How to Load CTB File in AutoCAD 2017

Steps to Load a CTB File in AutoCAD 2017

Loading a Color-dependent Plot Style Table (CTB) in AutoCAD is essential for managing plot styles and ensuring your drawings print correctly. Follow these detailed steps to successfully load a CTB file in AutoCAD 2017.

Step 1: Open AutoCAD and Access the Style Manager

Begin by launching AutoCAD. On the command line, input STYLESMANAGER and press Enter. This command opens the Style Manager, where you can manage your plot style tables.

Step 2: Locate the Plot Style Table Folder

Once in the Style Manager, you will see a navigational tree on the left. Look for the folder designated for plot styles. This folder is where AutoCAD stores and retrieves your CTB and STB files.

Step 3: Import CTB Files

To import your CTB files, copy all desired CTB (.ctb) and STB (.stb) files into the directory opened in the Style Manager. Ensure that the files are not corrupted and are compatible with AutoCAD 2017.

Step 4: Refresh AutoCAD

After placing your CTB files in the correct folder, it may be necessary to restart AutoCAD to refresh the available plot styles. Close the program and reopen it to update the list of plot styles visible in your PLOT dialog.

Step 5: Assign the CTB File to Your Drawing

1. Open the drawing for which you want to assign the CTB file.
2. Navigate to the layout tab or the Model tab you wish to configure.
3. Click on File in the upper menu, and then select Page Setup Manager.
4. Look for the list of plot styles and choose the one corresponding to your CTB file.
5. Under the Plot Style Table (pen assignments), select your newly added CTB.

Step 6: Save Your Settings

After selecting your CTB file, make sure to click OK or Save. This step ensures that AutoCAD saves your changes and applies the new plot style to the current layout or model.

Step 7: Verify Your Plot Style Configuration

To verify that the CTB file has been properly assigned:

1. Go to the Print menu and choose Page Setup.
2. Check to see if your selected CTB file appears under the Plot Style Table settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are CTB files used for in AutoCAD?
CTB files define how colors are mapped to line weights, screening, and other plotted attributes. They standardize the appearance of drawings for printing.

2. Can I convert a CTB file to an STB file?
Yes, AutoCAD provides functionality to convert CTB files (color-dependent) into STB files (named plot styles) and vice versa, depending on your project requirements.

3. Why can’t I see my CTB file in the Page Setup?
If your CTB file does not appear, ensure it is correctly placed in the plot style directory and that AutoCAD has been restarted to refresh its list of plot styles. It’s also essential to check if the drawing is set to use color-dependent styles.