AutoCAD

How to Update Dimensions in AutoCAD 2016?

Steps to Update Dimensions in AutoCAD 2016

Accessing the Dimension Style Manager

To begin updating dimensions, the first step is to access the Dimension Style Manager. This can be done by navigating to the Home tab on the toolbar. Locate the Annotation panel and click on Dimension Style. A prompt will appear, allowing you to open the Dimension Style Manager.

Selecting the Right Dimension Style

Once the Dimension Style Manager is open, you will see a list of available dimension styles. Identify the style that you wish to modify from this list. After selecting it, click the Modify button to proceed to the configuration settings.

Modifying Dimension Settings

The Modify Dimension Style dialog box will appear, showcasing several tabs for different settings. Focus on the Fit tab, where you’ll find an option labeled Scale for Dimension Features. This setting allows you to adjust the overall scale of the dimensions. Enter your desired value to change the scale, and then confirm by clicking OK.

Saving Changes

After you’ve made your desired modifications, it’s crucial to save your settings. Click OK in the Modify Dimension Style dialog box, and then close the Dimension Style Manager to finalize the changes.

Updating Multiple Dimensions

If you’re aiming to update multiple dimensions at once, AutoCAD allows a straightforward approach. When you change the dimension style or settings, any new dimensions you create will inherit these changes automatically. If you wish to apply these updated styles to existing dimensions, select the dimensions in your drawing, and apply the new style from the Dimension Style Manager.

Checking Dimension Units

To ensure that your dimensions are displayed correctly, you may also want to check the dimension units. Reopen the Dimension Style Manager using the command DIMSTY, select the style in use, and click Modify. Navigate to the Primary Units tab to adjust the unit format (for example, setting it to Decimal) and to define the precision and any suffixes for units.

Managing Dimension Text Size

If the dimension text appears too small, it can be adjusted easily. Within the Dimension Style Manager, go to the Text tab and check the Text Height setting. Increase this value if necessary. For global control of text height, ensure the style dialog’s text height is set to zero. This adjustment allows the dimension height to dictate text size across the drawing.

FAQ

1. How do I reset the dimension style?

To reset a dimension style, access the Dimension Style Manager, select the style you wish to restore, and click Set Current. Then, close the manager to apply changes.

2. What command do I use to create dimensions?

The command for creating dimensions in AutoCAD is DIM. This will allow you to initiate dimensioning tools directly within your drawing.

3. Are dimension updates applicable across different AutoCAD versions?

While the procedures may slightly vary, the general principles of updating dimension styles apply to newer versions, such as AutoCAD 2025. Always refer to the specific documentation for each version for detailed instructions.

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.