How to Xref in Microstation?

Understanding Xrefs in MicroStation

Xrefs, short for external references, are critical components in MicroStation that allow you to attach external drawings, images, or other files into your current design without actually integrating them into the main database. This keeps your file size manageable and preserves the integrity of the original files. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to utilize xrefs in MicroStation for efficient design management.

How to Attach an Xref

1. Open the References Dialog: Access the References dialog box through the "File" menu by selecting "References." This will display a list of currently attached references.

2. Adding a New Reference: Click on the "Attach" button within the References dialog or use a similar option to initiate the file attachment process.

3. Select the File: In the dialog that appears, browse to and select the desired DWG or DGN file you wish to attach as an xref.

4. Adjust Attachment Settings: After selecting your file, you will see options to configure the attachment. Specify the scale, rotation, and placement method. These settings dictate how the xref appears in your master file.

5. Finalize the Attachment: Click "OK" to attach the xref. It will now be visible in your design space, and you’ll be able to manipulate its display as needed through the References dialog.

Controlling the Display of Xrefs

To manage how your xrefs appear in the drawing:

1. Access the Reference Settings: Go back to the References dialog and find the xref in the list.

2. Modify Display Options: You can toggle the visibility of the xref by checking or unchecking the Display checkbox next to it. Additionally, you have options for more advanced settings like controlling the rendering or display order.

Copying Elements from an Xref

When you need to utilize elements from the xref in your main drawing:

1. Reference the Xref: Ensure the xref file is attached to your master file.

2. Select Desired Elements: Use the selection tools to choose the pieces of geometry you wish to copy from the xref.

3. Execute the Copy Command: With the elements selected, invoke the "Copy" command.

4. Position the Copied Elements: Click in the drawing area to place the copied elements at the desired location, then confirm to finish the action.

Editing an Xref

Although xrefs remain independent from the main drawing, editing them is simple:

1. Activate the Xref for Editing: Right-click on the xref in the References dialog and choose the "Activate" option. This allows you to edit the xref elements directly.

2. Modify the Geometry: Make the necessary changes. Save your work to ensure the modifications are retained.

3. Return to the Original File: Exit the reference editing mode to return to the primary drawing view.

Binding an Xref to Your Drawing

To permanently include the xref within your design:

1. Ctrl+Right Click on the Xref: In the drawing space, find your xref, and use Ctrl+Right Click to access the context menu.

2. Select Bind Option: From the menu, choose "Xref Tools" followed by "Bind."

3. Choose Binding Options: You can bind to original layers to maintain organization of your drawing layers.

4. Finalize the Binding Process: Confirm your selections and finalize the binding. The xref will now be an integral part of your design.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What file types can I attach as Xrefs in MicroStation?
   MicroStation allows the attachment of various file types as xrefs, including DGN, DWG, image files, PDFs, and point cloud data.

2. Can I edit an xref while working in my main drawing?
   Yes, you can directly edit an xref by activating it through the References dialog, allowing you to make changes without switching files.

3. What happens if the original xref file changes?
   If the original xref file is modified, the changes will be reflected in any drawing where that xref is attached, as xrefs are inherently linked to their source files.