Multi-Cat using Assembly Code/List from multiple databases.

[Anonymous]

I've learned how to multi-cat my photoeye (family/database PE) with the mounting hardware and reflector using the assembly code and list columns of the database.  I'm trying to include the cable with it (family/database C0), but when I look at the multi-cat for the photoeye, the cable isn't listed.  I know a simply solution would be to add the cable to the PE family/database, since it won't show up in the catalog browser when you add a name in the assembly list column of the database.  Is there way to have the cable still show up in the C0 database and be part of the multi-cat of the photoeye?

[dougmcalexander]

I believe I understand your question.  By multiple database, I think you are referring to multiple tables within the Catalog Database.  There is actually a way to have two separate databases entirely, via secondary lookup, but I don't think you are referring to that scenario.  So, if I understand your question accurately, your situation is related to the fact that your sub-assembly component isn't available for selection as a Multiple Catalog entry, due to the fact that it has an Assembly List value assigned. This will prevent it from being visible for selection as an individual part.  

I have requested an option to allow for this workflow, via the Idea Station, but I guess it hasn't received enough votes to make the priority list for improvements.

Currently you can enter part number  in the database as many times as you wish, as long as the Assembly Code field has a different entry each time.  And leaving the Assembly Code field blank is one of the options. But, the problem is that we cannot do the same for sub-assembly parts that we want to make available both as part of an assembly built via the Assembly Code/Assembly List method and via Multiple Catalog assembly.  A Multiple Catalog assembly is an assembly that we build on an as-needed basis, rather than creating a permanent assembly via the Assembly Code/Assembly List method.

Work-around: There is a work-around that can be used to "fool" AutoCAD Electrical, but it requires you to edit the default_cat.mdb file directly, via MS Access.  Exercise caution when editing the database directly like this.  Do not change any field formatting.  The Catalog Browser has a built in error check that prevents duplicate entries of the same part number.  Remember though that the Catalog Browser allows you to enter the same part number more than once, as long as the Assembly Code field has a different entry each time.  MS Access doesn't check for a duplicate entry.  So you can copy the entry for the part that has an Assembly List value, paste it into the next available row in the table, and delete the Assembly List value, leaving the Assembly List field blank.  Close MS Access.  Go back to AutoCAD Electrical.  The Catalog Browser will now show the part as an option to be selected as a Multiple Catalog component.

I hope this helps.  Please go to the Idea Station and vote for the improvement I described above.  Here is a link:  https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-electrical-ideas/catalog-browser-needs-to-allow-multiple-entr...