How to change coordinate system in AutoCAD?
Unfortunately, there is no easy way to work with different coordinate systems in AutoCAD, as there is in Civil 3D. If you are trying to line up information from various sources and drawings, this can cause an issue.
Fortunately, when working with data from Equator, there are ways to get around the coordiante system miss-match. Since Equator offers the ability to export data into any coordinate system you need, we are confident that you will be able export data that lines up with your drawing. It may take some trial and error, but we are here to help get you through it!
I know what coordinate system my AutoCAD drawing was created in, how can I get data from Equator to line up?
If you know the coordinate system your drawing was created in, you are in good shape! Follow these steps to get your Equator data to line up:
STEP 1: Look up the EPSG code associated with the coordinate system
For example, if your coordinate system is NAD 83/ Texas Central, google “NAD 83/ Texas Central EPSG code” and you will likely see a search result for EPSG.io – that’s a great resource. Make a note of the EPSG code, in this case it is EPSG:2277.
STEP 2: Create a DWG file using the Data menu
Open the Data Menu -> Add the Contours product that indicates “DWG” under the source -> Customize the settings and click Generate.
STEP 3: Download your DWG file in the right coordinate system
Open the Layers menu -> Click the Download icon -> in the Coordiante System drop down, select “Custom” -> Type in the EPSG Code -> Click Download.
STEP 4: Open your DWG file in AutoCAD and copy the data into your working drawing.
I don’t know what coordinate system my AutoCAD drawing was created in, help!
We feel your pain! Unfortunately, in this case, you only have two options:
OPTION 1: Trial and Error
Repeat the process above, trying out different EPSG codes until you find the one that works.
OPTION 2: Manually Align the Data
Equator allows you to export contours and imagery in the same DWG file. In the worst case scenario, pick a common point on the imagery file that matches up with a feature in your source/working drawing and manually align the data.