Expert: Bill DeShawn - 4/3/2007

Question
Hi,
I am using Architectural desktop 2005. I have a consultant that uses the Terramodel program and when they send me their files the tree blocks, as well as other blocks, don't come in...they come in looking like roman numbers.  The guy said he has heard that there is a file that is needed to let autocad translate it and read it like it should, but I don't know anything about that.  Do you know anything about this and/or can you help me with figuring out how to get autocad to read the Terramodel block files?

Thank You,

Tim Miller

Answer
I used to work with an Engineer that used Terramodel.  So, I think I know what you're talking about.  Instead of using blocks, they use text.  Only the text is a collection of symbols used on a plat.  What you need are their font file(s).  From what I recall, I couldn't get their font files to work.  So, it might not make any difference.  There can be a lot of trees on a lot, and it's a real pain in the neck, I know, but when you work with a terramodel engineer, you sometimes end up doing a lot of "busy work" after the fact.  It's much better to work with a Land Desktop Engineer (as you might already know).  Next time you shop for an engineer, ask what program they use.  If they use Terramodel, ask for a sample drawing.  If it comes in with a bunch of text that you didn't have the font file for, give them only one chance to come up with the right font files for you.  If after you put the file in the Support File Search Path and you restart AutoCAD and then reopen the drawing and it STILL doesn't work, then either look for somebody else or plan to put some time in on the drawing yourself.  The insertion points are all good on the text, so you can use them to put in the blocks you need.  Make sure you get a plotted drawing from the engineer so you know what to do.  

There is a small chance that I might have a terramodel compatible font that worked at work.  Send me a request at bdeshawn@gbcarch.com for the font or fonts that I may have and I'll see if I have it and pass it on to you.

Keep in touch
Bill DeShawn
http://my.sterling.net/~bdeshawn