How to Insert Diameter Symbol in AutoCAD?

Steps to Insert the Diameter Symbol in AutoCAD

Inserting the diameter symbol (Ø) in AutoCAD is a simple process that can enhance your technical drawings. Follow the detailed steps below to insert this symbol effectively.

Method 1: Using the Character Map

1. Open the Character Map:

   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
   • Type charmap and hit Enter to launch the Character Map.

2. Locate the Ø Symbol:

   • In the Character Map window, scroll through the list of characters or select the appropriate font that contains the diameter symbol.

3. Select and Copy:

   • Click on the diameter symbol (Ø), then click on Select and then Copy to place it in your clipboard.

4. Paste in AutoCAD:

   • Go to your AutoCAD drawing.
   • Use CTRL + V to paste the symbol into your text area.

Method 2: Text Editor Tools

1. Open the In-Place Text Editor:

   • Double-click on the text where you want to insert the diameter symbol or create a new text area within your drawing.

2. Access Symbol Options:

   • Right-click in the editor area, and then select Symbol from the context menu.

3. Choose from the Toolbar:

   • If available, click the Symbol button in the Text Formatting toolbar to access a menu of pre-defined symbols.

4. Insert the Symbol:

   • Browse to find the diameter symbol and click on it to insert it directly into your text.

Method 3: Using Alt Codes

1. Activate Numeric Keypad:

   • Ensure that your Num Lock is activated and you can use the numeric keypad on your keyboard.

2. Press Alt Key:

   • Hold down the Alt key.

3. Input the Alt Code:

   • While holding the Alt key, type 0216 on the numeric keypad. Release the Alt key afterward, and the diameter symbol (Ø) should appear in your text.

Method 4: Unicode Entry

1. Open the Text Editor:

   • Enter the text editor to add your diameter symbol.

2. Type the Unicode:

   • You can directly enter the Unicode for the diameter symbol by typing \00D8 (note: always precede it with a backslash).

3. Confirmation:

   • After typing, confirm your input by pressing Enter or clicking outside the text editor area.

FAQs

1. Can I customize the diameter symbol appearance?

   • Yes, you can change the font size and text style in AutoCAD to customize how the diameter symbol appears in your drawing.

2. What if I cannot find the diameter symbol using the methods above?

   • If the diameter symbol is not available, consider checking the font you are using. Some fonts have limited character sets. Additionally, ensure you are not using a font that does not support special symbols.

3. Can I use the diameter symbol in dimensioning?

   • Yes, AutoCAD allows you to include the diameter symbol in dimensions. When adding a diameter dimension, the symbol is typically included automatically for circles and arcs, but you can also insert it manually for clarity if necessary.