AutoCAD

How to Change Background Color in AutoCAD 2016?

Changing the Background Color in AutoCAD 2016

Customizing the background color in AutoCAD can enhance your visual experience while working on projects. For users exploring how to switch to a white background in AutoCAD 2016, this guide outlines the steps to achieve that effortlessly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change the Background Color

  1. Access the Application Menu
    Locate the Application menu icon, usually represented by a big “A” in the upper-left corner of the workspace. Click on it to reveal the menu options.

  2. Navigate to Options
    From the drop-down menu, find and select the “Options” entry. This action will open the Options dialog box, which contains multiple tabs for different settings.

  3. Select the Display Tab
    Within the Options dialog, navigate to the “Display” tab. This section focuses on visual and graphical settings suited for your drawing environment.

  4. Open the Colors Dialog
    Within the Display tab, locate the group titled “Window Elements.” Here, click on the “Colors” button to access the Drawing Window Colors dialog box, where background settings can be adjusted.

  5. Choose the Context
    In the Drawing Window Colors dialog, locate the “Context” list. Here, you should see various options depending on your active workspace. Choose “3D parallel projection” to set the suitable context for changing the background.

  6. Select Uniform Background
    After selecting the context, direct your attention to the Interface elements settings and ensure “Uniform background” is selected. This setting allows for the overall background color adjustment.

  7. Pick Your Desired Color
    You’ll find a Color drop-down list. Click on this list and browse through the available color options. Select “white” to establish a clear and bright background for your workspace.

  8. Apply Changes
    Once you have selected the desired background color, look for an “Apply” button within the dialog box. Click this button to implement the selected color changes to your workspace.

  9. Finalize and Exit
    After applying the color, click “OK” to close the Drawing Window Colors dialog box, and again “OK” to exit the Options dialog. Your background should now be set to white.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I revert to the default background color in AutoCAD?
To return to the default background, follow the same steps to access the Drawing Window Colors dialog and select the original color that was set, usually a shade of dark gray.

2. Can I customize other aspects of the interface in AutoCAD?
Yes, AutoCAD allows extensive customization of various interface elements beyond just the background color, including crosshair colors and grid settings, all accessible from the Display tab.

3. Why does changing the background color matter during design work?
A well-chosen background color can decrease eye strain and improve visibility of your drawings, making it easier to focus on intricate details and enhance productivity during long working hours.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.