To output a CAD file from LISCAD to MicroStation, there are a number of MicroStation support file types that can be used by the user to achieve the desired result. These file types are outlined below.
MicroStation Seed File
The MicroStation "Seed" file is a prototype or template file that is used as the basis for the MicroStation DGN file being created.
The global origin and the working units (master units, sub units, resolution) set in the "Seed" file define the coordinate extents of the DGN file created.
The "Seed" file also defines whether the DGN file to be created is a 2 or 3 dimensional drawing.
If a third party (i.e. architect, engineer) will be using the MicroStation DGN file created from LISCAD, it is advisable that they supply the "Seed" file to be used.
With MicroStation V8 support in LISCAD, Seed files are no longer required in the output process.
MicroStation Cell Library
The cell library must be a MicroStation CEL file. It is a file that contains many MicroStation cells.
The cell library is used when a symbol lookup file is selected to match LISCAD symbols with MicroStation cells. A lookup can match a LISCAD symbol with a cell in the
cell library.
If a third party (i.e. architect, engineer) will be using the MicroStation DGN file created from LISCAD, it is advisable that they supply the cell library to be used.
MicroStation Symbology Resource Files
MicroStation Symbology Resource Files have an extension .RSC and default files are installed with the MicroStation product. They are files that contain many MicroStation fonts and line styles.
A resource file is used when a font or line style lookup file is selected to match LISCAD fonts and line styles with MicroStation fonts and line styles. A lookup can match a LISCAD font or line style with a font or line style in the
resource file. In LISCAD, the user may select a directory of resource files, as it is common for MicroStation to use many resource files in one DGN.
If a third party (i.e. architect, engineer) will be using the MicroStation DGN file created from LISCAD, it is advisable that they supply the resource file(s) to be used.