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Keep Z Values at Current Elevation
Tip# 4129 By Robert Somppi On 03-Jun-2013
4
 Rated By 1 users
Categories : 2D Operations
Software type : AutoCAD 2014
Rename File To : No Files to download.
Adjust this setting based on how frequently you draw in 2D.

Robert Somppi provides a tip to help 2D AutoCAD users ensure their z values stay at zero.

"If you have ever inadvertently snapped to a point that has a non-zero z value when you were drawing in 2D, here's one for you. Non-planar lines look like their linetype scales have been reduced. If you draw primarily in 2D and work with files from others that are not in 2D (either by design or bad CAD-ing), you can prevent AutoCAD from snapping to a non-zero z coordinate — sort of. Actually, using this option tells AutoCAD to replace that z value with the current elevation; if your drawing is in 2D, then that elevation should be zero.

"In Options, go to the Drafting tab. In the bottom left is Object Snap Options. Select Replace Z value with current elevation. This works if you draw in 3D but may not be desirable, depending on how you work."

Notes from Cadalyst tip reviewer Brian Benton: This is one of those settings that users forget is there. If you only draw in two dimensions, you probably want to turn this on. If you draw in 2D most of the time, you should consider turning this on. If you work in 3D and want to draw in the same plane while drawing, turn this on. If you need to draw in three dimensions, turning it on may cause more headaches than it will prevent. Regardless of how you draw, this tip could really help you out.
 

Average Rating:
4


User comments
Comment by Shehata,Tawfik
Posted on 2013-06-03 01:24:27
The only catch about this drafting setting (OSNAPZ) is that it doesn't get saved in the registry nor the drawing which means you will have to remember to set it every time you start AutoCAD. Point Filters can be helpful too, when prompted to pick a point, type .XY (enter), pick the point then enter the Z value, and if this was to draw a Polyline, you’ll only need to do this for the first point.
Comment by Anderson,Jim
Posted on 2013-06-04 04:08:27
Unfortunately, this is a full AutoCAD command only - it isn't available in LT
Comment by DeShawn,Bill
Posted on 2013-06-09 18:27:32
To fix a 2D drawing in AutoCAD full or LT, you can create a button using this menu macro: ^C^C_move;_all;;0,0,0;0,0,1e99;_move;_p;;0,0,0;0,0,-1e99 Everything in the current space or active viewport will be on Z0 of the current UCS therein.
Comment by Mickinkle,John
Posted on 2013-08-09 11:38:45
Great tip! But, if you want it to be set for every drawing, enter this line of code into your acad.lsp or acaddoc.lsp: (setvar "osnapz" 1) Also, sometimes, when calling up a drawing, the elevation is not at 0 when you think it is. This line of code in your acad.lsp or acaddoc.lsp fixes that: (if (/= (getvar "elevation") 0)(alert " CAUTION!! Elevation is not 0.000"))