8.2.3. Error message: "ImportError: DLL load failed"
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In this article, you will learn how to resolve the "ImportError: DLL load failed" error in AutoCAD Plant 3D. This message frequently occurs when file paths for scripts exceed the character length permitted by Windows.
Prerequisites
- You have administrative rights on your local machine to move file paths or adjust directories.
- Plant 3D is closed to avoid conflicts when moving files.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Identify the path that is too long:
Check if your CustomScripts are located in deeply nested directories, such as in OneDrive:
c:\users\username\onedrive\documents - detail engineering plant 3d\autocad plant 3d 2024 content\cpak common\customscripts\... -
Move the directory structure:
Move the CustomScripts folder to a local directory with a short path structure, for example:
C:\P3DContent\CustomScriptsResult: Use of a shorter path significantly reduces the length, bypassing the Windows restriction (MAX_PATH).
- Adjust the Content path in Plant 3D: Open the Project Setup or the Content Path Settings in Plant 3D and point to the new, shortened directory.
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Run the registration command again:
Enter PLANTREGISTERCUSTOMSCRIPTS in the Plant 3D command line again.
Result: The scripts should now load without an error message.
Important Notes
- Avoid OneDrive: Avoid storing content folders in synchronized cloud directories, as these often create extremely long default paths due to the Windows folder hierarchy.
- Flat Hierarchy: Always use short and flat directory paths (e.g., directly under
C:\) for your Plant 3D content. - Unified Standard: Define a uniform local path (e.g.,
C:\P3DContent) for all project participants to avoid compilation errors within the team.
Troubleshooting
- Error despite short path: If the error persists, experts can enable the Windows setting for long paths (>260 characters) via group policy or the registry. However, this is only recommended if the IT infrastructure supports it; shortening the paths is the safer method.