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How to Print to Scale in AutoCAD 2018

Understanding Scale in AutoCAD

Printing to scale in AutoCAD requires a systematic approach to ensure that drawings are accurately represented on paper. When working in AutoCAD, the model space operates at a full-size scale, typically 1:1. Consequently, adjustments must be made for printing various dimensions accurately.

1. Prepare Your Drawing

Before initiating the printing process, ensure that all elements are sized correctly. If the drawing is currently in meters, convert the dimensions to millimeters to align with ISO paper size standards.

• Select All Objects: Press Ctrl + A to highlight all objects in the model space.
• Use the Scale Command: Enter the scale command into the command bar and hit Enter.

2. Set Up the Layout Viewport

To prepare for printing at a specified scale, a layout viewport needs to be configured properly.

• Create or Access a Layout: Switch to the layout tab where your viewport is located, or create a new layout by selecting the appropriate options from the layout panel.
• Adjust Viewport: Click on the viewport boundary. In the properties panel, look for the ‘Display Locked’ option and set it to No to enable editing.

3. Choose the Desired Scale

The scale for the viewport must be defined to maintain proportions when printing.

• Access Properties Palette: Right-click on the viewport and select Properties.
• Set Standard Scale: In the properties palette, locate ‘Standard Scale’. Choose the scale you want from the drop-down list. This scale dictates how the size will be represented on the printed page.

4. Plotting the Drawing

Follow these steps to begin the printing process:

• Output Tab Selection: With the viewport still active, click on the Output tab at the top of your workspace.
• Initiate Plot Command: Select Plot from the options presented.
• Printer Selection: In the Plot dialog box, choose ‘DWG to PDF’ from the Printer/Plotter dropdown menu.
• Select Paper Size: Choose the appropriate paper size for your output from the Paper Size dropdown.
• Configure Settings: Make any additional adjustments in the remaining settings to meet your specific requirements.

5. Scaling Options in Printer Settings

When preparing to print, check the scaling options in the printer settings.

• Open Printer Properties: Access the Printer Properties window.
• Check Scaling Options: Look for ‘No Scaling’ under Printing Options to ensure the final printed version matches your intended output size.

6. Final Steps to Print

Once all settings have been configured, proceed to print:

• Review the Settings: Double-check all selected options, ensuring that the scale, paper size, and other settings are correct.
• Initiate the Print Command: Click OK or Print to begin printing your drawing.

FAQs

What should I do if my drawing does not fit the page when printing?
Ensure that the content of the drawing is appropriately scaled and fits within the layout margins. You may also want to review your plot settings and adjust margins accordingly.

Can I print a PDF from AutoCAD to scale?
Yes, you can print a PDF to scale by setting up the correct scale in your viewport, and following similar steps as above to select the desired PDF output settings.

How can I avoid issues with scaling in AutoCAD 2025?
Always ensure that your drawing is scaled to the correct size in model space, convert measurements if necessary, and double-check the layout viewport properties before printing. It’s also helpful to use a PDF viewer like Adobe Reader for printing instead of web browser applications.