Layer Properties manager not showing layers

[laurenritzdesign]

I work with architects who give me xref files in a Vector works created dwg, and this ends up making the layers not visible in my Layer Properties manager, or at least I think that's why. Is there a way to correct this so I can see the layers? It affects not only their layers but all layers for the file so its difficult for me to assign layer properties and organize.

Thanks,  

[S.Faris]

See if the INVERT FILTER is checked under the Layer manager(bottom left). If yes, uncheck it

[laurenritzdesign]

Nope, not checked

[S.Faris]

Do you mind posting the file? so that we can have a better understanding of the issue.

[pendean]

Maybe there are no extra layers in the file at all: ask the file creator about the problem since that is an ability they have http://app-help.vectorworks.net/2016/eng/VW2016_Guide/DXFDWG/Preparing_to_Export.htm

[laurenritzdesign]

Sorry for the delayed reply... You can see that the layers exist, its just difficult to work with/manipulate them. Again, i don't really care about their layers, its the fact that I can't even see my own layers, for which I would like to adjust the settings (line weight, color, plot, etc.) . See attached file. You can see the layers in the drop down, but not when you open the Layer Properties Manager. I don't think its an AutoCAD LT limitation because this used to happen at my old job when I had full AutoCAD as well.

[Anonymous]

My problems is the same with yours

[cadffm]

the same?

so please upload three screenshot (and your dwg of possible)

1. Where you can see the Layername in dropdown menu

2. The whole Layerproperties-palette where you missing the layers.

3. Command: ABOUT dialog

[pendean]

Same? Really?
Then contact your Vectorworks file creator and ask them to fix their export as noted in message #5 above https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-lt-forum/layer-properties-manager-not-showing-layers/m-p/8649...

[pendean · Accepted solution]

Thanks for sharing your file: AutoCAD here tells me there are 4 missing Xrefs, is that the problem you are actually having, access to the other files? Or are you trying to fight VISRETAIN settings in this top file? Or perhaps you just need to turn on XREFOVERRIDE in this top file to change layer colors?

Otherwise I see 96 layers not related to the XREF files in the posted file and if I use LAYWALK command I can pretty much see every object on each layer and it appears there are no issues to me.

I can also assign MONOCHROME.CTB to the layouts and in modelspace's PAGESETUP command and I am able to VIEW AND PRINT everything with no color. See attached, the modification I made to your file.

[laurenritzdesign]

I did actually contact the person exporting the Vector works files and they are exporting design layers only. They scanned the rest of the document as well and said there were no red flag, typical export instructions that they were already following. It seems to me to be more like a glitch between how the different formats communicate... not that this helps me get any closer to a solution.

[laurenritzdesign]

Thanks, I'm pretty sure this is just a temporary fix, as I've noticed it bounce back to normal before and then the glitch happens again. Thanks for your help anyway though.

[pendean]

Sorry, AutoCAD/LT cannot override of fix cad file issues exported from another CAD software: the source program needs to get you what you need. I know its not a solution, but its just how software works.

Good luck.