TrustedDWG: Exploring the Features and Benefits of AutoCAD

TrustedDWG is a key function of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT that analyzes DWG files as they are being opened. The function checks to see if the DWG file was last saved with an Autodesk product or by a software developer who is licensed to use the RealDWG toolkit. If the file does not pass the TrustedDWG analysis, it will inform you in various ways that the DWG file may not be compatible, nor guarantee its integrity when used with AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT. So, let's take a look at how to get the most out of this core benefit.

How AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT Alerts You

The visibility of these warnings is controlled by the DWGCHECK system variable. DWGCHECK is an integer variable, and is saved in the registry - not each drawing. By default, DWGCHECK is set to 1. There are 8 different states that can be set and which determine what type of alert is or isn't displayed. We'll be looking at the alerts that you'll see in the default setting of 1.

First, upon opening a DWG file that was last saved from a non-Autodesk product, you'll get the following dialog box:

You'll have the opportunity to open the file or to cancel. If you choose to check the 'Always open DWG files' option, it will not change the setting of DWGCHECK, but instead, will simply hide this dialog box. You can change this setting (or any hidden message) via the Settings tab in the Options dialog box.

Important Note: Once a non-Autodesk DWG is opened and then SAVED, it will then pass the TrustedDWG test function, so it's always a good idea to check the drawing carefully for any missing entities or data before saving.

Additional Alerts

In addition to the alert message, the AutoCAD command line will also warn you of a non-compliant DWG file. While opening, one of the following messages will appear:

The top message alerts you that the DWG file did not pass the TrustedDWG test. The bottom message will display if it finds that it was last saved by an Autodesk product.

If you choose to open a DWG file that doesn't pass TrustedDWG, you will also see a warning icon in the system tray of AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT. Hovering over the icon will display the warning seen below. It is yet another visual reminder to carefully check the contents of the DWG file before saving, in order to ensure its integrity.

More on TrustedDWG

About Opening Drawings

What is a DWG?

What is TrustedDWG?

The DWGCHECK system variable

The RealDWG SDK

Keep Exploring

Want to learn more? Check out all the benefits of AutoCAD on our Features page; troubleshoot and get the details on previous software versions over on the Autodesk Knowledge Network; or take a look at all entries in our series, Exploring the Features and Benefits of AutoCAD.