How to Open the DGN File in AutoCAD?

Opening a DGN File in AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a powerful software widely used by engineers, architects, and designers for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings. While AutoCAD supports various file formats, it may not directly open a DGN (Design) file, which is commonly associated with MicroStation software.

However, there are several methods you can follow to open a DGN file in AutoCAD. In this tutorial, we will explore these methods step by step.

Method 1: Using the ‘DGNIMPORT’ Command

The easiest way to open a DGN file in AutoCAD is by using the ‘DGNIMPORT’ command. Follow the steps below:

  1. Launch AutoCAD and open a new or existing drawing.
  2. Type ‘DGNIMPORT’ in the command line and press Enter.
  3. The ‘Select DGN File’ dialog box will appear. Browse to the location where your DGN file is saved and select it.
  4. Click on the ‘Open’ button.
  5. The ‘Import DGN Settings’ dialog box will appear. Here, you can choose how to import the DGN file:

a) Importing as Block

If you select ‘Import as Block,’ AutoCAD will treat the entire DGN file as a single block entity. This option is useful when you want to insert the DGN drawing into your current drawing as one object.

b) Importing as Layers

If you select ‘Import as Layers,’ AutoCAD will create separate layers for each level present in the DGN file. This option allows you to have more control over individual elements within the imported drawing.

Choose the desired import option and click on the ‘OK’ button. AutoCAD will now import the DGN file and display it in your drawing.

Method 2: Using the ‘DGNPURGE’ Command

If you encounter any issues while importing a DGN file using the ‘DGNIMPORT’ command, you can try using the ‘DGNPURGE’ command to clean up the file before importing. Follow these steps:

  1. Open a new or existing drawing in AutoCAD.
  2. Type ‘DGNPURGE’ in the command line and press Enter.
  3. The ‘Purge Options’ dialog box will appear, allowing you to specify what elements you want to remove from the DGN file:

a) Purge Annotations

Selecting this option will remove any annotations present in the DGN file, such as dimensions, text, or leaders.

b) Purge References

Selecting this option will remove any externally referenced files associated with the DGN file.

Choose the desired purge options and click on the ‘OK’ button. AutoCAD will purge unnecessary elements from the DGN file, making it cleaner and easier to import.

Now, you can proceed with using the ‘DGNIMPORT’ command as described in Method 1 to import the cleaned DGN file into AutoCAD.

Method 3: Converting DGN to DWG Format

In some cases, if none of the above methods work or if you frequently need to work with DGN files in AutoCAD, you can convert the DGN file to the DWG format using third-party software. There are various online converters and dedicated software available that can convert DGN files to DWG.

Once you have converted the DGN file to DWG format, you can easily open it in AutoCAD using the ‘OPEN’ command or by simply dragging and dropping the DWG file into an AutoCAD window.

In conclusion, opening a DGN file in AutoCAD is possible by using the ‘DGNIMPORT’ command, cleaning up the file with ‘DGNPURGE,’ or converting it to DWG format. Choose the method that best suits your needs and start working with DGN files seamlessly in AutoCAD.