Brief Answer: To load a CTB (Color-Dependent Plot Style) file in AutoCAD, use the Page Setup Manager to apply the CTB file to a layout or the Plot dialog box for a specific plot.
Detailed Explanation and Solutions:
- Understanding CTB Files:
- Plot Style Files: CTB files control the color, line weight, and other aspects of how your drawing prints.
- Common Issue: AutoCAD users often need to apply specific plot styles for consistency in printed output.
- Using Page Setup Manager:
- Open Page Setup Manager: Type
PAGESETUPand press Enter. - Modify a Layout: Select a layout and click ‘Modify’.
- Choose Plot Style: In the Page Setup dialog box, find ‘Plot Style Table (Pen Assignments)’.
- Load CTB File: Click on the dropdown menu, select your CTB file, and click ‘OK’.
- Apply to Layout: Click ‘OK’ again to apply the CTB to the layout.
- Open Page Setup Manager: Type
- Using Plot Dialog Box:
- Open Plot Dialog: Type
PLOTand press Enter. - Select Plotter: Choose the plotter/printer.
- Load CTB File: In the ‘Plot Style Table’ section, select the CTB file from the dropdown menu.
- Apply to Plot: Click ‘OK’ to apply the CTB to the current plot.
- Open Plot Dialog: Type
Key Points:
- Location of CTB Files: Ensure your CTB file is in the AutoCAD Plot Styles folder for easy access.
- Consistency: Apply the same CTB file to all layouts for consistent print output.
- Back up CTB Files: Keep backups of your CTB files to prevent loss of plot style settings.
Loading a CTB file in AutoCAD is essential for maintaining consistent plot styles across different drawings and layouts. The process involves selecting the CTB file from the Plot Style Table settings either in the Page Setup or directly in the Plot dialog box.