Can I copy multiple objects from one drawing to another in BricsCAD?
Short Answer
Yes — you can copy multiple objects from one drawing to another in BricsCAD by using the standard COPYBASE workflow, then pasting them into the target drawing. This is the most common professional method because it preserves a chosen base point for accurate placement. Limitation: copied content may bring layers and block definitions with it.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: If the source and destination drawings use different units, annotation scales, or UCS settings, pasted objects can land at the wrong size or position. Another common failure is copying from locked or external-reference content that cannot be edited normally.
How to Copy Multiple Objects from One Drawing to Another in BricsCAD
Command: COPYBASE
Shortcut: COBASE
Quick Steps:
- In the source drawing, start COPYBASE from the command line or Ribbon, then pick a precise base point using Object Snap if needed.
- Select all objects you want to copy, then press Enter.
- Switch to the destination drawing and use Paste from the clipboard or run PASTECLIP, then place the objects using the saved base point.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: Paste as Block checkbox/option
Expert Setting: If you paste clipboard content as a block instead of individual objects, BricsCAD inserts the copied items as one grouped block reference. This is useful for repeated placement, but not ideal if you need to edit each object immediately after paste.
Why it Fails
- Cause 1 (Geometry): The base point was picked inaccurately, so the copied objects paste in the wrong location relative to project geometry.
- Cause 2 (Layers/Locks): Destination layers may be locked, frozen, or have conflicting properties, which can affect visibility or editing after paste.
- Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Using basic COPY instead of COPYBASE only duplicates objects inside the same drawing, not reliably between separate drawing files.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
- Quick Fix: Use COPYBASE with a known snap point, then paste with PASTECLIP into the destination file and verify layer state before editing.
- Manager’s Verdict: For day-to-day production, COPYBASE is the fastest and most reliable way to copy multiple objects between drawings. Avoid it when strict standards control block names, layers, or units without first checking drawing setup.
FAQ
Can I copy objects between two open drawings in BricsCAD?
Yes, copy from one open drawing and paste directly into the other.
Will copied objects keep their original layers?
Yes, but missing layers are usually created automatically in the destination drawing.
Is there a way to place copied objects at the same coordinates?
Yes, use COPYBASE with a known point or use Paste to Original Coordinates when needed.
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