How do I turn off plot log in AutoCAD?

You can easily disable the plot log file creation in AutoCAD through the Options menu, specifically within the Plot and Publish settings. This prevents AutoCAD from generating text files that record details about each plotting operation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling AutoCAD Plot Logs

Follow these simple steps to prevent AutoCAD from generating plot log files, which can help manage disk space and reduce file clutter.

Accessing AutoCAD Options

Launch AutoCAD and open any drawing, or start a new one.
To open the Options dialog box, you have two primary methods:
- Type OPTIONS on the command line and press Enter.
- Click the Options button, which is typically found at the bottom of the application menu (often represented by a large 'A' in the top-left corner).

Navigating to Plot Stamp Settings

In the Options dialog box, click on the Plot and Publish tab.
Within this tab, locate and click the Plot Stamp Settings button. This will open the Plot Stamp dialog box.
In the Plot Stamp dialog box, click the Advanced button. This reveals further plot stamp and log file options.

Disabling the Log File Creation

In the Advanced Plot Stamp Options dialog box, find the option labeled "Create a log file." Deselect this checkbox to turn off plot log creation.
Click OK on the Advanced Plot Stamp Options dialog box.
Click OK on the Plot Stamp dialog box.
Finally, click OK on the main Options dialog box to apply all changes.

From now on, AutoCAD will no longer automatically create plot log files when you plot your drawings.

Understanding AutoCAD Plot Logs

A plot log is a textual record of your plotting activities within AutoCAD. While useful for auditing plot history, many users prefer to disable them for various reasons.

What is a Plot Log?

A plot log is a text file generated by AutoCAD that records specific details about each plotting operation.

File Name: Typically named Plot.log.
Location: These files are usually stored in a designated folder within your user profile's application data, often under a path similar to C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD 20xx\Rxx.x\<language>\Plotters\Plot Log.
Content: A plot log includes vital information such as the plot date and time, the drawing name, layout name, plot device, plot style table, paper size, and plot scale for each plot job.

Reasons to Disable Plot Logs

Disabling plot logs can offer several practical benefits for AutoCAD users:

Disk Space Management: For users who plot frequently, plot log files can accumulate over time and consume noticeable amounts of disk space. Disabling them helps prevent this build-up.
Reduced Clutter: Eliminating unnecessary files contributes to a cleaner system and reduces the number of files you might need to manage or back up.
Minor Performance Boost: Although minimal, generating and writing to a log file consumes a small amount of system resources during plotting. Disabling it can slightly streamline the overall plotting process.
Simplified Auditing: If you don't require a detailed, automated log of every plot, turning this feature off simplifies your file management.

Related Plotting Settings & Best Practices

While managing plot logs, it's a good idea to be aware of other plotting features and best practices for an efficient AutoCAD workflow.

Plot Stamp Customization: The "Plot Stamp Settings" dialog box also allows you to customize the information that is stamped directly onto your plots (e.g., date, time, drawing name). This can serve a similar purpose to a log file but within the drawing output itself, if desired.
Plotting to File: Remember that creating a plot log is distinct from "Plotting to File," which involves generating a digital output file like a PDF, DWF, or PLT from your drawing.
Official Resources: For more in-depth information on plotting, publishing, and other AutoCAD functionalities, always refer to the official Autodesk AutoCAD Help documentation.