What Is CTB and STB in AutoCAD?

Understanding CTB and STB in AutoCAD

AutoCAD offers users the capability to manage how drawings are plotted through two types of plot style files: CTB and STB. Understanding their distinctions and applications is essential for effective plotting and lineweight management.

What is CTB in AutoCAD?

CTB refers to “Color-dependent Plot Style Table.” When using a CTB file, the colors assigned to objects in your drawing determine the lineweights and other attributes when the drawing is printed. For instance, if a line is green, it may plot at a specific lineweight associated with that color. This method allows for quick visual interpretation of how elements will appear on paper based solely on their color.

What is STB in AutoCAD?

STB stands for “Named Plot Style Table.” Unlike CTB, STB files allow users to set lineweights and other attributes independently of the colors used in the drawing. This means that regardless of an object’s color, the user can specify how thick or thin a line should appear when printed. STB gives greater flexibility for users who require a consistent approach across different drawings, irrespective of color.

How to Choose Between CTB and STB

Making a decision on whether to use CTB or STB largely depends on your workflow. If it’s crucial for you to instantly see and understand how objects will appear based on color, CTB is advantageous. On the other hand, if you desire more control over the representation of each object without being restricted by their colors, STB is the more suitable choice.

How to Convert STB to CTB

To switch from STB to CTB in AutoCAD, follow these steps:

1. Initiate Conversion Command: Type CONVERTCTB into the AutoCAD command line and press Enter.
2. Select Existing STB File: Choose your STB file that you want to convert and save it in your desired location.
3. Use the Convert Styles Command: Type CONVERTPSTYLES and follow the prompts.
4. Confirm and Navigate: A warning will appear; confirm it and navigate to select the STB you previously created.

Steps to Install a CTB File

To incorporate a CTB file into your AutoCAD setup, use these steps:

1. Open Your Drawing: Load the drawing file that you want to modify.
2. Access Layout Tab: Click on the appropriate Layout tab that requires configuration.
3. Open Page Setup Manager: Go to File > Page Setup Manager, then choose Modify.
4. Select CTB File: From the Plot Style Table list, select the desired CTB file (e.g., monochrome.ctb).
5. Enable Plot Styles: Ensure the option for “Plot with plot styles” is checked and click OK.
6. Create the Output File: Proceed to create your PDF or print as required.

How to Change Plot Style Tables

1. Access AutoCAD Application Menu: Click on the Application menu and go to Print > Edit Plot Style Tables.
2. Select Active Plot Style: Look under the Active Plot Style Table section and pick the file to modify.
3. Open the Editor: Click on “Editor” to access detailed settings.
4. Edit Plot Styles: In the Plot Style Table Editor, find the plot styles you wish to alter and adjust the necessary properties.
5. Save Your Changes: Click “Save & Close” to apply the updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the main advantages of using STB over CTB?
STB offers greater flexibility as it decouples color from lineweights, allowing users to choose line thickness independently based on design needs rather than color.

2. Can I convert multiple STB files to CTB at once?
AutoCAD does not natively support batch converting STB files to CTB. Each file typically needs to be converted individually through the conversion commands.

3. Is there a way to create a custom plot style in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can create custom plot styles by opening the Plot Style Table Editor, where you can define new styles with unique settings for colors, lineweights, and other attributes.