Several variables are included in AutoCAD that you can use to optimize your workflow. With these variables, you can change the amount and type of data your objects display, change fill settings and keep tabs on your most recent actions. By learning about AutoCAD's variables, you will be able to get more work done in less time.
ATTMODE
- With ATTMODE, you can change the way that AutoCAD displays attributes. ATTMODE is an integer variable, with states "2," "1" and "0." When you set it to "0," AutoCAD will not display attributes for any of your objects. When you set ATTMODE to "2," you will see all of an object's attributes. When you use the "1" integer, you can specify which attributes should be visible for a given object.
FILLMODE
- When you create complex shapes, such as polygons, specify whether or not you want the object to be filled. Fill is shading that gives the illusion of depth. You may find fill helpful for differentiating between various blocks in a complex project, but if you have fill on for several objects, your computer may run slowly. To control whether an object's fill is displayed, select the object, type "FILLMODE" into the command line and press "Enter." Note that FILLMODE is an integer variable. If you type "1" after "FILLMODE," the object's fill will show. If you type "0," the object will show no fill.
BLIPMODE
- If you create several points within an object, it can be helpful to see them at once. AutoCAD does not exhibit this behavior by default. To turn this behavior on, you can use the BLIPMODE variable. If you select an object, type "BLIPMODE 1" into the command prompt and then press "Enter," plus signs will appear everywhere you have created a point. Note that any command that results in the computer redrawing your image will remove these markers. Examples include "ZOOM," "PAN" and "REGEN."
DIASTAT
- If you work non-stop for a long period of time, you may lose track of your recent actions. This can be problematic not only because it impedes smooth work flow, but also because you may remember what you did incorrectly and sabotage your work as a result. To avoid this circumstance, you can use DIASTAT to see whether you clicked "Cancel" or "OK" on the last box that you interacted with. DIASTAT will return "O" if you clicked "Cancel" on the last box you interacted with. If you clicked "OK," it will return a "1."
