How To Delete Shape Fonts In AutoCAD?

Deleting Shape Fonts in AutoCAD

Deleting shape fonts, especially SHX files, in AutoCAD can be a necessary task for maintaining the integrity of your drawings. Below are the detailed steps to efficiently remove these shape fonts from your projects.

Step 1: Identify the SHX File Reference

Begin by examining your drawing to locate the objects or line types associated with the missing SHX file. This is crucial because remnants of these references can prevent you from purging the file.

1. Zoom through your drawing and look for any text or lines with symbols indicating a missing font.
2. You can also use the LIST command to check the properties of objects. This may reveal if they are utilizing any missing SHX files.

Step 2: Change Linetype Assignments

Once you identify the objects linked to the missing SHX file:

1. Select the object or linetype in your drawing.
2. Right-click and choose the Properties option to access the properties palette.
3. Change the linetype to one that does not reference the missing SHX file.

If your drawing is comprised of multiple similar objects, consider using the MATCHPROP command to apply the new properties to all relevant elements quickly.

Step 3: Remove Affected Objects

If certain objects solely rely on the missing SHX file, you might need to delete them:

1. Select the object or set of objects you wish to remove using any selection method (e.g., window or crossing selection).
2. Press the Delete key, or right-click and choose Erase from the context menu to remove these items from the drawing.

Step 4: Purge the SHX File

After altering or removing the affected objects, you can proceed to purge the SHX file reference:

1. Navigate to the Home tab.
2. Click on the Purge button in the Modify panel.
3. In the dialog box, find the SHX file reference and select it for removal. Once confirmed, the missing reference will be purged from your drawing.

Step 5: Clean Up and Save Changes

Ultimately, it is beneficial to review your drawing after purging:

1. Run the AUDIT command to check for any errors in the drawing and resolve anything that may still be causing issues.
2. Save your drawing under a new file name to keep your previous version intact while ensuring that the current version is clean from any unwanted SHX file references.

FAQ

1. What are SHX files in AutoCAD?
SHX files are shape files used in AutoCAD that define characters for fonts or shapes. They contain both information about how to display text and geometric shapes, allowing for customized text representation in your drawings.

2. How can I find missing SHX files?
To find missing SHX files, look for objects with incorrect text or shapes in your drawing. You can also run the FIND command and search for references to the missing files specifically.

3. Can I use alternative fonts if SHX files are missing?
Yes, you can substitute missing SHX fonts with other available fonts in AutoCAD. Navigate to the Properties panel of the affected text objects and change the font to a standard one included with AutoCAD, or another SHX file you possess.