AutoCAD: How to install Fonts

Issue:

This article describes how to install new or custom font types into AutoCAD.

Solution:

The font types that can be imported into AutoCAD are:

• Shape file fonts, also called text fonts or symbol fonts (SHX).
• TrueType fonts (TTF).
• OpenType fonts (OTF).

Installing an SHX font

1. Right-click the SHX file > Copy.
2. Navigate to the fonts folder within the AutoCAD program and paste the file there:

C:\Program Files\Autodesk\AutoCAD 20xx\Fonts

Note: PostScript fonts (.pfb) and shape files (.shp) can be converted to .shx by using the COMPILE command in AutoCAD. The Compile command compiles shape files and PostScript font files into SHX files. The Select Shape or Font File dialog box (a standard file selection dialog box) is displayed. Enter the SHP or PFB file name in the dialog box. The compiled file is assigned this name with the file extension .shx.

Alternatively, if the fonts are kept on a server or a network, the file path can be added into AutoCAD instead:

1. On the command line type OPTIONS.
2. In the File tab open the tree for Supported File Search Path and click Add then Browse to add the location of the desired font location.
3. Click Apply, then OK to close.

Installing a TrueType font

AutoCAD reads TrueType (TTF) fonts that are installed in the operating system. TTF files do not go into AutoCAD’s own Fonts folder.

• Right-click the SHX file and select Install.

Note: Some fonts can be associated with a linetype, and the line type might need to be edited to use it

Installing OpenType fonts

• Right-click the OTF file and select Install.

More locations

AutoCAD will read font files that are in the same folder as a DWG being opened. It is also possible to setup a custom fonts folder and put its path into AutoCAD in Options > Files > Support File Search Path.