Understanding Color Printing in MicroStation
Printing in color using MicroStation requires a combination of selecting the right printer and configuring your document settings properly. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your output is vibrant and accurate.
Step 1: Open the Print Dialog
To begin, navigate to the MicroStation interface:
1. Click on the ‘File’ menu located at the upper left corner of the application.
2. Select the ‘Print’ option. This will launch the Print dialog box.
Step 2: Select Your Printer
In the Print dialog:
1. Locate the ‘Printer’ drop-down menu.
2. Choose your desired Bentley driver printer from the list. Options might include pltcfg or hpgl2. If printing to a PDF or similar format, select the corresponding driver.
Step 3: Modify Printer Driver Configuration
To adjust the color settings:
1. In the Print dialog, find the button labeled ‘Edit Printer Driver Configuration.’
2. Click on it, then navigate to the ‘Color Maps’ tab within the configuration window.
3. Here you can customize the color output settings. Ensure that the colors are set as you desire for the print output.
Step 4: Printer Properties
Before finalizing your settings, it’s crucial to check the printer properties:
1. Look for the ‘Printer Properties’ button within the Print dialog.
2. Click on it to open another settings window.
3. Make sure the option for color printing is selected. You may often find settings such as ‘Automatic’ or ‘Color,’ which should be enabled to ensure your document prints in color.
Step 5: Check Document Settings
Confirm that your document’s color settings align with your desired print outcome:
1. Inspect your drawing elements for any non-color attributes.
2. If necessary, adjust the layers or elements to ensure they are set to print in the desired color scheme.
Step 6: Print Preview
It’s always recommended to conduct a print preview to avoid any last-minute surprises:
1. Look for the ‘Print Preview’ option in the Print dialog.
2. Review how your document appears in the preview to double-check all settings are correct.
Step 7: Print the Document
When all settings are confirmed:
1. Click on the ‘Print’ button within the Print dialog box.
2. Wait for the printing process to complete. This will yield your document printed in color as specified in the previous steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if my document still prints in black and white?
Ensure that you have selected the correct color printer and that all settings in both the Print dialog and Printer Properties are set to color. Also, check if there are any overrides in the pen tables that require adjustment.
2. How can I verify if my printer supports color printing?
You can check your printer specifications either from the manufacturer’s website or by accessing the Printer Properties through Windows. Look for supported features, especially under the color settings.
3. What is the impact of pen tables on color printing in MicroStation?
Pen tables can affect the appearance of elements when printed. They may redefine colors, line weights, and styles, resulting in variations in your printout compared to what you see on screen. Ensure your pen table settings coincide with your desired printing outcomes.
