Expert: Bob - 7/31/2008

Question
I just finished a detail in model space. in paper space i opened a window using Mview command and did a zoom all command to see my detail. but my detail appears as a very small detail (like a dot) and i can not make it larger. this is the first time this is happening to me. what seems to be the problem? thank you.

Answer
HMMMMMMMMMM

No mention of your history and ability, or which AutoCAD you are using, so I have to guess what level to use in my comments -- frustrating.

And -- I should assume that this drawing contains only the detail, or you would not be expecting the zoom ex to give you the right view. I am also going to assume you are a novice (but one who learned from old fashioned users, ???????????)

This is a REALLY obvious one -- there is some other object in the drawing-- once in awhile, this situation occurs where the object is impossible to detect, and one gives up and copies the wanted parts to a new dwg.  Usually this question comes from brand new users.

BUT -- may I ask these questions? (the point is not to criticize; it's to point out that you may be self taught with bad habits, and might benefit from a good book.)
1-- why type Z enter A (or E) enter, when the wheel button has handled this since 1999?
2-- why bother with the odd object when you could use Zoom Window to focus on the detail?
3--- you can use Mview -- but are you setting the scale and locking using the Properties Palette?

If you REALLY cant make the object larger, you must have locked the viewport, and should know that.

OR__EASIER -- the rule is "try to figure it out for 5 minutes when you have a mystery, then just do it over. If  you did not try erasing the viewport and making a new one, you are not helping yourself. It is important to be flexible and try several ways.

I hope this helps -- but I am trying to be kind in saying that this is an early student question, and if you are a professional, you may need a good brush up with a book. If you are a student, you are being lazy or have a poor teacher.

BOB


BOB