topic Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing in AutoCAD LT Forum

Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

Leticia_Campanelli — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 12:47:27 GMT

hi guys,

I would like to print a faded xref, Ideally without changing all the layers in it as it would affect other drawings.

I thought I could simply set it to a layer and add transparency to it, but it doesn't seem to work.

Is it possible?

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

pendean — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:39:58 GMT

In AutoCAD "fading" is called "transparency", start HELP and explore.

One option to retry again: LAYER command has a transparency column for your desired "fade" setting, help yourself. Keep track of your object settings in those XREFs, you might need to use XREFOVERRIDE and VISRETAIN commands.

AND don't forget to check the box on the PLOT command pop-up to use transparency.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

bob_mpc — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 13:18:19 GMT

In general, changing the layers in the XREF file itself does not change the settings in the file to which it is attached, unless set by VISRETAIN. I would try setting transparency to all XREF layers-those are very easy to select in the layer manager window. They can have transparency also in specific viewport.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

Leticia_Campanelli — Wed, 10 Nov 2021 14:39:15 GMT

Thanks guys!

I didn't know about XREFOVERRIDE and VISRETAIN.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

JAMES_BOGNER — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:02:00 GMT

does not work. want it to print like screen. this only adjust viewing on screen.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

JAMES_BOGNER — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:08:59 GMT

does not work. even in print preview no change. transparency works on my stuff on xref. yes box checked in printing, my layers transparent. even when i adjust all layers in xref to transparent. it ignors it. even with both your suggestions implemented.

just want to print what i see.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing?

RSomppi — Tue, 13 May 2025 10:36:22 GMT

@JAMES_BOGNER wrote:
does not work.

It does. You must be missing something. Share your file for examination and suggestions.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing

JAMES_BOGNER — Tue, 13 May 2025 12:16:14 GMT

it fades on the display nicely for working, but prints full strength. did not miss anything, print with transparency on. works fine on all my layers that i make transparent on same plan.
I followed your instructions.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing

pendean — Tue, 13 May 2025 12:25:09 GMT

@JAMES_BOGNER wrote:
... I followed your instructions.

Probably not since we all print transparency all day long when we need it: use ETRANSMIT command to bundle your DWG file and all necessary content into a ZIP then share it here, someone can then use your own file to provide you with more detailed guidance.

If you cannot, then... Here are the ways to open a support case with Autodesk if you are on subscription to seek out Autodesk Support's help:
https://www.autodesk.com/support/account/manage/use/support#:~:text=com/plans.-,Contact%20support,-Select%20a%20path

You decide how to proceed.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing

RSomppi — Tue, 13 May 2025 12:28:28 GMT

@JAMES_BOGNER wrote:
I followed your instructions.

You missed this:

"Share your file for examination and suggestions."

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing

JAMES_BOGNER — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:05:52 GMT

I sorry file too big to transmit. it bounced.

Re: Is it possible to fade xref when printing

pendean — Tue, 13 May 2025 19:20:05 GMT

@JAMES_BOGNER wrote:
I sorry file too big to transmit. it bounced.

Use a service like DROPBOX, ONEDRIVE, BOX, GoogleDrive or free options like WeTransfer.