topic Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block in AutoCAD Forum

Use same attribute multiple places in a block

mfynaard — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 16:34:37 GMT

Hello,

I am looking for guidance in how to create a single attribute and have that attribute's value be displayed in multiple places in the same block. I only want to define it once so that if the user modifies the value, the updated value appears in all of the places it is used.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

chriscowgill7373 — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 16:57:39 GMT

someone might have to help me out on this one, as I've only ever seen it done, but not actually done it. What about using a field that references the value of the attribute, so when it changes, all the other fields update?

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/dynamic-blocks/fields-object-attribute-value/td-p/3182708

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/attribute-reference-another-attribute-within-a-block-block/td-p/6877481

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

mfynaard — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 17:56:29 GMT

I'm not sure that is really what I want. I have read through many similar posts and was not able to make it work. I have attached a screenshot to help explain. In the picture are wire numbers. I want to substitute the text before the underscores based on the single attribute.

For example, shown is LI01_00, LI01_01.....

If i change the attribute to RO02 the values should change to RO02_00, RO02_01.....

Is that more clear?

I tried doing the things mentioned above and cant get the fields to update.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

Ranjit_Singh — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 20:08:42 GMT

See attached example. You will have to insert the block and link the attributes. Then use a copy of this new block as needed. Inserting the original block will not function unless the attributes are linked again.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

mfynaard — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 12:35:15 GMT

Thanks for your response! I was hoping for a way to link the fields in the block definition in my library so that when I insert the block to a new drawing I am prompted for the value of the attribute and the fields update.

This is not possible?

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

Ranjit_Singh — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 17:43:54 GMT

As far as I know the attributes can be linked, but not the attribute definitions (in the block definition).

A possible work around is to create a nested-block with your modified block (where attributes are linked). Give it a logical name (different than your original block), say, atts_linked_block. Now save this in your blocks library. Use this new block for insertion in any new drawing. Once inserted explode and you have your original block with linked attributes.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

mfynaard — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 19:06:39 GMT

This does work. I am going to use this method for now. My concern is that I am going to be distributing my symbol library to coworkers when they are finished and having the 'explode' stipulation on some blocks may be a cause for headaches later. Thank you for your help with this.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

cadffm — Wed, 27 Dec 2017 20:24:33 GMT

@mfynaard

How do they insert the blocks? If YOU decide how it is inserted, then it is up to you:

1. A menumacro (attached to a tool/button of your choose: toolbar,ribbon,menu,toolpalette)

2. for Toolpalettes there is a second option: A "insert tool" with option explode=yes

(it is not working by insert command or insert via designcenter)

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

mfynaard — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 13:18:58 GMT

Typically we use Design Center and this is not working unless i nest the block and then explode once inserted.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

maik.ruppelt — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 10:16:26 GMT

Hello Ranjit,

can you explain in more detail how to create such a block with linked attributes.

I need one that contains several linked attributes and would like to create one.

Thank you very much.

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

dustinZSR6N — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 18:21:09 GMT

The instructions say to insert the block and link the attributes. How do I link the attributes?

Re: Use same attribute multiple places in a block

cadffm — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 21:52:41 GMT

Hi,

by using FIELDs.

Editing the attributvalues of your inserted blockreference,

rightclick -> insert field

Use field category object

Type object

[select this blockreference]

Select the property [Name of the main Attribut]

If you never used fields, search gir YT videos

but the dialog and options fir this case is very simple