AutoCAD

How to Create a New Viewport in AutoCAD 2019?

Understanding Viewports in AutoCAD

Creating new viewports in AutoCAD allows users to manage their drawings effectively by viewing different sections of model space at varied scales and orientations. Viewports are vital for organizing layouts, letting designers display various perspectives of their work simultaneously.

How to Create a New Viewport in AutoCAD 2019

Step 1: Accessing the Viewports Functionality

  1. Open your drawing file in AutoCAD 2019.
  2. Navigate to the View tab located on the Ribbon.
  3. Find the Viewports panel, and select the New Viewports option.

Step 2: Configuring the Viewport

  1. A dialog box will open, allowing you to configure your new viewport.
  2. Enter a meaningful name for your viewport in the provided field to easily identify it later.
  3. Choose from the available options in the Standard Viewports list if you want a specific preset configuration.

Step 3: Defining the Viewport Dimensions

  1. Select Single from the options to create one viewport.
  2. In the drawing area, click to determine the first corner of your viewport.
  3. Move your cursor to the opposite corner and click again to finalize the viewport’s dimensions.

Step 4: Finalizing the Viewport

  1. After setting the corners, click OK to finalize and create the viewport.
  2. Your new viewport will now be visible in the paper space.

Adding Additional Viewports

To create a second viewport:

  1. Repeat the initial steps from the View tab and select New under the Viewports panel.
  2. As before, specify the corners to create your desired layout viewport.

Custom Shaped Viewports

For those looking to create non-rectangular viewports:

  1. From the View menu, choose Viewports, then select Polygonal Viewport.
  2. Click to define points that will outline your non-rectangular shape.
  3. For more complex shapes, you can also select an existing closed shape using the Object option.

Managing Viewports

Unlocking a Viewport

To unlock a viewport:

  1. Type MV for the move command.
  2. Choose your viewport and type LOCK followed by OFF.

Modifying Viewports

You can reshape or redefine an existing viewport:

  1. Select the layout tab where your viewport is located.
  2. Click on the Layout Viewports panel and select Clip to change the viewport’s boundaries.
  3. Choose a new object or specify new points for the viewport’s shape and click OK to apply the changes.

FAQ

Q: Can I create multiple viewports on a single layout?
Yes, you can create multiple viewports on a single layout by repeating the viewport creation process. Simply follow the same steps as creating the first viewport.

Q: How do I adjust the scale of a viewport after it has been created?
You can adjust the scale by selecting the viewport, then going to the Properties palette. From there, you can change the scale to your desired ratio.

Q: What is the difference between model space and paper space viewports?
Model space allows you to create 3D designs and drawings, whereas paper space is where you set up your layouts for printing. Viewports in paper space display views of model space, allowing you to manage your presentations effectively.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.