Using Xrefs with AutoCAD LT

[Anonymous]

I would fall under the "new employee learning new software" category here.  We're looking into AutoCAD LT for some survey work, and I'm struggling with overlaying files.  

I'm working with an apartment building file - roughly 200 apartment units across two buildings. There are several different unit types, and the electrical file simply has a "typical unit" layout page, rather than a reflected ceiling plan.  I'd like to lay the electrical apartment layout on top of the architectural drawing, but will have to do so by each unit type (like putting together a puzzle.)  One additional wrench is that the typical unit drawing is on a different scale than the architectural drawing (1/4 vs. 1/8.) 

What's the best way to accomplish this goal?  Thanks for your help.

[john.vellek]

HI @Anonymous,

It sounds like you want to use the architectural drawings as external reference attachments. This will let you place additional information on them without affecting the originals. Even though the typicals are at a different scale it is likely that they are drawn at 1:1 and only presented in paperspace /printed form at 1/4"=1'-0?

If you have some sample drawings, I am happy to take a look and make some recommendations.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.

[pendean]

All CAD content should be created/drawn at 1:1 scale: are you sure you are trying to overlay CAD file content and not printed PDFs or something else?

If your CAD content is drawn at 1/4" and 1/8" scale you have way bigger problems that a "new employee .... new software" should be addressing honestly.

let us know: if you are unsure, and you are allowed to, post a couple of sample drawings files you are trying to overlay.

[steven-g]

Is the Architectural drawing also produced using xrefs or blocks for the different unit types, as that would possibly make life much easier (once you have the sizes sorted), you could if things are in any way organised place the electrical unit block into the Architectural unit block and if there are only a dozen different types, then you only need do it a dozen times, and orientation and everything else follows along. But this does presume that there is some form of cooperation going on. And also depends on any office standards or practices that are used by the company.