How to Use Tentative Snap MicroStation?

Understanding Tentative Snap in MicroStation

Tentative Snap is a feature in MicroStation that allows users to temporarily select points or elements within the design space. This function is critical for accurate placement and drawing coordination, enabling users to establish reference points without making permanent selections until confirmed.

Setting Up Tentative Snap

To utilize Tentative Snap effectively, follow these steps:

1. Configure Mouse Settings:

   • Access the Control Panel on your operating system.
   • Navigate to the "Mouse" settings option.
   • Ensure you set your mouse wheel button to “wheel/middle” to facilitate the use of the tentative function.

2. Open MicroStation:

   • Launch MicroStation on your computer.
   • From the main menu, go to the “Workspace” section.
3. Button Assignments:
   • Under “Button Assignments”, find the ‘Tentative’ option.
   • Position your cursor over the ‘Button Definition Area’ within the dialogue box.
   • Press the wheel button on your mouse to register the tentative function and click OK to confirm.

Using Tentative Snap in Your Design

Once you have set up Tentative Snap in MicroStation, you can easily begin utilizing it for your tasks:

1. Activate the Snap:

   • To activate the Tentative Snap while drawing or placing elements, simply hover the cursor near an existing point or line.
   • A tentative point will be registered once you click the middle button on your mouse. This action does not alter the design but marks a potential reference point.

2. Confirming the Snap:

   • After identifying the desired location, press the left mouse button to accept the tentative point. This allows you to place new elements relative to the snapped point.
   • Remember, this step is crucial as it transitions the tentative mark into a concrete placement in your design.
3. Using Tentative Snap in Conjunction with Other Tools:
   • Tentative Snap can function alongside other drawing and editing tools. For example, while using the Line or Shape tools, leverage Tentative Snap to ensure exact placement relative to existing elements.
   • It is particularly useful when aligning new elements with existing geometry or reference points.

Changing Tentative Snap Settings

If you need to adjust how Tentative Snap behaves in your project, you can do so through the following steps:

1. Access Configuration Settings:

   • Return to the “Workspace” menu and look for “Settings”.
   • Open the “Snaps” section to find options related to Tentative Snap settings.
2. Customize Operations:
   • Here, you can toggle Tentative Snap on or off based on your preference.
   • Explore different configurations for Snap sensitivity and behavior to suit your specific drawing needs.

FAQs About Tentative Snap in MicroStation

1. What is the primary function of Tentative Snap in MicroStation?

   • Tentative Snap allows users to select and mark points temporarily in the design environment, providing an easy way to reference existing elements without immediate commitment to those points.

2. Can I customize the keyboard shortcuts for Tentative Snap?

   • Yes, users can modify the keyboard shortcuts used for Tentative Snap in the Button Assignments settings of MicroStation, allowing quick access tailored to personal workflow preferences.
3. Is Tentative Snap useful for collaborating on projects?
   • Absolutely. Tentative Snap helps in establishing precise points of reference, which is especially beneficial in collaborative projects where multiple users might be working on the same design.