Referencing dgn file into DWG file?

[my.yari90]

Hi everybody,

I've been trying to reference a dgn file from another department into mine dwg file since I don't use Micro Station. I have tried 2 ways: 

1. Import --> opening the file --> Import into current drawing - Attach as dgn Underlay , in this case I can edit the layers, but the problem is if the main dgn file is changed I can't get the updated file by reloading it in XREF and I need to re attach it and do all the process again.

2. Attach (Under Reference tab) --> Select the drawing --> Attach it as dgn file. The problem is I don't have access to the layers and not be able to turn the layers that I don't need off.

I appreciate if you can help me with this matter.

Thanks

[user181]

Hi @my.yari90 If you attach it as an xref you can select it and on the ribbon there is an edit layers button that will let you turn on and off layers in the dgn.  You can also use the command ULAYERS to do it as well.

[my.yari90]

@user181 Thanks for your reply, I actually did that and I could turn the layers off and on, but I'm still not able to change the layer color, Line type, or there are some lines that came as a block under default layer and if I turn the layer off I will lose all lines, if it makes sense.

[pendean]

Turn EXTNAMES variable ON then try changing the referenced layers' colors?

[ChicagoLooper]

If you want to use ByLayer to manipulate the dgn, then you can do this:

Start a new drawing. Use the plain, no frills OOTB AutoCAD template, imperial or metric, whichever is applicable. Next, then change your workspace from Civil3D to Planning & Analysis. (If you are using the the basic, no frills template, you will have only one layer named 0.)

1. Click Application Button in top left corner=>Open=>DGN. See image-1.
2. Change Files of Type to Micro Station DGN (*.dgn) =>browse to your dgn=>Open. See image-2.
3. In Import DGN Settings keep all Defaults=>OK See image-3.
4. The dgn will be imported. If you wish, you may save this drawing as your XREF. See image-4.  

Image-1.

Image-2.

Image-3.

Image-4.