Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
CAN'T GET TRANSPARENCY TO WORK?
The Transparency command does not work on all types of images. As mentioned, it works with GIF
files that have the background removed. You can also use a bitonal image, meaning the image must
have only two colors, typically black and white. A bitonal image is also referred to as a
bitmap
image
in Adobe Photoshop. It cannot be grayscale or multicolor. You can put images that do not work with
the Transparency command on a layer w ith a transparency setting set to a value greater than 0. To use
the Transparency slider, select the object, such as an image or hatch pattern, then adjust the slider to
achieve the level of transparency you want. You can start at 50 and adjust downward or upward.
Note that if you want your image to print or plot with the transparency in effect, you must select
the Print Transparency option in the Print - Advanced dialog box.
The Properties Inspector palette offers many of the same adjustments described in this section,
and you can use it for quick access to the Transparency setting and other raster-image settings.
The Bottom Line
Convert paper drawings into AutoCAD files.
AutoCAD gives you some great tools that
let you convert your paper drawings into AutoCAD files. Several options are available.
Depending on your needs, you'll find at least one solution that will allow you to convert your
drawings quickly.
Master It
Describe the different methods available in AutoCAD for converting paper
drawings into AutoCAD files.
Import a raster image.
You can use bitmap raster images as backgrounds for your CAD
drawings or as underlay drawings that you can trace over.
Master It
Import a raster image of your choice, and use the AutoCAD drawing tools to
trace over your image.
Work with a raster image.
Once imported, raster images can be adjusted for size, bright-
ness, contrast, and transparency.
Master It
Import a raster image of your choice, and fade the image so it appears lighter
and with less contrast.
