AutoCAD

How to Remove Red Dot in AutoCAD Cursor?

Understanding the Red Dot in AutoCAD

When working in AutoCAD, many users may encounter a persistent red dot next to their cursor, which can be distracting and confusing. This red dot typically signifies that the Action Recorder is actively capturing your commands and actions. If you find this feature unnecessary or distracting, there are simple ways to disable it and remove the red dot from your workspace.

How to Disable the Action Recorder

To stop the Action Recorder and eliminate the red dot, follow these steps:

  1. Access the Drawing Area: Right-click anywhere in the drawing area, ensuring you do not click on any objects.

  2. Locate the Action Recorder Option: From the context menu that appears, scroll down to find the option labeled "Action Recorder."

  3. Stop the Recording: Click on "Action Recorder" and then select "Stop" from the submenu. This action will immediately halt any ongoing recording session, and the red dot will disappear.

Alternatively, you can use a keyboard shortcut to stop the recording:

  1. Open Command Prompt: Without needing to use the mouse, type actstop directly into the command prompt at the bottom of the AutoCAD interface and press Enter. This command achieves the same result of stopping the recording.

Troubleshooting Other Cursor Issues

If you continue experiencing issues with your cursor after stopping the recording, you may want to reset or adjust your cursor settings:

  1. Reset Cursor Angles:

    • Type SNAPANG into the command line and press Enter.
    • Type 90 and press Enter to adjust the angle.
    • Type SNAPANG again and enter 0 to return to the default position.
  2. Adjusting Cursor Size and Appearance:
    • Right-click in the empty space within the drawing area and select the "Options" menu, or access it via the Application button.
    • Under the "Selection" tab, adjust the "Pickbox Size" slider to change the size of the selection cursor.
    • Go to the "Display" tab to modify the "Crosshair Size" by moving the slider or entering a value.

Additional Tips to Manage Recording and Cursor Settings

  • Utilizing the Action Recorder: If you occasionally wish to use the Action Recorder feature, familiarize yourself with its interface by navigating to the “Manage” tab and locating the Action Recorder panel. Here, you’ll find options to start and manage recordings efficiently.

  • Customizing Your Cursor Settings: For a more personalized workspace, consider setting specific cursor and snapping preferences that suit your workflow.

FAQ

1. Why does the red dot appear when I use AutoCAD?
The red dot indicates that the Action Recorder is active and recording your commands and actions. Stopping the recording will remove the dot.

2. Can I re-enable the Action Recorder after stopping it?
Yes, you can easily restart the Action Recorder by accessing the same context menu and selecting "Record" from the Action Recorder options.

3. Is there a shortcut to stop recording quicker?
Yes, you can quickly stop a recording by typing actstop in the command line and pressing Enter, making it a faster option than navigating through menus.

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.