AutoCAD

How to Turn Off UCS in AutoCAD?

Understanding UCS in AutoCAD

The User Coordinate System (UCS) in AutoCAD serves as a custom coordinate frame, allowing users to manipulate objects in a drawing according to their preferred orientation. By default, AutoCAD operates in the World Coordinate System (WCS), but users can define their own UCS for more flexibility in 3D modeling and design.

Steps to Turn Off UCS in AutoCAD

To effectively turn off the UCS icon in AutoCAD, follow these comprehensive steps:

1. Access the Command Line

Open AutoCAD and locate the command line at the bottom of your workspace. This is where commands can be entered directly.

2. Input the UCS Command

Type in the command `ucsicon` and hit Enter. This command controls the visibility of the UCS icon.

3. Choose Visibility Option

When prompted, you will have the option to enter `ON` or `OFF`. To remove the UCS icon from your viewport, enter `OFF`. If you prefer to keep it visible, simply enter `ON`.

4. Confirm Icon Visibility Across Viewports

You can specify whether this change applies to a single viewport or all viewports. Make sure to check which viewports you desire the change to affect.

5. Save Your Settings

After adjusting the UCS icon, it’s beneficial to save your settings to ensure that your preferences are retained in future sessions.

Disabling Dynamic UCS

If you want to turn off the dynamic UCS, which automatically adjusts the UCS based on your cursor’s position, follow these instructions:

1. Press the F6 Key

A quick way to toggle the dynamic UCS on and off is by pressing the F6 key. This is the simplest method for immediate adjustments.

2. Use the Command Line

For more control, you may also type `UCSDETECT` into the command line. This command allows you to set the dynamic UCS feature to inactive or active. To disable it, enter `0`.

Hiding the 3D UCS Icon

In scenarios where 3D modeling is not needed, you might want to remove the 3D UCS icon:

1. Navigate to the View Tab

Locate the View tab in the ribbon at the top of AutoCAD.

2. Access Viewport Tools Panel

Find the Viewport Tools panel within the View tab.

3. Toggle the ViewCube

You can disable the ViewCube from this panel. Alternatively, you can type `NAVVCUBE` in the command line, select `Off`, and press Enter. This will remove the 3D UCS icon from your workspace.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I delete custom UCS definitions I no longer use?

Yes, you can delete custom UCS definitions by accessing the Named UCS in the UCS dialog. However, you cannot delete the current UCS or one that has the name “UNNAMED.”

2. How do I switch back to the World Coordinate System?

To reset to the World Coordinate System, type `UCS` followed by the `World` option and then `Plan` to choose the World. This resets the UCS to its original position.

3. What happens if I turn off the UCS icon?

Turning off the UCS icon will not affect your ability to use other commands in AutoCAD; it merely removes the visual representation of the UCS from the workspace. You can still create and manipulate objects using the UCS without the icon.

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.