How to Print Plan in AutoCAD

Understanding the Print Area in AutoCAD

Printing plans in AutoCAD can seem daunting, but by knowing the steps and options available, the process can be efficient and straightforward. Here’s how to set your print area effectively in AutoCAD, catering to your specific needs while ensuring a quality output.

Step 1: Access the Print Dialog

To initiate the printing process, press Ctrl+P. This action brings up the Plot dialog box, which is the control center for all printing options.

Step 2: Select the Printer and Paper Size

Within the Plot dialog:

• Choose your desired printer from the list. If you wish to print to PDF or utilize a specific plotter, make that selection here.
• Next, adjust the paper size if necessary. You can select from predefined sizes or customize it according to your project requirements.

Step 3: Define the Print Area

Determine what section of your drawing you intend to print by selecting the appropriate option in the Print Area section. The choices generally include:

• Layout: Outputs everything included in the layout’s printable area.
• Limits: Prints all objects within the drawing limits you set.
• Extents: Prints all the objects in the drawing, ensuring nothing is left out.
• Display: Only prints the visible area as shown on your screen.
• View: Prints the current view, which is useful for focused areas.
• Window: Allows you to specify a custom area by clicking two points on your drawing.

Step 4: Configure Additional Settings

After selecting your print area:

• Check additional settings that might impact the print, like scaling options and plot style settings, which can adjust line weights and colors.
• If you’re satisfied with the settings, click OK to proceed.

Printing Specific Sections of the Drawing

If a specific segment requires printing:

1. Go to the desired layout tab where the drawing is displayed.
2. Ensure that the section you want is visible.
3. Use the Window option under the Print Area to select the area for printing by clicking and dragging over the desired part.

Printing Thicker Lines

If you need lines to appear bolder on the final print:

1. Navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon and open the Layers Panel.
2. In the Layer Properties Manager, locate the Lineweight column and select it.
3. Adjust the line weight as desired in the Lineweight dialog box, making sure it applies to the layer you are using.

Batch Printing Multiple Drawings

If you are looking to print several drawings at once:

1. Select Print followed by Batch Plot from the menu.
2. Set your output preferences, such as choosing PDF format.
3. Add the sheets you want to print by clicking Add Sheets.
4. Adjust any settings as necessary and finalize by clicking Publish.

Managing Viewports in AutoCAD

When you require multiple views of a model, layout viewports can be extremely beneficial. To insert and manage viewports:

1. Click on a layout tab to begin.
2. Choose Layout Viewports from the Layout tab.
3. Define your viewport by clicking and dragging on the layout area. Adjust the scale as necessary to fit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I ensure that my drawings fit properly on the selected paper size?
Make sure to adjust your scale settings appropriately in the Plot dialog. You may also utilize the fit to paper option to scale down your drawing automatically.

2. What if my print is too light or too dark?
Check the plot style settings to ensure that they are correctly configured. Adjust line weights and colors as necessary to achieve the desired contrast and quality.

3. How can I preview my print before actually printing it?
Use the Preview option in the Plot dialog. This enables you to view how your drawing will look once printed, allowing for any last-minute adjustments.