Are you struggling to print the Defpoint layer in AutoCAD? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this tutorial, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of printing the Defpoint layer in AutoCAD. So, let’s get started!
What is the Defpoint Layer?
Before we dive into the printing process, let’s understand what the Defpoint layer is. The Defpoint layer is a special layer in AutoCAD that is automatically created when dimensions are added to your drawing. This layer contains all the dimension points and does not plot or show up when you print your drawing by default.
Step 1: Accessing Layer Properties
In order to print the Defpoint layer, we first need to access the Layer Properties Manager. To do this, navigate to the Home tab on the ribbon and click on the Layer Properties button.
Note: You can also access the Layer Properties Manager by typing ‘LA’ in the command line and pressing Enter.
Step 2: Unchecking “Plot” for Defpoints
Once you have opened the Layer Properties Manager, locate and select the Defpoints layer from the list of layers. In most cases, it can be found at the top of the list.
Next, uncheck the “Plot” option for the Defpoints layer. By default, this option is checked which prevents it from being plotted or printed.
Troubleshooting Tip:
If you cannot find the Defpoints layer in your Layer Properties Manager, make sure that it is not frozen or turned off. If it is frozen or turned off, simply thaw or turn on this layer to make it visible.
Step 3: Setting Up Plotting Options
Now that we have made the Defpoints layer printable, we need to configure our plotting options to include this layer.
To do this, navigate to the Output tab on the ribbon and click on the Plot button. Alternatively, you can type ‘PLOT’ in the command line and press Enter.
Troubleshooting Tip:
If you are unable to find the Output tab on your ribbon, you might be using an older version of AutoCAD. In that case, you can access the Plot dialog box by typing ‘PLOT’ in the command line and pressing Enter.
Step 4: Selecting Printer and Paper Size
In the Plot dialog box, select your desired printer from the list of available printers.
Next, choose a suitable paper size for your printout. You can select from a variety of standard paper sizes or specify a custom paper size if required.
Step 5: Configuring Plot Settings
Now it’s time to configure our plot settings to include the Defpoints layer.
Under the Plot Settings section in the Plot dialog box, click on the “Plot style table (pen assignments)” dropdown menu and select “Monochrome.ctb” or any other plot style table that suits your requirements.
Troubleshooting Tip:
If you do not see “Monochrome.ctb” or cannot find a suitable plot style table for your needs, you may need to create a custom plot style table or consult with your CAD manager or IT department for assistance.
Step 6: Checking Print Preview
Before finalizing our printout, it’s always a good idea to check the print preview.
In the Plot dialog box, click on the “Preview” button to open the print preview window. This will allow you to review how your drawing will look when printed.
Step 7: Printing the Defpoint Layer
Once you are satisfied with the print preview, click on the “OK” button in the Plot dialog box to initiate the printing process.
AutoCAD will now send the drawing to your selected printer, and you should see a hard copy of your drawing with the Defpoint layer included.
Congratulations! You have successfully printed the Defpoint layer in AutoCAD. Now you can share your drawings without worrying about missing dimension points.
- Step 1: Accessing Layer Properties
- Step 2: Unchecking “Plot” for Defpoints
- Step 3: Setting Up Plotting Options
- Step 4: Selecting Printer and Paper Size
- Step 5: Configuring Plot Settings
- Step 6: Checking Print Preview
- Step 7: Printing the Defpoint Layer
We hope this tutorial has been helpful in guiding you through the process of printing the Defpoint layer in AutoCAD. Now you can ensure that all essential dimension points are included in your printed drawings.
If you encounter any issues or have further questions, feel free to consult the AutoCAD documentation or seek assistance from a CAD expert. Happy printing!