2011

Understand the Limitations
The DGN import and export capabilities are designed to provide a fundamental
exchange of information between MicroStation DGN files and AutoCAD DWG
files. However, translating data from one format to a completely different
format inevitably requires compromises and substitutions.
■ Simple geometric objects such as lines, arcs, and circles, and properties
such as layer assignments correlate directly between the DWG and DGN
data formats.
■ Data with built-in features or variations are visually approximated. For
example, text and dimensions might have specialized formatting, and
color definitions might be customized.
■ Some data cannot be translated completely. For example, product-specific
features such as dynamic blocks, can be represented visually but not
behaviorally.
■ Nested references are not merged into the host DGN file when exporting
a DWG file with nested references as V7 DGN. The nested reference is not
displayed in the host DGN file but the reference chain still exists.
■ AEC objects are not supported and users must use EXPORTTOAUTOCAD
command to convert the objects to base ACAD objects before exporting
to DGN.
See the DGNEXPORT Conversion Table specific details about the scope of
exporting DWG objects and other data to DGN files.
NOTE Do not export drawings that include V8 DGN underlays to a V7 DGN format
file. The V8 DGN references cannot display in a V7 DGN file because the V8 DGN
file format is not a valid design file for the resulting V7 DGN file.
Recommendations
To optimize the data transfer to the MicroStation DGN file format, consider
the following recommendations:
■ Minimize the use of custom objects and other data unique to
AutoCAD-based products
■ Use simple linetypes as much as possible
■ Use simple hatches and hatch styles
■ Use simple gradients and gradient styles
Export MicroStation DGN Files | 1809