AutoCAD - Computer-Aided Design - Computing/Technology

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About Bill DeShawn
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
I can address all 2-D questions and some 3-D questions. I do programming in AutoLISP if it doesn`t involve solid modeling. I can also address menu customization issues and can help you find answers to questions I can`t answer by taking your question directly to Autodesk via their newsgroups.

Experience
I used to do electronic and mechanical design for a flat panel monitor manufacturer, and now I do architectural drafting for an architect. I did and do AutoLISP and menu customization and take pride in making my lisp routines to do the work exactly the way the client likes them done.

Publications
I had a routine published in CADENCE magazine (no longer in publication and taken over by CADALYST). Some of my routines are published on my website at http://my.sterling.net/~bdeshawn

You are here: Experts > Computing/Technology > Computer-Aided Design > AutoCAD

Questions Answered By Expert Bill DeShawn
In Category AutoCAD

Subject	Date Asked

linetypes	11/22/2008
Q: How do I change the font in a line type (e.g. SS), shown as "Standard" in definition file. Problem ... A: Larry: TEXTFILL. If it's turned off ARIAL.TTF will be hollow. If this is all you need, then this ...
Layers/Layer States	11/20/2008
Q: Sorry for the repeat. Just wanted to let whoever know I am using AutoCAD 2009.I created many layouts ... A: Joey: I believe that I understood you correctly on the first send of your question. I stand by my ...
Layers/Layer States	11/20/2008
Q: I created many layouts and used layer states to show different layers, using VP freeze. The problem ... A: Joey: By your description, I am guessing that you are using color-dependent plotting. To make ...
ole	11/19/2008
Q: mr. deshawn, i am very new at linking an excel file to my autocad drawing but i do know how to copy ... A: Trevor: Sorry for taking as long as I did on this one. I had to do a little research. I don't use ...
autocad	11/17/2008
Q: I have 10 years experience as a drafter and right now I'm looking for a job either as a full time ... A: I have 15 years experience, and I, too, have my hours cut to 12 per week. Yes, I do recommend using ...
basic AutoCad 2007	11/16/2008
Q: As a civil Drafter for many years now working in Structural, there are many menu items lacking in ... A: Nancy: CUI has the ability to create a partial CUI file that you can load on any AutoCAD ...
acad2002	11/13/2008
Q: I open the program with no problem. Once I am in the program I go to the open in the menu and it ... A: So, it's not when you actually select a folder, because you don't quite even get that far before it ...
acad2002	11/12/2008
Q: I open the program with no problem. Once I am in the program I go to the open in the menu and it ... A: George: This is a problem I have NEVER heard of before. (and I thought I heard all of them!). ...
Autocad 2007	11/11/2008
Q: We have two stations in our small office. If a drawing is done on one computer you are unable to ... A: Nancy: Are you running a network version of AutoCAD? Stand-alone versions with a file server? ...
Autodesk - Dynamic blocks	11/10/2008
Q: In block editor I need to go into the properties of a parameter but, the property box comes to view ... A: Wow. This is very unusual. So you restored your computer back a week. Was the properties palette ...
Autodesk - Dynamic blocks	11/9/2008
Q: In block editor I need to go into the properties of a parameter but, the property box comes to view ... A: Well, we're at the beginning of the month (kinda), and this is a common occurence for this kind of ...
Script File - Modify Plot Style	11/6/2008
Q: I am not that familiar with script file but usually have enough knowledge to get by. I have ... A: You didn't say what version of AutoCAD you're running. I'm running 2006 and this works for me: ...
snap like settings	11/6/2008
Q: i have problems with my "snap" like settings, although my snap button is off my cursor is acting as ... A: Ania: My cursor doesn't act like this, and I'm using AutocAD 2006. But others that have this ...
printing to pdf	11/3/2008
Q: Is there a way to print an Autocad 2002 file to pdf and print all layers at the same time. Now I ... A: Greg: Printing to PDF is like Printing to paper. You can't freeze and thaw layers on paper. There ...
attributes	11/3/2008
Q: I need an attribute input to work with math. During the insert of the block, one attribute input ... A: This can be modified to work with your needs. Let me know what modification you need. (defun ...
printing to pdf	10/29/2008
Q: Is there a way to print an Autocad 2002 file to pdf and print all layers at the same time. Now I ... A: Greg: It's a little odd that printing to PDF allows you to print only 1 layer at a time. I can ...
LISP Routine for loading linetypes	10/20/2008
Q: I am trying to write a lisp routine for loading linetypes. I can do simple lisp programs but i have ... A: The linetype doesn't have to be already loaded in the drawing. But because the .LIN file can define ...
LISP Routine for loading linetypes	10/20/2008
Q: I am trying to write a lisp routine for loading linetypes. I can do simple lisp programs but i have ... A: Here's a routine I wrote for that purpose: (defun ltlderr (msg) (if msg (princ msg)) (if fd ...
Model?papersapace	10/17/2008
Q: One of my project drawings client says I should not put any text in paperspace. But when I am using ... A: Vijay: You will either have to change the size of the text on the detail, or if the text is MTEXT, ...
new windows xp and mech desktop 5	10/15/2008
Q: We just switched some workstations from windows2000 to Windows XP. Now we cannot print large ... A: OK. So, let's talk about the 32-bit machines for now. Do you have updated drivers for the ...
new windows xp and mech desktop 5	10/15/2008
Q: We just switched some workstations from windows2000 to Windows XP. Now we cannot print large ... A: Jill: Sometimes TABLOID is referred to as LEDGER. See if that size is listed. If not, see if you ...
Insert Block/Xref File Sort/Folder Options	9/29/2008
Q: I've been having this annoying problem with the folder sort default in AutoCad 2000 when I try to ... A: Sandy: I agree that it is annoying behavior. It's more of a Windows thing than an Autodesk ...
autocad scale	9/26/2008
Q: Hey there! I am having trouble with the scale function. I draw furniture cut lists for a ... A: Freddy: There is a new thing called annotative text that can be applied to dimensions that will ...
auto save	9/18/2008
Q: I am using AutoCAD 2006. Two queries. First, my autocad sessions routinely crash when I am doing ... A: Shaun: When hatching, freeze layers that don't need to be on. AutoCAD sometimes gets confused as ...
copy object along polyline	9/15/2008
Q: I am a Landscape Designer in New Mexico and I need a lsp routine that will "copy objects along ... A: I have Landscape Tools available. You can see them on my website. This will work for you. You ...
mouse	9/15/2008
Q: My question has to do with my mouse. It behaves erratically when using AutoCAD. I thought it must be ... A: Shaun: A little searching found a user that indicated that the folowing URL: ...
scripts	9/9/2008
Q: I've programmed in AutoCAD 2002 before, but just recently started back in AutoCAD 2006. the problem ... A: Sylvia: Download the following lisp routine by pasting the following URL in your browser: ...
AutoCAD Map	9/4/2008
Q: can i change an arc to line A: You can't change an arc to a line, but you can change an arc into a polyline that is a series of ...
lineweights	9/3/2008
Q: I have a question pertaining to linetype scales. If you recall, I wrote you a few days ago about a ... A: Shaun: You can change the linetype scale property of an object with the Properties palette or the ...
plot styles	8/29/2008
Q: I am enduring the headache of trying to reconfigure everything in my computer after a virus forced ... A: Remember when you used the CONVERTPSTYLES command and you were asked to select an STB file, you ...
mouse behavior in AutoCad 2000	8/28/2008
Q: I am an occasional user of AutoCad 2000 to help with re-model and cabinet building layout and ... A: paste the following line including the parenthesis to the command line. (setvar "mbuttonpan" 1) The ...
plot styles	8/28/2008
Q: I am enduring the headache of trying to reconfigure everything in my computer after a virus forced ... A: I've got the solution: Since I use ctb files, I converted one to stb and it has color mapping in ...
mouse behavior in AutoCad 2000	8/27/2008
Q: I am an occasional user of AutoCad 2000 to help with re-model and cabinet building layout and ... A: You can set it from the command line Just type MBUTTONPAN and then 1 or SETVAR MBUTTONPAN 1 or ...
Dimensioning an object dvided over multiple viewports	8/26/2008
Q: I have been working with Autocad for years. My first experience was at school with Rel. 12. Since ... A: Jeroen. I have racked my brain, tried everything I can think of to make this work and it just does ...
Dimesions	8/18/2008
Q: Is there a way to create a dimension style that would look like the attache image? A: Hannah-Marie It's always best to include the version of AutoCAD you are running. In this case it ...
2d to 3d option	8/16/2008
Q: ANSWER: Hi, Rupesh. Your question is quite vague, but I will attempt to answer. First, it is ... A: Rupesh The command I gave you is a2004 compatible command. I purposely gave you the command with ...
Excel pasting into AutoCAD 2006	8/11/2008
Q: Mr. DeShawn -- I consider myself an expert AutoCAD user, and have found something that has stumped ... A: Grant: Don't worry. Even an expert can get stumped. Getting a skewed spreadsheet in AutoCAD has ...
Large PLT files	8/8/2008
Q: Hey Bill, I am running Auto CAD LT 2002 When I import (drag and drop) a DWG into my drawing ... A: Bill: One of the things that can cause extra-large plot files is if you have your TEXTFILL system ...
2d to 3d option	8/8/2008
Q: Hi sir i am rupesh from india my question is how make 2d to 3d in autocad option answer me i waiting A: Rupesh. Your question is quite vague, but I will attempt to answer. First, it is advisable when ...
AutoCad Linetype	8/6/2008
Q: I am having a problem figuring out how to make a linetype with the Property Line symbol in it. The ... A: Joe: Please include the version of AutoCAD in your requests. In some versions (the most recent), ...
Menu/Toolbar customization	8/4/2008
Q: First, thank you for taking the time to read my question. I am an electrical designer for a small ... A: Nick. A symbol in LISP is a variable. The way I read it in the AutoLISP Programming book is that ...
Menu/Toolbar customization	8/4/2008
Q: First, thank you for taking the time to read my question. I am an electrical designer for a small ... A: Nick: One that comes to mind is that (strcat is referring to a symbol which I do not see defined ...
How to change the ft and in symbols?	7/31/2008
Q: I was wondering if there is any way to change measurements that look like this- 3'-4" to 3-4 using ... A: Dan: The format of architectural units is a national standard that AutoCAD adheres to and cannot be ...
block handles	7/30/2008
Q: I have to import data from one spreadsheet to multiple block attributes in a bunch of different ... A: Well, if you're teaching yourself CAD, you're supposed to start at the beginning. You're not ...
block handles	7/30/2008
Q: I have to import data from one spreadsheet to multiple block attributes in a bunch of different ... A: Lyn: Handles are identifiers for all objects. Each object has its own handle. Objects within ...
color plotting	7/29/2008
Q: is there a way to make the plotted color and the display color different for any given layer? I ... A: Simon: Using color-dependent plotting, you can assign a color to your layer, make the color of an ...
Exporting Autocad drawing	7/23/2008
Q: Sir, I am making a brochure on "In Design", and trying to insert an "Autocad" drawing in it. I tried ... A: Use OLE. So, in other words, Copy the objects in AutoCAD and paste them into InDesign. It should ...
Scale and stretch behavior	7/17/2008
Q: I am using AutoCAD 2007. In the few latest versions, the scale function was enhanced to remember ... A: Jelena: No, there is no system variable that controls that behevior for stretch. If it existed, it ...
AutoCAD 2009LT - Dashed Lines	7/16/2008
Q: I cant get my dashed lines to scale down - the dashes and spaces are huge, I have tried changing ... A: After you turn off PSLTSCALE, which is what you did unchecking "use paper space units for scaling", ...
linetype creation	7/13/2008
Q: I am using AutoCAD 2007 LT and trying to create linetype like ---S---. The line pattern I use is: ... A: In Full AutoCAD (that's what I use, I am not required to know the syntax for linetypes like you are ...
What's Best?	7/10/2008
Q: i've read over thirty questions and answers, needless to say I can't beleive I thought i'd self ... A: AutoCAD is a program that is fantastic if you have geometry that you want to represent in 2-D or ...
Image Manager in 2000LT	7/10/2008
Q: (i am a surveyor and use autocad for layout/plotting/plan geom. etc) I tried to insert (embedding?) ... A: "Chisel" says: There are 2 ways to put images into LT CutnPaste (embedded) or attach (not embedded) ...
Image Manager in 2000LT	7/7/2008
Q: (i am a surveyor and use autocad for layout/plotting/plan geom. etc) I tried to insert (embedding?) ... A: Zia: I shared this question with some people that use LT and I trust their opinions implicitly. ...
Q-leadering deltas	6/26/2008
Q: I work with a lot of easements in final plats of subdivisions and finding the delta for each curve ... A: There is a way to do it, and it would be good if you knew how to write at least basic AutoLISP. ...
Block att	6/23/2008
Q: I have a existing title block, In 300 plus drawing that I need to add 6 lines of info to. is there a ... A: Where all the insertions of the title block are at the same scale and the drawings are saved in the ...
titleblock	6/21/2008
Q: I am confused on how I move my drawing around once I insert my titleblock to get everything to fit ... A: I am assuming that the contents of the drawing would fit in the title block if you could just move ...
titleblock	6/20/2008
Q: I am confused on how I move my drawing around once I insert my titleblock to get everything to fit ... A: Josh. I need a little (a lot) more explanation. Are you doing this in the Model Tab or a layout? ...
Printing bitmap image in Autocad Lt 2008	6/17/2008
Q: When I try to print out a bitmap image embedded into an autocad drawing, only a black background of ... A: Binod: I'd like to help. Tell me: You say, "embedded". Is this an OLE object? Or did you use the ...
Zoom extents double click scroll button	6/16/2008
Q: I recently had to replace my mouse - it just died. Anyways, I replaced a logitec mouse with a ... A: The Microsoft mice work, and usually more reliable in AutoCAD than Logitech. It's very unusual that ...
Dimensioning in paper space problem	6/13/2008
Q: Aloha, here I am to bother you again! I have AutoCAD 2008 and I'm trying to dimension my drawings in ... A: OK. First off, you didn't do a zoom 1xp. If you did, it wouldn't have reported thus: Scale ...
specific line types	6/13/2008
Q: How can I create a line type that looks like this? ------------>----------->---------->--------- ... A: You can do it, but if you do, you should not use lines, but plines with PLINEGEN set to 1 so you ...
ACAD 2008 Properties Pallet	6/12/2008
Q: The properties pallet works on our copy of ACAD 2008, however, when you then click on some text, we ... A: Rob: According to experts I've polled about your problem, the problem that you have is not ...
partial viewport showing in plot	6/10/2008
Q: I've got my viewports layer set to no plot. When I do a preview or plot, part of the viewport ... A: Make sure there is no other object overlaying the viewport. Sometimes you can make a viewport out ...
Viewport Boundary	6/10/2008
Q: Is there any way to map the Paperspace Viewport mapping boundary other than zoom window option in ... A: How about LISP? (defun c:z1 () (if (= (getvar "ctab") "Model") (princ "Cannot run from ...
Dimensioning in paper space problem	6/9/2008
Q: Aloha, here I am to bother you again! I have AutoCAD 2008 and I'm trying to dimension my drawings in ... A: I don't think your viewport display is locked. Before you lock the viewport, and while in the model ...
Viewport Boundary	6/7/2008
Q: Is there any way to map the Paperspace Viewport mapping boundary other than zoom window option in ... A: The most important part of the viewport is the scale factor of the model space within. That is ...
Dimensioning in paper space problem	6/5/2008
Q: Aloha, here I am to bother you again! I have AutoCAD 2008 and I'm trying to dimension my drawings in ... A: Jim. When you zoom and pan in model space while in a layout, your viewport needs to be locked. ...
Changing the active window from Autolisp	6/5/2008
Q: I'm trying to build an Autolisp procedure which copies the whole entities in a drawing, changes the ... A: Ricard. By "windows", I think you mean active drawing sessions, right? Because if you meant ...
difference between Autocad LT and mechanical desktop	5/28/2008
Q: What is the fundamental difference between Autocad LT and Mechanical Desktop? Can a drafter with ... A: The difference between the two applications is more than fundamental. There are extreme differences ...
wipeout	5/21/2008
Q: I used SurvCADD 2006 with AutoCAD 2004 to label contour elevations over a large area. This was a ... A: Judy: The wipeouts can be quite useful if they are done right. I like them, myself, because I don't ...
exporting multiple text	5/20/2008
Q: I have a drawing list and would like to send this information to a excel or word pad as text. this ... A: If the pull-down menu is loaded and the commands work, right click on a BLANK area of your menu. ...
dwg file size	5/16/2008
Q: I brought in a building drawing that was created in either vector works or powercad and saved as a ... A: Open the big drawing. Use "OVERKILL" (an EXPRESS TOOL) to make sure there are not any lines or other ...
Auto Cad Crashes	5/12/2008
Q: I am a designer for a Civil firm in Atlanta. We updated our AutoCAD from 2004 to 2007. However since ... A: There is no knowledge base articles on 2007 Civil and 2004 Civil or AutoCAD crashing because people ...
Exploding Attributes	5/6/2008
Q: In an older version of AutoCAD there was a command that was called Explode Attributes to Text. When ... A: BURST! It comes with EXPRESS TOOLS. In order to install EXPRESS TOOLS, you have to do a custom ...
panning	4/19/2008
Q: when i press the scroll button to pan the drawing scrolls off the screen when i release the button A: James: I'm going to need some more information: First, the AutoCAD version you are using Second, the ...
Quantity Take-offs	4/17/2008
Q: Hey Bill, I work for an civil estimating group in a large company that creates 3D models of many of ... A: Yes, I think I can point you in a good direction for information regarding Microstation. Google has ...
Project Manager	4/15/2008
Q: AutoCAD 2008 Electrical. I have added some projects to project manager. I do not need them anymore. ... A: Craig: I got this answer for you from the electrical newsgroup. from Brad: Make sure the project ...
LAYER FREEZE	4/7/2008
Q: I AM USING AUTODESK 2007. IF I FREEZE LAYERS THEN SAVE MY DRAWING THEN REOPEN IT THE LAYERS ARE NO ... A: Felicia, If this is happening to basic layers in your drawing (not XREF layers) then some routine ...
CTRL Key does not work in AutoCAD 2008	4/2/2008
Q: I read a few entries on your website about people having the same problem, but I did come across a ... A: Just to make sure, when you enter the shortcut keys into the Key(s) window, use the "..." button on ...
CTRL Key does not work in AutoCAD 2008	4/1/2008
Q: I read a few entries on your website about people having the same problem, but I did come across a ... A: I think you're talking about what used to be referred to as Windows Standard Accelerator Keys. Now ...
followup to best fit block or polyline	3/26/2008
Q: What I'm trying to do is take house that was measured in the field then drawn according to the ... A: All right! Now we're communicating. I'm sure you know you can move a house from one of it's ...
question	3/20/2008
Q: how to trim hatch A: I don't know if your version of AutoCAD supports it, but In AutoCAD 2006 and above, if you use a set ...
complex line types	3/19/2008
Q: I have autocad 2008. I am trying to create a complex line as i would in 2004,2006. I used the ... A: Sean: If when you installed AutoCAD, you also installed EXPRESS TOOLS, then type MKLTYPE at the ...
backup cd	3/18/2008
Q: Aloha from Hawaii, My question pertains to my copy of AutoCAD. I used to work for an architect as a ... A: Shaun: AutoCAD licenses are non-transferrable. The bad news is that you need to get your own ...
Changing Defaults- JIC to IEC Standard	3/17/2008
Q: I am using Autocad2008 Electrical. I have installed all the symbol libraries.But when I want to ... A: Pat came through for you! Pat Murnen" <nospam_pat.murnen@autodesk.com> wrote in message ...
changing defaults	3/17/2008
Q: I am using Autocad2008 Electrical. I have installed all the symbol libraries.But when I want to ... A: Pat Murnen says: When you install the software you choose which default standard but when you choose ...
Changing Defaults- JIC to IEC Standard	3/16/2008
Q: I am using Autocad2008 Electrical. I have installed all the symbol libraries.But when I want to ... A: Pat Murnen from Autodesk Discussion Groups says: When you install the software you choose which ...
Custom Linetype	3/16/2008
Q: I need to create a line type that might be best described as a hatched dashed line. This is a ... A: Well, I don't know every linetype known to man, but I do know you can make your own line type. Now ...
Custom Linetype	3/16/2008
Q: I need to create a line type that might be best described as a hatched dashed line. This is a ... A: Ben: Depending on what version of AutoCAD you have, linetype creation may be available with MKLTYPE, ...
upload font style	3/3/2008
Q: How can I take my company's font styles and upload them to a new computer? A: Meaghan: Create a folder: C:\OUR_FONTS Put all your fonts in there. If there are any TTF fonts, ...
need lisp file	2/26/2008
Q: my name Bill Curtis, I'm an Irrigation System Designer. I know there is a Lisp file made to suit my ... A: Bill: I am working on a solution. Got some help from somebody on a subroutine. Will work on this ...
auto cad printing	2/23/2008
Q: I have hp LaserJet 1010 printer. when ever i give auto cad drawing print, only a small section of ... A: Kishore: I just checked the specs. and your printer is a printer that will accomodate the A4 ...
custmization in AutoCAD	2/22/2008
Q: I am new to this custmization , I worked on .net platform I want to know that if we want to add the ... A: Prabhav: As a new customizer, and faced with the decision of one method or another, your decision ...
AutoCad units defaulting	2/21/2008
Q: When I am in a drawing my units are defaulting randomly. I want them set to decimal, but they go ... A: Meridith: You know what core commands are. They are the ones like COPY, MIRROR, ROTATE, MOVE, ...
acad properties problem	2/20/2008
Q: I have a problem with properties in Acad 2007. Both geometry and text have dissapeared from the pop ... A: Stu: I have never run into that. I looked it up on the KB in Autodesk and came up empty. I'm ...
Viewports zooming in unison.	2/14/2008
Q: I am a long-time user and this is the first time this issue has surfaced. Created multiple viewports ... A: Whenever something like this happens to me, I like to eliminate the obvious first. Audit and save ...
acad.pgp file does not worked	2/14/2008
Q: Alias command can not used, such as "L", does the pgp file loaded when ACAD start? A: wang jun: It appears that you may have inadvertently modified your Support File Search Path. ...
Preserve layers after using purge command	2/9/2008
Q: I have a query related to preserving layers in a dwg. the typical procedure is like this - 1) I ... A: H.B.: I happened to be on my computer, so, I am able to quickly answer yourYou can use this format: ...
Brong layer to front	2/9/2008
Q: I know there is the 'bring to front', 'send to back' and 'bring above objects' and 'send under ... A: H.B.: You can select an entire layer by using QSELECT. After doing that, you can just type in a ...
Cant use Layer states Manager	2/5/2008
Q: we have docs here which contain a drawing having ~20 layers. We have ~10 tabs where in the viewport ... A: You don't need the layer states manager from EXPRESS TOOLS to manage viewport layers. You need ...
MText Editor	2/5/2008
Q: I have a computer in my office that can not clearly see text in MText Editor,I have tried all ... A: Pat: In Windows XP, minimize everything so you're looking at your desktop. Right-click in your ...
Advice	2/5/2008
Q: my name is Tompkins and I am 15. I have always been inventing things but I now have alot more ... A: Tomkins: This is a forum about AutoCAD, so, as you know AutoCAD is what I like. However for a lad ...
Block won't show up on it's layer.	2/5/2008
Q: I have a drawing with multiple layers depicting several different configurations of a structure. On ... A: The objects that you put within the block, should be placed on layer "0". If you do that, then ...
drawing limits	2/4/2008
Q: When i try to change the drawing limits in paper space i get a "cannot set paper space limits when ... A: Leroy: I can't stand that margin or paperspace background, so I don't display it and I can set ...
I have problems with some commands taking forever to complete	1/31/2008
Q: I am a novice at CAD. I am an architect using autocad 2000. I have been drawing on autocad for about ... A: Carol: Lets approach this problem for now as a computer problem and not an AutoCAD problem. First, ...
solid profile	1/31/2008
Q: can you tell me why-- when I make a solid profile of any round object (especially if it is a thin ... A: I tried to duplicate your problem on my computer and couldn't. So I took the question to the ...
Error while install ACAD2002 on Win Vista	1/29/2008
Q: I hit an error of "There has been an unexpected error with the license management system. Please ... A: JP. I've got the question out on the AutoCAD 2000-20002 newsgroup. But if you've tried all the ...
Error while install ACAD2002 on Win Vista	1/29/2008
Q: I hit an error of "There has been an unexpected error with the license management system. Please ... A: You're not the only one, apparently that's had thie problem. Try here: ...
CROSSHAIRS	1/28/2008
Q: CROSSHAIRS ARE ONLY VISIBLE ON SCREEN WHEN MOUSE IS BEING MOVED. WITH MOUSE AT REST THEY DISAPPEAR ... A: Walter: Off the top of my head, I can't really come up with an answer. However, I'll try to find ...
Autocad release 13	1/27/2008
Q: I have recently been given the package by a friend. It appears to be complete except I can't get it ... A: There is an alternative to AutoCAD, called Intellicad and can be found at: http://intellicad.org/ ...
autocad linking	1/25/2008
Q: i want to make a link between autocad and a aerospace software.i want autoad gives me a text output ... A: Amin: There is third-party software that can help you to export coordinates to a text file: ...
MTEXT	1/24/2008
Q: When i seem to double click on mtext to edit it the property palette just appears rather than ... A: It always helps to specify the version of AutoCAD you are running. Sometimes, in any version, it ...
mutileader	1/20/2008
Q: I'm using 2008 electrical autocad. When I go to do a multileader, sometimes the line and arrow head ... A: MLEADERS don't have anything to do with LEADERS, as you may have found out already. LEADERS, are ...
autolisp plot	1/18/2008
Q: I'm trying to create a script file that will sequentially open drawings, perform some AutoCAD ... A: At first it sounds like you want to create a PDF file that has no name. But that doesn't make ...
dimensions	1/18/2008
Q: I'll be very short: I would like to ask you if it's possible to have superscript decimal dimensions ... A: Zsolt: Regular Associative or Unassociative AutoCAD dimensions do NOT support Superscripting. ...
File Size	1/18/2008
Q: I have a file size issue that has ben on going. I am using AutoCad 2000 and my file size continues ... A: Here's a way to get rid of junk in a block: Draw a line to the INSertion point of the block. Then ...
File Size	1/18/2008
Q: I have a file size issue that has ben on going. I am using AutoCad 2000 and my file size continues ... A: Sometimes we end up with junk that we never use in our drawings as we get drawings from consultants. ...
acad layout import from design centre	1/18/2008
Q: Something that only seems to occur on my PC in the office is that when I import using the design ... A: Athena: I have been fortunate in that I haven't had to deal with problems like this myself. ...
autolisp plot	1/17/2008
Q: I'm trying to create a script file that will sequentially open drawings, perform some AutoCAD ... A: Dave: When it comes time to give the plot file name, use this: (strcat (getvar "dwgname") "_" ...
autocad 2007 attribute text problem	1/17/2008
Q: Im having a problem with a drawing that I did a few weeks ago. The drawing is a floorplan with ... A: QTEXT is a command that turns on and off the display of text and attributes. When QTEXT is ON ...
Flatten 3d autocad	1/16/2008
Q: I have an AEC 3d dwg file that I want to flatten, so it ends up like a 2d drawing. I have tried ... A: Hans: Sorry to disappoint you. If the drawing was made in either ADT or AutoCAD Architecture, or ...
pc too slow when work in 3d	1/15/2008
Q: my pc core2 duo 500gb, 2gb ram,only draw one room with 3 desks, 3 chairs, some telephone, i can not ... A: Panchai: Autodesk says that we need to have a minimum of 2GB of RAM to run their software. But for ...
pc too slow when work in 3d	1/14/2008
Q: my pc core2 duo 500gb, 2gb ram,only draw one room with 3 desks, 3 chairs, some telephone, i can not ... A: One thing that I know slows plotting down is if your printer folder has printers in it that are no ...
open dialog	1/10/2008
Q: upon open dwg, after save, and re-open the last opened dwg not highlight on open and save dialog ... A: Panchai: I've never seen this problem. However, Dean Saadallah says he has seen this problem and ...
AutoCAD 2002 LT CopyClip issue	1/4/2008
Q: Wondering if you could offer some insight as to my present issue. I am working in AutoCAD 2002 LT ... A: Susan: When someone saves a drawing down from AutoCAD 2007 DWG format to AutoCAD 2000 DWG format, ...
Loading standard layers	1/2/2008
Q: Bill how do i load standard layers to a new drawing? I have the layers in a file that have extension ... A: As I was reading up on this (because I never like the system of layer states, therefore I always ...
Loading standard layers	1/1/2008
Q: Bill how do i load standard layers to a new drawing? I have the layers in a file that have extension ... A: Yes, Ronny. There are quicker ways. The easiset and quickest way of all is to have a DWG FILE in ...
keynote legend	12/27/2007
Q: I have recently started using AutoCAD Architecture 2008 and my office has decided they want to use ... A: Sarah: I am not an Architecture user, but will still attempt to find an answer for this on your ...
Excel database link with Architectural Desktop	12/21/2007
Q: I work in ADT2006 and am trying to link a Excel spreadsheet with my drawing. I am trying to link a ... A: Kathleen: Unfortunately, Linkin Excel to AutoCAD is very complicated. So much, in fact, that third ...
ARX	12/21/2007
Q: when i want to copy a drawing or part of a drawing, i get this message that ARX_error:enotthatkindof ... A: This is a common problem that appears when somebody receives a drawing file from somebody else who ...
AutoCAD 2008	12/19/2007
Q: The problem: unable to load profile message.....I asked Scott who replied and said if I were to ... A: I still need to put my 2008 on my computer. However, I think I can help, anyway. Scott is talking ...
Delete Key	12/18/2007
Q: I am working on a friends computer and the delete key does not work. It works in other windows ... A: Well, check OPTIONS to see if that one exists, and also, when you preselect objects before you hit ...
Delete Key	12/14/2007
Q: I am working on a friends computer and the delete key does not work. It works in other windows ... A: Mary: Older versions of AutoCAD have an OPTION that asks whether or not you want to activate ...
Matchprop of angle	12/14/2007
Q: Bill, I need to match the angle property of one object to another object. The Match Properties ... A: A line does not have an angle "property". I'll have to make the program figure out what the angle of ...
text style	12/14/2007
Q: Help! I seemed to have lost my favorite font. I don't know how or why. It is the "archstyl.shx" ... A: Shaun: I think you changed your profile. Anyway, go to Options, Files, Support File Search Path, ...
Matchprop of angle	12/13/2007
Q: Bill, I need to match the angle property of one object to another object. The Match Properties ... A: David. Well, try this. I wrote it tonight. MANG.LSP It will work with text and blocks, and XREFs. ...
Layer Properties Manager	12/12/2007
Q: I have encountered problem I hope you can solve...I think it is a setting issue ....when I click on ... A: Marsha: I think you need to to a repair reinstallaion. Put the original installation disk in the ...
attribute extraction	12/11/2007
Q: In 2006 this option was listed in the tools dropdown. It is not there in 2008. I use this for ... A: Marsha: Have you done any work in ACAD.PGP or ALIASEDIT lately? Did you possible work with a LAYER ...
AutoCAD Mechanical 2008	12/11/2007
Q: i'm using Autocad Mechanical 2008. i have a problem on 2 pcs, when i copy and paste it takes ages. i ... A: Manuel: If it works fine for you in VGA mode, but not in full resolution, I fear that your video ...
Breakline	12/10/2007
Q: I'm using autocad 2006 have you heard of any bug with the breakline lisp routine in the express ... A: I don't use the Breakline lisp routine. I have my own. I'll share it with you. Plug this into ...
attribute extraction	12/6/2007
Q: In 2006 this option was listed in the tools dropdown. It is not there in 2008. I use this for ... A: Marsha: EATTEDIT has evolved. As Lynn Allen puts it, it has been taken to the next level. This ...
Plotting	12/6/2007
Q: I HAVE A DRAWING WITH SOLID HATCH AND POLYLINES THAT I WANT TO PLOT USING OBJECT COLOUR BUT EVERY ... A: Peter: I don't think it's your plotter. I think it's your PC3 file or the Plotter driver. It ...
attribute extraction	12/5/2007
Q: In 2006 this option was listed in the tools dropdown. It is not there in 2008. I use this for ... A: Marsha: The command name is: _eattext I haven't loaded 2008 yet. There are too many complaints of ...
object - layers	12/4/2007
Q: Here I am again! Can one object belong to a few layers? A: They can, but it is not a good idea. When you make a block, the objects within should all be on ...
ACAD - printing	12/4/2007
Q: Can I print DWG file on A0 format paper with A3 printer (on several pieces of paper)? A: Yes, you can print a big plot on multiple small sheets of paper. I would divide the sheets up in ...
Auto Cad 2008 annotative?	12/3/2007
Q: Can I do these with my ACAD 2008: Have 2D vector dwg, city plan. I need to add some symbols for ... A: I've posed the question on the autodesk newsgroup, and usually something like this would have people ...
Viewports	12/3/2007
Q: I am trying to angle a viewport. I have been in contact with JB as well however, I don't understand. ... A: Dean Saadallah (a well known expert on LT) says you can't do that in LT. So, if you can't do that ...
Auto Cad 2008 annotative?	12/2/2007
Q: Can I do these with my ACAD 2008: Have 2D vector dwg, city plan. I need to add some symbols for ... A: OK. First you said symbols which I would translate as blocks. Now you say points. Points are ...
Auto Cad 2008 annotative?	12/2/2007
Q: Can I do these with my ACAD 2008: Have 2D vector dwg, city plan. I need to add some symbols for ... A: Radislav: No, it is not possible in any version of AutoCAD, to scroll with your mouse up and down ...
Viewports	11/30/2007
Q: I am trying to angle a viewport. I have been in contact with JB as well however, I don't understand. ... A: Chantale: It doesn't matter which one you use, XCLIP or MVIEW; Polygonal. The result is the same. ...
how can we add formula's in Auto CAD	11/27/2007
Q: how i can add formulas to auto cad like excel? give me any way to use it my work. A: Mohammed: The answer to your question is version-dependent. Next time please provide me with the ...
menu customization	11/26/2007
Q: I'm using 2007 and just "upgraded" to Vista (I realize therein might lie the problem!). When ... A: Here's a tip from Bob Stewart: Go to a folder with files in it, set the view to Details, click ...
insert block between two points via autolisp	11/25/2007
Q: how can i insert a block via autolisp(autocad2004) between two points(give x,y,z),and insert ... A: Mehdi: What version of AutoCAD are you running? What methods have you tried so far? (setq p1 ...
AutoCad Upgrade	11/22/2007
Q: Bill, I run AutoCad 2000LT and frankly would love to stay with it. However, my clients are ... A: Greg: There is no upgrade available from ACLT2000. As Dean Saadallah puts it, "That ship sailed a ...
PRINTING	11/21/2007
Q: WHEN PRINTING A DOCUMENT ON LAND DESKTOP 2006 OUT OF PAPER SPACE THE BORDER IS ALWAYS PUSHED TO THE ... A: Chad: I'm using ADT 2006, so the method can't be much different. Instead of printing extents, I ...
AutoCAD	11/19/2007
Q: When your learning in high school what coul your carrer choces turn out to be? And what might I be ... A: Today and all this month and for the last three months in the local newspapers, there were about as ...
Layer Manager error AutoCAD Architecture 2008	11/13/2007
Q: After installing Architecture 2008, I keep getting a Microsoft.NET Framework error message every ... A: So, therefore it still tells you you have a Microsoft .NET Framwork error? I think you're going to ...
Shading or hatching to represent ball nose endmill cuts in Autocad LT	11/12/2007
Q: Sir: I do mostly mechanical drawings in Autocad LT2006. A reoccuring issue is how to represent ... A: Full AutoCAD has an EXPRESS TOOL that is called SUPERHATCH. When it finishes, basically it's just ...
ACAD 14 and HP 110+	11/12/2007
Q: A few weeks ago the old Calcomp 3024 died and was replaced with an HP 110+ unit that is advertised ... A: Steve: You're asking a lot of me here, you know, and I'm risking a poor rating by attempting to ...
Failure to embed fonts in pdf	11/12/2007
Q: I'm using Autocad 2007 along with Acrobat 7.0 Standard. Previously, I had Scansoft PDFMaker ... A: Matt: Joel Fontenot (ironically named) came up with this suggestion: Check the plot settings to see ...
Too many Dim Styles	11/8/2007
Q: Ok, I can't take it anymore. Is there anyway to get rid of some of the DIMSTYLES that are ... A: Robert: Dimension styles that are current are treated just like those that are referenced. Make ...
autocad menu importing	11/5/2007
Q: I have a customized menu in r14 what is the best way to import it into autocad 2008. I have all the ... A: John: Well, first you will need to save your workspace before doing anything else. So, use the ...
Layer Manager error AutoCAD Architecture 2008	11/2/2007
Q: After installing Architecture 2008, I keep getting a Microsoft.NET Framework error message every ... A: Tony: At this point, I would recommend that you download the latest version of Microsoft.Net ...
ACAD 2008 installation problem in windows profissonal	11/2/2007
Q: When I am drawing a line, how do I us the deg/min/sec. For example: S89*23'04"E 200.08' How ... A: I've spoken to a gentleman by the name of Dean Saadallah, who says that it appeared to him that ...
ACAD 2008 installation problem in windows profissonal	11/1/2007
Q: When I am drawing a line, how do I us the deg/min/sec. For example: S89*23'04"E 200.08' How ... A: Madhava: Off the top of my head, I have no answer, other than try uninstalling and reinstalling to ...
When I am drawing a line, how do I us the deg/min/sec	10/30/2007
Q: When I am drawing a line, how do I us the deg/min/sec. For example: S89*23'04"E 200.08' How ... A: Madhava: 1. Set your units to "Surveyors' Units." 2. When drawing a line, instead of line;(click ...
Plotting to Adobe from Autocad	10/28/2007
Q: I use Autocad Land Desktop 2005. I regularly plot Autocad drawings to Adobe pdf files (using ... A: One thing that I have done, is combine rectangular viewports to get a shape like I want. Another is ...
layers in xrefs	10/26/2007
Q: why cant i freeze off specific layers in a Xref drawing when i can in others ? A: Scott: May I please know the version of AutoCAD or vertical product that you are running? Also, by ...
scanning pictures into CAD	10/25/2007
Q: My husband and I recently started a woodturning business (stair balusters, porch posts...) in which ... A: You can use the REFERENCE option of the SCALE command. This is what it looks like on the text ...
cad	10/23/2007
Q: what are the basic things you need to no before you start an autocad course A: The following things are essential to learning CAD in school. 1. Money for tuition. 2. Time in your ...
Scale issue	10/19/2007
Q: In Autocad 2007 in the layout tab- my model does not zoom to the correct scale after I enter 'z ... A: Nanja: I think you may be misinterpreting what you're seeing. I have never had a zoom to scalexp ...
Plotting pen weights	10/19/2007
Q: I have two seperate files that I am plotting in paper space. Each File xrefs the same base file and ... A: Mark: You ALWAYS need to tell me what version you are running. It can often make a difference. I'm ...
Setting default text in autocad 2007	10/18/2007
Q: This is probably something very simple that I am overlooking. I've created a text style in AutoCAD ... A: Text styles in AutoCAD are defined with each drawing. The only way to make a style name refer to a ...
parallel line types	10/16/2007
Q: AutoCAD is incapable of drawing parallel lines as a linetype.....is this still tru? A: Mary: As a linetype, per sae, yes. However, as an object, no. AutoCAD has an object called an ...
AUTOCAD "HELP"	10/11/2007
Q: When I pick on the "HELP" in AutoCAD, I get the following error message: "Cannot find help file ... A: Brenda Kay: ACAD.CHM (or equivalent) is supposed to reside in a folder called HELP which should be a ...
AUTOCAD	10/10/2007
Q: I am running AutoCAD 2008 with an AutoCAD 2004 profile. My "CTRL" key will not work. I have been ... A: I'm almost positive that's the problem. A missing macro. I'm surprised that a new installation ...
AUTOCAD "CTRL" KEY FAILURE	10/10/2007
Q: I am running AutoCAD 2008 with an AutoCAD 2004 profile. My "CTRL" key will not work. I have been ... A: OK. We'll try a different approach. First we'll back up ACAD.CUI. Copy it to a safe folder out of ...
MENU REPLY - CUI	10/8/2007
Q: I just loaded 2008 and used my existing profile and LISP routines from 2004. Everything is okay ... A: In this case, I believe you should have the original ACAD.CUI as the main menu. That means if you ...
"CTRL" key problem	10/5/2007
Q: I just loaded 2008 and used my existing profile and LISP routines from 2004. Everything is okay ... A: Brenda Kay: I need to ask something to get a better picture of what's going on. First: Are you ...
Leader dimstyle and/or grips are changing	10/3/2007
Q: What is causing the grips of leaders to change when I import a drawing? I am importing a venders ... A: There are a couple of DimVars that can change how leaders and other dimensions react when you ...
non-standard viewport	10/2/2007
Q: Im working as cad technician for about three years and I`m experiecing this difficulty.I would like ... A: Aleko There are two ways to create a polygonal viewport. 1. _MVIEW _P (for polygonal) ...
Leader dimstyle and/or grips are changing	10/2/2007
Q: What is causing the grips of leaders to change when I import a drawing? I am importing a venders ... A: Hopefully you haven't started working very much in the drawing. You need to erase the block and ...
CAD	9/29/2007
Q: Two questions: my partner just bought autocad 2007 Lt and when he plots everything except the heavy ... A: Al: You're not really doing anything wrong. It's just that most people use ACLT.ctb as a starting ...
Creating Linetypes	9/27/2007
Q: I am trying to create a linetype thet looks something like this: x------x------x------x------x I ... A: Don't get frustrated. The reason it failed is because you used it verbatim and I think I forgot to ...
PLOT STYLES AND LINE TYPES	9/27/2007
Q: So, I have two questions. First, I have a plot style set up that works fine with one exception. I ... A: To help you with plotting styles, I need to know if you are using color dependent plotting or named ...
Reference Keynote (Keynoting)	9/25/2007
Q: MR. DeShawn, it seems like you've been asked this questions regarding keynoting quite a bit. My ... A: Jason: Owen asked me a similar question. This is what I told him: One thing that I have done is ...
Creating Linetypes	9/25/2007
Q: I am trying to create a linetype thet looks something like this: x------x------x------x------x I ... A: Kathy: Do this: Type the following at the command line: (findfile "acad.lin") AutoCAD will return a ...
Selection gone backwards!	9/25/2007
Q: Bill, My AutoCAD selection has overnight, gone backwards. Previously when I wanted to edit text I ... A: Luke: change your PICKADD system variable to 1 Also, change your PICKFIRST system variable to 1. ...
cumulative length of lines and arcs	9/24/2007
Q: I have a number of 3D points, and they are connected with lines and arcs. I need a solution for ... A: OK. Bane, I've sent you your DWG and I've included a LISP routine. The lisp routine you provided ...
cumulative length of lines and arcs	9/23/2007
Q: I have a number of 3D points, and they are connected with lines and arcs. I need a solution for ... A: I will interpret "horizontal" to mean flattened 3D lines. First copy the lines off to the side. ...
ACAD 2008	9/21/2007
Q: I was doing heavy duty architectural work and rendering in ACAD 2007 and MAX, when I decided to ... A: Bill: It seems that the debate over hardware never ends. I don't sell equipment and when I buy it, ...
A simple count / List command	9/18/2007
Q: Good day to all. Can anyone tell me if this is possible to be done? OS, XP Professional 2002, ... A: With full AutoCAD you have a lot more options. There is however an ATTEXT command in AutoCAD LT. ...
A simple count / List command	9/17/2007
Q: Good day to all. Can anyone tell me if this is possible to be done? OS, XP Professional 2002, ... A: Dave: I recommend that you take another look at the part of the message where I mentioned how to do ...
Window wont print	9/14/2007
Q: Bill, I'm a tooling design engineer and I've been working with autocad for apx. 5 yrs. I'm using ... A: Mark: You really need somebody to sit down at your computer and help you with this one. However, ...
A simple count / List command	9/12/2007
Q: Good day to all. Can anyone tell me if this is possible to be done? OS, XP Professional 2002, ... A: Dave: In the properties palette there is a Quick Select option in the upper right corner. Apply ...
autocad 2008 error message	9/7/2007
Q: I receive this error message each time I open Acad2008 drawing, even after reinstalling it. "Menu ... A: Darlene. I need a little more information. Is your menu loaded and working with all the File, ...
setting color	9/6/2007
Q: I need a lisp routine to set my color control to True Color just by picking an object whose color is ... A: John: With AutoLISP, I'm not sure there is a way to accomplish that. Possibly with Visual LISP, ...
exporting multiple text	9/5/2007
Q: I have a drawing list and would like to send this information to a excel or word pad as text. this ... A: Sorry, José. The only way to remove a password is to supply the required password first. That is ...
setting color	9/4/2007
Q: I need a lisp routine to set my color control to True Color just by picking an object whose color is ... A: OK. You lost me. Matchprop changes all properties including color and does so by entity selection. ...
jagged linetype	9/1/2007
Q: i would like to use a "jagged" lintetype for the section of a rubble stone wall. does such a thing ... A: Hopefully, when you installed AutoCAD 2004, you also installed EXPRESS TOOLS. Assuming that you ...
Copying objects to other drawings	8/28/2007
Q: Bill, I receive cad files from other parties that are usually generated in a much newer version than ... A: Kelly: There is a HotFix for this problem. It can be downloaded here: ...
Text Plotting Outside of Viewports	8/28/2007
Q: I am having trouble with text printing outside of my viewports. I have read elsewhere that this was ... A: Walter: Send me the drawing at bdeshawn@gbcarch.com. We can print 12x18 there. Also, where are ...
Text Plotting Outside of Viewports	8/27/2007
Q: I am having trouble with text printing outside of my viewports. I have read elsewhere that this was ... A: Walter: Your viewports: Are they in a layout or are they Model-Space viewports made with the VPORT ...
AutoCAD Wipeout	8/27/2007
Q: I have blocks with attributes that i would like to wipeout the items and lines behind the text of ... A: John. Using GRIPS to move an attribute is like using GRIPS to move masked text. Even though you ...
move crow's feet to toolbar button	8/22/2007
Q: I have failed to move pcor2.lsp from the symbol manager to it's own toolbar button and I can't ... A: I need more info. Version of AutoCAD What does the routine do. Does it draw arrow and crowsfoot, or ...
bind image in AutoCad	8/17/2007
Q: How can i bind a image in AutoCad 2005. Need to e-mail drawing and don't want to send image as ... A: Francois: 1. Open the image in Internet Explorer 2. Right-click on the image and select "Copy". ...
dxfout file gets large	8/15/2007
Q: I draw parts for cnc machine. When I dxfout they grow like 3 times the size of the dwg. What can I ... A: I communicated via email with Herb on this one. I suggested that he check out the computers that ...
AUTOCAD 2000	8/15/2007
Q: Am trying to start a drawing with my units in millimeters but I can't, the units are still being ... A: Jeremiah: Create a new folder: C:\ACAD_Templates 1. Start a new drawing 2. Save the drawing as ...
Autocad 2007 - spinning dimensions	8/13/2007
Q: I have a floor plan. To draw the exterior elevations of all 4 sides, i spin the UCS 90, issue "plan" ... A: Phil: Your dimension might very well be associative to their geometry which was produced in another ...
vport changes not saving	8/8/2007
Q: Bill, I am using acad 2005. I have a problem with acad not saving my vport changes when I pan or ... A: I ALWAYS lock my viewports. There's really no point in leaving them unlocked after their set. You ...
vport changes not saving	8/7/2007
Q: Bill, I am using acad 2005. I have a problem with acad not saving my vport changes when I pan or ... A: 1. Within the model space viewport, set your zoom factor the way you want it with the zoom command ...
Lisp	7/27/2007
Q: I know nothing about lisp. I do however have some lisp routines that I use. I have managed to write ... A: I get a lot of routines from http://www.caddepot.com. I even submitted a routine for isometric ...
multiple segment line	7/21/2007
Q: I need to draw a multiple segment line using the @ command and the < command, for example: line ... A: Bob: I wrote the following code for you. Save it in a text file and name if AL.lsp Load from the ...
Labeling Curbs	7/11/2007
Q: I'm sure you don't remember me, but you used to answer questions from me all the time. Anyway... I ... A: SDI = Single Document Interface SDI System Variable Concepts Procedures Commands ...
Labeling Curbs	7/10/2007
Q: I'm sure you don't remember me, but you used to answer questions from me all the time. Anyway... I ... A: I do similar stuff for topos when I can get a hard copy and can't get a digital copy from a ...
Labeling Curbs	7/9/2007
Q: I'm sure you don't remember me, but you used to answer questions from me all the time. Anyway... I ... A: Kevin: No way. You're NOT using AutoCAD with SDI set to 1 are you? Set SDI to 0. Now, put my ...
Autocad lines	7/9/2007
Q: Whenever I draw a line from a line already on the drawing, there is only a beginning point attached ... A: I'm guessing that the objects your are picking are not lines. When you list them, do they show as ...
attributes problem	7/8/2007
Q: I'm a traffic engineer and I'm working with a network of a big city, I imported a file from a GIS ... A: Hola, Cici. Sure. I'd be glad to help. I started to give you some instructions, but then I ...
Autocad lines	7/4/2007
Q: Whenever I draw a line from a line already on the drawing, there is only a beginning point attached ... A: Ed: I first need to establish the obvious, so that I don't misunderstand your question. Whe you ...
Image files in AutoCAD2004lt	7/3/2007
Q: I've been attempting to simply insert two image files (jpegs) into a layout by opening them with ... A: When working with images, it's always best to save them to the working folder (the folder in which ...
Mechanical Desktop 6	6/27/2007
Q: I cant seem to get the middle button pan function to work. I have a Kensington pilotmouse laser ... A: Robert AutoCAD and its verticals are designed to be used with the Microsoft Intellimouse line of ...
SHX Files	6/22/2007
Q: I have an issue with complex linetypes that contain SHX files. I receive drawings from all types of ... A: Express Tools has a function that defines linetypes. You can use MKLTYPE to recreate the linetype. ...
properties tool pallet 2007	6/18/2007
Q: When I double click on an object, the properties tool palette apears, but it has no information in ... A: Yes, I think it's Norton, especially if there is a registry cleaner as part of the package. Turn ...
properties tool pallet 2007	6/15/2007
Q: When I double click on an object, the properties tool palette apears, but it has no information in ... A: If you use a registry cleaner, or if you have McAfee VirusScan and it cleans your registry for you, ...
arrows	6/13/2007
Q: OK, this one is driving me crazy. I place my arrows in Paper Space. Sometimes, for no evident rhyme ... A: Shaun What is it that you are calling arrows? Are they blocks? Are they combinations of blocks and ...
"@" doesn't work like it used to.	6/13/2007
Q: Bill, My company recently upgraded my PC from AutoCad 2004 to AutoCad Map 3D 2006. Now, when I ... A: I tried to duplicate the problem and checked lots of system variables that could be causing the ...
System Recommendations	6/12/2007
Q: DeShawn, I'm looking at getting a new computer system for use in AutoCAD (most likely 2008), and ... A: The first option is too puny. It's not likely that you would ever in your life fill up a 200Gig ...
autocad	6/8/2007
Q: WHENEVER I WOULD USE THE SAVEAS OR IMAGE INSERT COMMAND A PULLDOWN WOULD APPEAR TO PATH ME TO THE ... A: John: If all your other dialog boxes are working in other commands, then setting the FILEDIA system ...
Keynote routine	6/4/2007
Q: Bill, I am now at an office in where the automated keynote routines I've been used to - and miss ... A: OK. I understand now. I have ADT, so I was able to look the process up here as well and have a ...
WCS	5/31/2007
Q: Is it possible to edit or change the WCS of a drawing? A: Dave: The World User Coordinate System is a solid as the north pole being in the Arctic Ocean. It ...
Keynote routine	5/31/2007
Q: Bill, I am now at an office in where the automated keynote routines I've been used to - and miss ... A: Owen. I'd love to help you with this question, but I need more info. First, I've seen this ...
UNITS	5/26/2007
Q: EVERY TIME I START A NEW DRAWING IN AUTOCAD THE UNITS ARE DEFAULTED TO DECIMAL. I WANT IT TO DEFAULT ... A: Easiest way to insure you start up with the correct settings is to use the correct template, or ...
Autocad quotation marks	5/25/2007
Q: when typing in ACAD the first quotation mark is backwards.... how do i fix the problem A: Gary: The Font you picked will only have ONE kind of quotation mark. There is no open and closed ...
layout problem	5/18/2007
Q: I using autocad 2007 in XP . I am facing problem in layout When I display locked and enable yes and ... A: Kuldeep: You say you lock the viewport, but the problem you describe is as if the viewport is not ...
arial text junk	5/14/2007
Q: when using arial and cutting and pasting, when finished cad sometimes leaves a ghost chunk of text ... A: When asking about an AutoCAD problem, please indicate the version of AutoCAD you are running. It ...
fidn and replace method	4/19/2007
Q: not sure whether you are the right person should i send this question to. I'm using Autodesk Map ... A: Possibly. But first, what object properties do these text have in common. Are they true text, or ...
autocad	4/17/2007
Q: How do I set up a sheet so that model space contains the information for foundation thru roof and ... A: A good place to start is a book like the one advertised here: ...
autocad	4/16/2007
Q: How do I set up a sheet so that model space contains the information for foundation thru roof and ... A: Stack your floor plans one on top of the other. All the different floor plan layers will have a ...
autocad performance	4/16/2007
Q: Aloha Bill, My question may relate more to general computing than AutoCAD specifically. It seems ... A: Shaun. I had the same problem. But I took care of it. My computer now runs a full 2GB of RAM. I ...
Autocad Version	4/13/2007
Q: I recieve lots of files via different sources using different versions of autocad.... So i would ... A: This one comes highly recommended. http://www.cushat.co.uk:80/dc/ You just install it, then Add a ...
deleting layer	4/12/2007
Q: i am using autocad 2006. i have a drawing file containing objects in a layer(1). i transferred all ... A: Prakash: You have a block that contains an object that resides on that layer. If going through all ...
autocad - ucs	4/11/2007
Q: I have a drawing opened up in Autocad 06 and in paper space the ucs was and can be set to 0,0 and ... A: Anne: No matter where you work in a drawing, you're in a viewport. I know that doesn't sound right ...
Autocad 2004, vp copy	4/10/2007
Q: I have a question about copy a viewport. I want to copy a viewport with objects (objects are located ... A: Here is a thread from a forum that talks about that in detail: ...
system variables	4/9/2007
Q: earlier today i was able to double click objects in my drawing and the appropriate dialogue editor ... A: Sorry I took so long to answer. I thought I had already answered this one. I think I remembere ...
Pasting a .jpg image into AutoCad Lt 2005	4/4/2007
Q: I am trying to apply a companies logo to a drawing but have not had any success with the copy and ... A: You can use the Image Manager. Type IMAGE from the command line and browse to your image and ...
importing Terramodel files	4/3/2007
Q: I am using Architectural desktop 2005. I have a consultant that uses the Terramodel program and when ... A: I used to work with an Engineer that used Terramodel. So, I think I know what you're talking about. ...
Making a pdf usable in cad	3/27/2007
Q: I have a scanned page I need to use in autocad but can't make it into anything I can use in cad. The ... A: You can do it this way: Bring it up in the Adobe reader. Go to File; Select All and copy the ...
Bluetooth causing issues with ADT 07	3/25/2007
Q: I have ADT 07 and when i have either a bluetooth dongle or the factory bt chipset installed in my HP ... A: I did not hear of this problem before, so I shared it with colleagues on the ADT newsgroup. A ...
xref	3/21/2007
Q: i am adding my design to an already made drawing. i want to xref the original drawing and work my ... A: The Layer manager can change the colors of the layers of the reference attached to your drawing, but ...
How to find the sum of conecting lines	3/20/2007
Q: I am looking to find or build a program to organize a drawing into a grid that I can place data ... A: I have a routine that returns the length of all objects selected - even splines. However you have ...
Solidworks / AutoCad Drawings	3/15/2007
Q: Our company recently switched from AutoCad to Solidworks and converted all the drawings. A vendor ... A: Use Drawing Interchange Format: DXF. Solidworks should be able to create that and AutoCAD should ...
Freelance Work	3/14/2007
Q: I have a question pertaining to doing CAD work on the side, like say a few hours a week, as a ... A: Dave: If your job is strictly 8-hours-a-day, then sure, do it. But if you do a lot of overtime, it ...
format	3/6/2007
Q: I guess all I meant by "opening a drawing that has been saved" was that this only happens after I ... A: OK. I don't do this very often, but I'll do it this time. Could you send me the drawing? Send it ...
format	3/5/2007
Q: This may be an easy one for you, but it is driving me crazy. It has to do with formatting, ... A: This may sound weird, but I'm thinking that there are two definitions of the arrow block that you ...
returning to an earlier version of autocad	3/4/2007
Q: I have autodesk 2006 installed over autocad 2004. Now I wish I had autocad 2004 back. How can I ... A: The file format of an AutoCAD 2006 drawing is the same as that of an AutoCAD 2004 document. If you ...
Viewports	2/27/2007
Q: We are coping multiply v-ports in one tab with the copy command, not copy-clip I was told by another ... A: Sorry for taking so long on this one. I was waiting for some input from others. I actually ...
Viewports	2/26/2007
Q: We use a lot of imported dwg files from our consultants as well as franchise required criteria for ... A: Kevin: With Pickfirst set to 1, you can pre-select the viewport, then right-click on it and Select ...
AutoCAD	2/21/2007
Q: My other question was - What is the most ideal setup and/or configuration for a computer to run ... A: Currently, because of up and coming AutoCAD 2008 and Windows Vista 64-bit, my recommendation is a ...
AutoCAD	2/21/2007
Q: I am seeking advice on "what is the best setup for a computer to run AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT or other ... A: Definitely AutoCAD. Whenever you get files from surveyors, you will want them to work with your ...
screw	2/14/2007
Q: how can I draw a 3d screw (and spirl)? A: n: I get lots of cool routines like that from CADDEPOT.com ...
exporting multiple text	2/13/2007
Q: I'm using auto cad 2006 I have some hatch objects that I'm using for company logos using hatch ... A: I thought I answered this, but it's still here. Try rehatching the gradient, but don't erase the ...
plottting issue	2/12/2007
Q: ok, I appologize, but is the command "findfile"? I typed that at the command line and it didn't ... A: Tim: it is as follows: (findfile "myfont.shx") including the parethesis. It's an AutoLISP comannd. ...
plottting issue	2/12/2007
Q: oops, sorry about not giving you all that info. We are using ADT 2005. Each station is using a ... A: OK. What does AutoCAD return when you type the following: (findfile "myfont.shx") Substitute your ...
plottting issue	2/8/2007
Q: We have 6 autocad stations here and we have been having the following problem. On some of ... A: Well, first, tell me if the text style is defined with a True-Type font or SHX? Also, what version ...
Hidden Lines in Paper Space	2/5/2007
Q: Ok, I didn't word the question very well, sorry! I was referring to 'Dashed' or 'Hidden' linetypes ... A: OK, well similar things can cause that. Set SHADEMODE to 2D wireframe. Any other setting in the ...
ABOUT CAD TESTIMONIAL AND CERTIFICATION	2/2/2007
Q: my name is mobius. Now , i want to ask you a few about autocad. 1. I study autocad and catia my ... A: Nothing wrong with being an Engineer. And Guam's top industry is tourism. And you have to house ...
Hidden Lines in Paper Space	2/1/2007
Q: In model space I will have a variety of different types of hidden lines that can be seen on the ... A: This sounds like a 3-D question because the hidden lines don't sound like hidden linetypes. If the ...
hidden line	1/28/2007
Q: Suppose that I have drawn a cubic solid which contains a hole!. Now, how can I show thw hidden ... A: Again, Ni, I need to know what version of AutoCAD, but at least this time, you gave me an idea of ...
3-d cad	1/19/2007
Q: I have a site plan that has contours broken up. the contours are already 3-d, so that is good, but ... A: I answered this, but it appears that ALLEXPERTS has not record of it. Here is code that I wrote for ...
exporting multiple text	1/16/2007
Q: acad 2006 I have drawings that has multiple sheet set up in acad tabs and have a need to convert ... A: José: Please go to my website and go to the bottom of the main page and click on AutoLISP/Visual ...
Autocad is not launching	1/15/2007
Q: After some virus scan in computer iam not able to launch autocad, when clicking autocad 2006 exe ... A: Pradeep: This is obviously not supposed to happen, but if it did, you can do the following: Open ...
Copying a line to another layer	1/10/2007
Q: I'm trying to export some DWG files into ArcView, but have run into a problem. One of my layers in ... A: Copy using the _copy command using any point (say 0,0) as a base point and the same point as a ...
insert points at centers of multiple ellipses	1/9/2007
Q: I have a drawing with many ellipses and I need to insert points at the centers of these ellipses all ... A: Save the following as elcen.lsp within the Support File Search Path (defun c:elcen (/ sset sslen ...
Drawing a survey	1/2/2007
Q: I typically layout a survey with the "line" command by selecting my first point then entering the ... A: It appears that you are using the wrong symbol for "angle". You should be using the "less than" ...
AutoCAD 2005	12/30/2006
Q: Some of my lines that are angled are very jagged when they should be a nice smooth line. This is ... A: One thing you could try is the VIEWRES command. I think default setting is 200, but if you increase ...
'filter' command	12/16/2006
Q: DeShawn, I am using AutCAD 2005, and would like to ask you if you had a chance to use in Select ... A: There was quite a lengthy discussion on the filter command here: ...
Covert CUI back to MNS	12/13/2006
Q: Is there away, even by another program, to convert a Acad 2007 CUI back to a Acad 2005 MNS file ... A: Matthew: Your is the first request I have seen for backwards conversion. But no, I am not aware of ...
Logitech mouse vs. Autocad2006	12/11/2006