How to open an AutoCAD (.dwg) file in BricsCAD?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — to open an AutoCAD (.dwg) file in BricsCAD, the standard professional method is to use the OPEN command and select the dwg file directly. BricsCAD reads native DWG format, so this is usually fast and reliable for everyday production work. Limitation: custom objects from vertical AutoCAD products may not display correctly.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: A DWG created in AutoCAD Architecture, Civil 3D, or other vertical toolsets can contain proxy objects that BricsCAD cannot fully edit natively. If the file also references missing SHX fonts, Xrefs, or plot styles, the drawing may open with display changes or warning messages.

How to Open an AutoCAD (.dwg) File in BricsCAD

  • Command: OPEN

  • Shortcut: Ctrl+O

  • Quick Steps:

    1. In BricsCAD, go to the Application menu or press Ctrl+O to launch the OPEN command.
    2. Browse to the AutoCAD .dwg file, select it, and confirm the correct file type is set to *Drawing (.dwg)** in the file dialog.
    3. Click Open and, if prompted, review any messages about missing references, fonts, or proxy objects before continuing.

Variables & Settings

  • System Variable: PROXYNOTICE (Default: 1)

  • Expert Setting: When PROXYNOTICE is enabled, BricsCAD displays a warning if the DWG contains proxy objects from unsupported AutoCAD-based applications. This helps you detect object types that may only display as proxies and may not be fully editable.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The DWG contains AEC, Civil, or other custom proxy objects that BricsCAD can display only partially or not edit as native geometry.

  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): Important content may appear missing because referenced Xrefs, SHX fonts, CTB/STB plot styles, or support paths are unavailable on the current workstation.

  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): The file opens, but users assume all objects are fully editable; proxy-enabled content may require AutoCAD vertical products or prior conversion to standard entities.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use etransmit in AutoCAD before sharing the DWG so all Xrefs, fonts, and dependent files are packaged, then open the transmitted file set in BricsCAD.

  • Manager’s Verdict: Use direct OPEN for standard DWG collaboration because it is the fastest and most common workflow. Avoid relying on it alone when the project uses vertical-product objects, and request a cleaned or exploded deliverable when full editability is required.

FAQ

Can BricsCAD open AutoCAD DWG files directly?

Yes, BricsCAD works natively with DWG files and opens them directly with OPEN.

Why do some objects show as proxies in BricsCAD?

They were created in AutoCAD vertical products and are not native BricsCAD entities.

Can I edit every AutoCAD object after opening the DWG in BricsCAD?

No, standard DWG objects usually edit fine, but proxy objects may have limited editability.

.

Related Posts: