View / edit / update an ".shx" File

[Anonymous]

I can't find instructions on how to view / edit / update an ".shx" file. I have found a lot of references online for how to use these files and what they are used for in linetypes, and how to compile from shp files and load the file. But I haven't yet found how do I actually edit a .shx file. I am using AutoCAD 2016 (2D).

Can I just open it up like a regular dwg file?

I'd like to view some existing .shx files and see what shapes are actually in the file, then I'd like to add a few shapes to the standard ltypeshp.shx file (in the "....\enu\Support" folder). I can then distribute this file to others once it includes shapes that are currently missing.

I am guessing this is so simple that there are very few posts about it. I just need help getting to the first steps.

Thanks!

DH

[pendean · Accepted solution]

Assuming a font/shape file SHX... You need the source SHP file that the SHX was created from to edit or update it.

Once you have the SHP file, the COMPILE command inside AutoCAD does the rest: look up it's usage in HELP.

>>>...I'd like to add a few shapes to the standard ltypeshp.shx file...<<<
You probably should make your own instead of trying to edit a core shx file.

[Anonymous]

A couple of decades ago there was a SHX2SHP executable floating around that would decompile the SHX to an SHP.  It might still be floating around somewhere.

NOTE: Avoid creating custom text styles (or even shape files) if your files will eventually be transmitted to your clients or other contractors.  Shape files must be eTransmited with the DWG files and placed in the proper directories by the recipient or the shapes will not render properly in the drawings.

[cadffm]

Add
DumpShx.exe from Expresstools decompile it too

[Anonymous]

Clarification: The shapes I'm concerned about at the moment are for linetypes.

[Anonymous]

Thanks Dean,

Additional Clarification. I do not have the source SHP files, which is the cause of my issues.

[Anonymous]

Shape files for custom linetype must also be transmitted along with the DWG file and instructions must be given to the recipient of the DWG files.  Without the shape file in the search path, AutoCAD will throw an error on opening the DWG.

Personally I avoid anything that will force the customer/client to alter or append his standard setup.  In fact I have two clients that prohibit such. 

[Anonymous]

can you elaborate, how do you do this, what about 2018 version. Do I just type that command? does not recognize that command. Is it possible to alter the font characters? We have a quotes symbol whose lines are too close together so when you print it, it looks like one line. Need to separate the lines other wise we have to type single quote twice. Result, cannot use auto dims or have to alter every single one.