When multiple people are working on the same project, keeping tools, blocks, and settings consistent can be a real challenge. Different palettes between users, scattered libraries, and hours spent recreating settings on new computers are common situations in many design teams.

To simplify this process, the LusoCAD Allows importing files XTP, a feature that makes sharing custom tool palettes easier and helps ensure all team members are using the same resources and standards.

What is an XTP file?

An XTP file contains the configuration of one or more tool palettes, including elements such as:

• Frequently used blocks
• Normalised notes and texts
• Technical symbols
• Specific tools for specific disciplines
• Custom company resources

Instead of recreating these settings manually, simply import the file to gain immediate access to all defined resources.

Key Advantages of XTP Import

Standardisation of design patterns

All teams will use the same blocks, symbols, and notations, reducing inconsistencies between drawings and facilitating project reviews.

Quick setup of new equipment

When changing computers or reinstalling software, it is not necessary rebuild the workspace from scratch. Simply import the XTP file and resume work.

Best team collaboration

With shared tools and libraries, collaborators can work more consistently and efficiently.

Faster integration of new employees

New users can start working with company standards from day one, reducing onboarding time.

How to Create a Custom Toolbar

Before exporting or sharing a palette, it needs to be configured.

Step 1: Open Tool Palettes

There are two simple ways to open the palettes:

• Through the menu View → Palettes → Tool Palettes
• Using the shortcut:

Ctrl + 3

The palettes window will be presented, allowing you to add and organise resources.

Step 2: Add Tools and Content

Insert blocks

If you have frequently used blocks, simply select and drag them to the palette.

Some examples include:

• Doors and windows
• Furniture
• Electrical symbols
• Mechanical components
• Structural elements

Add normalised texts

It is also possible to create reusable text entries to speed up repetitive tasks.

For example:

• Technical notes
• Material specifications
• Standard observations
• Stamp information

Organise by category

To make navigation easier, it is recommended to create distinct separators.

Examples

• Architecture
• Engineering
• Mechanics
• Electrical
• Notes
• Common Resources

A clear organisation simplifies finding tools and reduces errors.

How to Import an XTP File

If you received a palette from another user or your company, the import process is quick.

Step 1

Open the window Tool palettes.

Ctrl + 3

Step 2

Right-click on an empty area of the palette.

Step 3

Select:

Import...

or

Import XTP...

(current installed version).

Step 4

Locate the intended XTP file and confirm the operation.

The palette will load automatically, making all features included in the file available.

Tip for Businesses

A good practice is to create a central library of XTP files organised by departments, specialities or project types.

For example:

• Architecture
• Structures
• Networks and Infrastructure
• Mechanics
• Industrial projects

This way, each collaborator can carry only the tools necessary for the current task.

Use Cases

1. Project Normalisation

Companies that intend to maintain a consistent graphic standard can distribute a common XTP file to the entire team.

Thus, all drawings use the same symbols, blocks, and annotations.

2. Computer Change

When changing equipment or reinstalling LusoCAD, simply import the XTP file to quickly recover your usual work environment.

3. New Colleague Onboarding

Instead of manually configuring each workstation, it is possible to provide an XTP file with all the company's tools and standards.

This allows new users to get up to speed productively from day one.

4. Teams with Multiple Offices

When different offices work on the same projects, using XTP files helps ensure everyone follows the same standards and uses the same graphical assets.

Conclusion

The import of XTP files into LusoCAD it's a simple way to improve organisation, speed up workstation setup and ensure consistency across projects. By centralising blocks, text and tools in a single shared library, teams reduce repetitive tasks and can dedicate more time to project design and development work.

A small initial setup can translate into a significant improvement in productivity across the organisation.