You want to know how to export your AutoCAD model into Quantity Takeoff.

Issue

You want to ensure a proper DWF export from AutoCAD to allow property information to import into QTO.

Solution

In order for QTO calculations to function properly, the source DWF file must contain specific properties. To include these properties in your export from AutoCAD 2010 and newer versions:

1. Open your model in AutoCAD.
2. On the command line, type PUBLISH and press [Enter]. The Publish dialog will display.
3. In the Publish to: drop-down field, select DWF.
4. Modify the list of sheets, if needed.
5. If your file(s) include a model that you want to publish as a 3D DWF file, in the 3D DWF column, check the appropriate box.
6. Click the Save Sheet List button and the Save List As dialog will display.
7. Select an appropriate path, enter a file name, and click “Save” to save the drawing set list as a drawing set descriptions (DSD) file.
8. In the Publish dialog, click “Publish” and the Specify DWF File dialog will display.
9. Select an appropriate path, enter a file name, and click “Select” to save the DWF file.

 To publish from AutoCAD 2009:

1. Open your model in AutoCAD 2009.
2. On the command line, type PUBLISH and press [Enter]. The Publish dialog will display.
3. Modify the list of sheets, if needed.
4. If your file(s) include a model that you want to publish as a 3D DWF file, select the appropriate entry in the Page Setup / 3D DWF drop-down column.
5. Click the Save Sheet List button and the Save List As dialog will display.
6. Select an appropriate path, enter a file name, and click “Save” to save the drawing set list as a drawing set descriptions (DSD) file.
7. In the Publish to group, select the DWF format option and select “DWF file” in the drop-down field.
8. Click “Publish” and the Specify DWF File dialog will display.
9. Select an appropriate path, enter a file name, and click “Select” to save the DWF file.