Import DXF

This page describes how to import file in AutoCAD DXF format into GRASS using v.in.dxf. DXF usually contains more layers. You can convert DXF file to multi-layer GRASS vector map or import selected DXF layers as separated (single layer) GRASS vector maps.

Convert DXF layers to multi-layer GRASS vector map

Run from menu

File -> Import vector map -> DXF import

or from command-line

v.in.dxf

Choose input DXF file

Optionally list DXF layers which to import (by default all layers are imported)

Optionally you can also import all DXF layers to single layer GRASS vector map (-1 flag).

Convert DXF layers to separate GRASS vector maps

Run from menu

File -> Import vector map -> Multiple DXF layers import

Choose input DXF file and DXF layers to be imported. Each selected DXF layer is imported as single layer GRASS vector map.

Tips

The concepts of areas, boundaries and lines in CAD and GIS are different, before importing a drawing into a GIS try to make it clean and "GIS like". Ex: Make that two areas share the same boundary, join lines and convert to polylines, remove duplicated objects.

Also import only the objects of interest, do not import text, paper layout or hatches.

Separate the objects that will become lines or boundaries into different layers.

If your dxf is in a local coordinate system (like old topo drawings) with shifting parameters you can use v.transform or you can put it in place with a CAD software (align) and them import into GRASS. If it already have an UTM coordinate and you want to change the reference system (datum) create the corresponding location import, change location and then use v.proj.