by Dennis Collin
I am often asked by users if it is possible to translate Adobe PDF files into an editable DWG file. PDF files are one of the most common file formats used when exchanging design information between designers, contractors, clients and others.
However, for some years now both the AutoCAD full version and LT can use the PDFIMPORT command to import geometry from a PDF document into the current drawing as AutoCAD objects.
Fig 1. Locating the PDFIMPORT command on the AutoCAD Ribbon.
This can be achieved by accessing the PDF Import command from the Insert tab of the Ribbon, then click on Import Panel > PDF Import. After selecting the PDF file, use the Import PDF dialog box to customize your import. There are other useful functions to consider so if the PDF document contains AutoCAD .shx fonts, the Recognize SHX Text tool can be used to convert them into single line Mtext objects. Also broken line types will be assessed and converted into a appropriate dashed line type. The convert process is also capable of interpreting PDF layers and converting them to AutoCAD Layers.
Fig 2. The PDFIMPORT command has been available to users for many years!
Despite being available for AutoCAD versions for many years, many users are still not aware of this very useful function.
Fig. 3 Users can also externally reference PDF files if preferred.
It is also possible to Reference a PDF file in as an External Reference File (XREF). This command is also located under the Insert tab, file can be located, rotated and scaled like a conventional DWG Xref attachment.
Fig 4. Referencing a PDF file is the same process as image or DWG files
If, at a later stage, the PDF needs to be embedded into the drawing file or bound, then simply selected the PDF reference and choose the Import as Objects option. A prompt is then offered to either keep the PDF reference, detach it or unload it which will just hide it within that drawing. These options can also be accessed later from the reference manager if required.
Fig 5. ‘Binding’ a Referenced PDF file.
It should be noted that PDF files will not be as accurate as DWG or DXF data, resulting in slight measurement errors depending upon the quality of the original PDF, but for some purposes, schematic diagrams etc. these errors may be acceptable.
A lot of these processes are covered on our standard scheduled AutoCAD courses, bespoke workshops or ‘at elbow days’. For more information visit https://arkance.world/gb-en/training or ask a question on the Live Chat facility where we can provide more help.