Draftsight to Excel? | TutoCAD

Integrating DraftSight with Excel

To effectively combine DraftSight designs with Excel spreadsheets, several methods can be utilized to import or link data. The following is a comprehensive guide detailing how to incorporate DraftSight into Excel, enabling seamless integration of CAD data with spreadsheet functionality.

Inserting DraftSight Objects into Excel

1. Prepare the DraftSight Content: Create your design in DraftSight, ensuring it is finalized and ready for export.

2. Export the Drawing:

   • Use the export or save option within DraftSight to save your drawing as an image file (e.g., PNG, JPEG) or a PDF.
   • Choose a location to save the file and keep the original dimensions intact for best results.

3. Open Excel: Launch Microsoft Excel and open the workbook where the DraftSight file will be inserted.

4. Insert the Object:

   • Navigate to the "Insert" tab in the Excel ribbon.
   • Click on "Pictures" if you saved your DraftSight drawing as an image, or select "Object" if you saved it as a PDF.
   • Locate the file on your computer and select it for insertion.
5. Position and Resize: Adjust the size and position of the inserted image or object to fit your Excel layout as required.

Importing DWG Data into Excel

1. Open AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD and load the DWG file that contains the table or data you wish to transfer to Excel.

2. Export the Table:

   • Type TABLEEXPORT in the command line.
   • Choose the specific table you want to export from the drawing.
   • Assign a filename and select CSV as the file format for exporting.
   • Save the file to your preferred location.

3. Open the CSV in Excel: Open Excel and navigate to:

   • File > Open and locate the CSV file.
   • Excel will convert the CSV into a usable spreadsheet format.
4. Format the Table: Once the data is loaded into Excel, you can format it (applying borders, colors, or styles) to enhance readability.

Creating a Data Link Between DraftSight and Excel

1. Prepare Your Excel File: Have your Excel sheet ready with the necessary data to be linked.

2. Launch DraftSight:

   • Within DraftSight, initiate a new view, then select the area or elements that need to reflect the changes made in Excel.

3. Insert Data Link:

   • Type TABLE in the command line and hit ENTER.
   • Select the option to link from a data source.
   • In the Data Link manager, create a new data link and specify the Excel file location.

4. Name and Confirm the Link: Assign a name for your data link, then hit OK to establish the connection between DraftSight and Excel.

5. Refresh Data: Any updates made in the Excel file will automatically reflect in the DraftSight drawing set up as a data link upon refreshing.

Drawing CAD Designs within Excel

1. Open Excel: The desired Excel document needs to be active.

2. Access Drawing Tools:

   • Go to the "Insert" tab and select "Shapes" or "Scribble" to start drawing.
   • You can replicate simple CAD shapes by utilizing the available drawing tools.

3. Input and Edit Shapes: Click and drag to create shapes, line segments, rectangles, or custom designs directly in your spreadsheet.

4. Modify and Format: Adjust colors, line styles, and add text boxes to annotate your designs as necessary.

Exporting Information from Excel to DraftSight

1. Compile Data in Excel: Ensure the data you need from Excel is organized in a systematic manner.

2. Export as CSV:

   • Save your workbook as a CSV file via File > Save As.
   • Select "CSV (Comma delimited) (*.csv)" format.

3. Import to DraftSight:

   • In DraftSight, use the import function to bring in the CSV data.
   • Place the data within the CAD environment appropriately.
4. Final Adjustments: Ensure the imported data fits within your design context and make any necessary adjustments.

FAQ

Can I directly edit DraftSight objects in Excel?
No, DraftSight objects need to be inserted as images or linked data tables. Edits to the design must be performed in DraftSight, not in Excel.

What file formats can I use to export from DraftSight?
Common formats include PNG, JPEG, PDF, and CSV for tables and data.

Is it possible to automate the data transfer between DraftSight and Excel?
Yes, using data links, any updates in Excel can be reflected automatically in DraftSight, provided the link is established correctly.