Open, Import, or Attach Shapefiles without Bentley Map
In MicroStation V8i Select Series 1 the ability open ArcView Shapefiles (.shp) and MapInfo files (.mif, .tab) has been included without the need for Bentley Map. In addition to the graphic elements the database attributes are also visible.
Open a Shape File
You can open a shape file just as you would a regular CAD file. Shapefiles using this method are opened as Read-Only.
- Select File > Open from the MicroStation pulldown menu
- From the Files of type listing select Shapefiles (*.shp)

- Select the Shapefile to open and click the Open button.

- Use the Fit command (if necessary) to display the shapefile graphics.
- To view the database attributes of a feature select an element and use the
- Element Information tool.

Import a Shape File
To edit the shapefile graphics and database attributes you will need to import the shapefile and corresponding database file into your design file.
- Select the File > Import > CAD Files command from the MicroStation pulldown.
- From the Files of type listing select Shapefiles (*.shp)
- Select the Shapefile to open and click the Open button.
Note: to export the updated shapefile graphics and database attributes to a shapefile you will need Bentley Map.
Attach a Shape File
Shapefiles can now also be attached as references using the standard Referencing tools.
Tags: MicroStation, V8i
2 Responses to “Open, Import, or Attach Shapefiles without Bentley Map”
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Stacy Says:
I do have V8i Select Series 1, and i do NOT have any option to load shapefiles. What gives???
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Bob Mecham Says:
December 13th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
Stacy, are you using MicroStation in a custom workspace. The drop down list for opening files can be edited. If the drop down list has been edited or from a previous version then the Shape File option may not appear.
HTH,
Bob Mecham