2012

See the DGNIMPORT Unit Mapping Table for specific details about unit
conversions when importing MicroStation objects.
Recommendations
To optimize the data transfer from the MicroStation
®
DGN file format, request
that the creator of the MicroStation drawings consider the following
recommendations:
■ Create a separate DGN file for each design model
■ Do not reference sheet models from design models
■ Minimize the use of custom objects and other data unique to MicroStation
■ Use ByLevel for color, line style, and weight properties
■ Use simple patterns and pattern styles
■ Use TrueType text fonts rather than SHX text fonts
■ Use defined styles for dimensions and text rather than a “none” style
■ Use simple dimension styles if possible
■ Use shared cells as opposed to normal (library) cells
■ Work primarily in one format, DWG or DGN, rather than switching back
and forth
When importing a DGN file, specify the conversion units (master units or
sub-units) based on the DWG file's drawing units. For example, if you receive
a DGN file with master units set to meters, and sub-units set to millimeters,
and you need the drawing units of the DWG file to be in meters, then select
master units in the Import DGN Settings dialog box. This matches the meters
in the DGN file to the meters in the DWG file.
Import Custom Line Style Definitions
If a DGN file does not contain linetype definitions and these definitions do
not exist in any .rsc files in the support path, then all linetypes in the DGN
file are displayed as a continuous linetype in AutoCAD. To ensure that custom
linetypes are displayed, copy the corresponding .rsc files to the support path
or add the RSC file path to the search path in AutoCAD in the Options dialog
box (Files tab, Support File Search Path).
The RSC files are specified by the MS_SYMBRSRC configuration variable setting
in the directory specified in the MS_RSRCPATH setting in MicroStation.
Import MicroStation DGN Files | 1859