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How to Import a PDF into AutoCAD: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

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by

draftsman
in

Importing a PDF into AutoCAD is a valuable skill that allows you to convert PDF files into editable drawings. Whether you’re extracting vector geometry, importing raster images, or converting SHX fonts from the PDF, AutoCAD provides powerful tools to help you get the job done. In this guide, we’ll explain how to import a PDF and convert SHX fonts for easier editing using the PDFSHXTEXT command.

Why Import a PDF into AutoCAD?

PDFs are widely used to share design information. While they’re perfect for viewing, they’re not easy to edit. Importing a PDF into AutoCAD lets you:

  • Extract vector-based content (lines, curves, and shapes) for direct use.
  • Trace raster images for reference.
  • Convert SHX fonts into AutoCAD text for easier modification.

Step-by-Step: How to Import a PDF into AutoCAD

Step 1: Open the PDF Import Command

  1. Open your drawing in AutoCAD or start a new one.
  2. Type PDFIMPORT in the command line and press Enter.
  3. The Import PDF dialog box will appear.

Step 2: Select Your PDF File

  • Click Browse to locate and select the PDF you want to import.
  • If your PDF has multiple pages, select the one you need.

Step 3: Adjust the Import Settings

  • Insertion Point: Choose where to place the imported PDF.
  • Scale: Set the scale or leave it at 1:1.
  • Rotation: Rotate the imported file if necessary.
  • Options:
    • Vector Geometry: Import vector-based content as editable AutoCAD objects.
    • TrueType Text: Convert TrueType fonts to AutoCAD text.
    • SHX Text: Recognize and convert SHX text from the PDF into separate objects (lines and arcs).

Converting SHX Fonts Using PDFSHXTEXT

When you import a PDF with SHX fonts, the text may appear as individual lines or polylines rather than editable text. This can be a challenge if you want to modify the text. The PDFSHXTEXT command helps solve this problem by converting those lines back into editable AutoCAD text.

Steps to Convert SHX Fonts:

  1. After importing the PDF, type PDFSHXTEXT in the command line and press Enter.
  2. Select the imported SHX text objects (polylines or arcs).
  3. AutoCAD will attempt to convert them into MTEXT (Multi-line Text).
  4. Review and edit the converted text as needed.

Tip: Use TXT2MTXT to combine individual lines of text into a single MText object for easier management.

Tips for a Successful PDF Import

  • Use High-Quality PDFs: Vector-based PDFs yield better results than raster-based ones.
  • Check Scale and Layers: Verify your scale and layer settings after import for accuracy and organization.
  • Clean Up SHX Text: Some conversions may require manual adjustments for accuracy.

Common Questions About Importing PDFs into AutoCAD

1. Can AutoCAD convert scanned PDFs into vector drawings?
No, scanned PDFs are treated as images. You’ll need to manually trace them or use third-party raster-to-vector conversion tools.

2. How can I combine individual lines of converted text?
Use the TXT2MTXT command to merge separate text objects into a single MText object.

3. What AutoCAD versions support PDFSHXTEXT?
The PDFSHXTEXT feature is available in AutoCAD 2018 and later versions.

Conclusion

Importing PDFs into AutoCAD and converting SHX text with PDFSHXTEXT can save time and improve your workflow. Whether you’re working with architectural plans, mechanical drawings, or detailed schematics, these tools help you turn PDFs into fully editable AutoCAD files.