How to prepare A23D 3D Models for AutoCAD

This guide explains how to use 3D models downloaded from A23D with Autodesk AutoCAD for design, modeling, and visualization projects.

Important: Current AutoCAD versions do not natively import A23D's common mesh formats (.fbx or .obj). Autodesk marked FBXIMPORT obsolete in AutoCAD 2019, and OBJ import requires a third-party add-in. Treat the A23D model as a source file that must be converted before importing into AutoCAD.

1. Download and Extract the Model

Sign in to your A23D account.
Browse to the asset you want to use.
In the Software dropdown on the asset page, select AutoCAD.

A23D automatically delivers the model in the format best suited to AutoCAD conversion workflows (.fbx as the source mesh) - no manual format selection required. Keep the source model file and texture files together because converted files may reference their dependent files. Do not expect current AutoCAD to open FBX directly.

Click Download and save the .zip file to a known location on your computer.
Extract (unzip) the archive to access the model file and texture folder.

2. Convert the Model for AutoCAD

Choose the conversion target based on how you need to use the asset:

3D DWG/DXF: best for visual reference geometry inside AutoCAD drawings.
3DS: usable for mesh-style visual assets in AutoCAD when your AutoCAD edition exposes the 3DS importer.
SAT / STEP: use only when your conversion tool can create CAD solids or surfaces from the mesh. These formats are better for engineering-style exchange, but converting triangulated asset meshes to solids is not always clean.
OBJ: only use this path if you install a maintained AutoCAD OBJ importer add-in.

Common conversion tools include 3ds Max, Rhino, Blender with an appropriate CAD export workflow, or another CAD/DCC converter that can read FBX/OBJ and write one of AutoCAD's supported formats.

3. Import the Converted File

Open your AutoCAD drawing.
Type IMPORT in the command line and press Enter.
In the Import File dialog, choose the converted file type, such as DWG, DXF, 3DS, SAT, or STEP.
Select the converted file and click Open.
Set the units to match the converted file. A23D source assets are authored in meters, so use meters during conversion whenever possible.

4. Set Scale and Coordinate System

A23D models are authored in meters. After import:

Select all the imported objects.
If your AutoCAD drawing uses different units, use the SCALE command to resize:

For a millimeter drawing: type SCALE, select objects, pick a base point, and enter 1000.
For a meter drawing: no scaling is needed.

Use MOVE and ROTATE to position the model correctly.

5. Rebuild Materials and Textures

Converted CAD files may not preserve all PBR materials. Rebuild key surfaces with AutoCAD materials:

Open the Materials Browser by typing MATBROWSEROPEN in the command line, or go to Visualize tab > Materials > Materials Browser.
Create or edit a Generic material and load the A23D color, bump/normal, roughness/glossiness, and opacity maps as needed.
To view materials on the model, switch your viewport visual style to Realistic.

6. Place the Model in 3D Space

Use ORBIT (Shift + middle mouse button, or type 3DORBIT) to rotate the viewport and inspect the model from multiple angles.
Use MOVE to position the model at the correct coordinates.
Use 3DMOVE, 3DROTATE, or 3DSCALE for precise 3D manipulation.

Additional Resources

AutoCAD Help - Import a File
AutoCAD Help - Obsolete Commands and System Variables