Steps to Print from AutoCAD 2020
Preparing Your Drawing
Before you begin the printing process, ensure your drawing is ready. This includes making any necessary adjustments or annotations. Closely review your drawing for accuracy, as preparing it beforehand will streamline the printing.
Selecting the Layout
1. Open AutoCAD and navigate to the drawing area.
2. Locate the layout tabs at the bottom-left corner of the screen. If you want to print a specific layout, click on the required tab to activate it.
3. For multiple layouts, hold the Ctrl key while selecting the desired layout tabs.
Publishing Selected Layouts
1. Right-click on any of the selected layout tabs.
2. From the context menu, choose “Publish Selected Layouts.” This action will open the Publish dialog box.
Configuring Print Settings
1. In the Publish dialog box, look for the “Publish To:” drop-down menu.
2. Select “PDF” as your output format. This lets you create a PDF version of your drawing directly from AutoCAD.
Adjusting Plot Options
1. Click on “Plot Options” to access further configurations.
2. Here, adjust settings such as paper size, plot area, and scale to ensure the output matches your requirements.
Finalizing the Print Process
1. Once all settings are as desired, click the “Publish” button to proceed.
2. Select a location on your computer to save the PDF file. Assign a recognizable name to easily locate the file later.
Printing a DWG File Directly
1. If you prefer to print directly to a physical printer from AutoCAD, open the desired DWG file
2. Click the AutoCAD logo in the upper-left corner and choose “Open” (or press Ctrl+O) to browse your files and select the DWG you wish to print.
3. You can choose to print from either the Model view or a specific layout by adjusting the view settings accordingly.
Printing an Actual Size Drawing
To ensure your drawing prints at its actual size:
1. Select “File” then “Print” and proceed to “Drawing Sheet Setup.”
2. In the Drawing Scale section, input the appropriate scale you wish to use.
3. Confirm your changes and proceed with the printing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I convert a DWG file to PDF without AutoCAD?
You can use third-party software or online converters specifically designed to handle DWG files. Ensure that the software you choose supports the conversion format you need.
What should I do if my drawing does not fit the paper size I selected?
You may need to adjust the scale settings or choose a different paper size in the printing options to ensure your drawing fits correctly on the page.
Can I print multiple DWG files at once in AutoCAD?
Yes, using the Batch Plot feature, you can select multiple drawings, configure your settings, and then publish them all to PDF or another format simultaneously.
