BasicsSHARELIKE (0)Review the basics for working in AutoCAD Electrical.AutoCAD Electrical includes a standard tabbed ribbon across the top of the drawing area. AutoCAD Electrical specific tabs are included along with the AutoCAD ribbon tabs.

Right-click in the tabs area and select which tabs to display or hide.

You can access all functionality shown in this guide from the ribbon. In addition, the Quick Access toolbar shown includes some navigation commands used in AutoCAD Electrical.

Note:Make sure that the current workspace is set to AcadE & 2D Drafting and Annotation.Marking MenuThe marking menu is a radial context menu. Place your mouse over an electrical object and right-click. The options on the menu depend on the type of object under the cursor.

Click on an option to run the command.Once you get used to the position of each option you can run a command by using a gesture movement:1. With the mouse over an electrical object, press and hold the right mouse button.2. Immediately move the cursor in the direction of the desired menu item.3. Release the mouse button to select and execute the command that corresponds to the direction of movement of the cursor.

Note:If the mouse is over blank space or a non-AutoCAD Electrical object, a standard linear context menu appears.PalettesAutoCAD Electrical uses palettes for managing projects and for working with the catalog database. A palette can remain on the screen while other commands are used. So anytime you need it, it is accessible.A palette can be docked, resized, and set to auto-hide so you can control how much of the screen area it uses. When set to auto-hide, the palette expands automatically when you mouse over it.

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsNext topic:ProjectsProjectsSHARELIKE (0)Create and open projects, and manage project settings.AutoCAD Electrical is project-based. A project is a set of interrelated drawings. All project-related information, including the drawings included in the project, is saved in a project file with a .wdp extension.Project Manager is the tool provided to work with projects and the drawings included in a project.Note:If you are viewing this topic from the Help browser within AutoCAD Electrical, you can click the icon or the Find link next to it. An arrow appears, pointing to the command on the ribbon.

Project Manager is a palette which allows it to remain on the screen even while you use other commands. It can be docked, resized, and set to auto-hide.

You can have as many projects open in Project Manager as you wish, but only one project can be active at a time. Project-wide functions process drawings from the active project only.

Create a Project

The project file (.WDP) is created in the specified folder, containing the project descriptions and project settings. The new project becomes the active project. You can now add drawings to the project.Project PropertiesDefine the project properties, such as library paths, drawing format, and reference style, when you start a new project or any time later.

There are two types of project properties: Properties that are saved in the project file as drawing defaults. These properties have corresponding drawing properties which control the functionality. Properties that are saved in the project file as project settings. These properties do not have corresponding drawing properties and control the functionality for the entire project.Activate a ProjectThere are a few ways to activate a project. Activate from list of open projects

Browse to the project .wdp file

Select from a list of recent projects

The open project is added to the list of projects in Project Manager and it becomes the active project.Copy a ProjectGet a head start on a new project by copying an existing project.Copying a project allows you to reuse: Project Properties Drawings within the project (optional) Project support files (optional)Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:BasicsNext topic:DrawingsDrawingsSHARELIKE (0)Create drawings, add drawings to a project, and manage the drawing settings.Use Project Manager to create and add drawings to a project.

The drawing order determines the process order when project-wide functions are used. You can drag and drop within a project to reorder the drawings. You can also add folders within a project to organize drawings.Note:The folder structure is saved in the project file (.WDP) and does not affect the actual location of the drawings.

Create a DrawingUse the New Drawing tool to create a drawing. Creating a drawing in Project Manager adds it to the active project. It is added at the end of the drawing list. Drag and drop it to change the order.

You can provide a drawing template name on the Create New Drawing dialog box. The drawing template can contain electrical drawing properties, wire layers defined (discussed later on), a reference system such as ladders or an XY Grid, and a title block.Drawing PropertiesThe Drawing Properties control many of the functions in AutoCAD Electrical. They include: Drawing values: sheet, installation, location Reference system: ladder, XY Grid, or XZones Format: component tag, wire number, cross-reference Style: PLC modules, wire crossing, wire connection Layers: component attributes and graphics, wiresIf you use a drawing template when you create a drawing, the template can have the Drawing Properties predefined. If not, the drawing properties are inherited from the drawing defaults defined for the project. Click OK-Properties on the Create New Drawing dialog box to override any default drawing properties as you create a drawing.Drawing Properties can be changed later, but you may need to run multiple commands to update the components, wire numbers, and more. So it is best to define the drawing properties before you start inserting ladders, components, modules, and wires.

Use the tabs to change to each property type.

Copy a DrawingUse Project Manager to copy a single drawing from any open project and add it to the active project.

Add DrawingsAdd existing drawings to an active project at any time. This is useful if you want to reuse drawings from a previous project. To add or create drawings in a specific folder, right-click on the folder name in Project Manager and select the drawing option.

The drawing properties can be inherited from the drawing defaults defined for the project. Use the Project-Wide Update/Retag command (talked about later), to quickly update ladder references, retag components and wire numbers, update cross-referencing, and more.Reference Only DrawingsYou may have drawings that are part of the project but you don't want them processed during project-wide functions. Or perhaps they are not even electrical drawings but they are necessary for the entire design. You can set these drawings as reference only in the drawing properties.

Tagging, cross-referencing, and reporting functions ignore reference only drawings. However, you can select to include them in project-wide plotting and title block updates.Title BlockIf you insert a .dwg as a title block on your drawings, you can link project and drawing property values to specific attributes on the title block. You need to set up the mapping between the properties and the attributes. Use the Title Block Setup command to create and define the title block mapping. The mapping can be project-specific or default for all projects.If your title block is part of your drawing template, AutoCAD Electrical automatically updates these attribute values when you create a drawing. Or use the Title Block Update command to update later. For example, you can renumber the sheet values across the project and update the attribute associated with that property.Reference SystemEach schematic drawing can have a reference system defined; ladders, X-Y Grid, or X Zones. The reference system is used to assign unique schematic component tags and unique wire numbers (if not using sequential tagging). The reference system is also used for cross-referencing which we cover later.Select your reference system in Drawing PropertiesDrawing Format tabFormat Referencing section. Use the Setup button to define the specifics for the referencing type you choose.

Once the reference system format is defined you can insert the ladder, X-Y Grid, or X Zones on a drawing. Find the commands on the Schematic tabInsert Wires/Wire Numbers panel.

To save time, you can define and insert the reference system on a template drawing.Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:ProjectsNext topic:Schematic ComponentsSchematic ComponentsSHARELIKE (0)Insert schematic components, generate PLC modules, insert and copy circuits.Grid and SnapIt is recommended you work with grid lines and snap to grid points when inserting components. GRID - sets the grid spacing SNAP - sets the snap spacing F7 - toggles grid visibility F9 - toggles snap to grid on and offSchematic Symbols Library StandardsAutoCAD Electrical provides library symbols that comply with the standards: IEEE 315/315A IEC-60617 NFPAThe IEEE and IEC library symbols are metric. To scale the symbols for imperial, use the Modify library symbols utility. The NFPA library symbols are in inches.The JIC standard is no longer updated and was incorporated into the NFPA 79 standards. The NFPA standard states that the library symbols are in accordance with the IEEE 315/315A standard. AutoCAD Electrical continues to provide the JIC and older IEC symbol libraries for legacy support.Use the Project Settings tab on the Project Properties dialog box to define the path for which set of library symbols you want to use for a particular project.

Insert a Component from the Catalog DatabaseIf you start with a list of components for a project and you already know the part numbers, you can insert a component by selecting it from the catalog database. Use the Catalog Browser palette to insert components from the catalog database.

Use the search to find the catalog you want. The search values you use are also saved and can easily be used again by selecting from the search drop-down menu.

The catalog information is placed on the symbol automatically. You can edit the symbol further using the dialog box that pops up as soon as a symbol is inserted.

If the symbol you need is not yet associated to the catalog number, you can open the icon menu directly from the catalog browser to insert it. The symbol becomes associated to that catalog number from that point on. If it is a catalog value you plan to use frequently, add it to the favorites.

Insert a Component from the Icon MenuThe icon menu lets you insert a symbol by selecting the symbol type, for example a NO push button, or 3-position selector switch. Once the symbol is inserted you can annotate it with descriptions, catalog information, and so on.

There are different icon menus for the different library sets. Use the Project Settings tab on the Project Properties dialog box to define the icon menu you want to use for a particular project.

Annotate the SymbolOnce the symbol is inserted, annotate it with descriptions, catalog information, and so on.

Each symbol can have a main catalog value and a number of what AutoCAD Electrical calls "multiple catalog" values. Edit a component to add, edit, or remove catalog assignments.Click Lookup to update the main catalog value.

Click Multiple Catalog to add, change, or remove extra catalog values for the component.

Parent and Child ComponentsSome devices are represented by multiple symbols. For example, a relay may have a coil symbol and a number of contact symbols. AutoCAD Electrical uses "parent" and "child" symbols to create this relationship between symbols that represent a single device. In the relay example, the coil is the parent symbol and the contacts are child symbols.

When you insert a parent symbol, AutoCAD Electrical assigns it a unique tag value based on the drawing properties. The tag value is the identifier for a device.Note:When drawing in the IEC standard, the installation, location, and tag value combination is used as the unique identifier for a device.When you insert a child symbol, you select which parent it belongs to using the methods provided on the Insert/Edit Child Symbol dialog box.

Drawing - select from a list of possible parents on the active drawing Project - select from a list of possible parents from all the drawings in the active project Parent/Sibling - the dialog box is temporarily dismissed and you click on the parent symbol, or a child symbol already related to the parent, on the active drawingWhen you select the parent, the same tag value is assigned to the child along with any other values on the parent such as installation, location, and description. Once they carry the same tag AutoCAD Electrical knows that they belong to the same device.PLCAutoCAD Electrical can generate any of hundreds of different PLC I/O modules on demand, in various different graphical styles. Modules automatically adapt to the underlying ladder rung spacing, and can stretch or break into two or more pieces at insertion time.

Expand the manufacturer, series, and type to find the PLC module. Select the PLC style if different from the drawing default. Select the module and click OK. Select an insertion point using the module outline to help with placement. Answer the prompts which can include rack, slot, first address, and more.

CircuitsA circuit is any collection of components and wires. If you have a circuit that you use frequently, you can save it and add it to the icon menu for easy insertion.Next time you need that circuit, insert it from the icon menu.

Later on we'll talk about copying and pasting a circuit.Use Circuit Builder to insert motor control and power feed circuits. Select from various circuit options.

The circuit is built dynamically based on your selections.

Custom SymbolsUse Symbol Builder to create your own custom symbols compatible with AutoCAD Electrical.

Start from scratch or use an existing symbol that is similar as a starting point. Select the symbol type, insertion point, and orientation. It is recommended for schematic symbols to create both a horizontal and vertical version. Symbol Builder works in the AutoCAD block editor environment. Use the Symbol Builder Attribute Editor palette to insert the necessary attributes for the selected symbol type.

Draw the graphics needed for the symbol. Follow the AutoCAD Electrical naming conventions when saving a schematic symbol.Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:DrawingsNext topic:Schematic TerminalsSchematic TerminalsSHARELIKE (0)Insert single and multi-level terminals.There are four types of schematic terminal behavior that you can select from. The terminal block name controls the type of terminal behavior.Non-intelligent terminals. They do not show up in reports.

Terminals that take on a terminal number that matches the wire number passing through or connected to the terminal.

Terminals that carry a user-defined terminal number.

Terminals that force a new wire number to generate as a wire passes through the terminal.

There are five main terminal styles: square, round, hexagon, diamond, and triangle.InsertInsert terminals like other schematic symbols, from the catalog browser or the icon menu. When inserting from the Catalog Browser, select the TRMS (Terminals) category.

When inserting terminals from the icon menu, make sure to select the appropriate behavior type and terminal style.

Use the Installation, Location, and Tagstrip properties to group terminals together into the same terminal strip.

Terminal Block PropertiesA schematic terminal symbol can represent a single level terminal or one level of a multi-level terminal. The number of levels for the terminal is defined as a block property. Each level carries certain characteristics, such as a label, wires per connection, left pin, and right pin. Each schematic terminal symbol carries all the block properties for each level so that removing one terminal symbol does not remove the block properties. If a block property is modified, all the terminal symbols update. A symbol without any level properties is treated as a single level terminal. Terminal properties can be part of a catalog assignment and applied automatically when the catalog is assigned.You can view and edit the properties of a terminal on the Insert\Edit Terminal Symbol dialog box.

If a terminal is defined as multi-level in the properties, you can associate schematic terminals together, each terminal representing a level. If the schematic terminals are on the same drawing you can use the Associate Terminals command to relate them.Watch the command prompt so you push each terminal into the correct level.If the terminals are not on the same drawing, edit the terminal that you want to push into an association with another terminal. Select the Add\Modify button to open the Add\Modify Association dialog box. From here, you can push the terminal into an open level on another terminal.

Terminal Strip EditorUse the Terminals Strip Editor to manage an entire terminal strip. You can change catalog assignments, add jumpers, associate terminals, add spare and accessories, insert the panel terminal strip, and more. Later on, in the Panel Layout topic you will see how to work with the Terminal Strip Editor.Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:Schematic ComponentsNext topic:Wires and Wire Numbers

Wires and Wire NumbersSHARELIKE (0)Insert wires, wire numbers, and signal arrows.A wire is simply a line object that is on a layer defined as an AutoCAD Electrical wire layer. A wire network is one or more wire line segments and optional branches that interconnect and form an electrically unbroken conductor.Manage Wire LayersUse the Create/Edit Wire Type tool to create or edit existing wire types.

Existing wire layers are listed in the grid. Edit the color and size by typing in the grid. To rename a layer, right click on the layer name and click Rename Layer.To create a wire layer, enter a wire color and size in the blank row. A default layer name is entered and can be renamed as needed. During a wire number operation, wire numbers are added to all layers unless they are defined as "No Wire Numbering". This option is useful in some cases, for example one-line drawings. Use Color, Linetype, and Lineweight to define the layer properties.To change a layer so it is no longer a wire layer, select the row and click Remove Layer. The layer still exists in the drawing but any lines drawn on that layer are not considered wires.Wire layers are defined on a per-drawing basis. Click Import to bring wire layers from another drawing into the active drawing. You can also define wire layers on a template drawing. That way any drawing created using that template will contain those predefined wire layers.Insert WiresUse the following commands to insert wires on your drawing. Inserts orthogonal wires. Inserts a wire angled by 22.5. Inserts a wire angled by 45. Inserts a wire angled by 67.5. Interconnects components with wire connection points that are aligned. Inserts multiple wires, for example 3-phase wires.When you insert wires using any of these commands, the wires are automatically placed on a wire layer. If the wire connects to another wire, it is drawn on that wire's layer, otherwise it is drawn on the default wire layer as defined in the Create/Edit Wire Type dialog box.When a wire crosses another wire, it can receive a loop or a gap as defined on the Styles tab of the Drawing Properties dialog box.

When a wire ends at another wire to form a tee connection, it receives a dot or an angled tee as defined on the Styles tab of the Drawing Properties dialog box.

Change Wires to a Different Wire LayerUse the Change/Convert Wire Type command to change wires to a different layer or convert lines to wires.

Wire Number SetupUse the Wire Numbers tab on the Drawing Properties dialog box to define the wire number format, type, and placement.The format can contain a combination of text and replaceable parameters. The following replaceable parameters are supported for wire numbers:%SSheet number of the drawing

%DDrawing value of the drawing

%GWire layer name

%NSequential or Reference-based number

%XSuffix character position for reference-based tagging (not present = end of tag)

%PIEC-style project code (default for drawing)

%IIEC-style installation code (default for drawing)

%LIEC-style location code (default for drawing)

%ASection value for the drawing

%BSub-section value for the drawing

Example of Wire Number Formats(For wire number 50 on sheet 3)%S/%N = 3/50%N = 50W-%S%N = W-350Insert Wire NumbersUse the Wire Numbers command to insert wire numbers or to update existing wire numbers.

The drawing property settings are preselected but you can override these settings. Wire numbers marked as "Fixed" do not update when you use the Wire Numbers command. Use the Edit Wire Number command to mark a wire number as "Fixed".Signal ArrowsA signal arrow lets you break a wire network and continue it either on the same drawing:

or on another drawing:

AutoCAD Electrical uses a named source/destination concept. You identify a wire network to be the source, insert a source arrow on that network, and assign a source code name to it. On the wire network that is to be a continuation of the same wire number, whether on the same drawing or a different drawing in the project, insert a destination arrow. Give it the same code name that you gave to its source. AutoCAD Electrical matches source code names with destination names and copies source wire numbers over to the destination wire networks.Note:A source arrow can link to multiple destination arrows, but a destination arrow can link to only one source.Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:Schematic TerminalsNext topic:Cross-ReferencingCross-ReferencingSHARELIKE (0)Select a cross-reference format and add cross-referencing to your drawings.AutoCAD Electrical adds cross-reference information to related schematic components indicating the reference location. The parent component is annotated with the reference location of each of its children. A child component is annotated with the reference location of its parent.AutoCAD Electrical supports three types of cross-referencing annotation on a parent component.

Cross-reference annotation on a child is always in text format.

Cross-reference information is also added to signal arrows. A source arrow is annotated with the reference location of each of its destination arrows. A destination arrow is annotated with the reference location of its source.

Define the cross-reference format and style on Drawing PropertiesCross-References tab.Cross-Reference UpdatesIf the project is set for real-time cross-referencing, each time an action changes the reference location of a component or signal arrow, the cross-reference annotation updates. For example, if you add a contact and relate it to a parent, the cross-reference on the parent updates to include the new child. If you move a child to a new location the parent's cross-reference updates to indicate the new location. If a child is deleted, the parent's cross-reference updates to remove the reference for that child. These updates happen whether the parent and child are on the same drawing or not.If real-time cross-referencing is turned off, or if drawings could not update automatically, use the following commands to update cross-referencing: Component Cross-Reference Update Signal ReferencesThe Component Cross-Reference command creates two reports: Cross-reference report - a listing of each component and quantity and locations of child contacts. Exception/Error report - a listing of the exceptions which include child contacts with no parent and parent relay coils with no child contacts.SurfingSurfing is a way to jump to related components or to follow a signal arrow.

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:Wires and Wire NumbersNext topic:ModifyModifySHARELIKE (0)Modify your drawings while maintaining the intelligence needed by AutoCAD Electrical.AutoCAD Electrical provides a number of ways to modify existing components. It is recommended that you use the AutoCAD Electrical commands to make changes rather than the standard AutoCAD commands.Edit the component values at any time and the product keeps all related components in sync.Slide a component along its connected wire. Wires remain attached to the component. Scoot is limited to components with one or two connected wires. You can also pick a wire to scoot and all the components on the wire move along with it.Adjust components so they line up with a selected component.Move components from one location to another. Component tags update and wires heal and break as needed.If you want to copy components and wires on the same drawing you can use the Copy Circuit command.You can pick multiple insertion points to make multiple copies. Component tags update so they are unique. You can choose to update terminal numbers.

To copy components and wires from one drawing to another, use the Circuit Clipboard commands.

The Copy Clip or Cut commands put the components and wires on the Circuit Clipboard. Use the Paste command to place the objects on either the active drawing or another drawing. You may need to update terminal numbers since this command does not let you increase the terminal numbers.You can also use these commands to make changes quickly.Delete a component and heal the connected wires.Switch between the normally open and normally closed contact states.Swap one block for another while maintaining wire connections and attribute values.Project-Wide UpdatesIf you have a design that is similar to a previous one, you can copy and use those drawings in a new project. You probably will need to update the referencing system, retag components, reassign wire numbers, and more.Use the Update/Retag command to update all this with one command.

Track ChangesIf you want to track changes that are made to your drawings, use the Mark\Verify command.This command can track changes even if they are not made in AutoCAD Electrical. Use the Mark option to create a starting point. AutoCAD Electrical adds some invisible intelligence to each drawing and component.

When you want to see what changes were made after that point, run the same command and pick the Verify option. A report of all changes displays which you can print or use to surf to changed objects.

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:Cross-ReferencingNext topic:Panel LayoutsPanel LayoutsSHARELIKE (0)Insert panel symbols from a list of schematic components or the panel icon menu. Add nameplates, item numbers, and balloons. Manage terminal strips with Terminal Strip Editor.Drawing PropertiesThere are a few drawing properties specific to panel layouts. These properties can be set up on a drawing template or defined on a drawing at any time. Use the Panel Configuration command to set the beginning item number, item balloon settings such as shape and text size, footprint layers, and more.

Insert from Schematic ListIf you create your schematic drawings first, create your panel layouts by selecting from a list of schematic components.

AutoCAD Electrical uses the catalog assignment on the schematic component to find the correct panel footprint.

If a footprint symbol is not found, you can browse to a symbol or draw one on the fly. AutoCAD Electrical adds any intelligence needed so it is recognized as a panel symbol. This practice allows you to download panel symbols from vendors and use them in AutoCAD Electrical.The dialog box indicates which schematic components are already inserted on a panel layout.

All values from the schematic component are brought over to the panel footprint. Later, if you change one of them, the other updates.Note:Catalog values are mapped to specific footprint symbols in the Footprint Lookup database. You can edit the Footprint Lookup database using the editor provided.Panel Icon MenuFor panel components not shown on the schematic, use the Panel Icon Menu to insert panel footprints.

When inserting a footprint from the icon menu you can select a catalog value and insert the footprint associated to that value. If there is no panel symbol associated to that catalog you can browse to a symbol, or draw one on the fly.NameplatesUse the panel icon menu to insert a nameplate.

When inserting a nameplate you can associate it to a panel footprint. Values from the footprint, such as Tag, installation, location, and descriptions, are copied from the footprint. However, you can assign an item number and catalog value specific for the nameplate.

Item NumbersItem numbers can be assigned to both panel and schematic symbols. When you assign a catalog value to a component, the program checks if an item number is assigned to this catalog value on another component. If it is, the item number is assigned automatically. If the item number is not assigned automatically, you can assign it when you edit the component. You can also assign them project wide with the Resequence Item Numbers command.

The panel components are processed first, followed by the schematic components. Components with the same catalog assignment receive the same item number.There are a couple of project properties that affect item numbering. Make sure you set these properties according to your preferences before resequencing the item numbers.

Item BalloonsOnce a component has an item number assigned, you can insert a balloon making the item number visible.Pay attention to the prompts at the command prompt. If the component you select has multiple catalog values with item numbers, there are options for the direction to place the extra balloons.

Terminal Strip EditorThe Terminal Strip Editor lets you manage entire terminal strips rather than one terminal at a time.The editor includes information about catalog values, connected components, connected wires, wire numbers, and more.

Use Terminal Strip Editor to: Resequence terminals numbers Reorder terminals in the strip Add or edit catalog assignments and terminal block properties Add spares and accessories (requires inserting the graphical terminal strip layout) Add, edit, and remove jumpers between terminals Define connected components as internal or external Insert a graphical terminal strip layout Insert a tabular terminal strip Insert a jumper chart Create a terminal strip (requires inserting the graphical terminal strip layout)The list of terminals shown in a strip includes panel terminals inserted by Terminal Strip Editor and schematic terminals. If a terminal has both a schematic representation and a panel terminal inserted by the editor, it is only shown once in the editor. Any changes made are applied to both representations.Use the Layout Preview tab to insert the terminal strip; selecting the type and annotation style. Use the preview to make sure that everything is set up the way you want.

If you want to insert tabular terminal strips for one or more strips you can also use the Terminal Strip Table Generator.

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:ModifyNext topic:ReportsReportsSHARELIKE (0)Generate and format reports. Output a report to a file or insert it as a table object on your drawing.AutoCAD Electrical has a number of reports to choose from. Some reports contain information extracted from just your schematic drawings, while other reports contain information from just the panel layout drawings. You can also create a complete Bill of Materials report containing all panel items and any schematic items not shown on the panel layouts.Creating a report is easy. You select whether you want to create a schematic or panel report,

pick the report type,

select any options specific to the report, and select the drawings to process. And the report displays.

Report FieldsOnce you run your report you can include and exclude fields, change the field order, and change the field label.

Format FilesYou can use format files to preset the report settings. You can have an unlimited number of format files for a report. This way you can create as many custom reports as you want and run them easily at any time. Use Report Format Setup to create your format files.Use this dialog box to preset the report options, field settings, report table settings, output file settings, and more. The report options can be different depending on the report type you select.

Each format file is saved with a .SET extension. To use a format file when you run a report, pick the Format button on the report dialog box and select the .SET file.

Output to a FileOutput your report to a file using the Save to File option once you run your report.

Insert as a TableInsert your report as a table using the Put on Drawing option once you run your report. Create table styles using the AutoCAD TABLESTYLE command. Then select the table style when you insert your report table to get just the right look for your tables.

Run a Group of ReportsOnce you create format files for your reports, you can run a group of reports at one time.With Automatic Reports, you select a group of reports and a format file for each report. The reports are not displayed on the screen. Each format file must either output the report to a file, insert it as a table, or both. New drawings are added to the project for new tables.

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:Panel LayoutsNext topic:PrintPrintSHARELIKE (0)Output your project to a printer or to a PDF file containing hyperlinks.You can print an entire project, a subset of drawings from a project, or a single drawing.Use the Publish/Plot button on Project Manager to print your project.

Once you select Plot Project you can select which drawings from the project you want to plot.

Make sure to select which layout you want to plot for the selected drawings. If you have a page setup defined, enter the name.

Adding the Plot Date During PrintingAs part of your title block setup you can map a plotting date and time format to a specific attribute. This attribute updates automatically when you plot the drawing.

Publishing to a PDF FileIn an AutoCAD Electrical project, there are relationships between components, for example parent to child, or schematic to panel. You can output your project to a PDF and include hyperlinks between related components.

Make sure that you select Multi-sheet file and Include Hyperlinks.

The zoom factor determines how close the PDF zooms in on an object when you select a hyperlink. The bigger the number, the larger the object appears when you jump to it.Each object can only have one hyperlink. So to get to a specific child component from the parent, you select the child's reference in the parent's cross-reference.

So before you output your project to PDF make sure your cross-referencing is up to date.These hyperlinks are added to the PDF output.ClickJumps To

Schematic parent tagPanel footprint

Panel footprint graphicsSchematic parent

Schematic child tagSchematic parent

Schematic PLC tagPanel footprint

Panel PLC footprint graphicsParent or stand-alone schematic PLC

One-line component tagSchematic parent

Cross-reference text on parentChild specific to cross-reference text selected

Schematic terminal tag stripPanel terminal strip

Panel terminal graphicsSchematic terminalNote:If it is a multi-level terminal, jumps to the schematic terminal that represents the first level.

Source arrow reference textDestination arrow

Destination arrow reference textSource arrow

Stand-alone cross-reference sourceStand-alone cross-reference destination

Stand-alone cross-reference destinationStand-alone cross-reference source

Parent topic:The Hitchhiker's Guide to AutoCAD Electrical BasicsPrevious topic:ReportsAbout the Marking MenuSHARELIKE (0)The Marking Menu is a radial context menu.The marking menu replaces the linear context menu for AutoCAD Electrical objects. As with context menus, the marking menu contains commands specific to the cursor location, or selected objects. You can perform a selection using one of two basic ways (or modes): Menu Mode- Right-click in the graphics window over an AutoCAD electrical object. Menu items surround the cursor. To dismiss the marking menu, click once again in the center of the menu display. Do not press the Esc key, as this may cancel a command in progress. Mark Mode(also called gesture behavior) - Draw a mark. To enter this mode, press and hold the right mouse button, and immediately move the cursor in the direction of the desired menu item. A trail follows the cursor. Release the mouse button to select and execute the command that corresponds to the direction of movement of the cursor.About the Catalog Browser User InterfaceSHARELIKE (0)The Catalog Browser is the interface for accessing the catalog content. The browser can be used in the following ways: Insertion mode- Insert a component by selecting a catalog value. The Catalog Browser is a modeless palette which means it can remain on the screen while other commands are used. It can be docked, resized, and set to auto-hide. Lookup mode- Assign a catalog value to a component. When assigning a catalog value to a component, the Catalog Browser is a modal dialog and other commands can not be used. Edit mode- Edit the catalog database. You can edit the catalog database when in either the insertion mode or the lookup mode.The Catalog Browser is search-based. Enter your search criteria and select from a list of catalog values that match your search criteria. A search is performed only on the fields that are displayed in the browser. The search results are displayed in the results pane.Note:Sub-assembly items, as defined by an ASSEMBLYLIST value, are not included in the search results. Use the edit mode of Catalog Browser to view and edit sub-assembly items.Use the column headers to: Sort- click a column header to sort. Reorder- drag and drop columns to change the displayed order. Resize- drag the column header border to resize. Display/Hide- right-click and select which columns to include in the display. The search is performed only across the data in the visible columns.Note:All columns are displayed in edit mode. Freeze- right-click and freeze at the selected column. When you scroll, all columns to the left of the frozen column remain visible.Insertion ModeSearch for a specific catalog value and insert a symbol. The SYMBOL2D field in the catalog record defines the symbols associated with this catalog value. Use the edit mode to add symbols to the SYMBOL2D field and to define the default symbol for a catalog record. The default symbol inserts when you double-click a catalog record. Click once on a catalog record to select from all symbols defined in the SYMBOL2D field.Symbols can be associated when: You select a catalog record in the Catalog Browser, clickto open the icon menu where you can select a symbol for insertion. You assign a catalog value to a symbol using the lookup mode.The next time you select the catalog record, the symbol is available for insertion.

You can add commonly used catalog values to a list of favorites. A list of favorites can be created for each catalog table category.Lookup ModeInsert a component from the icon menu or edit an existing component. Select catalog lookup from the insert/edit dialog box to open the Catalog Browser in lookup mode. Search for a specific catalog value and assign it to a component.A search is performed automatically when: The component has an existing catalog value. The catalog value for the component is blank and search values are defined in the _LISTBOX_DEF table of the catalog database for that symbol.Edit ModeSearch for catalog values and edit the catalog database.While in edit mode: All fields associated with catalog records are included in the display, including fields that come from the _PINLIST and _TERMPROPS tables in the catalog database. Subassembly records, as defined by a value in the ASSEMBLYLIST field, are included in the display.About the Catalog DatabaseSHARELIKE (0)Sample catalog information is furnished with the default AutoCAD Electrical installation. The information is held in tables in a Microsoft Access database file (.mdb) which are populated with sample vendor data. Expand and modify these tables to meet your specific BOM reporting needs. Use the Catalog Browser to edit the catalog database, or use a database program that can read/write the Access file format.The .mdb file is a single file that is named _cat.mdb or default_cat.mdb. If the project-specific.mdb file is used, it must be in the same folder as the .wdp file. Here is the AutoCAD Electrical search sequence: First choice -- _cat.mdb (in folder of the .wdp file) Second choice -- default_cat.mdb (in folder of the .wdp file) Third choice -- default_cat.mdb (in user folder) Fourth choice -- default_cat.mdb (in default Catalogs folder)Catalog information can be carried on parent or stand-alone components that have MANUFACTURER, CATALOG, and optional ASSEMBLYCODE attributes. You can assign catalog information to a component using any of these methods: Insert a component from the Catalog Browser by selecting a catalog value. Insert a component from the Icon Menu and click Lookup on the Insert/Edit dialog. Edit a component and click Lookup on the Insert/Edit dialog.Catalog table naming conventionsEach primary or stand-alone component type can have an associated table in your Access mdb file. This approach is taken for both performance reasons and to exclude invalid choices. For example, you cannot assign a blue press-test pilot part number to a standard red pilot light symbol. There can be multiple catalog tables for the same component family. Alternately, all master test and all neon pilot lights (of all colors) can be combined into a single catalog table named LT.If the project properties are not set toAlways use MISC_CAT table, AutoCAD Electrical determines the catalog table name for a symbol as follows:1. The symbol is checked for the WDBLKNAM attribute (or Xdata). If found, the WDBLKNAM value is used. If not found, the block name of the symbol is used.2. If the first character is an "H" or a "V", it is removed from the value.3. The program looks for a table in the catalog database with this name.4. If this table exists, it is used. If this table does not exist, and the block name is eight characters or more, the program starts removing characters from the end of the block name, looking for a table name match. This process continues until only seven characters remain.5. If there is not a match on the last table name, the program checks for the family-specific table, as identified by the second and third character of the block name.6. If this table exists, it is used. If it does not exist, a MISC_CAT table is looked for if the project properties are set up to use this catch-all table.7. If a table is not found, the program stops looking (if running a report) or prompts you to add a table to the default_cat.mdb file.Note:AutoCAD Electrical always goes to the fixed table names for PLC I/O modules (PLCIO), terminals (TRMS) and cable markers (W0). Panel layout symbols must always use the WDBLKNAM attribute or Xdata without the leading H or V character.Family tables in the default_cat.mdbThe list of tables available in the default_cat.mdb is shown in the following table. All tables are family-specific and one table is created for each family.Family Code/Table NameDescription

AMAmmeters

ANBuzzers, horns, bells

CBCircuit breakers

C0Connectors/pins

CRControl relays

DIDin Rail

DNDevice networks

DODiodes

DRDrives

DSDisconnect switches

ENEnclosures/hardware

FMFrequency meters

FSFlow sensors

FTFoot switches

FUFuses

LRLatching relays

LSLimit switches

LTLights, pilot lights

MISCMiscellaneous

MOMotors

MSMotor starters/contactors

NPNameplates

OLOverloads

PBPush buttons

PEPhoto switches

PLCIOProgrammable logic controllers

PMPower meters

PNEU-ACTActuators

PNEU-ALULubricators

PNEU-CYLCylinders

PNEU-FLCFlow Control

PNEU-FLTFilters

PNEU-METPressure Gauges

PNEU-MFLSilencers

PNEU-MNFManifolds

PNEU-MOTMotors

PNEU-NOZNozzles

PNEU-OPRPush buttons

PNEU-PMPPumps

PNEU-TNKReservoirs

PNEU-VACSuction

PNEU-VLVValves

PSPressure switches

PWPower supplies

PXProximity switches

REResistors

SSSelector switches

SUSurge suppressors

SWToggle switches

TDTimer relays

TRMSTerminal blocks

TSTemperature switches

VMVolt meters

WOCables, multi-conductor cables

WWWire ways

XFTransformers

Tables with Leading "_" CharacterTables with a leading "_" underscore character do not carry catalog information but are used for other functions in AutoCAD Electrical.Table NameDescription

_FAMILY_DESCRIPTIONTable used by Symbol Builder to map the attribute template type to a symbol type description. The description is displayed in the Type list on the Select Symbol / Objects dialog box.

_LISTBOX_DEFAllows you to predefine search values used by the Catalog Browser when you assign a catalog value to a component from the Lookup button on the Insert/Edit dialog box.

_PINLISTDefault pin list data table. AutoCAD Electrical also contains manufacturer-specific pin list tables that have the same format as the _PINLIST table. The naming convention for manufacturer-specific tables is: _PINLIST_AB or _PINLIST_AROMAT. AutoCAD Electrical first searches manufacturer-specific tables; if not found, it then searches the default _PINLIST table.

_TERMPROPSDefault terminal properties data table. AutoCAD Electrical also contains manufacturer-specific terminal properties tables that have the same format as the _TERMPROPS table. The naming convention for manufacturer-specific tables is: _TERMPROPS_AB or _TERMPROPS_AROMAT. AutoCAD Electrical first searches manufacturer-specific tables; if not found, it then searches the default _TERMPROPS table.

_W0_CBLWIRESCable conductors.

_XREF_GRAPHICSTable cross-reference style symbol mapping table. Maps a contact block name to a graphic drawing name. This graphic drawing is inserted as a block in the TYPE column of the cross-reference table for the contact.

Related ConceptsAbout the Catalog Browser User InterfaceSHARELIKE (0)The Catalog Browser is the interface for accessing the catalog content. The browser can be used in the following ways: Insertion mode- Insert a component by selecting a catalog value. The Catalog Browser is a modeless palette which means it can remain on the screen while other commands are used. It can be docked, resized, and set to auto-hide. Lookup mode- Assign a catalog value to a component. When assigning a catalog value to a component, the Catalog Browser is a modal dialog and other commands can not be used. Edit mode- Edit the catalog database. You can edit the catalog database when in either the insertion mode or the lookup mode.The Catalog Browser is search-based. Enter your search criteria and select from a list of catalog values that match your search criteria. A search is performed only on the fields that are displayed in the browser. The search results are displayed in the results pane.Note:Sub-assembly items, as defined by an ASSEMBLYLIST value, are not included in the search results. Use the edit mode of Catalog Browser to view and edit sub-assembly items.Use the column headers to: Sort- click a column header to sort. Reorder- drag and drop columns to change the displayed order. Resize- drag the column header border to resize. Display/Hide- right-click and select which columns to include in the display. The search is performed only across the data in the visible columns.Note:All columns are displayed in edit mode. Freeze- right-click and freeze at the selected column. When you scroll, all columns to the left of the frozen column remain visible.Insertion ModeSearch for a specific catalog value and insert a symbol. The SYMBOL2D field in the catalog record defines the symbols associated with this catalog value. Use the edit mode to add symbols to the SYMBOL2D field and to define the default symbol for a catalog record. The default symbol inserts when you double-click a catalog record. Click once on a catalog record to select from all symbols defined in the SYMBOL2D field.Symbols can be associated when: You select a catalog record in the Catalog Browser, clickto open the icon menu where you can select a symbol for insertion. You assign a catalog value to a symbol using the lookup mode.The next time you select the catalog record, the symbol is available for insertion.

You can add commonly used catalog values to a list of favorites. A list of favorites can be created for each catalog table category.Lookup ModeInsert a component from the icon menu or edit an existing component. Select catalog lookup from the insert/edit dialog box to open the Catalog Browser in lookup mode. Search for a specific catalog value and assign it to a component.A search is performed automatically when: The component has an existing catalog value. The catalog value for the component is blank and search values are defined in the _LISTBOX_DEF table of the catalog database for that symbol.Edit ModeSearch for catalog values and edit the catalog database.While in edit mode: All fields associated with catalog records are included in the display, including fields that come from the _PINLIST and _TERMPROPS tables in the catalog database. Subassembly records, as defined by a value in the ASSEMBLYLIST field, are included in the display.To Insert a Schematic Component From the CatalogSHARELIKE (0)Select a catalog value from the catalog database and insert the associated schematic component.1. If the Catalog Browser is not open,clickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downCatalog Browser.2. Select the category for the component you want to insert.3. Enter a search criteria and click.

4. Click a row in the results pane.5. Do one of the following: Click one of the symbols associated to the catalog value.

Click to open the icon menu where you can select a symbol to insert. The symbol is automatically associated to that catalog value for future insertions.Note:Double-click the row in the results pane to insert the default symbol, or only symbol, associated to the catalog value.6. Specify the insertion point in the drawing.The symbol orientation matches the underlying wire. If there is no underlying wire, the selected orientation is inserted. The wire breaks automatically if the symbol lands on it.7. Annotate the component.8. Click OK.To Work With Inserting Schematic ComponentsSHARELIKE (1)Insert from Catalog Browser1. If the Catalog Browser is not open,clickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downCatalog Browser.2. Select the category for the component you want to insert.3. Enter a search criteria and click.4. Click a row in the results pane.5. Do one of the following: Click one of the symbols associated to the catalog value.

Click to open the icon menu where you can select a symbol to insert. The symbol is automatically associated to that catalog value for future insertions.Note:Double-click the row in the results pane to insert the default symbol, or only symbol, associated to the catalog value.6. Specify the insertion point in the drawing.The symbol orientation matches the underlying wire. If there is no underlying wire, the selected orientation is inserted. The wire breaks automatically if the symbol lands on it.7. Annotate the component.8. Click OK.Insert from Icon Menu1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downIcon Menu.2. In the Insert Component dialog box, select the starting orientation for the component: horizontal or vertical.3. (Optional) If you want to turn off the Insert/Edit Component dialog box when inserting symbols onto the drawing select No Edit dialog box.4. (Optional) If you want to insert the component, untagged (for example, without assigning a unique Component Tag) select No Tag. The untagged value that displays is the TAG1/TAG2 default value of the component.5. Select the component to insert (such as Push ButtonsPush Button N.O.) Select an icon picture or the component type from the left-hand list.The right-hand column of the menu displays the last ten components inserted during the current editing session.6. Specify the insertion point in the drawing.The orientation of the symbol tries to match the underlying wire. The wire breaks automatically if the symbol lands on it.7. On the Insert/Edit Component dialog box, annotate the component.8. Click OK.Insert at Fence Crossing PointsInserts a component selected from the icon menu at points where the fence you define crosses a wire.1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelMultiple Insert drop-downMultiple Insert (Icon Menu).2. Select the component type from the Insert Component: Schematic Symbols dialog box.3. Select the component from the selection dialog box.4. Select a point above the first wire that you want to process.5. Select a point below the final wire for processing, and then right-click to end the command.6. With each possible insertion point (that is, fence crossing point with a wire) a dialog box displays, prompting you to decide whether to keep the insertion, keep all of the insertions, or skip to the next one.If you keep the insertion point, the regular Insert/Edit dialog box is displayed, where you finish annotating the component.7. Click OK to complete the operation.Copy Data from One-line to SchematicTransfers data from a one-line symbol to a schematic symbol.1. Insert or edit a schematic component.2. Click Tags Used: Schematic.3. Check the option Show one-line components (1-*).4. Select the existing one-line component from the list.5. Select the categories or values to copy; Descriptions, Catalog values, Installation/Location, Ratings.6. Click Copy Tag.7. Click TAG1 to reuse the tag value from the one-line component.8. Click OK.Note:If Circuit Builder created the one-line circuit, use Circuit Builder to create the 3-line circuit by referencing the one-line.Copy Component1. ClickSchematic tabEdit Components panelCopy Component.2. Select a component from the drawing just like the new one you want to insert.3. Select the insertion point.This inserts a copy of the symbol you selected and then displays the Insert/Edit Component dialog box, so you can finish annotating the component.4. Click OK.Copy Component at Fence Crossing PointsInserts copies of a selected component at each point where a defined fence crosses a wire.1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelMultiple Insert drop-downMultiple Insert (Pick Master).2. Select the component to copy.3. Select a point above the first wire that you want to process.4. Select a point below the final wire for processing, and then right-click to end the command.5. With each possible insertion point (that is, fence crossing point with a wire) a dialog box displays. Specify whether to keep the insertion, keep all of the insertions, or skip to the next one.If you keep the insertion point, the regular Insert/Edit dialog box is displayed, where you finish annotating the component.6. Click OK to complete the operation.Insert from User-Defined Pick List1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downUser Defined List.2. Sort the component list by catalog, description, or manufacturer.3. Select the component to insert.4. (Optional) Click Edit to make any changes to the catalog record. Modify the record in the Edit Record dialog box and click OK.5. (Optional) Click Add to create a new record. If the new record is similar to an existing record, highlight the existing record before you click Add. Modify the record in the Add Record dialog box and click OK.6. Click OK.7. Specify an insertion point in the active drawing.8. Make any changes in the Insert/Edit Component dialog box and click OK.Note:This procedure uses schematic tools, but the same procedure can be done using panel tools.Insert from Equipment List1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downEquipment List.2. Select the spreadsheet file to use and click Open.3. If multiple sheets/tables were found in the data file, select the table to edit.4. Click OK.5. On the Settings dialog box, determine whether to use the default settings or select a file of previously saved settings. Default Settings: The View/Edit Settings options become available to modify the default settings. Modify the settings or click OK to continue with the insert using the default settings. Read Settings: Select the file (*.wde) to read the settings from and click Open.6. (Optional) Click Spreadsheet/Table columns to define the order of the data in the selected equipment list file.On the Equipment List Spreadsheet Settings dialog box, assign column numbers to the data categories (such as Manufacturer, Catalog, and Installation).7. (Optional) Click Save Settings to save the settings to a file for later recall.8. On the Settings dialog box, click OK.9. In the Schematic equipment in (or the Panel equipment in) dialog box, review the components by sorting or performing a catalog check.10. Select the component to insert on the drawing.11. Make any changes to the scale, orientation, or rotation angle for the component.12. Select the method for inserting the component into the drawing: Insert:Finds and inserts a schematic (or panel) component for the highlighted equipment list component. Pick File:Picks a file for the insert. Select an existing AutoCAD Electrical extracted equipment list component list file or extract a fresh copy of panel component data from the database for the current project. Convert Existing:(for Panel components only) Inserts the data for the selected entry on an existing non-AutoCAD Electrical block insert. This instantly converts the block to a smart AutoCAD Electrical footprint.13. In the Insert dialog box, select the block name to insert from the list.14. Click OK.Note:This procedure uses schematic tools, but the same procedure can be done using panel tools.Insert Components or Terminals from Panel Lists1. ClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downPanel List.or to insert terminalsClickSchematic tabInsert Components panelInsert Components drop-downTerminal (Panel List).2. Specify whether to extract the panel component/terminal list for the active drawing or the active project.3. Specify any installation or location codes to extract.4. Click OK.5. If you are extracting for the entire project, select which drawing files to process, and click OK.6. On the Panel Components (or Panel Terminals) dialog box, select from the list of panel components/terminals to insert the schematic symbol on the schematic drawing.To modify the pick list so you can easily find the component or terminal to select, click Sort List, Display, or Mark Existing.7. Click Insert.8. On the Insert dialog box, select which block name to insert from the list.If you want to insert an alternative block that is not in the list, click Icon Menu to select a component from the icon menu or click Copy Component to insert a component 'just like' another existing component.9. Click OK.10. Select the insertion point on the drawing.11. Make any changes to the inserted component in the Insert/Edit Component dialog box and click OK.To Work with ProjectsSHARELIKE (0)Create a project and modify project properties.AutoCAD Electrical is a project-based system. An ASCII text with a.wdpextension defines each project. This project file contains a list of project information, default project settings, drawing properties, and drawing file names. You can have an unlimited number of projects; however, only one project can be active at a time.Use the Project Manager to add new drawings, reorder drawing files, organize drawings in subfolders, and change project settings. You cannot have two projects open in the Project Manager with the same project name. By default, the Project Manager is open and docked on the left-hand side of your screen. You can dock the Project Manager into a specific location on the screen or hide it until you want to use the project tools. Right-click the properties icon to display options to move, size, close, dock, hide, or set the transparency for the Project Manager.

Create an AutoCAD Electrical project1. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.2. In the Project Manager, click the New Project tool.Note:You can also use the Project Manager to open an existing project. In the Project Manager, click the project selection arrow and select Open Project.3. In the Create New Project dialog box, specify:Name:AEGSA name must be entered to define any of the project properties. The.wdpextension is not required in the edit box.4. Make surewddemo.wdpis specified in the Copy Settings from Project File edit box.

5. Click OK-Properties.Your new project is added to the current projects list and automatically becomes the active project.The Project Properties dialog box displays, where you can modify your project default settings. All information defined on these tabs are saved to the project definition file as project defaults and settings.Set project properties1. In the Project Properties dialog box, click the Components tab.2. In the Component Tag Format section, verify that Line Reference is selected.This selection creates unique reference-based tags when multiple components of the same family are located at the same reference location. When reference-based tagging is used, a suffix variable is required to keep components of the same family type unique. For example, three push buttons on line reference 101 could be labeled PB101, PB101A, and PB101B. Click Suffix Setup to change the suffix variable.3. Click the Wire Numbers tab.4. In the Wire Number Format section, verify that Line Reference is selected.This selection creates unique reference-based wire number tags for multiple wire networks beginning at the same reference location. When reference-based numbering is used, a suffix variable is required to keep wires on the same reference line or in the same reference zone unique. Click Suffix Setup to change the suffix variable.

5. Review the various options on the different tabs of the Project Properties dialog box.Note:In the Project Properties dialog box, icons indicate whether the settings apply to project settings or drawing defaults. Settings that apply to project settings have the project icon next to them and are saved inside the project definition file (*.wdp). Settings that are saved in the project file as drawing defaults have the drawing icon next to them. Drawing related data to add to the project when running the Add Drawing command is saved as Drawing Custom Properties.6. Click OK.To Work with DrawingsSHARELIKE (0)Create a drawing, add drawings to the project, and view drawings in Project Manager.A single project file can have drawings located in many different directories. There is no limit to the number of drawings in a project. You can add drawings to your project at any time. When you create a drawing, using the New Drawing tool, it is automatically added to the active project.Many of the drawing settings used by AutoCAD Electrical are stored in a smart block on the drawing namedWD_M.dwg. Each AutoCAD Electrical drawing should contain only one copy of the WD_M block. If multiple WD_M blocks are present, the settings cannot be stored and read consistently.Create a drawing1. In the Project Manager, click the New Drawing tool.2. In the Create New Drawing dialog box, specify:Name:AEGS11Description 1:Bill of Materials Report3. Click Browse next to the Template edit box.A set of templates (*.dwtfiles) installed with AutoCAD Electrical contain settings for various kinds of drawings, such asacad.dwtandACAD_ELECTRICAL.dwt.You can create your own templates, or use any drawing as a template. You can save a drawing at any stage of completion as a template file. When you use a drawing as a template, the settings in that drawing are used in the new drawing. The changes you make to a drawing that is based on a template do not affect the template file.AutoCAD Electrical fully supports the use of AutoCAD template files. To make an AutoCAD drawing compatible with AutoCAD Electrical, select an AutoCAD Electrical command to modify the drawing.4. In the Select template dialog box, selectACAD_ELECTRICAL.dwt, and click Open.

5. In the Create New Drawing dialog box, click OK.Note:You could click OK-Properties to display the Drawing Properties dialog box. This dialog box has options like the options found in the Project Properties dialog box. It defines drawing-specific settings that are maintained inside the WD_M block of the drawing.6. In the Project Manager, double-click the project name (AEGS) to display the drawing files. AEGS11 is the only file in the list.

Add drawings to the project1. In the Project Manager, right-click AEGS, and select Add Drawings.2. In the Select Files to Add dialog box, select drawings AEGS01.dwgtoAEGS10.dwgand click Add.3. When asked whether to apply the project default values to the drawing settings, click Yes.The Project Manager lists the files under the AEGS folder. New drawings that you add from this point on are added at the end of the drawing order. You now have access to the files required for the exercises in this book.Note:Two projects can reference the same drawing file. However, if both projects try to modify the same drawing with a project-wide tagging or cross-referencing function, it can lead to conflicts.The drawing order in the Project Manager determines how AutoCAD Electrical processes the drawings during project-wide operations such as resequencing and wire numbering.4. In the Project Manager, right-click the project name, and select Reorder Drawings.5. In the Reorder Drawings dialog box, selectAEGS10.dwgandAEGS11.dwgand click Move Down until the drawings are at the bottom of the list.6. Click OK.AEGS11.dwgis now at the bottom of the project drawing file list in the Project Manager.Note:The active drawing displays in bold text in the project drawing list. You can easily see which file you are working in.

You can add descriptions for each drawing to the project file. You can reuse drawing descriptions in title block attributes and associate them with AutoCAD Electrical reports.Add the description of a drawing you add7. In the Project Manager, right-clickAEGS10.dwg, and select PropertiesDrawing Properties.8. In the Drawing PropertiesDrawing Settings dialog box, Drawing File section, specify:Description 1:Connector Drawing9. Click OK.10. In the Project Manager, selectAEGS10.dwg.11. In the Project Manager, Details section, review the drawing descriptions.The drawing details update when you highlight a drawing file and remain visible until a new drawing file is selected. Displayed information includes the status, file name, file location, file size, last saved date, and the name of the last user who modified the file.Use the Project Manager to preview drawings easily. Moving among drawings using the up and down keys does not open the drawing. It changes the preview or details display in the Project Manager.View drawings in a project12. In the Project Manager, selectAEGS04.dwg.13. In the Project Manager, Details section, click Preview.

14. Continue to click the drawing name you want to preview or use the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the drawing files.15. When you finish viewing the drawings, click Details to return to the drawing details view.If a project drawing is currently open and you want to move to the previous or next drawing in the list of the project, use the Previous Project Drawing and Next Project Drawing tools. When you move among drawings, any unsaved changes to the current drawing are saved, the drawing is closed, and the requested drawing is opened.View project drawings when a drawing is open16. In the Project Manager, double-clickAEGS04.dwg.17. To view the drawings, ClickProject tabOther Tools panelPrevious DWG.orClickProject tabOther Tools panelNext DWG.A new window opens and the original window closes when you click the navigation tools unless you hold the Shift key while clicking the tools.Parent topic:Projects TutorialPrevious topic:To Work with ProjectsTo Set Project or Drawing PropertiesSHARELIKE (0)You can specify settings for the project or drawing defaults, components, wire numbers, cross-references, styles, and the drawing format using either the Project Properties or Drawing Properties dialog boxes. The following steps are for setting project properties. To set drawing properties, open the Project Manager, then right-click the drawing name and select PropertiesDrawing Properties, or click the Drawing Properties tool.1. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.2. In the Project Manager, right-click the project name, and select Properties.Note:You can also set project properties when you create a project. Create the project and click OK -Properties in the Create New Project dialog box.3. In the Project Properties dialog box, select the tab to modify properties for.4. Click OK.Related ConceptsAbout Project and Drawing PropertiesSHARELIKE (0)Use the Project Properties dialog box to define settings when creating a project. Then have the settings used for new drawings or the settings added to the project. In the Project Properties dialog box, icons indicate whether the settings apply to project settings or drawing defaults.Properties that are saved in the project file as drawing defaults. These properties have corresponding drawing properties which control the functionality.

Properties that are saved in the project file as project settings. These properties do not have corresponding drawing properties and control the functionality for the entire project.

Use the Drawing Properties dialog box to define settings for a new or selected drawing. These settings override the project properties set in the Project Properties dialog box. If the drawing is part of a project, the project name displays in the dialog box. Otherwise, text displays indicating that the drawing is not part of a project, and drawing-related edit fields saved in the .wdp file are disabled.You can specify settings for the project or drawing defaults, components, wire numbers, cross-references, styles, and the drawing format using either the Project Properties or Drawing Properties dialog boxes. An overview of the available options for each tab are listed in the following section.SettingsProject settings include: Library and Icon Menu paths Catalog lookup file preferences Real-time error checking optionsDrawing settings include: Drawing type and descriptions Default values for the Project (%P), Installation (%I), and Location (%L) fields Sheet values for the sheet and drawing in addition to section or subsection codesComponentsUse this tab to: Specify the way new component tags are created. Switch between sequential or line reference based tags. Set component tag options such as using combined Installation/Location tags or suppressing the Installation/Location tag on reports. Display description text in uppercase.Wire NumbersUse this tab to: Set the wire number format. Switch between sequential or line reference based wire numbers. Set wire number options such as hidden numbers, excluded numbers, or displaying numbers on a per wire basis. Set up wire number layer options. Define wire number placement: above, below, or in-line. Define wire number leaders.Cross-referencesUse this tab to: Define the cross-reference annotation format. Set cross-reference options such as suppressing Installation/Location codes or using real-time signal and contact cross-referencing between drawings. Set component cross-reference display: text, graphical, or table. You can also change the display format setup from this dialog box.StylesUse this tab to: Change default styles for arrows, plcs, fan-in/out markers, and wiring. Add or remove layers from the layer list.Drawing FormatUse this tab to: Set the default orientation, spacing, and width values for any new ladders inserted on the drawing. Specify the format referencing style: X-Y Grid, X Zones, or Reference Numbers. Set the scale factor used when inserting new components or wire numbers on the drawing. Set the tag/wire number sort order. Define and manage wire and component layers.Title Block TutorialSHARELIKE (1)Create a title block and use a WDT file or the WD_TB attribute to map AutoCAD Electrical project and drawing values to attributes on your title block.Time required40 minutes

Prerequisites:Copy all files located in

Users\{username}\Documents\Acade {version}\Aedata\Tutorial\Aegs\Title BlocktoUsers\{username}\Documents\Acade {version}\Aedata\Proj\Aegs

Note:Delete existing files in the destination folder before copying.

Follow the workflow topics listed below to accomplish these tasks: Create a title block border drawing. Link to Title Block Update using either the WDT file or WD_TB attribute method. Create a template drawing file using the title block. Customize project description dialog box labels.

Workflow Topics1. Title Block UtilityAutoCAD Electrical can link project description lines and some of the drawing properties to attributes on the drawing title block.2. Create a title blockCreate a title block drawing and add the attribute definitions.3. Title Block SetupCreate the WDT file or define the WD_TB attribute which maps the project and drawing values to the title block attributes.4. Create a drawing templateAdd the title block, set drawing properties, and define wire layers while creating a drawing template.5. Use the templateCreate a drawing using the template containing the title block.6. Project description linesAdd project description values which can be mapped to title block attributes.7. Drawing valuesAdd drawing values which can be mapped to title block attributes.8. Title Block UpdateUpdate the title block attributes with the mapped AutoCAD Electrical values.9. Customize project description labelsDefine the labels for project description lines displayed on dialog boxes.Related Reference TutorialsTitle Block UtilitySHARELIKE (0)AutoCAD Electrical can link project description lines and some of the drawing properties to attributes on the drawing title block.The title block utility: Automates project-wide title block updates. Supports multiple title blocks per drawing. Maps AutoCAD Electrical project description lines to specific attributes. Maps AutoCAD Electrical per-drawing values to specific attributes. Maps AutoLISP values, system variables, or environment variables to specific attributes.AutoCAD Electrical uses two methods to map the AutoCAD Electrical values to attributes on the title block: WD_TB attribute method -mapping information embedded on the title block. This option is self-contained in the drawing and requires no external file. It is limited to the number of characters that can be placed on a single attribute. WDTfile method -external attribute mapping file. This option can update the attributes on existing title blocks, even if the title block does not contain the WD_TB attribute.During a title block update, AutoCAD Electrical follows this sequence to determine which method to use.

Parent topic:Title Block TutorialNext topic:Create a title blockCreate a title blockSHARELIKE (0)Create a title block drawing and add the attribute definitions.The title block is a border drawing inserted as an AutoCAD block on another drawing. The title block border drawing can be inserted as a block on an AutoCAD drawing template file. If your drawing title block consists of an AutoCAD block with attributes, AutoCAD Electrical can link to it.1. Start a blank new drawing and draw your border using standard AutoCAD commands and objects.Or1. OpenACADE_TITLE_BORDER.DWGinUsers\{username}\Documents\Acade {version}\Aedata\Proj\Aegs.This drawing contains a sample border without any of the attribute definition objects.

2. Zoom in for attribute definition placement.

3. EnterATTDEFat the command prompt to insert attribute definition objects.Note:When the border drawing is inserted as a block on another drawing, attribute definition objects become attributes.4. Enter the Tag nameSH#.

5. Set any other attribute definition properties and values, such as text style, height, and justification.6. Select OK.7. Specify the insertion point.

8. Repeat for each attribute definition for the title block as shown.

9. EnterSAVEASat the command prompt.10. EnterFile name:acade_title.11. SelectFiles of type:AutoCAD Drawing (*.dwg)12. Click Save.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Title Block UtilityNext topic:Title Block SetupTitle Block SetupSHARELIKE (0)Create the WDT file or define the WD_TB attribute which maps the project and drawing values to the title block attributes.There are two different methods that can be used to map the project and drawing values to the title block attributes. WDT file method - an external text file maps the project and drawing values to attributes on the title block. Use this method if you have many attributes to map or will change it frequently. WD_TB attribute method - a WD_TB attribute must be present on the title block. The WD_TB attribute value maps the project and drawing values to other attributes on the title block. Use this method if you want the mapping embedded right in the drawings.Select one of the methods and follow the steps for that method.WDT File MethodA text file defines which AutoCAD Electrical values are mapped to the drawing title block attributes. Use the Title Block Setup utility to create or modify the WDT mapping file.1. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.2. If AEGS is not the active project, activate the AEGS project.If AEGS is in the list of open projects: Select AEGS and right-click. Click Activate.If AEGS is not in the list of open projects: Select the project list drop-down. Click Open Project. On the Select Project File dialog box, navigate to and select the AEGS.WDP file. Click Open.3. Open the title block base drawing created previously, ACADE_TITLE.DWG, that contains the attribute definition objects.Note:Title Block Setup, WDT file method, can also be used on a drawing with the title block inserted as a block.4. ClickProject tabOther Tools panelTitle Block Setup.5. Select the title block link method:Method 1: .WDT file.A project-specific file, with the same name and location as the active project and a WDT extension, defines the attribute mapping.6. Click OK.

7. Click Active Drawing.Note:If running Title Block Setup on a drawing with ACADE_TITLE inserted as a block, select Pick Block and select on the block.8. Click OK.Title Block Setup reads the attribute definitions. The Title Block Setup dialog box displays. Each drop-down list contains all the attribute definition objects found on the drawing.

Note:If no attribute definition objects are found on the drawing, an alert displays.9. In the Title Block Setup dialog box, select the attribute from each list to map to its corresponding project description line.TITLE#1LINE1TITLE#2LINE2JOB#LINE4DRAWNBYLINE610. Click Drawing Values to assign drawing specific values.11. Select the attribute from each list to map to its corresponding drawing value.DWG#Drawing (%D value)SH#Sheet (%S value)SHTSSheet MaximumTITLE#3Drawing Description 1TITLE#4Drawing Description 212. Click OK.13. Title Block Setup creates AEGS.WDT with the selected mappings.WD_TB Attribute MethodAn invisible attribute on a title block of the drawing, named "WD_TB," is encoded with the mapping information. This method eliminates the need for an external mapping text file.1. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.2. If AEGS is not the active project, activate the AEGS project.If AEGS is in the list of open projects: Select AEGS and right-click. Click Activate.If AEGS is not in the list of open projects: Select the project list drop-down. Click Open Project. On the Select Project File dialog box, navigate to and select the AEGS.WDP file. Click Open.3. Open the title block base drawing created previously, ACADE_TITLE.DWG, that contains the attribute definition objects.4. ClickProject tabOther Tools panelTitle Block Setup.5. Select the title block link method:Method 2: WD_TB attrib.6. Click OK.Title Block Setup reads the attribute definitions. The Title Block Setup dialog box displays. Each drop-down list contains all the attribute definition objects found on the drawing.

Note:If no attribute definition objects are found on the drawing, an alert displays.7. In the Title Block Setup dialog box, select the attribute from each list to map to its corresponding project description line.TITLE#1LINE1TITLE#2LINE2JOB#LINE4DRAWNBYLINE68. Click Drawing Values to assign drawing specific values.9. Select the attribute from each list to map to its corresponding drawing value.DWG#Drawing (%D value)SH#Sheet (%S value)SHTSSheet MaximumTITLE#3Drawing Description 1TITLE#4Drawing Description 210. Click OK.Title Block Setup updates the WD_TB attribute definition with the selected mappings. If a WD_TB attribute definition does not exist, Title Block Setup inserts it at 0,0.11. Save the drawing.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Create a title blockNext topic:Create a drawing templateCreate a drawing templateSHARELIKE (0)Add the title block, set drawing properties, and define wire layers while creating a drawing template.A drawing template file is used to provide consistency in the drawings that you create by providing standard styles and settings.When a drawing template file is used to start a new drawing it can: Predefine AutoCAD Electrical drawing properties such as component tagging, wire numbering format, and so on. Predefine layers and layer properties. Predefine wire layers. Provide your drawing border and title block.By default, drawing template files are stored in thetemplatefolder, where they are easily accessible.1. EnterQNEWat the command prompt to start a new drawing.2. Select theacad.dwttemplate.3. Click Open.4. EnterINSERTat the command prompt.5. Click Browse.6. Navigate to and select the title blockACADE_TITLE.DWGcreated for the border.7. Click Open.8. On the Insert dialog box, make sure the Explode option is not checked.9. Click OK.10. Specify the insertion point at 0,0,0.11. If prompted for attribute values, leave them blank.Note:Attributes are invisible if no default values are assigned.12. ClickSchematic tabOther Tools panelDrawing Properties.The alert displays.

13. Click OK to insert the WD_M block.14. Set the default drawing properties such as component tagging, wire numbering, cross-referencing, and so on.Note:No specific changes are needed for this tutorial.15. Click OK.16. ClickSchematic tabEdit Wires/Wire Numbers panelCreate/Edit Wire Type.17. Add wire layers as needed. Set the properties, color, linetype, and lineweight for each layer. For example: In the Create/Edit Wire Type dialog box, click inside the Wire Color column for a blank row and enterREDfor a new wire layer. Click inside the Size column and enter12for the size.The Layer Name RED_12 is automatically created. Click Color. Select Red and click OK. Click OK.The layer is created and defined as a wire layer.18. EnterSAVEASat the command prompt.19. Set the file type as AutoCAD Drawing Template (*.dwt).20. Enter the file name,AEGS_ELECTRICAL.21. Click Save.The Template Options dialog box displays.22. Select OK.23. Close the drawing,AEGS_ELECTRICAL.DWT.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Title Block SetupNext topic:Use the templateUse the templateSHARELIKE (0)Create a drawing using the template containing the title block.1. If AEGS is not the active project, in the Project Manager, right-click AEGS and select Activate.2. In the Project Manager, click the New Drawing tool.3. In the Create New Drawing dialog box, specify:Name:AEGS11Description 1:Title BlockDescription 2:Exercise4. Click Browse next to the Template edit box.5. In the Select template dialog box, selectAEGS_ELECTRICAL.dwt, and click Open.6. In the Create New Drawing dialog box, click OK.7. On the Apply Project Defaults to Drawing Settings dialog box, click No.Project Manager creates the drawing using the template containing the title block.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Create a drawing templateNext topic:Project description linesProject description linesSHARELIKE (0)Add project description values which can be mapped to title block attributes.1. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.2. If AEGS is not the active project, in the Project Manager, right-click AEGS and select Activate.3. In the Project Manager, right-click the project name, and select Descriptions.4. In the Project Description dialog box, enter values: Line 1:Tutorial Project Line 2:AutoCAD Electrical Line 4:Job #01000 Line 6:{your name}5. Click OK.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Use the templateNext topic:Drawing valuesDrawing valuesSHARELIKE (0)Add drawing values which can be mapped to title block attributes.1. In the Project Manager, double-click to expand the AEGS project.2. Right-click on drawing AEGS11 and select PropertiesDrawing Properties.3. Enter values: Sheet:11 Drawing:0211Note:Drawing Description 1 and 2 were defined when the drawing was created.4. Click OK.5. Save the drawing.Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Project description linesNext topic:Title Block UpdateTitle Block UpdateSHARELIKE (0)Update the title block attributes with the mapped AutoCAD Electrical values.1. If AEGS is not the active project, in the Project Manager, right-click AEGS and select Activate.2. In the Project Manager, double-click to expand the AEGS project.3. Double-click drawing AEGS11 to open it.4. ClickProject tabOther Tools panelTitle Block Update.The Update Title Block dialog box displays.5. Select the project and drawing values to update on the title block. LINE1 LINE2 LINE4 LINE6 Drawing Description: 1 and 2 Drawing (%D value) Sheet (%S value) Sheet maximum Resequence sheet %S values: 1

6. Click OK Project-Wide.7. Select drawings AEGS01 through AEGS05, and AEGS11 to process. Click Process v.Note:Drawings AEGS01 through AEGS05 are supplied with the WD_TB attribute on the title block for this exercise.8. Click OK.

Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Drawing valuesNext topic:Customize project description labelsCustomize project description labelsSHARELIKE (0)Define the labels for project description lines displayed on dialog boxes.The title block and project description dialog boxes in AutoCAD Electrical display generic labels like LINE1, LINE2, and so on. You can change these labels so they match up with the link to the title block. For example, you have linked the AutoCAD Electrical data LINE4 value to the JOB# attribute on the title block. What you want to see when AutoCAD Electrical displays a title block-related dialog box is not LINE4 but Job Number. A text file with aWDLextension defines the custom labels.1. Use any generic text editor like Notepad or Wordpad and start a new text file.2. Enter the lines as shown:LINE1 = Title 1LINE2 = Title 2LINE3 = Title 3LINE4 = Job NumberLINE5 = DateLINE6 = Drawn ByLINE7 = EngineerLINE8 = Checked ByLINE9 = Scale3. Save the file asAEGS_WDTITLE.WDLin the project folderUsers\{username}\Documents\Acade {version}\Aedata\Proj\Aegs.4. Switch over to AutoCAD Electrical.5. ClickProject tabProject Tools panelManager.6. If AEGS is not the active project, in the Project Manager, right-click AEGS and select Activate.7. In the Project Manager, right-click the project name, and select Descriptions.The labels match the values in theWDLfile.

Parent topic:Title Block TutorialPrevious topic:Title Block UpdateTitle Block UpdateSHARELIKE (0)Update the title block attributes with the mapped AutoCAD Electrical values.1. If AEGS is not the active project, in the Project Manager, right-click AEGS and select Activate.2. In the Project Manager, double-click to expand the AEGS project.3. Double-click drawing AEGS11 to open it.4. ClickProject tabOther Tools panelTitle Block Update.The Update Title Block dialog box displays.5. Select the project and drawing values to update on the title block. LINE1 LINE2 LINE4 LINE6 Drawing Description: 1 and 2 Drawing (%D value) Sheet (%S value) Sheet maximum Resequence sheet %S values: 1