How to Clip a Viewport in AutoCAD 2018?

Understanding Viewport Clipping in AutoCAD 2025

Viewport clipping is an essential feature in AutoCAD that allows users to define a specific area within a layout viewport to display. This can help trim any unnecessary parts of the drawing, making it more presentable and focused on the essential elements.

Step-by-Step Guide on Clipping a Viewport

1. Access Layout Tab
   Begin by navigating to the layout tab where your viewport is located. Here, you will find various options related to layout management.

2. Open the Clip Tool
   Locate the Layout tab on the ribbon. Click on the "Layout Viewports" panel, and then choose the "Clip" option. This initiates the clipping command.

3. Select the Viewport
   Click on the viewport you wish to clip. This action selects the viewport and prepares it for further modification.

4. Delete Clipping Boundary (if necessary)
   If there is already a clipping boundary applied to this viewport, you can opt to remove it. Simply type D for Delete when prompted, which allows the previous boundary to be cleared.

5. Define the New Boundary
   You can now establish a new clipping boundary by choosing from the following options:

   • Input P for Polygonal – This allows you to click multiple points on the screen to create a custom shape for your clipping boundary.
   • Alternatively, you can use a rectangular boundary if a simple box suits your needs.
6. Finalize the Clipping Process
   After outlining the desired area, press Enter to confirm your new clipping boundary. The viewport will now display only the specified section of your drawing.

Additional Clipping Techniques in AutoCAD

Beyond viewport clipping, you may find yourself needing to clip other objects within AutoCAD, such as external references (Xrefs) or images.

1. Clipping an Xref

   • Select the external reference you wish to clip.
   • Navigate to the External Reference tab, then the Clipping panel, and click on “Create Clipping Boundary.”
   • Follow similar steps to define a new polygonal or rectangular clipping border.
2. Clipping an Image
   • Choose the image you want to clip.
   • Access the Modify menu, and find the Clipping option.
   • Determine the boundary shape and establish your clipping limits.

Modifying Viewports

Changing settings and editing viewports can improve your drawing presentation significantly.

1. Opening the Viewports Menu
   Go to the View tab and access the Viewports panel. Here, you can create or modify settings for existing viewports.

2. Edit Existing Viewports
   • Select the viewport you want to modify.
   • Choose "Modify" and opt for the "Edit Viewport" setting.
   • You can now change the different settings according to your design requirements.

FAQ

1. Can I clip multiple viewports at once in AutoCAD?
   No, each viewport must be clipped individually. However, you can quickly repeat the clipping process once familiar with the commands.

2. What happens to objects outside the clipping area?
   Objects outside the defined clipping boundary remain in the drawing but will not be visible in the viewport.

3. Is it possible to adjust the clipping boundary after it’s set?
   Yes, you can modify a clipping boundary at any time by re-initiating the clip command and redefining the boundary.