VISRETAIN and freezing layers

[m_kingdon]

Hi all,

I have several drawings, all containing an xref (baseplan).  I need to freeze off certain xref layers from the xref in each drawing, different drawings = different xref layers freezing.

I now have some updates to the xref; I need to update the colour of some layers.

My understanding is I need VISRETAIN set to 1 so I can keep certain xref layers frozen per individual drawings.

However, if I want the colour changes from the xref to update in each drawing I need to set VISRETAIN to 0.

Am I correct in my assumptions?  Can I update xref colours and keep layers frozen in individual drawings?

[user181]

Hi @m_kingdon  What version are you using? If you are using 2018 with all updates or a newer version you can update just the color. In your drawing containing the xref go to layer manager and select one of the xref layers or highlight as many as you want and right click. Then  on the menu go to Reset Xref Layer Properties for > All layers > Color.  This will reset just the color properties for all the xref layers.

[ВeekeeCZ · Accepted solution]

Also explore VISRETAINMODE in combination with VISRETAIN 1

[m_kingdon]

I am aware of the layer manager "Reset Xref Layer Properties" - it is what I have been using but it is taking too much time.  I don't consider this a viable workflow.

[pendean · Accepted solution]

VISRETAIN command affects all the layer settings in the xref, unless your VISRETAINMODE variable is set to only sync certain settings.

Look up usage in HELP, then experiment to see what works for you as a workflow.

[m_kingdon]

Thanks, this was the solution I was looking for.

I have set my VISRETAINMODE 1916

All xref layer properties will sync automatically when the xref is reloaded apart from On/Off, Freeze/Thaw and Transparency which I usually prefer to control in individual drawings.  I may change this later.

What VISRETAINMODE do you guys use?