drawing.

3. Clipping and Cropping
   If necessary, use the Clip Image option to create boundaries for the visible area of the raster image. Specify the shape of the clipping area (polygonal or rectangular) as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I insert a JPEG into AutoCAD 2025?
Yes, JPEGs can be inserted into AutoCAD 2025 using the "Paste Special" feature as described above.

2. How do I change the scale of an inserted raster image?
To change the scale after insertion, select the image and use the grip points to drag or input specific dimension values for a more precise adjustment.

3. Is it possible to adjust the transparency of a raster image in AutoCAD?
Absolutely. By selecting the image, you can access the Modify Object options where you can set the transparency level to ensure your drawing’s elements remain visible beneath the image.