1. Prepare the DXF File in CAD
Before importing into Captivate, open the file in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar software and verify the following:
- Set units using the UNITS command:
- Use Feet (US Survey Feet or International Feet) for most U.S. construction projects
- Use Meters for metric-based projects
- Move the drawing close to coordinate origin (0,0) to avoid positioning issues
- Save the file as AutoCAD 2013 DXF format for best compatibility
2. Import the DXF File into Captivate
On the Leica controller:
- Navigate to Jobs → Import & Export → Import
- Select file format: DXF/DWG
- Choose the file to import
3. Configure DXF Import Settings
This is the most important step. Set units and scale correctly based on your drawing:
- If the DXF is in Feet:
- Units: Feet
- Scale factor: 1.000
- If the DXF is in Meters:
- Units: Meters
- Scale factor: 1.000
If units do not match your job, apply a scale factor:
- Feet to Meters: 0.3048
- Meters to Feet: 3.28084
4. Select Import Options
Choose what to import:
- Linework (for design or layout)
- Points (if included in the file)
Complete the import process.
5. Verify the Import
Always confirm accuracy before using the file:
- Measure a known distance within Captivate
- Compare it to the original plan
Common indicators of unit issues:
- A factor of 3.28 difference indicates feet vs meters mismatch
- A factor of 1000 indicates millimeters vs meters issue
Exporting a DXF File from Leica Captivate
1. Access Export Settings
- Go to Jobs → Import & Export → Export
- Select format: DXF/DWG
2. Choose Export Data
Select the data to include:
- Points
- Linework
- Feature codes (if applicable)
3. Set Export Units
Ensure the correct unit selection:
- If your job is in feet, export in feet
- If your CAD team requires meters, export in meters
Captivate will automatically scale the data if units are set correctly.
4. Complete the Export
Save the file and transfer it via USB, cloud, or data connection.
Common Issues and Solutions
Incorrect scale (drawing too large or too small):
This is caused by incorrect unit selection. Re-import using the correct units or apply the proper scale factor.
Drawing appears far from expected location:
The DXF was created far from coordinate origin. Adjust in CAD before importing.
Linework does not align correctly:
This may indicate a coordinate system mismatch. Verify that the job coordinate system matches the design file.
Elevation values are incorrect:
Check whether the DXF is 2D or if elevation values were scaled improperly during export.
Best Practices
- Confirm units with the project team before importing any file
- Keep a known reference distance in the drawing (e.g., a 100-foot line) for quick field verification
- Use consistent units across CAD and field software whenever possible
- Save import settings as a preset in Captivate for repeat use
Quick Field Checklist
Before using a DXF for layout:
- Units match the job (feet or meters)
- Scale factor is set correctly
- Coordinates appear reasonable
- A known distance checks out accurately
