How to Use Etransmit in AutoCAD?

Understanding eTransmit in AutoCAD

eTransmit is a useful feature in AutoCAD that helps streamline the sharing of drawing files and their associated resources. Whether you are sending files to a colleague or preparing documents for submission, eTransmit ensures that all necessary components are included.

How to Open eTransmit in AutoCAD

To begin using eTransmit, follow these steps:

1. Launch AutoCAD 2025.
2. Navigate to the File menu in the top left corner.
3. Select eTransmit from the dropdown options.
4. In the eTransmit dialog, click on Transmittal Setup.
5. Choose Modify to access various settings.

Here, you will find options that allow customization of how the eTransmit package is prepared. You can adjust path settings to consolidate all related AutoCAD files into a single directory.

What Constitutes an eTransmit File?

An eTransmit file is essentially a packaged collection of files designed for online transmission. When you create a transmittal package, it automatically gathers all pertinent resources along with your primary drawing files. This includes external references (xrefs), fonts, and other necessary elements that your drawing depends on.

Steps to Create an eTransmit Package

Creating an eTransmit package is straightforward. Follow these detailed instructions:

1. Open your drawing in AutoCAD 2025.
2. Click on the Application button in the upper left corner.
3. Navigate to Publish and select eTransmit.
4. In the Create Transmittal dialog box, specify the Transmittal File Folder by clicking Browse.
5. Select the folder where you want the package to be stored, and then click Open.
6. Confirm by clicking OK to exit the Modify Transmittal Setup dialog box.

Once the package is set, you can add specific files if needed. Utilize the Files Tree or Files Table tab to include additional elements by clicking on Add File.

Sending CAD Files with Xrefs

To share CAD files that contain external references, perform these steps:

1. Open your main drawing in AutoCAD.
2. Access the Insert tab and find the Reference panel.
3. Click Attach to open the file selection dialog.
4. Choose the necessary files and click Open.
5. In the Attach External Reference dialog, ensure you select Attachment under Reference Type, which maintains the relationship between your main drawing and xrefs.

This process helps in keeping all elements linked, ensuring the recipient has access to everything needed.

Understanding the Difference Between BIND and Insert

When dealing with external references in AutoCAD, it’s crucial to understand how BIND and Insert functions work:

• BIND: This option converts the xref into a block reference within your main drawing. The dependent objects become part of the drawing but retain a link that can be broken later.

• Insert: Like BIND, this command converts xrefs into block references; however, it merges named object definitions into the current drawing without adding any prefixes, offering a more seamless integration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I zip a DWG file using AutoCAD?

To zip a DWG file, browse to the Select DWG file to convert option. Choose your DWG files and click on Convert to ZIP. After the compression is complete, you can save the ZIP file to your desired location.

Q2: Is there a way to spell check my AutoCAD drawing?

Yes, you can spell check your content in AutoCAD by right-clicking inside the In-Place Text Editor. Select Editor Settings and then Check Spelling. Misspelled words will be underlined, allowing you to correct them easily.

Q3: How can I compare two CAD files in AutoCAD?

Utilize the DWG Compare tool by going to the Application menu, then to Drawing Utilities, and selecting DWG Compare. This feature highlights the differences between the two drawings, displaying color-coded revisions and clouds for easy identification. You can even launch this tool without any drawings open.