Metafiles

A metafile (.EMF) is a special file format that is made up of vectors (lines) that allow the image to be rescaled without loss of quality. High resolution pictures can be exported as a metafile.

Exporting Metafiles

A metafile can be exported from any view except render and raytrace views. Only items that display on screen are written to the metafile.

To export a metafile

Accurately position the view on screen.

Select File> Export> Metafile (EMF) .

Drag a marquee

from corner to corner, defining the area that will become a metafile.

Release the mouse to open the Export Metafile dialog.

Enter a name and location for the metafile.

Click Save to close the Export Metafile dialog and open the Metafile Size dialog.

Specify the metafile desired Width or Height. When one value is edited, the other changes to maintain its aspect ratio. Metafiles can always be resized later.

Specify, too the desired Dots Per Inch (DPI) for the metafile. A larger value results in a higher quality metafile, but also a larger file size.

3D Views and Metafiles

The Metafile Size dialog from a 3D view also allows you increase the printing line weight of a metafile created from any 3D view.

To increase the printing line weight, type a larger number in the Use Line Weight box. A line weight of 3 or 4 is usually sufficient for plotting.

This option has no effect on a metafile created from a floor plan view. Metafiles created from a floor plan view use the line weights defined in the Layer Display Options dialog. See "Layer Display Options Dialog".

Importing Metafiles

Select File> Import> Metafile from floor plan view, a cross section/elevation view, or a CAD detail to open the Import Metafile dialog, which is a typical open file dialog. See "Opening a Plan or Layout File".