Adding a printer to AutoCAD is an essential step in ensuring that your designs are accurately and efficiently printed. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of adding a printer to AutoCAD using simple steps.
Step 1: Open the Plot Dialog Box
To add a printer to AutoCAD, start by opening the plot dialog box. You can do this by either typing “PLOT” in the command line or by navigating to the “Output” tab in the ribbon and selecting “Plot.”
Step 2: Choose a Printer
Once the plot dialog box is open, you will see several settings and options. Look for the “Printer/Plotter” section, where you can select the desired printer from a drop-down menu. This menu contains all printers installed on your computer.
Note:
If you have not installed a printer on your computer yet, make sure to install one before proceeding with this tutorial.
Step 3: Configure Printer Settings
After selecting the printer, it’s time to configure the plot settings. These settings determine how your drawing will be printed. You can adjust parameters such as paper size, orientation, scale, and plot area.
Note:
The available settings may vary depending on your selected printer model and driver.
Step 4: Set Plot Area
In AutoCAD, you have two options for defining the plot area – Layout or Window. The Layout option prints everything within a specific layout tab, while the Window option prints only what is visible inside a defined window.
- To use Layout:
- Select “Layout” from the Plot Area section.
- Select the desired layout tab from the “Layout” drop-down menu.
- To use Window:
- Select “Window” from the Plot Area section.
- Click on the “Window..” button to define the printing area by selecting a window in your drawing.
Step 5: Plot Style Table (Pen Assignments)
The plot style table determines how your drawing objects will be printed. AutoCAD provides several plot style tables, including monochrome and color options. Choose the appropriate table based on your requirements.
Note:
If you are unsure which plot style table to select, consult with your company’s CAD standards or print service provider.
Step 6: Preview and Print
Before finalizing the printing process, it’s a good idea to preview how your drawing will look when printed. To do this, click on the “Preview” button in the plot dialog box. This allows you to check for any potential issues and make necessary adjustments.
Once you are satisfied with the preview, click on the “Plot” button to start printing. Ensure that your printer is properly connected and has enough paper and ink or toner before initiating the print job.
Note:
If you encounter any errors during printing, double-check your printer settings or consult with your IT department for assistance.
Adding a printer to AutoCAD is a straightforward process that enables you to produce high-quality prints of your designs. By following these steps, you can ensure that your drawings are accurately translated onto paper.