How to Plotter in AutoCAD LT?

Understanding Plotters in AutoCAD LT

Adding and managing plotters in AutoCAD LT involves several crucial steps, which require some familiarity with the software’s layout and utilities. Here’s a detailed guide on how to incorporate plotters into your AutoCAD LT workflow.

Step-by-Step: Adding a Plotter

1. Open Your Drawing:
   Begin by opening the drawing in AutoCAD LT where you intend to use your plotter.

2. Access Page Setup Manager:
   Navigate to the layout tab relevant to your drawing. Here, you’ll find options related to printing or plotting. Look for the Page Setup Manager, a vital tool for configuring your plotter settings.

3. Modify an Existing Setup:
   Within the Page Setup Manager, select the page setup you wish to modify. Click on the Modify button to access its settings.

4. Choose the Plotter:
   In the dialog that appears, locate the Printer/Plotter section. From the dropdown list, select the plotter you wish to add or modify. If your desired plotter isn’t listed, it may need to be installed first.

5. Configure Settings:
   After selecting the plotter, adjust relevant settings like paper size and quality, which determine how your output will appear on paper. Ensure that all configurations align with your project’s requirements.

6. Save Your Changes:
   Once you have made all necessary adjustments, click OK to save the settings. The modified page setup will now use the selected plotter for all print jobs.

Changing the Default Plotter

To streamline your plotting process, setting a default plotter can save time on repetitive tasks.

1. Open Options:
   Type OPTIONS into the command line and press Enter.

2. Navigate to Plot and Publish:
   Within the Options dialog, switch to the Plot and Publish tab.

3. Set Default Plotting Device:
   In the Default plot settings for new drawings section, select the option labeled ‘Use as default output device’. Choose your preferred plotter from the list provided.

4. Finalize Settings:
   Click OK to finalize your choice. This plotter will now be the default selection for all new drawings until changed.

Utilizing Plot Styles

Understanding the difference between plot styles is essential for precise output in AutoCAD LT.

1. Identify Plot Style Tables:
   Plot style tables, such as CTB and STB, determine how colors and line weights are represented in print. Ensure you are aware of which style is active in your drawing. You can check this in the Page Setup Manager.

2. Adjust Styles if Needed:
   If certain styles seem missing or incorrect, revisit the plot style table settings. Drawing may default to an STB file while expecting a CTB file. Make sure to adjust this in the settings accordingly.

Integrating New Plotters

Adding new plotters or configuring existing ones through the Add-a-Plotter wizard simplifies the process.

1. Launch the Wizard:
   Access the wizard through the Tools > Wizards > Add Plotter menu. This wizard guides you through installation processes.

2. Follow the Prompts:
   The wizard provides step-by-step instructions. Ensure you choose the correct plotter model and define relevant configurations such as communication port and print quality.

3. Confirm Installation:
   After completing the wizard, confirm the plotter is available in your list of recognized printers.

FAQs

1. Can I use AutoCAD LT to print with different plotters?
   Yes, AutoCAD LT allows you to configure multiple plotters. You can change the active plotter in the Page Setup Manager as needed for different drawing projects.

2. What should I do if my plot styles are not showing up?
   Verify that your drawing is set to use the correct plot style table (CTB or STB). If necessary, reassign the plot style in the Page Setup Manager.

3. Is it possible to create custom plot styles in AutoCAD LT?
   Yes, you can create custom plot styles by modifying existing CTB or STB files, allowing unique configurations for different projects or output requirements.