Understanding the Need to Set Draftsight as the Default Program
Setting Draftsight as your preferred application for specific file types is essential for seamless workflow, especially for users who frequently deal with CAD file formats. By designating Draftsight as the default program, files will automatically open in this software, eliminating the need for manual selection each time.
Steps to Designate Draftsight as Your Default Program for DWG Files
Step 1: Access the File Explorer
Open File Explorer by clicking on the folder icon located on the taskbar. Alternatively, you can press Windows + E on your keyboard to bring it up quickly.
Step 2: Locate a DWG File
Navigate to any folder where you have DWG files stored. It is necessary to have an existing DWG file to proceed with changing the default application.
Step 3: Open the Context Menu
Right-click on the DWG file. A context menu will appear, showcasing different options available for the selected file.
Step 4: Select ‘Open With’
From the context menu, hover over the "Open with" option. This will expand further options available for opening the file.
Step 5: Choose ‘Choose Another App’
Click on “Choose another app” from the submenu that appears. A dialog box will open, displaying a list of applications that can open the file in question.
Step 6: Locate Draftsight
In the dialog box, you may see a list of suggested apps. If Draftsight is visible, select it from the list. If it’s not visible, click on “More apps” to find it.
Step 7: Designate as Default
Before finalizing your selection, make sure to check the option that says "Always use this app to open .dwg files." This step ensures that every time you open a DWG file, it will open with Draftsight by default.
Step 8: Confirm Your Choice
Click “OK” to confirm your choice. After this, the DWG file should open in Draftsight when selected in the future.
Additional Steps to Change Default App for Other File Types
If you wish to set Draftsight as the default for other file formats like DXF, the steps are similar. Make sure to find a DXF file and follow the same procedure.
Alternative Method: Changing Default Programs via Settings
Step 1: Open Windows Settings
Click on the Start menu and then select the gear icon to open the Settings app.
Step 2: Navigate to Apps
Within Settings, click on “Apps” to access app-related settings.
Step 3: Access Default Apps
From the sidebar, select “Default apps.” This section allows you to assign default programs based on file types and protocols.
Step 4: Find File Types
Scroll down and locate ‘Choose default apps by file type.’ You will see an extensive list of file extensions.
Step 5: Change the Default App
Look for the file type associated with Draftsight (e.g., .dwg, .dxf). Click on the current default app shown next to the file extension, and choose Draftsight from the list that appears.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I set Draftsight as the default program for multiple file types at once?
Currently, there is no option to set multiple file types simultaneously through the default apps settings in Windows. You’ll need to change the default program for each file type individually.
2. What if Draftsight does not appear in the list of applications?
If Draftsight is not shown, ensure it is installed correctly on your system. You can also browse for the Draftsight executable file using the “Look for another app on this PC” option to locate it manually.
3. Will changing the default program affect other users on the computer?
Changing the default program typically affects only the current user profile. Other user accounts will have their individual settings for default applications.
