Error or Warning Message

User cannot open AutoCAD DWG, DXF files in MicroStation. Error Message: "Cannot locate a default SHX font. Please install msdefault.shx Program must now exit"

or this message:

Explanation

MicroStation V8i added a new folder and variable that points to the Fonts folder: …\Workspace\system\fonts\ . This folder contains the default fonts to be used when a font used in the drawing cannot be found. The configuration variable MS_FONTPATH should be pointing to this directory.

How to Avoid

To open DWG or DXF files it requires at least a "default" SHX font to display AutoCAD text. Ensure your MicroStation Workspace has the required files from the "default" Workspace.

You need to check the configuration variable to verify that it is set correctly and then check the Fonts folder to verify that it does exist and the default fonts exist in the folder.

The Default SHX font is defined in font configuration file MstnFontConfig.xml

See also

Other language sources