DWG to PDF.pc3 Explained
DWG to PDF.pc3 is AutoCAD's general-purpose PDF plotter configuration associated with older PDF workflows. Current AutoCAD versions also provide purpose-specific presets such as General Documentation, High Quality Print, Smallest File and Web and Mobile.
Start here — what you are going to do
Your goal: Understand when DWG to PDF.pc3 appears and how it differs from the purpose-named PDF presets.
Where to start: Open the Layout’s Page Setup and identify which PDF PC3 the project currently uses.
Beginner rule: Do not switch PDF PC3 files mid-project without comparing paper sizes, quality, layers, fonts and final output.
Step by step — follow this in AutoCAD
Step 1 — Open Page Setup
Where: PAGESETUP > Modify.
Do this: Read Printer/Plotter > Name.
Check: Current PDF PC3 is known.
Step 2 — Compare available presets
Where: Printer/Plotter list.
Do this: Note General Documentation, High Quality Print, Smallest File and Web/Mobile.
Check: Alternatives are visible.
Step 3 — Open device properties
Where: Printer/Plotter > Properties.
Do this: Review PDF quality/data options.
Check: Configuration is understood.
Step 4 — Create baseline PDF
Where: Plot current Layout.
Do this: Save with current project PC3.
Check: Baseline exists.
Step 5 — Compare another preset only in test setup
Where: Duplicate Page Setup.
Do this: Plot same sheet with alternative.
Check: Differences are measurable.
Step 6 — Keep project standard
Where: Named Page Setup.
Do this: Use approved PC3 after comparison.
Check: Output remains consistent.
Beginner example
A legacy project may have many Page Setups using DWG to PDF.pc3. There is no need to switch them simply because newer preset names exist unless representative output is compared and migration is approved.
Understand what AutoCAD is doing
PDF presets are PC3 configurations
They save device/output settings.
Purpose-named presets make intent clearer
Their names describe typical use.
Migration is a standards choice
Different presets can change resolution, layers and text handling.
Useful next guides: AutoCAD PDF Presets Explained · AutoCAD PDF (General Documentation) Preset Explained · Create a Custom AutoCAD PDF Preset · Plot an AutoCAD Drawing to PDF · PC3 Files
Common problems and what to check first
| What you see | What may be causing it | Check this first |
|---|---|---|
| Output changed after PC3 switch | Preset defaults differ | Compare old/new PDFs. |
| DWG to PDF missing | Installation/profile differs | Use approved available preset. |
| Paper list differs | PC3 media definitions differ | Recheck Page Setup. |
| Fonts/layers differ | PDF data options differ | Compare properties. |
When you need a more repeatable workflow
If migrating legacy DWG to PDF Page Setups, create side-by-side reference PDFs for text, layers, lineweights, images and file size before replacing the standard.
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
Is DWG to PDF.pc3 obsolete?
Autodesk describes it as the general-purpose driver used in AutoCAD 2015 and earlier, while current versions also ship purpose-specific presets.
Should I replace it in every legacy drawing?
Not automatically.
Is it a physical printer?
No.
Explore more in CAD PDF & Publishing Guide.