How to Add a Custom Paper Size to an AutoCAD PC3
For supported non-system AutoCAD plotter configurations, custom paper sizes are added in the PC3's Plotter Configuration Editor under User-Defined Paper Sizes & Calibration.
Start here — what you are going to do
Your goal: Create one custom paper size in a non-system PC3 and verify it on the real output workflow.
Where to start: Have the exact width, length and device printable margins available.
Beginner rule: These steps are for supported non-system/HDI PC3 workflows. Windows system printers use the manufacturer’s Custom Properties.
Step by step — follow this in AutoCAD
Step 1 — Open Plotter Manager
Where: Output > Plot > Plotter Manager or PLOTTERMANAGER.
Do this: Find the PC3 to modify.
Check: Correct device configuration selected.
Step 2 — Open the PC3
Where: Plotters folder > double-click PC3.
Do this: Open Plotter Configuration Editor.
Check: Device and Document Settings is available.
Step 3 — Open Custom Paper Sizes
Where: User-Defined Paper Sizes & Calibration > Custom Paper Sizes > Add.
Do this: Start the wizard.
Check: Wizard opens.
Step 4 — Start from scratch
Where: Wizard > Begin.
Do this: Choose Start from Scratch.
Check: Media Bounds page appears.
Step 5 — Enter width and length
Where: Media Bounds.
Do this: Choose units and enter real dimensions.
Check: Size is within device capability.
Step 6 — Enter printable margins
Where: Printable Area.
Do this: Set top/bottom/left/right margins.
Check: Printable rectangle is realistic.
Step 7 — Name and save PMP
Where: Paper Size Name / File Name.
Do this: Use a clear name and save/associate PMP.
Check: Custom media is reusable.
Step 8 — Choose roll/sheet and test
Where: Finish page.
Do this: Select Roll-Fed or Sheet-Fed where applicable and test.
Check: Media works physically.
Beginner example
For a 24 × 60 in roll sheet, define 24 in width and 60 in length only if the plotter supports it, then test all four borders.
Understand what AutoCAD is doing
PC3 controls the configured plotter
Custom media is device-specific.
PMP carries calibration/custom data
Autodesk can attach a PMP to the PC3.
Maximum printable area is physical
Grip and print mechanism limit margins.
Useful next guides: Custom Paper Sizes: Complete Guide · Add a Custom Paper Size for a Windows System Printer · Create a Custom AutoCAD Paper Size from an Existing Size · Edit a Custom Paper Size · PMP Files
Common problems and what to check first
| What you see | What may be causing it | Check this first |
|---|---|---|
| Add unavailable | Windows system printer | Use Custom Properties. |
| Size rejected | Beyond device limit | Use supported dimensions. |
| Border does not print | Margins too small | Increase nonprintable margins. |
| Other PC cannot see size | PC3/PMP not deployed | Share controlled configuration. |
When you need a more repeatable workflow
Version the PC3 and PMP together and test the same custom sheet on another workstation before production.
Official Autodesk references
AutoCAD labels and available media can vary by release, driver and output device. These Autodesk pages document the core workflow used in this guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can I create any roll length?
Only within device/driver limits.
What is a PMP?
A Plotter Model Parameter file storing calibration/custom media data.
Should I edit the office master directly?
Only through controlled standards/testing.
Explore more in CAD Paper Sizes, Margins & Printable Area.