Understanding how to modify tables in MicroStation can significantly enhance your productivity when managing design data. This article outlines the steps and techniques to effectively edit tables in MicroStation.
Accessing the Table Tool
To begin editing tables, you need to navigate to the appropriate section of the MicroStation interface. Start by:
Opening Your Design File: Launch MicroStation and open the design file containing the table you wish to modify.
Locating the Table Tool: Go to the “Draw” menu, then select “Table”. This will allow you to interact with any tables present in your design.
- Selecting the Table: With the Table Tool activated, click on the table you want to edit. This action makes the table editable.
Editing Table Content
Once you have selected the table, you can change its content. Here’s how to go about it:
Entering Edit Mode: Double-click on a cell within the table to enter edit mode. A text cursor will appear, allowing you to edit the existing text.
Modifying Text: You can now delete, add, or change the text within the selected cell. Utilize standard text editing features like cut, copy, paste, and formatting options to enhance the appearance.
- Navigating Cells: Use the arrow keys or mouse to move between different cells. This allows you to efficiently edit entries across the table.
Adjusting Table Structure
Apart from editing the content, you may also need to alter the table’s structure. Follow these steps:
Resizing Cells: To change the size of a cell, hover over the border until your cursor changes, then click and drag to resize.
Inserting Rows and Columns: Right-click on the table and select “Insert” from the menu. You can choose to insert rows above or below and columns to the left or right.
- Deleting Rows and Columns: To remove a row or column, right-click on the desired row or column header and select “Delete” from the context menu.
Formatting the Table
To ensure your table meets professional standards, you may want to adjust its formatting:
Adjusting Text Style: Highlight the text you wish to format. Utilize the text editor to modify font type, style, size, and color.
Table Borders and Shading: Right-click on the table and select properties to access borders and shading options. You can customize these settings to suit your design’s aesthetics.
- Aligning Text: Choose the alignment for cells by selecting the whole cell or specific text. Use the alignment tools provided in the formatting toolbar.
Saving Changes
After editing your table, it’s crucial to save your changes.
Saving the Design File: Go to “File” and click on “Save” to ensure that all modifications are saved in the design file.
- Reviewing Changes: It’s a good practice to zoom out and review your edited table within the broader context of your design to ensure everything appears as intended.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I undo changes made to a table in MicroStation?
Yes, any changes made can be undone by using the “Undo” function, which is typically accessed by pressing Ctrl + Z on your keyboard.
2. Are there any limitations to the number of rows and columns I can add?
While MicroStation effectively handles large tables, the practical limits depend on the system’s performance and the complexity of your design.
3. How can I print the table and ensure it retains its formatting?
Before printing, ensure that you have set your print settings to ‘Print Preview’ mode to check how the table will look. Adjust settings as necessary to maintain the desired layout and formatting during printing.
