Introduction to the Project Database File
AutoCAD Electrical uses a temporary project database file stored with the Microsoft Access Database (.mdb) file extension. This database tracks and manages project-wide data such as wire connections, component tags, cross-references, etc.
When you open a project in AutoCAD Electrical for the first time, a message indicating "Updating" may appear. This means AutoCAD Electrical is generating or updating the temporary project database file (.mdb).
Each time a project is opened, AutoCAD Electrical checks the status of the .mdb file and updates it as needed. However, there are cases when this database becomes outdated or corrupted. This can cause unexpected behavior on some commands, like incorrect or outdated cross-references.
Understanding Project Database Corruption
The project database file is crucial for smoothly operating your AutoCAD Electrical projects. However, like any database file, it can become corrupted. Outdated databases usually occur when using plain AutoCAD 2D commands instead of electrical commands. The database can also get corrupted, which may occur due to unexpected software crashes, improper shutdowns, or other system-related issues. Specifically, forcibly shutting down a computer while AutoCAD Electrical is running can lead to corruption of the project database. You might see an error message such as “Project Database Service Error” when this happens.
AEREBUILDDB Command
The AEREBUILDDB command can be used to update an outdated project database or fully rebuild the database. This command regenerates the ".mdb" file from the existing project data, correcting inconsistencies.
To use the AEREBUILDDB command:
1. Open AutoCAD Electrical and load your project with a corrupted/outdated database file.
2. Open any drawing within your current project.
3. Type AEREBUILDDB in the command line and press Enter.
4. Click on Full Rebuild, and AutoCAD Electrical will rebuild the project database file “.mdb” file, ensuring that it is synchronized with the current state of your project files.
For detailed information on the AEREBUILDDB command, visit the official Autodesk documentation.
Autodesk command reference: AEREBUILDDB
Location of the Project Database File “.mdb”
The project database file “.mdb” is typically stored in the User folder:
C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Roaming\Autodesk\AutoCAD Electrical 20xx\Rxx.x\enu\Support\User
The “AppData” folder is hidden by default in Windows, which means that most users won’t see it in their file explorer. To access this folder, you must set File Explorer to show Hidden items.
Windows 11 - Display Hidden Items
Windows 10 - Display Hidden Items
Alternatively, type or copy/paste the file location into the Windows Explorer address bar.
Deleting Project Database File “.mdb” to Force Re-Creation
If your “.mdb” file is corrupted beyond repair and you cannot fix it with the AEREBUILDDB command, or if you want to start fresh, you can delete the existing “.mdb” file. AutoCAD Electrical will automatically create a new “.mdb” file the next time you open the project.
1. Close AutoCAD Electrical to ensure the “.mdb” file is not in use.
2. Navigate to the .mdb File Location.
3. Search for .mdb files in the search bar (or projectname.mdb).
3. Delete the .mdb File associated with your project.
Search Results
When you reopen the project in AutoCAD Electrical, a new “.mdb” file will be created automatically. This new file will be based on the current project data, without any of the issues that were present in the old file.
1 Comment
