AutoCAD's plot styles are crucial for controlling how your drawings are outputted to different printers or plotters. Mastering plot style import will significantly improve your workflow and ensure consistent, high-quality plots. This guide will walk you through the process, covering various methods and troubleshooting tips.
Understanding AutoCAD Plot Styles
Before diving into importing, let's briefly review what plot styles are. A plot style table (CTB or STB file) defines how objects in your drawing will be plotted. This includes lineweights, colors, linetypes, and more. Using plot styles ensures consistency across multiple drawings and plot devices.
CTB vs. STB Files
- CTB (Color-Dependent Plot Style Table): These tables use the object's color to determine its plot properties. Changes to object colors will automatically affect the plotted output. This method is simpler but less flexible.
- STB (Named Plot Style Table): These tables assign plot properties to specific named plot styles. This provides greater control and allows you to plot objects with the same style regardless of their color. This is generally the preferred method for larger, more complex projects.
Importing Plot Styles into AutoCAD
There are several ways to import plot styles into your AutoCAD drawing:
Method 1: Using the Plot Style Manager
This is the most common and user-friendly method:
- Open the Plot Style Manager: Go to the
Plottab and clickPlot Style Manager. - Import a Plot Style Table: Click
Import. Navigate to the location of your CTB or STB file and select it. - Add the Plot Style Table: The imported plot style table will be added to the list. Click
OK. - Assign Plot Styles: You can now assign the imported plot styles to your objects within the drawing. This step might involve modifying the object properties or using layer-based plotting.
Method 2: Using the Command Line
For experienced users, the command line provides a quicker method:
- Type
PLOTSTYLESMANAGERat the command line and press Enter. - Follow steps 2-4 from Method 1.
Method 3: Attaching an Existing Drawing
If the plot styles are already within another drawing, attaching that drawing can make them available:
- Open your target drawing.
- Use the
ATTACHcommand to attach the drawing containing the desired plot styles. - The plot styles from the attached drawing will be available, but remember to manage them properly to avoid conflicts. Remember to detach the drawing if it's not needed permanently.
Troubleshooting Common Import Issues
- File Not Found: Double-check the file path and ensure the plot style table (CTB or STB) exists in the specified location.
- Inconsistent Units: Ensure your drawing units and the plot style table units are consistent. Inconsistencies can lead to scaling issues.
- Permission Errors: If you're working on a network, ensure you have the necessary permissions to access and import the plot style file.
- Corrupted Files: If you suspect a corrupted file, try obtaining a fresh copy of the plot style table.
Best Practices for Plot Style Management
- Organize your plot styles: Create a central location to store and manage your CTB and STB files.
- Use named plot styles: STB files offer greater flexibility and control compared to CTB files.
- Regularly update your plot styles: Ensure your plot styles are consistent with your current plotting devices and standards.
- Document your plot style tables: Include information on their purpose, creation date, and relevant details.
By following these steps and tips, you'll efficiently manage and import plot styles in AutoCAD, leading to consistent and professional-looking plotted output. Remember to always back up your plot style tables to prevent data loss.
