How to Get Save As Dialog Box in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Save As Dialog Box in AutoCAD

AutoCAD provides users with an interface to save their projects efficiently. However, sometimes users find themselves unable to display the "Save As" dialog box, and instead, they see the file path in the command line. Here’s how to rectify that.

Step-by-Step Guide to Access the Save As Dialog Box

1. Check the FILEDIA Setting:

   • Open AutoCAD and look for the command line at the bottom of the screen.
   • Type FILEDIA and press Enter.
   • If the value displayed is 0, change it by typing 1 and then pressing Enter. Setting FILEDIA to 1 enables the dialog boxes in AutoCAD, including the "Save As" dialog.
2. Test the Save As Function:
   • Once you have adjusted the FILEDIA setting, attempt to save a drawing by using the shortcut CTRL + S or navigating to the File menu and selecting "Save As."
   • The familiar dialog box should now appear, allowing you to specify the file name and location.

Alternative Tips for Dialog Box Management

Enabling Dialog Boxes in AutoCAD

• To access the Options menu, type OP in the command line and hit Enter. Alternatively, right-click in the drawing area with no objects selected, and choose "Options" from the context menu.
• Within the Options dialog, you can navigate various tabs to find settings that enhance your AutoCAD experience.

Restoring Missing or Hidden Dialog Boxes

• If you inadvertently close a dialog box, a useful shortcut is to press Alt + Spacebar, then M, and use any arrow key to move the window back into view. The dialog box will then stick to your cursor, allowing you to reposition it.

Changing Save Settings in AutoCAD

1. Access Options:

   • Initiate the command by typing OPTIONS in the command line and pressing Enter.

2. Navigate to Open and Save Tab:

   • Within the resulting dialog, locate the "Open and Save" tab to adjust preferences related to file saving.
3. Select Save Options:
   • From the "File Save" section, you will find a drop-down menu for "Save as." Choose the format in which you wish to save your files and click "OK" to apply these settings.

FAQs:

What should I do if the Save As dialog box still doesn’t appear?
If the Save As dialog box does not show up, ensure that you have executed the FILEDIA command correctly. Additionally, check for any pending updates or reinstall AutoCAD to resolve potential software glitches.

Can I customize the file formats available in the Save As dialog?
Yes, you can customize the file formats through the Options dialog under the Open and Save tab. There, you can find settings related to file types you wish to enable or disable for saving.

Is it possible to open multiple drawings simultaneously in AutoCAD?
Certainly. You can open multiple drawings by selecting all desired files while holding down the CTRL key in the Open dialog box or simply drag and drop them into the AutoCAD workspace.