DSD File Extension

What is DSD file?

DSD (AutoCAD Drawing Set Description) is an AutoCad setting file. DSD files are simple text files and can be edited with AutoCad. Each files contain publication settings for projects saved in DWF files or other formats. DSD files store default settings for exporting projects.

Generating DSD files

By default, a DSD is created to save the most recent selected publication settings. It is common among users to change DSD files using scripts to automate batch publishing. This way the publishing process can be streamlined and customized further.

Programs which support DSD file extension

Programs that can handle DSD files are as follows. Files with DSD extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/05/2024

How to open file with DSD extension?

Problems with accessing DSD may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to AutoCAD Drawing Set Description Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install AutoCAD

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports DSD files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install AutoCAD. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download AutoCAD installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Autodesk, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of AutoCAD and update if needed

If the problems with opening DSD files still occur even after installing AutoCAD, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of AutoCAD is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of AutoCAD installed, it may not support DSD format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using AutoCAD.

Step 3. Set the default application to open DSD files to AutoCAD

After installing AutoCAD (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open DSD files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the DSD with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where AutoCAD is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DSD files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected DSD file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select AutoCAD and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with DSD extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the DSD for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the DSD file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the DSD in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the DSD is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. DSD file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the DSD file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the DSD file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with DSD extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the AutoCAD Drawing Set Description Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run AutoCAD

If the systems has insufficient resources to open DSD files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with AutoCAD Drawing Set Description Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the DSD files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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