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You are here: Home / AutoCAD / What is AutoCAD Defpoints Layer for?

What is AutoCAD Defpoints Layer for?

August 5, 2009 by Edwin Prakoso 5 Comments

When you create a new AutoCAD file, can you see this defpoints layer? No, unless your template file has it defined.

So when is it created? This layer will be created automatically by AutoCAD when you create dimension. If you don’t see this layer in your AutoCAD drawing, try to create a dimension, then look again in your layer list.

Now the big question: What is this layer for?

wondering.jpg

This layer is used for definition points when you place dimensions in AutoCAD. This layer by default is set not to be plotted. Don’t worry about this layer, and don’t use it. Why worry about one layer when you can create virtually unlimited layers in AutoCAD?

The problem is, many use this layer when creating objects they don’t want to plot. Viewports for example. The viewports border will be plotted unless you set the properties to non-plotted. This is practical before, as we can’t define a non-plot layer. Now that we can create a non-plot layer, we should avoid using this.

Why shouldn’t we use Defpoints layer?

Defpoints layer is somehow linked to Layer 0. When we freeze or thaw layer 0, you can’t modify objects in defpoints layer. You probably know it, but someone who receive your file might not. They might think the file is corrupt or their AutoCAD has bug.

The other reason is, when you run audit, all objects that are not dimension definition points will be removed to a new layer: $AUDIT-BAD-LAYER. There is no explanation whether this will make your files corrupted or not. But if audit treat it as ‘bad object’ then it we should be careful.

We don’t want to lose our important drawings do we?

About Edwin Prakoso

I work as a Solution Consultant in Datech Solutions, Tech Data Indonesia. I've been using AutoCAD since R14 and Revit since Revit Building 9. I occasionally write for AUGIWorld magazine and I am also active in Autodesk discussion forum. I'm a member of Autodesk Expert Elite, an appreciation for individuals who give contributions to the Autodesk community.
Connect with me on twitter or LinkedIn.

Filed Under: AutoCAD

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E.F. Lucas
E.F. Lucas
6 years ago

You can make layer defpoints!
Try in layermanager…

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Tom
Tom
7 years ago

The other reason is, when you run audit, all objects that are not dimension definition points will be removed to a new layer: $AUDIT-BAD-LAYER. <– not so in AC2014. No new layer created. ???? Please explain

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Billy
Billy
9 years ago

I have been placing vports on defpoints layer for 14 years now and have had no issues with that. Conversely, I have had issues in past jobs with vports placed on non-plotting layers other than defpoints. The issue is when someone inadvertently makes the layer a plotting layer. I have had that happen numerous times and it is not only annoying, but also time consuming to rectify and can waste ink and paper.

I will continue to place my vports on defpoints.

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Jon
Jon
Reply to  Billy
8 years ago

I have been placing vports on defpoints layer for over 20 years, just like @hestanger without issues. I utilize that layer for other items also, basically anything that we do not want printed.

1
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Mr Big
Mr Big
11 years ago

I can not see when i print drawing in autocad in layout. Some past not appear. How i can i do.

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