Understanding Print Preview in AutoCAD
Printing a design in AutoCAD requires a clear understanding of the print preview feature, which allows you to see how your drawing will appear once printed. This critical step ensures that everything is laid out correctly and prevents unnecessary printouts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Print Preview
Follow these steps to effectively use the print preview feature in AutoCAD:
1. Open the Desired Layout: Start by navigating to the layout or model view that contains the drawing you wish to print. Make sure any necessary layers are turned on and visible.
2. Access the Output Tab: Locate the Output tab on the AutoCAD ribbon at the top of the interface. This tab is dedicated to all output-related functions.
3. Initiate the Plot Command: Within the Output tab, find the Plot panel. Click on the “Plot” button to bring up the Plot dialog box, which contains all necessary settings for printing.
4. Preview Your Print: Once the Plot dialog box opens, look for the “Preview” button. Click on it to initiate the print preview process. The preview will display how your drawing will appear on paper, allowing you to review it visually.
5. Adjust the View: If you need to navigate within the preview, right-click on the preview screen. A context menu will appear, offering options such as Plot, Pan, Zoom, and Zoom Window. Use these tools to adjust the view and focus on specific areas of your drawing.
6. Exit the Preview: To exit the preview view, simply press the “ESC” key. This will return you to the Plot dialog box, where you can make any necessary adjustments before finalizing the print.
Troubleshooting Common Print Preview Issues
Occasionally, users may encounter difficulties with the print preview function. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Blank Print Preview: If the preview window is blank, it often indicates an issue with your scale settings. Ensure that your scale is appropriate for the layout size by checking if the “Scale to Fit” option is selected. This adjustment can reveal the drawing if it’s currently set to an impractical scale.
Preview Takes Too Long: In case the preview process is taking longer than expected, consider adjusting the variable settings. Using the HPQUICKPREVIEW command can speed up the process. Enter this command, followed by adjusting the settings as needed to suit the speed requirements.
FAQs
1. Can I print directly from the preview without returning to the Plot dialog?
No, the print function must be initiated from the Plot dialog box. The preview is solely for reviewing the layout before printing.
2. What should I do if my drawing appears distorted in the preview?
Distortions in the preview can usually be resolved by checking your scaling settings and ensuring that the objects are within the plotting area. Adjust your layout settings accordingly.
3. Is it possible to customize print settings for different layouts in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can customize print settings for each layout by accessing the Page Setup Manager and modifying individual page setups to tailor them to specific needs.
