How to Change Default Linetype in AutoCAD

Understanding Linetype in AutoCAD

Linetypes are visual characteristics assigned to geometric entities in AutoCAD that dictate how they appear on the screen and in prints. This can include variations such as dashed lines, dotted lines, hidden lines, and more. The default linetype will apply to any new objects created unless otherwise specified.

Steps to Change the Default Linetype in AutoCAD

1. Access the Linetype Manager:

   • Begin by navigating to the Home tab on the ribbon at the top of your AutoCAD workspace.
   • Locate the Properties panel, and find the Linetype drop-down menu.

2. Open the Linetype Manager:

   • Click on the Linetype drop-down menu and select “Other…” This action opens the Linetype Manager dialog box where you can find all defined linetypes.

3. Select a New Linetype:

   • In the Linetype Manager dialog, you will see a list of available linetypes.
   • Highlight the linetype that you want to set as the default.

4. Set as Current:

   • Click the “Set Current” button after selecting your desired linetype. This will change the current object linetype to your selected choice.
5. Apply Changes:
   • To ensure that the new default linetype is applied throughout your drawings, click “OK” to exit the Linetype Manager.
   • The current linetype will now apply to all new objects created after this change.

Adjusting Linetype Scale

Importance of Linetype Scale

Linetype scale can affect how linetypes are displayed. If the scale isn’t set appropriately, you may see lines that don’t appear as intended (e.g., dashed lines show up as solid).

Steps to Adjust Linetype Scale

1. Access the Command Line:

   • At the command line interface, type LTSCALE and press Enter.

2. Enter a New Scale Value:

   • You will be prompted to input a value for the linetype scale. Enter a value commensurate with your drawing scale (commonly starting with 1.0).
3. Confirm Changes:
   • After entering the desired value, press Enter to confirm. Check your objects to ensure they display correctly according to the new scale.

Additional Configuration for Displaying Linetypes

Configuring Related Variables

To accurately represent linetypes in both model space and paper space, modifying specific system variables is essential.

1. Set the CELTSCALE variable:

   • Type CELTSCALE in the command line and set it to a suitable value (typically 1.0 if you want consistent behavior).

2. Adjusting PSLTSCALE:

   • Type PSLTSCALE and set it to 1. This setting ensures that linetypes print appropriately in paper space.
3. Modify MSLTSCALE:
   • Finally, type MSLTSCALE and also set it to 1. This ensures proper linetype scaling within model space.

Verification

After adjusting the necessary parameters, create a test line using the newly set default linetype to ensure it displays as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the common linetypes available in AutoCAD?
   Common linetypes include continuous, dashed, dotted, centerline, and hidden lines, each serving specific functions in technical drawings.

2. How can I create a custom linetype?
   To create a custom linetype, you would define the pattern in a LIN file, specifying the desired geometric parameters and using a text descriptor if necessary.

3. What should I do if my linetypes aren’t showing up correctly after changing them?
   If linetypes are not displaying as intended, check your LTSCALE, PSLTSCALE, CELTSCALE, and MSLTSCALE values to ensure they are set correctly and troubleshoot any conflicts in your drawing settings.