How to Change Ortho in AutoCAD?

Understanding Ortho Mode in AutoCAD

Ortho mode is a vital feature in AutoCAD that enhances precision when drawing. It restricts cursor movement to only horizontal or vertical directions, making it indispensable for creating straight lines and right angles. Knowing how to toggle and adjust this setting can significantly improve your drafting efficiency.

Accessing Ortho Mode Settings

To modify the Ortho settings in AutoCAD:

1. Right-Click the Status Bar: Locate the Object Snap button on your status bar at the bottom of the AutoCAD window. Right-click it.
2. Select Object Snap Settings: A menu will appear. Click on "Object Snap Settings" to access the configuration options for snapping features, including Ortho mode.

Activating and Deactivating Ortho Mode

To toggle Ortho mode on and off:

1. Using the F8 Key: Press the F8 key on your keyboard to quickly enable or disable Ortho mode. The status bar will indicate the current state.
2. Using the Status Bar Icon: Click the Ortho icon (it usually looks like a line at right angles) located on your status bar.
3. Command Prompt Method: Type ORTHO in the command line and press Enter. Follow the prompts to activate or deactivate.

Temporary Override of Ortho Mode

If you need to draw at an angle temporarily without turning off Ortho:

1. Hold the Shift Key: While in Ortho mode, press and hold the Shift key. This allows you to draw freely without the constraints of horizontal and vertical movement.
2. Note on Direct Distance Entry: Be aware that this method does not permit direct distance entry when you’re overriding Ortho.

Importance of Ortho Mode

Using Ortho mode during your design process provides several advantages:

• Improves Accuracy: It ensures that your lines are perfectly straight, minimizing errors that can occur if you were to draw freehand.
• Facilitates Complex Designs: Easily integrate components that require exact angles or placements when drafting larger projects.

Adjusting Related Settings

Sometimes, Ortho mode is used in conjunction with other features such as Polar Tracking:

1. Understanding Polar Tracking: When Ortho mode is enabled, polar tracking will be disabled. If your design requires tracking angles, remember to toggle Ortho off when needed.
2. Combining Snapping Features: Familiarize yourself with other snapping aids like Object Snap (Osnap), which can further enhance accuracy in your drawings.

FAQ

Q1: Can I customize hotkeys for Ortho mode in AutoCAD?
Yes, you can customize hotkeys through the CUI (Custom User Interface) editor. This would allow you to set a key combination that makes it easier to toggle Ortho mode according to your workflow.

Q2: What should I do if Ortho mode isn’t working as expected?
Check if any conflicting settings are active, such as Polar Tracking or Snap mode. You can also reset your preferences under the Options menu to default settings, which might resolve any glitches.

Q3: How does Ortho mode affect other drawing settings?
While Ortho mode is on, it restricts the cursor to horizontal and vertical movement, and polar tracking is disabled. If you need to create lines at angles, you must turn off Ortho mode temporarily.