Trouble with underdstanding scaling

[mgervais]

After browsing the internet i have come to the conclusion that one always draws in 1:1 scale. I have done that so when I draw a line that is 12 units long and dimension it, it is outputted as 12". However, the model space does not have room for all of my drawing. Im working in inches and i want to be able to continue inputting lengths of lines in inches but have it fit in the model space if that makes sense? Im sure theres just some fundamental thing im missing here

[ReMark]

Don't worry, model space has enough room that one can draw a Boeing 777 Dreamliner, the QE2, and/or the entire solar system as we know it. Basically, model space is limitless.

Have you done a Zoom > Extents?

[mgervais]

no i hadnt tried that. Im completely new to auto cad and have only ever used solid works. How does zoom > extents work? Before i would try and zoom out and it would tell me i was zoomed out as far as i could.

[ReMark]

And where did you find a copy of AutoCAD 2004?

Have you tried using the scroll wheel on your mouse to zoom in and out?

[mgervais]

The company i work for is how you say very cheap.

[ReMark]

What are you drawing by the way?

[mgervais]

I work at a sawmill so im updating drawings from the early 70's for the stacker machine that takes the various sizes of lumber, 1x3 all the way to 2x12, and stacks them so the can be rolled out to be packaged up. Currently im drawing the crank shaft system and drives.

[ReMark]

Let's have some fun.

Start the line command and when prompted to "Specify the first point" select the left hand end of your 12 inch long line. When prompted to "Specify the next point" type in @10000<45 then hit Enter. Now do a Zoom > Extents. What happens?

[mgervais]

Awesome. That actually will help me in the future im assuming that made the line 10000 units long at an angle of 45 degrees. Thanks for showing me that and the zoom extents

[ReMark]

Well it was just a demonstration of sorts that's all. The distance could have been 1000000!

Assuming? Never assume. You can do a LIST on the line and get all pertinent information on it or you can select the line and check its Properties.

Familiar with LIST and Properties at all?