Understanding External References in Vectorworks
External references, or Xrefs, are pivotal for managing complex projects in Vectorworks. They enable you to link multiple files into a single project space without consolidating all data into one file, thereby enhancing collaboration and maintaining file organization.
Step 1: Access the References Dialog
Begin by opening the Organization Dialog Box. This can be accessed through the Tools menu. Select Organization, which will present you with various tabs, including References.
Step 2: Create a New Reference
To add a new external reference (Xref), click on the References tab within the Organization dialog. Here, you will either find existing references or the opportunity to create a new one.
- Click New to initiate a new reference file.
- A dialog box will prompt you to navigate to the desired file. Locate the file you want to reference, select it, and then click on Reference.
Step 3: Manage Existing References
If you already have references that need modification, select the desired file in the list of references. Click on Edit to adjust the settings or update the path as required.
Step 4: Referencing Viewports
To reference design layer viewports, navigate to the References tab again. Look for the option labeled Design Layer Viewports and select it. This action converts existing layers into referenced viewports, allowing for a cleaner and more manageable workspace.
- Choose View from the main menu and then select Create Viewport.
- This allows you to define how the viewport will display the referenced content.
Step 5: Updating References
Keeping your references up to date is crucial. To update referenced files:
- Return to the Organization Dialog Box, ensuring you are on the References tab.
- Highlight the master file housing the referenced objects.
- Click Update, which will synchronize the referenced items within your main file.
Step 6: Working with Xrefs
To effectively utilize Xrefs:
- Remember that linked Xrefs remain independent. To edit an Xref, you need to open the original source file directly.
- An Xref can be converted into a block reference using the External References palette. Right-click the desired Xref, then click on Bind and select the binding options as prompted.
FAQs
1. Can I edit an Xref directly in the main drawing?
No, modifications cannot be applied to an Xref within the main drawing. You must open the original drawing file to make any changes.
2. What happens when I update a reference?
When you update a reference, the most current data from the master file replaces the existing data in your working file, ensuring all information is up-to-date.
3. Can multiple users work on different Xrefs simultaneously?
Yes, using Xrefs allows multiple users to work on various components of a project without interfering with one another, streamlining collaboration efforts across a team.
