Basic Schematic

I haven't used Autocad since I was in highschool so I am basically completely new to this. I am working with AutoCAD LT 2000.

So here is what I am working on....

I have this idea in my head and can draw it on paper, it is a 3 cylinder tank system consisting of different size containers connected my pipes with check valves. It's simple but I would like to draw it up on AutoCAD and make it look nice and neat and draw it to scale.

I have no idea where to begin. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Colt 45

Draw everything FULL size in model space (the default drawing environment for AutoCAD).

Create and use layers for things like the tanks, the piping & valves, text, dimensions, etc. Do NOT draw everything on layer 0. As a matter of fact don't put anything on layer 0.

Load any linetypes you may need (like centerline and hidden) prior to starting your drawing. You may want to consider if you want to have dedicated layers for these to appear on.

Remember to toggle Ortho to keep lines straight both horizontally and vertically.

Enable Osnaps (like endpoint, midpoint, center, perpendicular, etc.) and use them for accuracy purposes.

Do you know anything about paper space?

That should get you started.

One other thing...keep a copy of your drawing on a flash drive or a CD for safe keeping in case your computer decides it's time to crash and burn.

And......come back to CADTutor for help with all your questions. Not too much to ask is it?

Good luck and welcome to the CADTutor forum.

Well thank you for the response.

Just having trouble drawing it all out.

It's all just a little confusing.

I'm gonna mess around with it and see what I can't get done.

You're welcomed.

What are you having a problem with?

What is so confusing?

Another suggestion. Type the word UNITS at the command line. Set your units to decimal, architectural, or whatever you want to work with and set the precision as well.