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AutoCAD / DWG Export ​

This check covers the server prerequisites for working with AutoCAD DWG drawings. There are two distinct capabilities, with different requirements:

  • Reading DWG information — the engine reads .dwg files directly, with no Autodesk software installed. This powers the Get DWG Info task.
  • Exporting DWG to PDF — the AutoCAD Export task uses Autodesk DWG TrueView to produce the output.

Readiness check

On the engine home page, the AutoCAD / DWG Export check confirms the DWG processor is present and that a supported DWG TrueView is installed. It must show Passed before the AutoCAD Export task will work. See Server Readiness.

Supported versions ​

ApplicationAutodesk DWG TrueView (free), 64-bit
Supported versionDWG TrueView 2027 only

Only DWG TrueView 2027 is supported for export. Earlier releases (2024, 2025, 2026) are not supported — install 2027 even if an older version is already present.

Reading DWG information does not require TrueView or any other Autodesk software; the file is read directly. TrueView is needed only for the export (PDF/DWF/DXF) step.

Install DWG TrueView 2027 ​

  1. Download DWG TrueView 2027 (free) from Autodesk and install the 64-bit edition on the automation server.
  2. Launch it once, interactively, and complete any first-run prompts so nothing prompts for input during automated exports.
  3. Re-run the readiness check (restart or reload the engine home page) and confirm AutoCAD / DWG Export shows Passed.

The AutoCAD / DWG Export readiness check showing Passed

SHX font text in PDFs ​

DWG TrueView can embed .shx font text as PDF comment annotations, which may clutter the output. This is a server-level setting controlled through the registry. See the AutoCAD Export task — SHX Font Text in PDFs section for the exact steps (use the R27 registry path for TrueView 2027).

Troubleshooting ​

SymptomCause & resolution
Check fails: DWG TrueView is not installedTrueView is missing. Install DWG TrueView 2027 (64-bit).
An older TrueView is installed but export still failsOnly 2027 is supported. Install DWG TrueView 2027; remove or ignore older versions.
Export never finishes / no PDF is producedA dialog is blocking the unattended session, often a first-run prompt. Launch TrueView interactively once on the server, then retry.
PDF is full of comment annotationsSHX text is being embedded as comments. Disable it via the registry step linked above.
Reading DWG info failsDWG info reading is independent of TrueView — confirm the file path is correct and the file is a valid DWG.

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