Editing Read-only files in AutoCad

[tyrus84]

Hey,

I am writing to inquire if there is any way that a read-only file can be edited in AutoCad. I am using AutoCad 2004 on a drawing that was created in 2002, probably using the 2002 version. If you can help me with this, it'll be great. Thanks in advance.

tyrus

[CADTutor]

You can't save changes to a read-only file but you can "Save As". This will give you an editable copy of the original.

[Galingula]

File Explorer
Right click the DWG
Select properties
Unclick read only
Enjoy editing your drawing


We group select DWGs at archive time and set them to "read only".

If your trying to get into a DWG someone else is in, save as is the way to go

[ghazy_68]

hi, im using MAC autocad 2011, I'm trying to edit a read only file but its impossible. do you know any other way? please....my dgeree is dependant on this.
thanks

[nestly]

Have you tried the suggestions above?

I don't know anything about MAC, but surely there's a way to change the Read-only attribute for the file,.... or else save the drawing with a different file name (SAVEAS) and then make your edits on the new drawing file...

[ghazy_68]

yes i have tried what was said above! The same copy of the file opens up and it acts the same as the original file. Do you think there is a way?!?!?

[Jack_O'neill]

Try inserting the drawing as an exploded block into a new drawing. Then save it as something else.

--edit-- Sorry, but I gotta ask. Why is your degree dependant on editing this read only file? Are you taking an Autocad class or a hacker class?

Sorry, the way you worded that struck me funny.

[ghazy_68]

well I've got two days to my deadline and i have to have major tiny detailes on my building section (architecture is the biggest mistake of my life) like staircase joints etc, but to fasten the process and all nighters.....I've got a CD which has simliar detailed drawings but i need to edit them and relate it to my building.

....back to my problem, no i cant even explode the drawing. i select object, command explode and then it tells me to "select object' again....and nothing gets selected!

I guess theres no way then.

[BIGAL]

Are you copying the dwgs or opening them and then saving with a new name there is a difference.

[nestly]

.....I've got a CD which has simliar detailed drawings but i need to edit them .....

Are these read-only drawings on your hard drive, or on a CD? Are they copyrighted drawings that you're trying to modify for an assignment?