AutoCAD is a powerful software widely used in the field of computer-aided design and drafting. It offers a plethora of tools and features to enhance productivity and efficiency.
One such feature is Pdmode, which stands for “Point Display Mode.” In this article, we will delve into what Pdmode is and how it can be beneficial in your AutoCAD projects.
Understanding Pdmode:
Pdmode determines the appearance of point objects in your AutoCAD drawing. Points are often used to mark specific locations or reference points within a design. By changing the Pdmode setting, you can control how these points are displayed on your screen.
The Pdmode Options:
There are several options available for customizing the display of point objects. These options can be accessed through the AutoCAD command line or by modifying the system variable “PDMODE.”
- 0 – None: This option hides all point objects in your drawing.
- 1 – Small Dot: Point objects are displayed as small dots with a diameter determined by the Pdsize variable.
- 2 – Medium Dot: Point objects are displayed as medium-sized dots.
- 3 – Large Dot: Point objects are displayed as large dots.
- 4 – Crosshair: Point objects are displayed as crosshairs with a diameter determined by the Pdsize variable.
- 5 – X Marker: Point objects are displayed as X markers with arms determined by the Pdsize variable.
The Pdsize Variable:
The appearance of point objects can be further customized using the “PDSIZE” system variable. The value of Pdsize represents the size of the point objects in drawing units. By changing this value, you can adjust the size of the dots, crosshairs, or X markers according to your preference.
Changing Pdmode:
To change the Pdmode setting in AutoCAD, follow these steps:
Method 1: Command Line
- Type “PDMODE” in the command line and press Enter.
- Enter a value between 0 and 5 to select the desired point display mode.
Method 2: System Variable
- Type “SYSVDLG” in the command line and press Enter.
- In the System Variable Editor dialog box, locate and select “PDMODE” from the list.
- Enter a value between 0 and 5 in the Value column to set the desired point display mode.
Benefits of Using Pdmode:
Using Pdmode can provide several benefits during your AutoCAD workflow:
- Improved Visualization: By choosing an appropriate point display mode, you can effectively visualize reference points or significant locations within your design.
- Enhanced Clarity: The ability to customize point object appearance ensures that they stand out from other elements in your drawing. This clarity can be especially useful when working with complex designs.
- Increased Productivity: With clear and visible reference points, you can work more efficiently by quickly identifying key areas or measurements within your design.
In conclusion, Pdmode is an essential feature in AutoCAD that allows you to control how point objects are displayed in your drawings. By utilizing the various point display modes and customizing the point size, you can enhance visualization, improve clarity, and increase productivity in your AutoCAD projects.