Introduction to DWG Compare in AutoCAD 2019
The latest iteration of AutoCAD, 2019, introduces a significant feature known as DWG Compare. This tool streamlines the process of identifying revisions in drawings, offering a user-friendly way to compare two versions of a design and highlight their differences, which is essential in the fast-paced world of design and architecture.
Understanding DWG Compare
DWG Compare is designed to help users detect alterations between two revisions of any given drawing. This capability is especially beneficial for spotting changes, analyzing clashes, and assessing constructability. For example, when working with two versions of a floor plan, DWG Compare allows users to quickly identify even the smallest modifications that could impact project outcomes.
Accessing DWG Compare
To utilize DWG Compare, navigate through different menus in AutoCAD. This tool can be found in three main locations:
- AutoCAD Application Menu: Access it when no drawing is active.
- Collaborate Tab: Select it directly from the ribbon.
- Command Line: Simply type “COMPARE” to initiate the function.
When a drawing is active, you’ll find DWG Compare under the Drawing Utilities option.
Launching a DWG Comparison
With all settings in place, you can start a comparison effortlessly. Through the Collaborate tab, a dropdown menu presents current and recently accessed drawings. If the active drawing is saved, it will automatically be selected as DWG1 in the comparison dialog. Users have the option to browse and select another drawing from their files using intuitive navigation buttons.
Reviewing Comparison Results
Using DWG Compare will not modify your original files. Instead, the comparison results appear in a new drawing. The items identified in this comparison are categorized into three groups: elements exclusive to the first drawing, elements exclusive to the second drawing, and elements that remain unchanged between both.
Users can manage these results through a special Compare ribbon tab, which offers control over how differences are displayed. This feature includes:
- Highlighting Changes: Differences are color-coded—green indicates elements present in the first drawing, while red marks elements added in the second. Unchanged items are shown in grey.
- Editing Options: Users can modify colors, view drawing information, and toggle individual categories of changes on or off.
Detailed Control Options in the Compare Tab
The Compare ribbon contains three essential controls:
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Comparison Tools: These tools let you display or hide differences, change color settings for specific categories, and access information about the drawings being compared.
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Compare Filter Options: Adjust whether text and hatch patterns are included in the comparison according to your needs. The default setting includes text but excludes hatch patterns.
- Change Set Management: Control how revision clouds are displayed and configure their appearance. Adjust the “Margin” to manage how closely related changes are grouped.
New Commands and System Variables
To support DWG Compare, AutoCAD 2019 includes various new commands and system variables that enhance the functionality. These additions provide users with more flexibility and control over the comparison process.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does DWG Compare differ from previous versions?
DWG Compare in AutoCAD 2019 is a significant upgrade from earlier versions, such as AutoCAD 2025, offering enhanced tools for detecting drawing changes and better user interface integration.
2. Will using DWG Compare affect my original drawings?
No, using DWG Compare does not alter your existing files. The results are displayed in a separate comparison drawing.
3. Can I customize the appearance of the comparison results?
Yes, the Compare ribbon allows for customization of colors, visibility of categories, and other settings to make the results clearer and more relevant to your project needs.