Can I create a point object at a specific coordinate in BricsCAD?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

Yes — in BricsCAD, you can create a point object at a specific coordinate by using the POINT command and typing the exact X,Y or X,Y,Z value at the command line. This is the fastest and most common professional method for placing a precise point. Limitation: the point may appear invisible if its display style is too small.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: Point objects often seem to “fail” because they are created successfully but are hard to see due to point style or size settings. A locked current layer can also stop the point from being placed where expected.

How to Create a Point Object at a Specific Coordinate

  • Command: POINT

  • Shortcut: PO

  • Quick Steps:

    1. On the command line, type POINT (or PO) and press Enter. You can also access it from the Ribbon if your workspace shows Draw tools.
    2. At Specify a point:, type the exact coordinate, such as 100,200 for 2D or 100,200,50 for 3D.
    3. Press Enter to place the point at that precise location. If needed, turn Ortho off to avoid confusion while entering coordinates.

Variables & Settings

  • System Variable: PDMODE (Default: 0)

  • Expert Setting: This controls how point objects display on screen. If the point is difficult to see, change the point style to a visible marker shape. In practice, professionals often adjust point display together with point size so the placed coordinate can be verified instantly.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): The point is placed correctly, but the current view is too far away or at the wrong elevation to see it.
  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): The current layer is locked or the point is created on a layer that is off, frozen, or hard to see.
  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): The coordinate is typed in the wrong format, such as using separators incorrectly or entering relative input when an absolute coordinate was intended.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use DDPTYPE to change the point style and size so the object becomes clearly visible, then use Zoom Extents if needed.
  • Manager’s Verdict: Use POINT for quick, exact coordinate placement in drafting, survey references, and setup work. Avoid relying on default point display settings in shared production drawings.

FAQ

Can I enter 3D coordinates for a point in BricsCAD?

Yes, type the coordinate as X,Y,Z when using POINT.

Why can’t I see the point after placing it?

The point style or size is likely too small, or the point is outside your current view.

Can I place multiple points in one command?

Yes, POINT can continue placing points until you press Enter to end the command.

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