Understanding Paper Sizes in AutoCAD
Adding the correct paper size for printing in AutoCAD is essential for producing accurate drawings. Knowing how to set the paper size can enhance the presentation of your projects and ensure results align with your design intent.
Accessing Printer Settings
To begin the process of adding a paper size, first, access the printer settings in your AutoCAD environment. This can be achieved by following these steps:
- Navigate to the Start menu on your computer and hover over the Settings option.
- Click on Printers to open the list of available printers.
- Identify the printer you will be using for plotting. Right-click on it, and select the Properties option from the dropdown menu.
Selecting Paper Size
Once the printer properties are open, the next step is to select your desired paper size:
- Locate the Paper tab within the printer properties dialog box. This tab contains all available options for paper selection.
- Look for the Paper Size box and choose from the available presets. If your required size is not listed, there is an option to create a user-defined size.
- After selecting the desired paper size, click OK to apply your settings.
Creating a Custom Paper Size
If the standard paper sizes do not meet your needs, you can create a custom paper size by following these steps:
- In the Paper Size box, select the User Defined option.
- A dialog box will appear where you can enter a name for your new paper size in the Paper Size Name field.
- You will also need to specify the dimensions of your custom size in either centimeters or inches, depending on your preference.
- Confirm your new settings by clicking OK and then close the printer properties.
Changing Page Setup in AutoCAD
After setting the desired paper size in the printer properties, you can adjust the layout for plotting in AutoCAD:
- Go to the layout tab that you wish to plot.
- Click on the Output tab, then select Plot from the panel.
- In the Plot dialog box that appears, make sure to select the correct printer from the dropdown list.
- In the Paper Size section, ensure that your newly created or selected paper size is displayed correctly.
- Review other plotting settings such as scale, plot area, and orientation, and make adjustments as needed before plotting your drawing.
FAQs
What types of paper sizes are available in AutoCAD?
AutoCAD includes various standard paper sizes such as Letter, Legal, and A sizes. You can also create customized paper sizes suited for specific project requirements.
How can I ensure the plot is correctly scaled?
In the plot settings, select the appropriate scale and verify that your plot area is defined correctly to match the intended layout and paper size. Using the preview option can help confirm the scale before finalizing.
Can I save my custom paper size for future use?
Yes, once you create a custom paper size, it is saved in your printer settings. This allows you to select it easily for future plotting sessions without needing to redefine it each time.
