AutoCAD

How To Hide Xclip Line In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Xclip Feature in AutoCAD

The Xclip function in AutoCAD is a powerful tool designed to control the display of external references (Xrefs) and images within your drawings. This feature allows users to define a specific area of a reference file or image that should be shown, effectively providing a cleaner and clearer visual layout. Knowing how to hide or manipulate these clipped lines can greatly enhance your drawing workflow in AutoCAD 2025.

Steps to Hide Xclip Lines

To hide Xclip lines effectively, follow these detailed instructions:

  1. Access the Layout Tab: Begin by navigating to the Layout tab in your AutoCAD model or paper space environment.

  2. Enter the Command: Activate the command line by clicking on it or pressing the ‘Ctrl’ + ‘9’ keys. Type mview and hit the ENTER key. This command will allow you to manage your viewports.

  3. Turn Off Specific Viewports: After entering the command, AutoCAD will prompt you to select the viewport you wish to modify. Type off at the prompt and press ENTER. You will then be able to choose the specific viewport where the Xclip lines should be hidden. Click on the viewport and confirm your choice by pressing ENTER again. This will effectively hide the clipping lines in that viewport.

Removing Xclip Boundaries

If you want to completely remove an Xclip boundary and return the referenced object to its original size, follow this process:

  1. Initiate the XCLIP Command: Access the command line again. Type XCLIP and press ENTER.

  2. Select the Object: Click on the referenced object (Xref or block) that you want to modify or delete the boundary for.

  3. Choose the Deletion Option: Once you are prompted with options, select the delete option. This will remove the clipping boundary and revert the reference to its full extent.

Editing Xclip Boundaries

Adjusting Xclip boundaries can help refine how your external references appear in your drawing:

  1. Modify Command Selection: Navigate to the Modify menu, then select Clip followed by Xref.

  2. Choose the Xref: Click on the Xref that you want to modify.

  3. Define a New Boundary: Typing ‘Enter’ prompts you to specify a new boundary. Here, you can choose to use either a polyline you have drawn or create a new rectangular or polygonal boundary as per your requirements.

  4. Confirm the New Shape: Once you have defined the new boundary shape, finalize your selection to apply the changes.

Creating Clipping Boundaries

To create clipping boundaries, take the following steps:

  1. Navigate to External Reference Tools: Go to the External Reference tab, select the Clipping panel, and then opt for Create Clipping Boundary.

  2. Delete Existing Boundaries: If you have any existing boundaries you want to remove, you will be prompted to confirm. Click yes if you wish to delete them.

  3. Select Your Boundary Shape: Now, you can draw a new rectangular or polygonal boundary by specifying the corners or vertices directly on the reference image.

FAQ

What should I do if I can’t find the XCLIP command?
If you are unable to locate the XCLIP command, ensure you are in the correct workspace that supports external references. You can also type XCLIP directly into the command line.

Can I turn the clipping boundary back on?
Yes, you can use the same steps used to hide the Xclip lines. Make sure to choose the On option when prompted after selecting the Xref.

Does hiding a clipping boundary affect the original file?
No, hiding an Xclip boundary does not alter the original reference file. It merely controls the visibility of the reference within your current drawing context in AutoCAD.

By mastering these steps and functions, users can effectively manage the visibility and layout of their drawings within AutoCAD 2025, thus maintaining a tidy and organized working environment.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.