How To Print Xref In AutoCAD?

Understanding Xref in AutoCAD

Xrefs, or external references, are essential tools in AutoCAD that allow users to incorporate and manage multiple drawing files into a single project. This can be especially useful in larger projects where different components are designed separately.

Steps to Print Xref in AutoCAD

Step 1: Open Your Drawing

Start AutoCAD and open the drawing file that contains the xrefs you wish to print. Ensure that all necessary xref files are correctly attached and visible.

Step 2: Access the Layout Tab

Navigate to the layout tab that you want to print from. This is where you will configure the print settings for your drawing.

Step 3: Configure the Page Setup

1. Click on the "File" menu.
2. Select "Page Setup Manager."
3. Choose the layout to modify and click on “Modify.”

Step 4: Select the Print Style

1. In the Page Setup dialog that appears, locate the “Plot style” dropdown menu.
2. For monochrome printing, select the appropriate .ctb file. For instance, choose "monochrome.ctb" to ensure that all colors are printed in black and white.

Step 5: Set the Print Options

1. Confirm that the "Plot with plot styles" checkbox is selected.
2. Adjust the Paper Size and other properties according to your project requirements.
3. Click OK to confirm changes.

Step 6: Review Xref Appearance

Before finalizing the print:

• Ensure that the xrefs appear in the desired visibility. Xrefs can sometimes appear faded to distinguish them from the main drawing elements. You may adjust colors and transparency settings in the Layer Properties Manager.

Step 7: Print the Drawing

1. Press Ctrl + P (or Cmd + P on Mac) to open the Print dialog.
2. In the Print dialog, verify all settings and options for your print job.
3. Finally, click "OK" or "Print" to generate the output.

Managing Xref Color and Display

Changing Xref Color

If you want your xrefs to appear in a lighter or specific color, follow these steps:

1. Open the Layer Properties Manager.
2. Select the layers associated with the xrefs.
3. Change their colors to a lighter hue or the desired shade.

Adjusting Xref Display Settings

To manage how xrefs are displayed:

1. Select the xref drawing.
2. Open the Properties palette.
3. Navigate to the Display tab and adjust the settings as necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does my xref look faded when printing?
Xrefs are intentionally displayed in a faded state to differentiate them from project elements. This setting can be adjusted in the Properties palette under the xref’s display options.

2. How can I print xrefs in color instead of black and white?
To print xrefs in color, ensure that you select a color plot style in the Page Setup rather than the monochrome option. Adjust the xref colors in the Layer Properties as needed.

3. Can I change the order of xrefs when printing?
Yes, you can change the order in which xrefs appear by using the Draw Order command. This allows you to send specific xrefs to the back or bring them forward, affecting how they are printed relative to other elements.