Understanding Lineweights in AutoCAD Prints
Lineweights in AutoCAD determine the thickness of lines when printed, impacting the clarity and readability of drawings. Properly displaying lineweights in prints requires careful setup and configuration within the software.
Steps to Configure Lineweights in AutoCAD for Printing
1. Open Your Drawing
Begin by launching AutoCAD and opening the DWG file you wish to print. Ensure your drawing is ready for review before making adjustments to lineweights.
2. Set Up Lineweights in Object Properties
To assign specific lineweights to objects:
- Use the Properties palette by selecting the object.
- Locate the Lineweight option within the palette.
- Choose the desired lineweight from the dropdown menu.
Make sure to apply different lineweights for varying aspects of your drawing, such as borders or important design elements, to enhance clarity.
3. Access the Plot Setup
Once you have assigned lineweights:
- Go to the Output tab on the ribbon.
- Select the Plot dropdown to open the Plot dialog.
This section provides various options to finalize your print settings.
4. Choose a Plot Style Table
This step is crucial for controlling how lineweights are rendered:
- In the Plot dialog, find the Plot Style Table dropdown.
- Select a plot style that corresponds to your preferences, or create a new one if needed.
A plot style table (*.ctb or *.stb) allows for customized control over various print options, including lineweights.
5. Verify Plot Style Settings
Before finalizing your plot:
- Click on the “Edit” button next to the selected plot style.
- Check the Lineweight settings within the plot style configuration to ensure they match your drawing requirements.
Adjust any additional settings such as color and screening to enhance the printed output.
6. Print Preview
A preview can help you verify that lineweights display correctly:
- Click on the Preview button at the bottom of the Plot dialog.
- Review the output to ensure all lineweights appear as desired.
If adjustments are needed, return to the plot settings or modify lineweights before proceeding.
7. Finalize and Print
Once satisfied with the preview:
- Click OK in the Plot dialog to send the file to the printer.
- Ensure the selected printer is set up properly to avoid any issues with lineweight rendering.
Monitor the print job to confirm the final output meets your expected quality standards.
FAQ
1. Why aren’t my lineweights appearing correctly when I print?
Lineweights may not display properly if the plot style table is incorrect or if the printer settings are not compatible. Ensure you are using the correct plot style and check for updated printer drivers.
2. Can I save my lineweight settings for future use?
Yes, you can create and save a custom plot style table with your preferred lineweight settings. This allows for consistent use across different projects.
3. What is the difference between continuous and variable lineweights?
Continuous lineweights maintain a uniform thickness throughout, while variable lineweights can change based on plot styles or object properties, offering more dimension and clarity in designs.
