Tipster Don Bentz shares an easy way to get referenced files or blocks to display specific parts inside AutoCAD.

"Many users are familiar with the XClip command, and use it to clip xrefs. Some users, however, may not be aware that the command works on any type of block, not just xrefs. I've used this many times to avoid either exploding a block or using a wipeout. Just type XClip and note the available options, including rectangular or polygonal boundary and invert, which will create a window in the block. Depending on the XCLIPFRAME system variable setting (0, 1, or 2), the xclip frame may or may not be visible. When the frame is visible and is selected, there is an arrow grip on the frame that can be toggled to invert the frame. The frame can also be stretched using the regular grips."

Notes from Cadalyst tip reviewer Brian Benton: The XClip command works in many different ways. There are also similar commands for PDFs, images, or DWF files that are referenced into your file. (They are PDFClip, ImageClip, DWFClip … get the idea?) They all work the same way, but are used for different types of files.