AutoCAD is a powerful tool used by architects, engineers, and designers to create precise drawings and models. One common requirement in technical drawings is the need to plot grayscale images. In this tutorial, we will explore how to plot grayscale in AutoCAD.
Step 1: Setting up the Drawing
To begin plotting grayscale, you first need to set up your drawing correctly. Start by opening your drawing in AutoCAD and ensuring that all necessary layers are properly organized.
Note: It’s important to remember that grayscale plotting affects the entire drawing, so make sure you have a backup or duplicate file if needed.
Step 2: Accessing the Plot Dialog
To access the Plot dialog box, navigate to the “Output” tab on the Ribbon menu and click on “Plot.”
Step 3: Choosing a Plot Device
The next step is to choose a plot device. In the Plot dialog box, locate the “Name” dropdown menu under “Printer/Plotter.”
Here, you can select your desired plotter or printer. If you are unsure which one to choose, consult your printer manufacturer’s documentation for guidance.
Tip:
If you want to create a PDF file instead of printing directly, select a virtual PDF plotter from the list of available devices.
Step 4: Configuring Plot Settings
After selecting your plot device, click on the “Properties” button adjacent to it. This will open another dialog box where you can configure various plot settings.
- Paper Size: Choose an appropriate paper size for your intended output.
- Plot Area: Select the desired plot area. You can either choose to plot the entire drawing or a specific layout.
- Plot Scale: Set the plot scale according to your requirements. Ensure that it is suitable for grayscale plotting.
- Plot Style Table (pen assignments): This is where you specify the plot style table (CTB or STB) for grayscale plotting.
Step 5: Applying Grayscale Plot Style Table
To enable grayscale plotting, you need to apply a suitable plot style table. AutoCAD provides two types of plot style tables: Color-Dependent Plot Style Tables (CTB) and Named Plot Style Tables (STB).
If you are using a CTB file, select it from the “Plot Style Table” dropdown menu in the Plot dialog box. On the other hand, if you are using an STB file, click on the “Add or Edit Plot Style Tables” button and select the appropriate STB file.
Note:
If you don’t have a suitable CTB or STB file, you can create one by modifying an existing one or creating a new one from scratch.
Step 6: Previewing and Plotting
Once you have configured all the necessary settings, click on the “Preview” button in the Plot dialog box to see how your drawing will appear when plotted in grayscale. This allows you to make any final adjustments before printing or saving as a PDF.
Note: Previewing is especially helpful when working with complex drawings as it helps identify any potential issues that may arise during actual plotting.
Congratulations!
You have successfully learned how to plot grayscale in AutoCAD. By following these steps and configuring the appropriate plot settings, you can produce professional-looking grayscale output for your technical drawings.
Remember, accurate plotting is crucial in technical drawings, so always double-check your plot settings before finalizing the output.
Happy plotting!