https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/xref-handling-for-pdf-or-image-files/m-p/9690568#M97691 <P>When using dwg xref or data link (MS Excel), the reference can be edited and saved, then a little balloon notification pops up to let you know of changes and to reload the xref.</P><P>Why this method does not apply to PDF or image files? When a PDF/jpeg file is xref, then the xref file is locked for editing while the drawing is loaded... even worst if the xref is opened in a PDF editor and later on the cad drawing is loaded, the editor loses ownership over AutoCAD of the PDF file and it becomes a “read only” file, changes cannot be saved in the editor!</P><P>In short, I don't see the difference between an Excel spreadsheet and a PDF set of plans. But somehow the files are handled differently by AutoCAD.</P><P>&nbsp;</P><P>Is there a workaround for this? We've been using xref unload/load but it's getting tiresome.</P><P>&nbsp;</P> Thu, 13 Aug 2020 22:42:29 GMT lthiffeault 2020-08-13T22:42:29Z https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/xref-handling-for-pdf-or-image-files/m-p/9690568#M97691 <P>When using dwg xref or data link (MS Excel), the reference can be edited and saved, then a little balloon notification pops up to let you know of changes and to reload the xref.</P><P>Why this method does not apply to PDF or image files? When a PDF/jpeg file is xref, then the xref file is locked for editing while the drawing is loaded... even worst if the xref is opened in a PDF editor and later on the cad drawing is loaded, the editor loses ownership over AutoCAD of the PDF file and it becomes a “read only” file, changes cannot be saved in the editor!</P><P>In short, I don't see the difference between an Excel spreadsheet and a PDF set of plans. But somehow the files are handled differently by AutoCAD.</P><P>&nbsp;</P><P>Is there a workaround for this? We've been using xref unload/load but it's getting tiresome.</P><P>&nbsp;</P> Thu, 13 Aug 2020 22:42:29 GMT https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/xref-handling-for-pdf-or-image-files/m-p/9690568#M97691 lthiffeault 2020-08-13T22:42:29Z https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/xref-handling-for-pdf-or-image-files/m-p/9691635#M97692 That's just how it is: you can suggest different ideas to Autodesk here <A href="https://www.autodesk.com/company/contact-us/product-feedback" target="_blank">https://www.autodesk.com/company/contact-us/product-feedback</A><BR /><BR />In the meantime, if your PDF is a "live document" then it could be unloaded except when you need it, then you reload. A small variation of what you do today.<BR /><BR />Or... don't use a PDF, switch to DWG.<BR /><BR />HTH Fri, 14 Aug 2020 13:45:25 GMT https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/xref-handling-for-pdf-or-image-files/m-p/9691635#M97692 pendean 2020-08-14T13:45:25Z