Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
To use PlanGrid for blueprints, a project administrator uploads the drawing PDFs, assigns them to the correct version set, checks the sheet numbers and titles, and publishes the sheets. Field users then sync the project in Autodesk Forma, open the current sheets, and use markups or links to share questions and instructions. Autodesk says PlanGrid is no longer available for purchase by new customers; existing users can continue to access projects, while Autodesk directs new customers to Forma Build.
Before you begin: PlanGrid availability and access
Autodesk’s PlanGrid product page says PlanGrid is no longer available for purchase by net-new customers and identifies Forma Build as its next evolution. Existing users can log in on the web and access PlanGrid projects on mobile through the Autodesk Forma app. If you are setting up a new construction project rather than continuing an existing PlanGrid account, check whether Forma Build is the appropriate product for your organization.
You will need access to the project and upload permission to add sheets. Autodesk’s detailed upload instructions are from 2019, so the underlying workflow remains useful, but exact interface labels or screens may have changed. Consult Autodesk’s current support material if a button or option differs from the steps below.
How to upload blueprint PDFs and publish a sheet set
-
Prepare the drawing files
Save the drawings as PDFs. Autodesk’s sheet-upload guidance describes uploading PDF drawings and supports bulk upload. Confirm that the files represent the intended issue before you add them to the project.
#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
-
Upload the PDFs to the project
Sign in to the project with an account that has administrator or sheet-upload access, then open the sheet upload workflow and select the PDFs. If you cannot upload, ask the project administrator to grant the needed permission.
-
Assign the right version set
During upload, select an existing version set or create one for the drawing issue. Keep each issue organized under its own appropriate set so the field team can distinguish the intended sheets from earlier versions. Autodesk’s support article refers to version sets and master sets; follow the naming convention your project uses.
Rank #2
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
-
Check extracted sheet information
Review the sheet numbers and titles before publication. Autodesk’s 2019 guidance describes selecting sheets and using extraction areas to identify this information, then applying project tags. Verify the extracted values against the drawing pages rather than assuming they are correct; labels and extraction controls may look different in the current interface.
Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy. -
Publish the set
Publish the reviewed sheets when they are ready for the team. Autodesk says published sheets become available to team members after they sync their devices, and its guidance describes email notifications for new publications.
Rank #3
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How field users open and sync blueprint sheets
Existing PlanGrid users access projects on mobile through the Autodesk Forma app on iOS and Android. Open the project in the app and sync it so the current published sheets are available on the device. On the web, use Autodesk’s project login. Autodesk also lists a Windows desktop app, but confirm current operating-system compatibility and availability before relying on a particular desktop setup.
A compatible phone or tablet is a way to view the sheets in the field, not a documented PlanGrid requirement to buy a particular device or accessory. Choose hardware according to your project’s needs and your organization’s existing device policies.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
How to communicate with markups and sheet links
Use sheet markups to keep field communication attached to the drawing it concerns. For example, add an installation instruction to the relevant location or mark a measurement question for follow-up. Where useful, link a markup to another sheet or project file so the recipient can move directly to related information. Autodesk documents markups on the web and in the Forma mobile app in its markups overview.
Keep markups clear about what needs attention and where. A markup communicates field information in context; it does not by itself establish that a drawing has been revised or that a formal project approval has occurred.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
What to check when a sheet is missing or outdated
- It is not visible after upload: Confirm that the sheets were published, not merely uploaded, and that the user has synced the project.
- The wrong issue appears current: Check that the PDFs were assigned to the intended version set and that the published set matches the issue the team should use.
- A sheet number or title is incorrect: Review the sheet data and tags against the PDF. Extraction may need correction, and the older support article’s exact controls may not match today’s interface.
- A user cannot add sheets: Have a project administrator verify that the account has upload access.
Moving PlanGrid project data to Forma Build
For organizations transitioning an existing project, Autodesk documents a Forma Data Management process that imports PlanGrid project data and then transitions it to an active project. The documented categories include files, models, issues, and project settings. Autodesk’s migration information describes the process, but does not promise that every item transfers without exception. Review the transition report and verify that the project information your team depends on is present before treating the new project as complete.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
