Problem 

User attempts to open a file in AutoCAD/Civil 3D and receives a message that the file “…is currently in use or is read-only…”


Solution

Beginning with AutoCAD/Civil 3D 2016, Autodesk has included a WHOHAS command to determine who has the file open


How to use WHOHAS

  1. Type WHOHAS at the command line and select the <Enter> button
  2. Dialog box opens asking you to select the file giving you the message
  3. Select the file and open and a dialog will appearing telling you the user and the system name that has the file open


The user can then reach out to the person who has the file open to determine availability.


NOTE: Creating another copy of the file with a different name can only lead to future confusion and should be avoided in all instances unless you are sure you will clean up the situation as soon as possible.