Design jobs can be technical, especially when transferring one file type to another.
One of the challenges arises when converting DGN to DWG. During the conversion process, multiple errors can occur when you do not follow the correct method or have the right tools to accomplish the job.
Before converting DGN files to DWG, the most significant consideration is ensuring you have the right tools and software to accomplish the job.
The approach you select should be error-free and produce the highest quality. The method should also be simple, straightforward, and user-friendly. Here are some ways to convert the files.
Effective Methods To Convert DGN to DWG
1. AutoCAD
AutoCAD is one of the most used software when converting DGN to DWG. It is ideal for handling issues such as fonts, layers, line styles, and colors that may arise during the conversion process.
Begin by clicking on the DGN file, choose the output version, which should be DWG, and then click the convert button.
However, you need to use the latest version, such as the AutoCAD 2021, since it has the latest features to ensure you meet the desired output quality and standards.
It can also enable you to import the data between different DGN files before converting them to DWG.
It can help you import data from the V7 DGN and V8 DGN and then save it to DWG files. The process is much simpler when using the latest version than the older version.
When using older versions such as the AutoCAD 2013, you must use the command prompt and enter codes such as DGNIMPORT at the command line before proceeding with other processes.
2. Using MicroStation
Microstation is also another reliable method to convert DGN to DWG. You begin by opening the files in Microstation using the File button.
On the menu bar, you select the file and then use the “Save As” button. Next, you drop down the command section and change the file saving format to Autodesk DWG files.
If you desire to make other changes, click on options, then go to the settings page and select any desired changes.
The MicroStation conversion process is one of the simplest ones unless you encounter specific errors that are rare when you follow the relevant guidelines.
You can make basic and advanced changes. On the advanced settings, click the “Drop Unsupported Dimension” box to ensure the conversion process does not incur any errors.
You can make any other changes, but if you are unaware, it is wise to leave everything as they are. This will save you the burden of restarting the process in case of an error. You can click the save button when done with all the processes.
3. Using MyGeodata Converter
This conversion software uses MicroStation for the conversion process. You need to use it alongside AutoCAD.
First, you need to convert the files to AutoCAD before converting them to the desired DWG format.
It is ideal for converting files that you cannot open using AutoCAD so that you begin the conversion process. It is suitable for both batch and individual conversions.
It can also help convert files into different formats, such as the GIS. It uses over 3000 coordinate reference systems to accomplish the conversion process.
It can also support multiple file formats such as Zip, RAR, TAR, and GZIP, making the upload process much easier.
You can also set the conversion limits to avoid overloading the servers. You can pay for the different plans to increase the conversion and upload limits.
4. Using batch converter
There are different Batch converter tools, but the most user-friendly is the ProStructures, the CONNECT edition (10.XX.00.XX).
First, you need to open a new file in the ProStructures CE by searching the word “Batch Converter,” then click on the Batch Converter tool to open.
Alternatively, you can go to the Backstage, click files, then click tools which will redirect you to the Batch Converter, and then open it.
On the Batch Converter page, select the DWG options (DWG open option, which will open a DWG file, and the DWG save option, necessary for the conversion).
Other options include V8 save option, V7 save options and Log File options.
Select the DWG to save option.
On the general tab, click “Save As DWG/DXF Options,” You can expand the box to select the version you need, such as 2013-12017.
Next, you need to set the location to save the files and browse all the DNG files you need to convert. Complete the process by clicking “Process Batch Convert Job” then “Convert.” Wait for the process to conclude, then click the close button.
5. Any DGN to DWG converter
This is a standalone program; hence you do not need AutoCAD or MicroStation to convert the files. The converters can convert an unlimited number of files simultaneously and produce different outputs.
If you need other software, you can use them since it can support the MicroStation DNG V8 and V7.
It can also support command line features. You can either buy the package or subscribe. It is user-friendly and suitable for industrial or large-scale conversion processes.
Conclusion
The method you choose to convert the DNG files to DWG should depend on the software or process you are comfortable with.
If you have large-scale files to convert and need software to help you frequently, the best choice is to consider standalone software.
