How to Use DWF in AutoCAD

DWF files are compressed, vector based DWG files. Saving AutoCAD drawings as DWF files allows others to view and print the information without needing AutoCAD installed on their computer. Although AutoCAD doesn't recognize DWF files, inserting DWF information into AutoCAD is a simple process.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer installed with AutoCAD 2007 or newer
• DWF file

Importing DWF Files With AutoCAD Versions Before 2007

1. Open the DWF viewer.

2. Select "Edit" from the menu or right-click on the DWF drawing you want to insert into AutoCAD.

3. Choose the "Copy Drawing" option if you are working with 2D material or "Copy Image" if you are copying a 3D drawing.

4. Open AutoCAD and use your mouse's right-click function to select "Paste."

5. Save your newly created AutoCAD file.

Importing DWF Files With AutoCad 2007 or Newer

6. Open your AutoCAD program.

7. Select "DWFATTACH" from the "Insert" menu and select the file you want to import. The DWF attach command in the 2007 or newer versions of AutoCAD allows you to import single or multiple page DWF files.

8. Select the page or pages you want to import. Once imported you can't revise them, but you do have the ability to see the information as a layer in AutoCAD.

9. Decide the path type, scale, rotation and insertion point of the file. You can also select background colors and other coloring options to match your preferences.

10. Save your newly created AutoCAD file once the import is complete.