How do I convert DGN to DWG without references?

To convert a DGN file to DWG without carrying over external references (xrefs), follow these steps based on your available tools:

Method 1: Using MicroStation (Recommended)

1. Open the DGN File
   Launch MicroStation and open your DGN file.
2. Detach External References
   • Go to File > References.
   • In the References dialog, select any attached references (e.g., other DGN/DWG files).
   • Click Detach (or right-click and select Detach).
   • Confirm detachment and save the file.
3. Save a Cleaned DGN File
   • Save the modified DGN as a new file (e.g., Project_NoRefs.dgn) to avoid overwriting the original.
4. Export to DWG
   • Go to File > Export > AutoCAD Drawing.
   • In the export settings:
     • Select DWG as the output format.
     • Choose an AutoCAD version (e.g., 2018).
     • Critical: Under Reference Handling, select Embed All References or Ignore References (if available).
   • Specify the output filename/location and click Export.

Method 2: Using AutoCAD (If MicroStation Isn’t Available)

1. Import the DGN File
   • Open AutoCAD.
   • Type IMPORT in the command line.
   • Select your DGN file and configure import settings:
     • Layers: Map DGN levels to AutoCAD layers.
     • Units: Match drawing units (e.g., meters, feet).
     • Colors/Linestyles: Preserve or adjust as needed.
   • Click OK to import.
2. Check for Xrefs
   • Type XREF in the command line to open the Xref Manager.
   • If any xrefs are listed (even as [Embedded]), they might still reference external files.
3. Detach/Bind Xrefs (If Found)
   • For Traditional Xrefs:
     • In the Xref Manager, select the xref and click Detach.
   • For Embedded References:
     • Use EXPLODE on blocks that might contain linked data (e.g., DGN-derived blocks).
     • Caution: Exploding may break complex elements.
4. Save as DWG
   • After cleaning, go to File > Save As.
   • Select AutoCAD Drawing (.dwg) and save the file.

Key Tips for Success

• Verify the Output: Open the DWG in AutoCAD and run XREF to confirm no references exist.
• Backup Originals: Always work on copies to avoid data loss.
• Check Layer Mapping: Ensure DGN levels translate correctly to DWG layers.
• Test Complex Files: For files with nested references, use MicroStation for reliability.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure the DWG file is self-contained and free of external dependencies.