Reduce file size after deleting elements

Question

Hi everyone, 
 
 I'm trying to reduce the file size of a DGN file that contains the city of Toronto. I need to create smaller separate files in order to import them in another software. I was able to delete elements and keep only a small fraction of the model but the filesize stills the same... 
 
 Could you help me? 
 Thank you!

Tim Hickman · Answer

have you tried compressing the file ? From the file pulldown FILE>COMPRESS>OPTIONS take a look at the options available and select what you feel is needed. There may be options you do not want to use (IE: Delete unused levels)

Andrew Bell · Answer

Lorys, I think talking about the cost of storage is going a little off subject here. 
 What Phil says is correct in that once you delete elements in a design file they are not marked as deleted but are immediately removed which should reduce the file size straight away. 
 Compressing the file will get rid of any unnecessary details within a file but only if this information is no longer required. 
 I think the better option would be to reduce the file size by extracting only the required detail out to a separate file using the FENCE FILE command. 
 FENCE FILE (FF=) 
 Used to copy the contents of a fence to a new DGN file. 
 Using a Key-in to Copy the Contents of a Fence to a New DGN File 
 
 In the Key-in window, key in FENCE FILE or FF=. 
 The Save Fence Contents As dialog opens. 
 Key in the name of the new file and set the directory in which it is to be created. 
 Click OK. 
 Accept the copy.