Hey guys!
 
Got a small issue...
 
I would like to create a block that has a readable description attached to it, that you can see when you double click the block.
Problem is, when I use the command 'WBLOCK', it creates the block; saves it to its location; cool. But then I have to go back into the block editor to edit the description. And on top of that, it wont carry that description over from drawing to drawing...
for example when I insert it (the block) into another drawing, the description dissappears...wtf??
what on earth am I doing wrong?
In the end I want a block saved on a secure drive, seperate from our working folders. I want said block to have a full description attached to it for easy ID. And I want the block to be read only.
Ideas?
comments?
suggestions?
thanks!!tulip3D2011-12-16 14:38:55

Wouldn't good block management preclude the need for a full description?You want something like a Tooltip?

damn you quick! LOL
 
And no...our blocks all look the damn same, so a description is needed to tell them apart.

aside from p/n's that is lol, it would just be nice to have

I have the CADforum on speed dial.So, how do you manage your blocks?  Do you just dump them into one big folder?  Do you use sub-folders?  What naming conventions do you use?At what point do you want to see this "full description"?  When you first go looking for the block?  After the block has been inserted and you've forgotten at some point what block you used where?Details...Tulip...we need details.

LOL speed dial!
An umm...ok...
 
The blocks are stored in a folder. Said folder has no file structure yet, as I am trying to push this on them as a new hire :/
I want to set up like this:
S\:Design\Electrical\Acad block\...then like...terminal block, fuses, estops, switches, ect ect...\then company file name like...330012, 330013, 330014 ect ect.
These blocks would then be inserted into our as-built drawings. Problem is; me, as an outside guy, only see's friggin squares an such. no detail to reduce file size. I want an attached descritption so I dont have to call up the MRP sytline system and read each one.
I just want to know why the heck my description is'nt carrying over from one to the other...like i have re-edit it each time which=annoyingtulip3D2011-12-16 15:03:24

Well there's one of your problems already.  Your folder structure is pretty thin.  You've first got to flesh out the subfolders.  Example:\Electrical\Blocks\Switches\subgroup of switchesI never pay much attention to block descriptions as I am constantly using the same blocks over and over that I have pretty much come to know them by heart.How about just putting the blocks on a tool palette or palettes?  Have a palette for push buttons, selector switches, fuses/circuit breakers, relays/contacts, timers, motor control, pilot lights, PLC I/O, limit switches, pressure and temperature switches, flow/level switches, solenoids, terminals/connectors, miscellaneous switches, etc.?

yes yes john, im new. there is NO structure. with time, of course.
but:
'come to know by heart' is exactly our problem. nobody new can tell the difference and thats the issue.
We need descriptions with each block. its there when you double click them, why not have it tell you something useful, ya know? instead of just being blank...

Grasshopper:  Two words....Tool Palettes.

Meh...i think people here would be scared of them...the one guy wouldnt even install that dwgman utility LOL

Here's another idea.Use Quick Properties.  This will involve some customization though and I don't know IF it can actually be done since I have never attempted it.But, maybe you can add a "Description" under the heading Block Reference > Misc.  Then anytime one clicks on a block and Quick Properties is displayed the block description will be included.

A good block library accessible to all your users and tool palettes will soon become your best friend forever. *Especially* the Tool Palettes!  Organization, clarity, and all the descriptions and cad standards your little heart could ever desire.  And they're nothing to be afraid of or complicated.  *And* you can set it all up and simply share them with your staff.  Both the individual palettes and their palette groups can be exported and imported as needed.Send your questions up here as they come up and you'll be set in no time.Dave.