Publish DWG to Google Earth: A Step-by-Step Guide for AutoCAD Users
How to Publish DWG to Google Earth with PublishDWGtoGE.zip
If you are an AutoCAD user who wants to export your drawings to Google Earth, you might be interested in PublishDWGtoGE.zip. This is a free tool that allows you to publish your DWG files as KML or KMZ files, which are compatible with Google Earth and other mapping applications. In this article, we will explain what PublishDWGtoGE.zip is, how to download and install it, how to use it to publish DWG to Google Earth, how to view and edit the published KML or KMZ file in Google Earth, and how to share and collaborate with the published KML or KMZ file.
publishdwgtoge zip download
What is PublishDWGtoGE.zip?
A brief introduction to the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products
PublishDWGtoGE.zip is a zip file that contains the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products. This is a technology preview from Autodesk Labs that enables you to import and export geospatial data between AutoCAD and Google Earth. With this extension, you can:
Import a Google Earth image into AutoCAD as a raster image
Import a Google Earth terrain mesh into AutoCAD as a 3D mesh object
Publish a KML file from AutoCAD that contains placemarks, images, polygons, models, descriptions, and time span information
Publish a KMZ file from AutoCAD that contains one or more KML files and their associated resources
A KML file is an XML-based file format that stores geographic data in a structured way. A KMZ file is a compressed version of a KML file that reduces the file size and makes it easier to share. Both KML and KMZ files can be opened by Google Earth and other mapping applications.
The benefits of using PublishDWGtoGE.zip to export DWG files to KML or KMZ format
By using PublishDWGtoGE.zip, you can enjoy the following benefits:
You can visualize your AutoCAD drawings in a realistic 3D environment with Google Earth
You can overlay your AutoCAD drawings on top of satellite imagery, terrain, roads, buildings, and other features in Google Earth
You can export your AutoCAD drawings as KML or KMZ files that can be easily shared and accessed by anyone with Google Earth or other mapping applications
You can use the geospatial data in your AutoCAD drawings for analysis, presentation, collaboration, and decision making
How to download and install PublishDWGtoGE.zip?
The system requirements and compatibility of PublishDWGtoGE.zip
Before you download and install PublishDWGtoGE.zip, you need to make sure that your system meets the following requirements:
You have AutoCAD 2011, AutoCAD 2012, AutoCAD 2013, AutoCAD 2014, AutoCAD 2015, AutoCAD 2016, AutoCAD 2017, AutoCAD 2018, AutoCAD 2019, or AutoCAD 2020 installed on your computer. The Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products is compatible with these versions of AutoCAD.
You have Google Earth installed on your computer. The Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products requires Google Earth version 4.0 or later.
You have an internet connection. The Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products needs to connect to the internet to access Google Earth imagery and terrain data.
The steps to download PublishDWGtoGE.zip from Autodesk Labs
To download PublishDWGtoGE.zip from Autodesk Labs, you need to follow these steps:
Go to the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products page on Autodesk Labs. This is the official source of PublishDWGtoGE.zip.
Click on the Download Now button. This will take you to a registration page where you need to provide some information about yourself and agree to the terms and conditions.
Fill out the registration form and click on the Submit button. This will start the download process of PublishDWGtoGE.zip.
Save the PublishDWGtoGE.zip file to a location on your computer where you can easily find it later.
The steps to install PublishDWGtoGE.zip on your computer
To install PublishDWGtoGE.zip on your computer, you need to follow these steps:
Locate the PublishDWGtoGE.zip file that you downloaded from Autodesk Labs and extract its contents to a folder on your computer.
Open the folder where you extracted the PublishDWGtoGE.zip file and double-click on the PublishDWGtoGE.msi file. This will launch the installation wizard of the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products.
Follow the instructions on the installation wizard and accept the license agreement. This will install the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products on your computer.
Restart your AutoCAD application. This will load the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products into your AutoCAD environment.
How to use PublishDWGtoGE.zip to publish DWG to Google Earth?
The commands and files included in PublishDWGtoGE.zip
The Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products includes four commands and two files that you can use to publish DWG to Google Earth. These are:
PUBLISHKML: This command allows you to publish a KML file from your current drawing. You can specify the name and location of the KML file, as well as other options such as coordinate system, scale factor, image quality, time span, description, etc.
PUBLISHKMZ: This command allows you to publish a KMZ file from your current drawing. A KMZ file is a compressed version of a KML file that includes all the resources needed by the KML file, such as images, models, etc. You can specify the name and location of the KMZ file, as well as other options similar to PUBLISHKML.
IMPORTGEIMAGE: This command allows you to import a Google Earth image into your current drawing as a raster image. You can specify the location and size of the image, as well as other options such as resolution, transparency, brightness, contrast, etc.
mesh, as well as other options such as resolution, elevation, color, etc.
GoogleEarth.acet: This is a file that contains the AutoLISP code for the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products. This file is loaded automatically when you start AutoCAD.
GoogleEarth.arx: This is a file that contains the ObjectARX code for the Google Earth Extension for AutoCAD-based products. This file is loaded automatically when you start AutoCAD.
The steps to import a Google Earth image or mesh into AutoCAD
To import a Google Earth image or mesh into your current drawing, you need to follow these steps:
Start your AutoCAD application and open the drawing that you want to import a Google Earth image or mesh into.
Type IMPORTGEIMAGE or IMPORTGEMESH at the command prompt and press Enter. This will launch the Google Earth dialog box.
In the Google Earth dialog box, select the View in Google Earth option. This will open Google Earth and display your current drawing location on the map.
In Google Earth, navigate to the area that you want to import an image or mesh from. You can use the mouse, keyboard, or toolbar buttons to zoom, pan, tilt, and rotate the map.
In the Google Earth dialog box, select the Capture Area option. This will capture the current view of Google Earth and display it in the dialog box.
In the Google Earth dialog box, adjust the location and size of the capture area by dragging the handles on the corners and sides of the rectangle. You can also enter the coordinates and dimensions of the capture area in the text boxes below.
In the Google Earth dialog box, select the Import Image or Import Mesh option. This will import the selected area of Google Earth as a raster image or a 3D mesh object into your current drawing.
In the Google Earth dialog box, click on the Close button to exit the dialog box and return to AutoCAD.
In AutoCAD, you can see the imported image or mesh in your drawing. You can use the standard AutoCAD commands and tools to modify, move, scale, rotate, or copy the image or mesh as needed.
The steps to publish a KML or KMZ file from AutoCAD to Google Earth
To publish a KML or KMZ file from your current drawing to Google Earth, you need to follow these steps:
Start your AutoCAD application and open the drawing that you want to publish a KML or KMZ file from.
Type PUBLISHKML or PUBLISHKMZ at the command prompt and press Enter. This will launch the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box.
In the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box, enter a name and location for the KML or KMZ file that you want to create. You can also click on the Browse button to select a folder on your computer or network.
In the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box, select the objects in your drawing that you want to include in the KML or KMZ file. You can use any of the selection methods available in AutoCAD, such as window, crossing, fence, etc.
the Publish Options dialog box. Here you can specify various options for the KML or KMZ file, such as coordinate system, scale factor, image quality, time span, description, etc. You can also preview the KML or KMZ file in Google Earth before publishing it.
In the Publish Options dialog box, click on the OK button to save your settings and return to the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box.
In the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box, click on the Publish button to create the KML or KMZ file from your selected objects. This may take some time depending on the size and complexity of your drawing.
In the Publish KML/KMZ File dialog box, click on the Close button to exit the dialog box and return to AutoCAD.
In AutoCAD, you can see a message in the command window that confirms the successful creation of the KML or KMZ file. You can also see the location and name of the KML or KMZ file in the command window.
How to view and edit the published KML or KMZ file in Google Earth?
The features and options available in Google Earth
Google Earth is a free application that allows you to explore the world in 3D. You can view satellite imagery, terrain, roads, buildings, and other features on a virtual globe. You can also overlay your own data on top of Google Earth, such as KML or KMZ files that you created with PublishDWGtoGE.zip. Some of the features and options available in Google Earth are:
Navigation controls: You can use the mouse, keyboard, or toolbar buttons to zoom, pan, tilt, and rotate the view of Google Earth. You can also use the search box to find a specific location or address.
Layers panel: You can use the layers panel to turn on or off various layers of information on Google Earth, such as borders, roads, places, photos, etc. You can also add your own layers from local files or online sources.
Places panel: You can use the places panel to organize and manage your own data on Google Earth, such as KML or KMZ files that you imported or created. You can also create folders, placemarks, paths, polygons, models, tours, etc.
Properties dialog box: You can use the properties dialog box to view and edit the properties of any object on Google Earth, such as name, description, style, altitude, time span, etc.
3D viewer: You can use the 3D viewer to see your data in 3D on Google Earth. You can also adjust the sunlight, atmosphere, historical imagery, street view, etc.
The steps to open and explore the KML or KMZ file in Google Earth
To open and explore the KML or KMZ file that you published from AutoCAD in Google Earth, you need to follow these steps:
Start your Google Earth application and wait for it to load.
Locate the KML or KMZ file that you created with PublishDWGtoGE.zip on your computer or network.
Double-click on the KML or KMZ file to open it in Google Earth. This will add the file to your places panel and display it on the 3D viewer.
the Google Earth imagery and terrain. You can use the navigation controls to zoom, pan, tilt, and rotate the view of Google Earth. You can also use the layers panel to turn on or off other layers of information on Google Earth.
In Google Earth, you can click on any object in your KML or KMZ file to see its properties in a pop-up window. You can also right-click on any object in your KML or KMZ file to open its properties dialog box, where you can view and edit more details.
In Google Earth, you can use the 3D viewer to see your KML or KMZ file in 3D. You can also adjust the sunlight, atmosphere, historical imagery, street view, etc. to enhance your visualization.
The steps to modify and save the KML or KMZ file in Google Earth
To modify and save the KML or KMZ file that you opened in Google Earth, you need to follow these steps:
In Google Earth, select the KML or KMZ file that you want to modify in the places panel. You can also select a specific object within the file, such as a placemark, image, polygon, model, etc.
In Google Earth, right-click on the selected file or object and choose Properties from the context menu. This will open the properties dialog box for the selected file or object.
In the properties dialog box, you can change various settings for the selected file or object, such as name, description, style, altitude, time span, etc. You can also add or remove resources, such as images, models, etc.
In the properties dialog box, click on the OK button to apply your changes and close the dialog box.
In Google Earth, you can see your changes reflected in the 3D viewer and the places panel. You can also undo or redo your changes using the toolbar buttons or keyboard shortcuts.
In Google Earth, go to the File menu and choose Save or Save Place As. This will save your modified KML or KMZ file to your computer or network. You can also specify a different name and location for your modified file.
How to share and collaborate with the published KML or KMZ file?
The advantages of using KML or KMZ files for geospatial data visualization and sharing
KML and KMZ files are widely used formats for storing and exchanging geospatial data. By using KML or KMZ files that you created with PublishDWGtoGE.zip, you can enjoy the following advantages:
You can share your AutoCAD drawings with anyone who has Google Earth or other mapping applications that support KML or KMZ files. You do not need to worry about compatibility issues or software licenses.
You can collaborate with other users who have access to your KML or KMZ files. You can view each other's data on Google Earth and make comments, suggestions, or edits.
You can present your AutoCAD drawings in an interactive and engaging way with Google Earth. You can create tours, animations, stories, etc. with your KML or KMZ files.
and decision making with Google Earth. You can use various tools and features in Google Earth to measure distances, areas, elevations, etc. with your KML or KMZ files.
The steps to email, upload, or embed the KML or KMZ file
To share your KML or KMZ file with others, you can use one of the following methods:
Email: You can attach your KML or KMZ file to an email and send it to your recipients. They can open the file with Google Earth or other mapping applications that support KML or KMZ files.
Upload: You can upload your KML or KMZ file to a web server or a cloud storage service, such as Google Drive, Dropbox, etc. You can then share the link to your file with your recipients. They can download the file and open it with Google Earth or other mapping applications that support KML or KMZ files.
Embed: You can embed your KML or KMZ file into a web page or a blog post using an iframe tag. You can then share the URL of your web page or blog post with your recipients. They can view the file on your web page or blog post using Google Earth Plugin, which is a browser extension that allows you to view Google Earth content on web pages.
The steps to use Google Maps or other applications to view the KML or KMZ file
If you do not have Google Earth installed on your computer or device, you can still view your KML or KMZ file using Google Maps or other applications that support KML or KMZ files. Here are some steps to do so:
Google Maps: You can use Google Maps to view your KML or KMZ file on a 2D map. To do so, you need to upload your file to a web server or a cloud storage service first, and then copy the link to your file. Then, you need to go to Google My Maps and create a new map. Then, you need to click on the Import button and paste the link to your file. This will add your file as a layer on your map. You can then view, edit, and share your map as you wish.
Other applications: You can use other applications that support KML or KMZ files to view your file on different platforms and devices. Some examples of such applications are ArcGIS Earth, QGIS, Marble, etc. You need to download and install the application first, and then open your file with it.
Conclusion
In this article, we have explained how to publish DWG to Google Earth with PublishDWGtoGE.zip. We have covered what PublishDWGtoGE.zip is, how to download and install it, how to use it to publish DWG to Google Earth, how to view and edit the published KML or KMZ file in Google Earth, and how to share and collaborate with the published KML or KMZ file. We hope that this article has helped you understand and use PublishDWGtoGE.zip better.
FAQs
What is the difference between KML and KMZ files?
KML and KMZ files are both XML-based file formats that store geographic data in a structured way. The main difference is that a KMZ file is a compressed version of a KML file that reduces the file size and makes it easier to share. A KMZ file also includes all the resources needed by the KML file, such as images, models, etc.
How can I uninstall PublishDWGtoGE.zip?
If you want to uninstall PublishDWGtoGE.zip from your computer, you need to follow these steps:
Go to the Control Panel on your computer and select Programs and Features.
Find and select PublishDWGtoGE from the list of programs and click on the Uninstall button.
Follow the instructions on the uninstall wizard and confirm your choice.
Restart your AutoCAD application.
How can I get help or provide feedback for PublishDWGtoGE.zip?
products page on Autodesk Labs. This is the official source of PublishDWGtoGE.zip and it contains a lot of useful information, such as documentation, videos, forums, blogs, etc. You can also contact the Autodesk Labs team via email or social media.
What are some other ways to publish DWG to Google Earth?
If you do not want to use PublishDWGtoGE.zip, you can