How to Show Coordinates in AutoCAD 2020?

Understanding the Coordinate Display in AutoCAD 2025

Displaying coordinates in AutoCAD is fundamental for precise drafting and modeling. AutoCAD enables users to monitor the position of the cursor in real-time as they work. This guidance will help you activate and customize coordinate display settings effectively.

Enabling Coordinate Display

1. Accessing the Status Bar: At any prompt requiring a point input, locate the coordinate display option on the left side of the status bar. This area provides important information on the current cursor position.

2. Using the Keyboard Shortcut: For quick access, press Ctrl + i repeatedly. This shortcut will toggle different coordinate display modes until you find the one that suits your needs.

3. Adjusting COORDS System Variable: You can modify the display type by adjusting the COORDS system variable:
   • Type COORDS in the command line and press Enter.
   • Enter 0 for a static display, which shows fixed coordinates.
   • Enter 1 for a dynamic display, offering real-time updates as you move the cursor.
   • Enter 2 to display coordinates along with the distance and angle from the last point selected.

Disabling Coordinates in AutoCAD 2025

To deactivate the coordinate display, utilize the dynamic input feature. This can be toggled on or off through the following steps:

1. Function Key Toggle: Press the F12 key, which switches the dynamic input on and off. This feature is essential for users who prefer a cleaner interface without distracting information.

2. Status Bar Icon: Alternatively, click the corresponding icon located in the lower right corner of the AutoCAD interface to disable this function without using the keyboard.

Viewing the ViewCube

To enhance the navigation experience in 3D environments, enabling the ViewCube can be beneficial. Follow these steps to display it:

1. Right-click the Drawing Area: This action will open a context menu.

2. Selecting Options: Choose the "Options" from the menu, which leads you to a dialog box.

3. Modifying Display Settings: Navigate to the 3D Modeling tab. Here, under the "Display Tools In Viewport" section, ensure that the "Display The ViewCube" is selected. You can choose between 2D Wireframe and other visual styles.

Locating the Coordinate System

To work with geographic and project-specific coordinates, you might need to find and set the appropriate coordinate system. Follow these steps:

1. Access the Geolocation Tab: Click on the Geolocation tab found in the ribbon.

2. Edit Location: In the Location panel, select the "Edit Location" drop-down menu and choose "From Map."

3. Select Your Coordinate System: In the Geographic Location dialog that appears, click "Next." From the list of GIS Coordinate Systems, select the one relevant to your project.

4. Finalize the Selection: Click "Continue" and press Enter repeatedly until you complete the command.

Showing Easting and Northing Coordinates

For users who need to work with geographic coordinates, displaying eastings and northings is straightforward:

1. Access the Line Tool: Click on the Home tab, then on the Draw panel, and select the “Line” drop-down. Choose “Create Line By Northing/Easting.”

2. Input Northing and Easting Values: Enter the specific northing value requested. Next, enter the corresponding easting value.

3. Define Additional Segments: Continue entering values to outline further segments of the line as necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I show coordinates at all times in AutoCAD 2025?
Yes, by setting the dynamic input or static coordinate display options, you can keep coordinates visible at all times according to your preference.

2. What are the different types of coordinate systems available in AutoCAD?
AutoCAD supports various coordinate systems, including the Absolute, Relative Rectangular, Relative Polar, and Interactive systems, providing flexibility for different drafting needs.

3. Is it possible to customize the appearance of displayed coordinates in AutoCAD?
While the coordinate display shows raw data, users can adjust settings like output format (static or dynamic) and the type of information shown (distance, angle, etc.), but the visual style is generally uniform.