Dynamic block with attribute and field not working from tool palette

[cccwwrrr]

Hello,

I am running into trouble trying to figure out how to get my custom dynamic blocks to work properly when inserted from a tool palette. Let me clarify by saying I am only having trouble with one particular type of dynamic block.. all the others are working just fine when inserted via tool palette.

This block would be for something like a kitchen cabinet where I have a rectangle with stretch properties for width and depth. I tell the block (via properties or grips) how wide and deep I want it to be.. then the block generates to size. Now inside of this block I also have an attribute with fielded text. The field is tied to the rectangle or "linework" dimension.. so when I change the size of the cabinet the notes inside update as well (12" x 24", 24" x 36", etc..). I use attributes so I can change the text to say things like (B. Cab., W. Cab., Pantry, etc..)

The blocks are working like magic.. I have used them for several months now with no issue. The problem I'm having is when this custom dynamic block is added to a tool palette, upon inserting the block I get this message 'see message in attachments below' and those automatic fielded dimensions are not populating.. I just get the xxxxx's. My work around is to use a template file that has all the dynamic blocks pre-loaded.. the fielded dimensions work perfectly when inserted that way. Any idea on what I could do differently to get this block to work via tool palette?

Much appreciated,

- Cody

[pendean]

The error message implies the DWG file you have open is in need of a fix first: id you do that yet? It is a requirement, not just a random suggestion.

Let us know.

[cccwwrrr]

@pendean 

I have recreated the dynamic block in a brand new drawing file.. uploaded to tool palette and am still getting the same results.

[pendean]

Your posted block/DWG file has this problem when I try to just INSERT it

Command: _-INSERT Enter block name or [?]: "Wall Cabinet.dwg"
Block Wall Cabinet references itself
*Invalid*

Or did you just WBLOCK or SAVEAS it out here to post in the forums and created this problem?

I cannot seem to be able to replicate your issue in a quick test in a test TP: maybe I am adding it incorrectly, are you doing more than dragging/dropping the block into a toolpalette? Is the container file in your AutoCAD Search path by chance?

[cccwwrrr]

@pendean 

Apologies, but I am not following you.

The file attached is a .dwg containing only the block file.. are you able to open it? I am only dragging/ dropping the block from model space into the tool palette. From there, when I grab the block from the tool palette (to insert into the drawing), the field inside the block is broken and does not display the automatic dimensions.. rather just xxxx's.

If however, I insert the block from it's base file (using insert command), the automatic dimensions are working.

[pendean]

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@cccwwrrr

I am only dragging/ dropping the block from model space into the tool palette. From there, when I grab the block from the tool palette (to insert into the drawing), the field inside the block is broken and does not display the automatic dimensions.. rather just xxxx's.

---

Your fields work just fine here when I drag/drop from a TP I create just for this task, your posted file (now renamed to avoid any conflicts) is placed in a folder that is part of my AutoCAD searched paths 

[cccwwrrr]

@pendean 

Wow, I feel so silly!

I was trying to drag the blocks onto a tool palette from ONE file containing ALL of the blocks (which I used as my template to start new drawings). Now, I have each block saved as an individual file (all saved in the same folder which is referenced by the search path) and when inserted from a tool palette, the field functions are working as they should.

Seems as if I have forgotten the basics and am now back on track. Working on finishing up my template today and believe I'll be all set with a much better work-flow. 

Problem solved.. thank you so very much!!