AutoCad convert here

Hello all,

I am an Autocad 2008 convert from a program called Quickcad. I have been using it for years and it was simple for what I needed it to do. So I have decided that I better come into the 21st century.

My problem is that some blocks when I import them are completely different sizes. Is there any way to highlight a block that is lets say 300mm wide and expand/resize it to 600mm by just clicking and dragging?

Thanks.

There is an option for "scaling" a block upon using the INSERT command. Your options are to Specify on screen, or input a scale for the X, Y and Z axis. If the X and Y scales are the same then check off the Uniform scale box. Will this work for you?

Thanks, I think I have tried that but my problem is, (and it wouldnt be a problem for you) is that all dimensions seem to be in inches and where I am everything is in mm. How do I change that? I appreciate your help. BTW, I am an absolute novice when it comes to AC2008 so go easy, pretend you are speaking to a 5 year old!

While I have you there, what is the difference between AC2008 & AC2009?

You could use reference scale once the block is inserted into the drawing to scale to the appropriate size.

scale

(pick object)

specify base point

type r (for reference)

select first point

select second point

enter distance you want between those two points

*Per your second post. Change the units (Format - Units) to metric from architectural.

You could use reference scale once the block is inserted into the drawing to scale to the appropriate size.

 

scale

 

(pick object)

 

specify base point

 

type r (for reference)

 

select first point

 

select second point

 

enter distance you want between those two points

Sounds promising, I'll give it a go in the morning, thanks

I'm surprised you didn't start out with a metric template.

The main difference is the introduction of the Ribbon in 2009. We also got:

-Quick View

-Quick Properties

-Geographic Location

-Export Layout to Model Space Drawing

-Show Motion

-DWFx

-SteeringWheels

-ViewCube

-Menu Browser

-Action Recorder

-Enhanced Layer Properties Manager

...and a few other items that escape me for the moment. Is that enough to make you want to upgrade?

the metric/imperial thing has been covered quite a lot here - but atm I can't find a suitable post. Basically you need to set some variables which will force all your inserted blocks to whatever measurement system you chose.

For blocks: Units > Insertion scale > then click on the drop-down list. Metrics are included on the list.

Guys, thanks for your help, if I need any more I'll be back on tomorrow.

BTW, the reason I didnt start in a metric scale is because it is a drawing I have been sent to me by an architect to design a commercial kitchen into. He has it set to imperial, so I am going to have to figure this out!

Thanks again:D