XRef Enhancements in AutoCAD 2016 – AutoCAD Blog

Enhanced Layer Control for Xrefs in AutoCAD 2016

AutoCAD 2016 introduces significant improvements for managing layers in external reference (xref) drawings, enhancing workflow efficiency for users dealing with complex drawings. One of the most notable features is the ability to control the display of xref layers, even when those layers are not set to “ByLayer.”

New System Variable: XREFOVERRIDE

The key addition in this version is the XREFOVERRIDE system variable. By adjusting this variable to 1, users can ensure that the properties of xref objects mimic the “ByLayer” setting. This means that you can easily modify the appearance of xref objects in your host drawing’s context, providing greater flexibility and streamline design processes.

Steps to Use XREFOVERRIDE:

1. Open your drawing in AutoCAD 2016.
2. Type XREF into the command line to open the External References palette.
3. Locate your xref and adjust the layer properties as needed.
4. To implement the display change, enter XREFOVERRIDE in the command line.
5. Set the value to 1 by typing 1 and pressing Enter.

With this setting enabled, all xref layers behave as if they are set to “ByLayer,” allowing for cohesive integration with host drawing layers and making it easier to manage visual attributes.

Distinguishing Xref Layers in the Properties Palette

A common challenge with previous versions was the mixing of xref layers with host layers in the Properties palette. To address this, AutoCAD 2016 no longer displays xref layers within the Properties palette, preventing confusion and ensuring that users can focus on their host layers unimpeded.

Identifying Xref Layers:

• While xref layers will not appear in the Properties palette, they remain visible in the Ribbon layer list.
• They are now displayed in gray text, which clearly distinguishes them from the host layers and indicates that they are part of an external reference.

Improved Workflow with Ribbon Interface

The tweak in how xref layers are presented integrates smoothly with the overall user interface of AutoCAD 2016. Users familiar with the Ribbon interface will find it easier to locate and manage layers, thanks to the clearer typographical distinctions.

How to Access the Ribbon Layers List:

1. Navigate to the Home tab of the Ribbon.
2. Locate the Layers panel; you will see a list of all layers including xref layers shown in gray.
3. Although you cannot modify the properties of xref layers via the Properties palette, you can still manage their visibility and related settings directly from the Layers panel.

Exploring Layer and Editing Enhancements

AutoCAD 2016 offers further improvements in layer and editing functionalities. Users are encouraged to explore these enhancements through demo videos and tutorials. The addition of tools designed for easier layering and editing can significantly enhance productivity and ensure a more streamlined design experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does XREFOVERRIDE do?
XREFOVERRIDE is a system variable that allows you to control the display properties of xref objects, treating them as if their properties were set to “ByLayer.”

2. How does the removal of xref layers from the Properties palette improve user experience?
By not displaying xref layers in the Properties palette, users can avoid confusion between host and external layers, streamlining the editing process and making it easier to focus on the active drawing’s layers.

3. Can I still manage the visibility of xref layers?
Yes, while xref layers are not displayed in the Properties palette, you can still manage their visibility and settings from the Ribbon layers list.