MicroStation Student Manual

MicroStation Student Manual
Student Manual
For
MicroStation
IIC Academy Page 1 of 53 430956776.doc

Table Of Contents
1.0 Chapter one..................................................................5

1.1 Getting Started with MicroStation..........................................................................5
1.1.1 Starting MicroStation from Operating System..........................................5
1.1.2 Using the MicroStation Manager..............................................................5
1.1.3 Opening an Existing Design File..............................................................6
1.1.4 MicroStation’s Screen Layout...................................................................6
1.1.5 Using Your Pointing Device......................................................................6
1.1.6 Using the Keyboard..................................................................................7
1.1.7 MicroStation’s Cartesian Workspace........................................................7
1.2 Understanding the User Interface.........................................................................8
1.2.1 Pull-down Menus......................................................................................8
1.2.2 View Windows.......................................................................................... 9
1.2.3 Tool Boxes and Tool Bars.......................................................................10
1.2.4 Tool Settings...........................................................................................10
1.2.5 Status Bar............................................................................................... 11
1.2.6 Dialog Boxes and Settings Boxes..........................................................11
2.0 Chapter Two................................................................12
2.1 Understanding Design Files................................................................................12
2.1.1 Creating a Drawing................................................................................12
2.1.2 Starting a New Design File.....................................................................12
2.1.3 Drawing Smart Lines..............................................................................12
2.1.4 Deleting Elements..................................................................................12
2.1.5 Drawing Rectangles...............................................................................13
2.1.6 Drawing Circles......................................................................................13
2.1.7 Saving Your Work...................................................................................13
2.2 Viewing Design Files...........................................................................................14
2.2.1 Arranging View Windows.......................................................................14
2.2.2 Opening and Closing Windows..............................................................14
2.2.3 Using the View Controls.........................................................................14
2.2.4 Changing View Attributes.......................................................................16
2.2.5 Saving Views by Name..........................................................................16
2.2.6 Element Information...............................................................................16
3.0 Chapter Three.............................................................17
3.1 Understanding Levels......................................................................................... 17
3.1.1 Using Levels...........................................................................................17
3.1.2 Level Visibility......................................................................................... 17
3.1.3 Level Symbology....................................................................................17
3.2 Creating Precise Elements..................................................................................17
3.2.1 Drawing to Keypoints of Objects............................................................18
3.2.2 Other Tentative Point Snaps...................................................................18
4.0 Chapter Four...............................................................20
4.1 Drawing Precise Elements..................................................................................20
4.1.1 Drawing Precise Lines...........................................................................20
4.1.2 Open and Closed Elements...................................................................20
4.1.3 Drawing Precise Blocks and Shapes.....................................................20
4.1.4 Drawing Precise Circles and Arcs..........................................................21

4.1.5 Undo and Redo......................................................................................22
4.2 Drawing Precision............................................................................................... 22
4.2.1 Setting Working Units.............................................................................22
4.2.2 Using the Grid........................................................................................ 23
4.2.3 Precision Input.......................................................................................24
4.2.4 Introduction to AccuDraw.......................................................................25
4.2.5 Introduction to SmartLines.....................................................................25
5.0 Chapter Five...............................................................27
5.1 Manipulating Elements........................................................................................27
5.1.1 Copying Elements..................................................................................27
5.1.2 Moving Elements....................................................................................27
5.1.3 Scaling Elements...................................................................................27
5.1.4 Rotating Elements..................................................................................28
5.1.5 Mirroring elements.................................................................................28
5.1.6 Arraying Elements..................................................................................28
5.1.7 Creating Parallel Copies.........................................................................29
5.1.8 Self Check: Manipulating Elements........................................................29
6.0 Chapter Six.................................................................30
6.1 Working with Multiple Elements..........................................................................30
6.1.1 Using Fences.........................................................................................30
6.1.2 Fence Types...........................................................................................30
6.1.3 Fence Modes.........................................................................................30
6.1.4 Special Fence Commands.....................................................................31
6.1.5 Using the Element Selection Tool...........................................................31
6.1.6 Modifying Elements Using Element Selection........................................32
7.0 Chapter Seven............................................................33
7.1 Modifying Elements.............................................................................................33
7.1.1 Modify Elements.....................................................................................33
7.1.2 Inserting and Deleting Vertices...............................................................34
7.1.3 Deleting Parts of Elements.....................................................................34
7.1.4 Extending and Trimming Lines...............................................................35
7.1.5 Extending Elements to an Intersection...................................................35
7.1.6 Extending an Element to an Intersection................................................35
7.1.7 Trimming Elements................................................................................35
7.1.8 Fillet....................................................................................................... 36
7.1.9 Chamfer.................................................................................................36
8.0 Chapter Eight..............................................................37
8.1 Points.................................................................................................................. 37
8.1.1 Placing Points........................................................................................37
8.1.2 Point Types............................................................................................37
8.1.3 Using Points to Divide............................................................................37
8.2 Measure.............................................................................................................. 38
8.2.1 Measure Distance:.................................................................................38
8.2.2 Measure Radius:....................................................................................38
8.2.3 Measure Angle Between Lines:..............................................................38
8.2.4 Measure Length:....................................................................................39
8.2.5 Measure Area:........................................................................................ 39
8.2.6 Measure Volume:...................................................................................39
8.3 Creating Complex Elements...............................................................................39
8.3.1 Drop Element.........................................................................................39
8.3.2 Creating Complex Chains and Shapes..................................................40

8.4 Cells.................................................................................................................... 40
8.4.1 What is a Cell?.......................................................................................40
8.4.2 Loading a Cell Library............................................................................40
8.4.3 Placing Cells.......................................................................................... 40
8.4.4 Creating Cells......................................................................................... 42
8.4.5 Placing Multiple Cells.............................................................................42
8.4.6 Selecting and Placing Cells....................................................................42
8.4.7 Using the Active Line Terminator............................................................43
9.0 Chapter Nine..............................................................44
9.1 Text..................................................................................................................... 44
9.1.1 Placing Text in Your Design File.............................................................44
9.1.2 Setting Up the Text Style........................................................................44
9.1.3 Text Placement Methods........................................................................45
9.1.4 Editing Text............................................................................................. 46
9.1.5 Changing and Matching Text Attributes..................................................46
9.1.6 Using Enter Data Fields.........................................................................46
9.2 Basic Dimensioning............................................................................................. 47
9.2.1 Dimensioning Concepts.........................................................................47
9.2.2 Linear Dimensioning..............................................................................47
9.2.3 Non-Linear Dimensioning.......................................................................48
9.2.4 Editing Dimensions................................................................................48
9.2.5 Dimension Settings................................................................................49
9.2.6 Units....................................................................................................... 49
9.3 Reference Files................................................................................................... 50
9.3.1 What are Reference Files?.....................................................................50
9.3.2 Attaching Reference Files......................................................................50
9.3.3 Merging a Reference File into the Active (Master) file............................51
9.3.4 Attaching reference raster files:..............................................................51
9.4 MDL Applications................................................................................................51
9.4.1 MDL applications....................................................................................51
9.5 Function Keys..................................................................................................... 51
9.5.1 Function Keys........................................................................................51
10.0 Chapter Ten................................................................52
10.1 Other important Menus in MicroStation...............................................................52
10.1.1 MultiLines............................................................................................... 52
10.1.2 Import/Export.......................................................................................... 52
10.1.3 Select By Attributes................................................................................52
10.1.4 Lock Settings.......................................................................................... 52
10.1.5 Batch Converter.....................................................................................53
10.1.6 Batch Process........................................................................................53
10.1.7 MicroStation Basic Macros.....................................................................53

1.0 Chapter one
1.1 Getting Started with MicroStation
1.1.1 Starting MicroStation from Operating System

To start MicroStation
In the MicroStation program group, double-click the MicroStation icon.
or
In Windows Explorer, double-click a DGN file icon (with the extension ".dgn").
or
Drag a DGN file icon from Windows Explorer and drop it on the MicroStation icon.
or
In the Windows Explorer, double-click the icon for the file, "ustation.exe".
1.1.2 Using the MicroStation Manager

A MicroStation document file is called a design file. MicroStation’s File menu has items for creating, opening,
and saving design files. These file management operations and others can also be performed using the
MicroStation Manager dialog box.
We cannot have more than one design file open or active in one MicroStation (application) at a time. If we
open a design file when one is already active, MicroStation automatically closes the first file. However, the
contents of other design files can be viewed by attaching them for reference to the active design. And also a
second microstation application can be opened.
1.1.2.1 The MicroStation Manager dialog box contains several areas.

 Files: Allows choosing an existing file in the current directory or type in its name. Choose the file
from the list, or type its name in the edit box. Wild cards (such as “ * “) can also ne used to narrow
the search.
 Directories: For selecting directories (or folders) where the file is located. Double click on the
directory name to see its subdirectories.
 List Files of Type: Allows you to specify the type of files that will be displayed. MicroStation does not
require that a design file extension be .DGN although that is the default.
 Drives: Permits you to switch to a different drive.
 Open Design Files Read-only: Enables you to open a file in the read-only mode. A file that is read-
only cannot be edited.
 Project: Customized data files such as cell libraries, seed files and line style libraries. The data files
are identified by configuration variables in the Project configuration file.
 User Interface: A customized user interface.
 Style: Selects either a Status Bar or a Command Window
1.1.2.2 Pull-down menus

 File: Lets you create a new file, compress, copy or delete a file, or exit MicroStation. (We will learn
more about creating new file later in detail.)
 Directory: Allows you to create a new directory, copy an existing directory, compress all files in an
existing directory, or change a configuration variable.
1.1.3 Opening an Existing Design File

Instead of going to the MicroStation Manager each time you need to open a design file, you can use the Open
Design File command. When you select this command, the standard “Open File” dialog box appears to let you select
a file. (Many commands that request file names can do so with this standard file dialog box.)
1.1.3.1 Notes
 The File pull-down on the main menu and the File pull-down within the dialog box keep track of the last
10 design files you opened.
 The Directory pull-down within the dialog box keeps track of the last 12 directories that you have used.
1.1.4 MicroStation’s Screen Layout

To understand MicroStation you first need to become familiar with the graphic user interface (GUI).
MicroStation’s main work screen is divided into six major areas:
1.1.4.1 Title Bar

The title bar is located across the top of the screen. It tells you the name of the program you are running
(MicroStation) and the name of the design file that is currently open.
1.1.4.2 Main Menu Bar

The main menu bar provides easy access to MicroStation settings and utilities. It may also be
customized to include commands specific to project requirement.
1.1.4.3 View Windows

The view windows are where the drawing appears on your screen. Inside each window, crosshairs
indicate the current pointer location. MicroStation allows up to eight view windows to be open in a
design file.
1.1.4.4 Tool Boxes

MicroStation’s tool boxes include the Main tool box (which contains buttons for the most commonly used
commands), the Standard tool box, ( the most frequently used file and edit commands) and the Primary
tool box ( the most frequently used settings tools, as well as Information and AccuDraw).
1.1.4.5 Tool Settings

The tool settings box tells you what command you are in and gives you options for that command. This
box appears on the screen as soon as you issue a command. It changes depending which command
you have selected.
1.1.4.6 Status Bar

The status bar at the bottom of the screen tells what command you are in and indicates the next step
you should take. It also shows the settings active in a design file.
1.1.5 Using Your Pointing Device

One of the key means of controlling commands and inputting information into your design file will be by using your
mouse or digitizing puck.

1.1.5.1 Mouse or Puck Buttons

The buttons on the pointing device perform specific functions. These standard (default) functions depend on
the type of input device, but the most common use for each button is listed below.
1.1.5.2 2-button mouse

2 1. Data/Accept – used to select commands and enter points.
2. Reset/Reject – used to end a command.
1+2. Tentative point – used to snap to specific points on objects.
1.1.5.3 3-button mouse

1. Data/Accept
2. Tentative point
3. Reset/Reject
1.1.6 Using the Keyboard

When you choose commands, you will most often use the mouse to select a button. However, you may want
to type in a command or other information. To type in a command, use the Key-in window.
The Key-in window lets you type in commands or choose from the list of commands. Most people do not use
the full window. Instead, you can resize the window until only the box for entering text is showing. This saves
space on the screen, and still allows you to type in commands if you want to.
 Most commands have two-letter abbreviations that make it easier to type them in, eg:, LV means level. Command
LV=2 will make level 2 as active.
MicroStation uses the standard Windows interface for pull-down menus. If you hold down the <alt> key and type one
of the letters underlined in the pull-down menu (generally the first letter of the menu item), you can start commands on
the pull-down. Example: <alt>+F+X will issue the File>Exit command to exit MicroStation.
1.1.7 MicroStation’s Cartesian Workspace

MicroStation uses Cartesian (x,y) coordinates to indicate locations in a drawing. Points are located by designating a
horizontal (x) and a vertical (y) distance as measured from the Global Origin (0,0).
Selecting Points
Many commands in MicroStation require that the user input a point. For example, in order to draw a line, we must tell
MicroStation where to begin and end the line. We can do this using (x,y) coordinate pairs. We can specify points in
either of two basic methods:
Selecting a point on the screen with the pointing device.
Keying in the coordinates at in the Key-in window. For example, the point 3,5 would be type
XY=3,5.
 Everything in MicroStation should be drawn at full scale (actual size) and plotted to a scale later.
 To see the x,y coordinates of a particular location on the screen, you can use the tentative button and select a
point in the drawing window (it must be a point in empty space, not on an object). The coordinates will be
displayed on the status bar.
1.1.7.1 Angles in MicroStation
Along with the Cartesian coordinate system, you also need to understand how angles work in
MicroStation. This will be crucial for coordinate entry and for working with arcs and circles.
MicroStation measures angles in a counter-clockwise direction relative to the positive X-axis.
1.2 Understanding the User Interface
1.2.1 Pull-down Menus

File – Basic design file commands.
Edit – Undo and Redo commands, basic Windows Cut, Copy, and Paste and special grouping commands for
MicroStation.
Element – Settings that deal with individual elements (such as text and dimensions) in MicroStation.
Settings – Settings that deal with the design file as a whole.
Tools – Tools will be used for open and close Tool Boxes, Menu Bar.
Utilities – Special functions that allow you to go beyond basic MicroStation command.
Workspace – Ways to set up the working environment of your session of MicroStation.
Window – View commands that change the way your drawing is displayed on the screen, without changing
the objects themselves.
Help – Styled to follow the typical Windows Help.
Main Tool Palette of MicroStation 95
1.2.1.1 Notes
 Labels with a right-pointing arrow indicate the presence of a cascading sub-menu. Click and hold button
to activate the sub-menu.
 Labels that end with “……” will bring up a dialog box or setting box.
 A pull-down menu can be cancelled by pressing the <esc> key.
1.2.2 View Windows

MicroStation provides up to eight view windows per design file that allow you to display the drawing in various ways.
You can move and resize the windows so that they show what you want to see.
 To open a window, choose the Window>Open/Close pull-down on the Main menu bar and select the view you
wish to open.
 To move a window, place your cursor over the title bar and drag it to the new location.
 To resize a window, place your cursor over the edge of the window where it turns to a two way arrow. Then drag
the edge to a new location. If you press and drag on a corner of the window it will resize both horizontally and
vertically.
 To make a window as large as it can be, data point on the Maximize symbol in the upper right-hand corner of the
window.
 To make a window as small as it can be, data point on the Minimize symbol in the upper right-hand corner of the
window.
 To close a window, data point on the X in the upper right-hand corner of the window.
1.2.3 Tool Boxes and Tool Bars

Toolboxes are collections of buttons grouped by category such as lines, circles and text. Most of them are
accessible from the Main toolbox. They are fully customizable and resizable. In this class, we will
concentrate on the toolboxes as our primary means of command access.
 Items are selected from a toolbox by placing the cursor over the button and pressing the data button on the
pointing device.
 Toolboxes can be floating or docked to the side of the screen. A floating toolbox has a title bar across the top, and
it can be resized. A docked toolbox (also called a tool bar) does not have a title bar.
1.2.3.1 Moving and Resizing Tool Boxes

 To resize a floating toolbox, move the arrow over the edge of the toolbox until you see a double arrow. Press the
data button on your pointing device and hold it down while you drag the toolbox to its new shape.
 To move a floating toolbox, move the arrow to the title bar. Press the data button and hold it down while you drag
the toolbox to its new location.
 To move a docked toolbox, move the arrow to the border around the buttons. Press the data button, and hold it
down while you drag the toolbox to its new position.
 The toolboxes automatically dock to top, sides, or bottom when moved near that area.
1.2.3.2 Flyouts
Most of the buttons on the Main toolbox have “flyouts” that contain variations of a base tool. Buttons with flyouts have
a small triangle on the lower-right corner.
By default, the last tool you choose from a flyout remains visible. This is the first step in customizing your copy of
MicroStation. After a time of using the toolboxes on a regular basis, they will have the most frequently used
commands showing as the primary tool.
 You can tear off a flyout and have it work as a separate toolbox. Press the data button and hold over a button in
the toolbox and drag it into the window area until it shows up as a green box. Then release the data button. This
will put a floating toolbox on the screen.
 To close a toolbox, double click in the upper left hand corner.
 Other toolboxes are available under Workspace>Tool Boxes.
Tool Tips
Tool tips tell what each button does. Move your cursor over one of the buttons but don’t click on it. A small yellow tag
with the name of the function should appear. This is especially useful to help you learn MicroStation commands.
1.2.4 Tool Settings

The tool settings box is a constantly changing settings box that allows you to set option for the command you are
presently using. For example, when you are in the Place Circle command it will show the circle options, when you
are in the Place Text command it will show text options. The tool setting box automatically appears when you start a
command that requires additional information. The box remains on the screen until the user closes it.
 If you have closed the tool settings box, it will reopen automatically when you start a command that needs it.
 The tool settings box will be dealt in detail later when commands are covered in depth.
1.2.5 Status Bar

The status bar is divided into two parts. It contains messages and active settings information.

1.2.5.1 Left Side

The left side of the box displays the name of the current tool and a prompt or error message, if applicable. A
tool name and prompt are separated by a “>” (for example, Rotate Element > Identify element). When a
tool tip is displayed, this section shows information about the command you are covering with the cursor.
 If you are not sure of next step in a command, look at this side of the status bar for a prompt.
1.2.5.2 Right Side

The right side of the box changes depending on the situation. We will discuss the different types of
information displayed here as we proceed through the class.
1.2.6 Dialog Boxes and Settings Boxes

MicroStation makes use of many dialog and settings boxes that let you select command options, set up your drawing,
and enter information.
 A dialog box has OK and CANCEL buttons. You can’t do anything else in your design file until you choose OK or
CANCEL to close the dialog.
 A settings box can be left up at all times.

2.0 Chapter Two
2.1 Understanding Design Files
2.1.1 Creating a Drawing

Creating a complex, precise, and efficient drawing in MicroStation requires considerable training and practice, but
most users are surprised at how relatively easy it is to create a simple drawing:
1. Open a new or existing design file.
2. Place the desired elements that make up the design.
3. Edit the elements to correct any errors or make any needed adjustments.
4. Save the design file settings.
And remember, a complex drawing is just a series of simple elements.
2.1.2 Starting a New Design File

When you start MicroStation, you must either open an existing file or start a new one. When you start a new file, it will
be based on a seed file, another design file that works as a prototype for your new file. The seed file may look empty,
but it establishes settings for your new design file. It can also have elements drawn in it.
 The New command allows you to specify the filename, directory and seed filename.
 When you create a design file, you identify a Seed file as a template for the design file. The new design file is
actually a copy of the seed file.
Seed files do not (necessarily) contain elements, but, like other design files, they do contain settings and view
configurations. Having a seed file with customized setting keeps you from having to adjust settings each time you
create a design file.
For this class, we will use the default SEED2D.DGN file that contains with MicroStation unless otherwise noted.
2.1.3 Drawing Smart Lines

The most fundamental drawing element is the line. Almost any drawing will contain line segments. The Place Smart
Line command allows the user to add straight-line segments without break in between to the drawing as needed.
2.1.3.1 Notes
 MicroStation is always in a command. When you press the Reset button to finish the Place Line command,
you are still in the command, but at the “Enter first point” prompt again.
 Do not press and drag from one end of the line to another.
2.1.4 Deleting Elements

Just as in manual drafting, you will often need to correct mistakes or make revisions in a MicroStation design file. The
Delete Element command is used just as you would use an eraser in manual drafting. After you start the command,
MicroStation will ask you to identify the objects you wish to remove.
2.1.4.1 Notes
 You can also select the next element you want to delete and it will act as an accept on the previous item.
Don’t forget to data point a final “accept” out in space when you are finished.

 Sometimes deleting will cause parts of other elements to look as if they are also deleted. To clean up your
window, data point on the Update View command at the bottom of the view window.
2.1.5 Drawing Rectangles

Blocks are MicroStation’s term for rectangles, another fundamental element in most designs. A rectangle can
be created from a series of lines, but an easier and more efficient way is to use the Place Block command.
2.1.5.1 Note
 You do not have to press Reset to end this command, because it always uses only two points to create the
geometry.
2.1.6 Drawing Circles

The Place Circle by Center command allows the user to put circles in the design file either as stand-alone
elements or as parts of a more complex construction.
With this command, you draw a circle by choosing its center point and its radius. We will see several other
ways of constructing circles later in the class.
2.1.6.1 Using Element Attributes

MicroStation has a number of attributes that apply to every element you draw. These are level, color, line
style, line weight, and class. These attributes let you control the appearance of your drawing. For example,
you may want heavier lines around the outline of an object, and dashed lines to show features hidden in a
particular view.
 You can set these attributes from the Primary toolbar or from the Element Attributes setting box.
Color, line style, and line weight all control the look of the element. For example, if the active color is white,
the active line style is dashed, and the active line weight is 7; all the elements you draw will be dashed, white
and heavy. If you change the active color to green, the elements will be dashed, green and heavy.
An element can be either of two classes, Primary or Construction. Primary elements are the main part of your
design. Construction elements are similar to very light pencil lines in hand drafting. You need to see them to
create the design, but you do not want them to show on the final plot.
2.1.6.2 Notes
 You will need to continuously change these active attributes as you create your design.
 It is a good idea to stay in Primary class almost all the time. It is easy to forget that you have set the class to
Construction until you try to plot and nothing comes out!
2.1.7 Saving Your Work

It’s important to save your work periodically to protect against computer crashes, power loss, etc. MicroStation can be
set to save your design file in two different ways:
1. MicroStation automatically saves any changes you make to the design file such as adding or deleting elements
and editing those elements. It does not save the settings automatically. This is the traditional way MicroStation
works. To save the settings (such as the attributes and windows discussed above) select File>Save Settings
from the Main menu bar or press the Save button on the Standard toolbar.
2. You make the decision when to save anything. When you save you save both the elements and the settings. To
save this way select File>Save from the Main menu bar or press the Save button on the Standard toolbar.

2.1.7.1 Notes
 Your CAD Manager should set up the method. Check to see which method you will need to use at your job.
 If you want to save the design file to a different name you can use Save as.
 When you “Close” a design file, you return to the MicroStation Manager, where you can also open existing files
and create new ones.
 You can Exit from MicroStation from either the design file or the MicroStation Manager.
2.2 Viewing Design Files
2.2.1 Arranging View Windows

A view window is like a camera with a zoom lens. You focus on an object (that is, your drawing) and that object does
not change in size, but you can zoom in with the lens to see a detail or zoom out to get a wide-angle view.
As mentioned earlier, you can open as many as eight view windows in MicroStation to view various parts of your
design file. Now we will take a closer look at how to use those windows to help you create your designs.
2.2.2 Opening and Closing Windows

There are two different ways to open or close windows:
 Choose Window>View> from the pull-down menu and pick the window you want to open by number.
 Choose Window>Views>Dialog from the pull-down. A small dialog box with toggle buttons will come up. You
can leave this on your screen and easily pick on the windows you want open or closed.
2.2.2.1 Cascading and Tiling Windows

Once you have several windows open, you will need to arrange them on the screen. First Cascade or Tile the
windows and then resize them as needed.
 Cascading windows makes them all the same size and stacks them on top of each other, with only the top
window totally visible. To bring a different window to the top of the stack, pick on the title bar of the window.
 Tiling windows makes them all the same size and sets them up side by side. All the windows are totally
visible.
 You can also arrange the windows in your design file. Once you set several windows up with the various
sizes choose Window>Arrange and it will neaten the windows so that they touch each other.
2.2.3 Using the View Controls

Once you have several windows open in your drawing you will want them to show different parts of the
design. Each window has a number of view controls along the lower left border to let you zoom in, out and
around your design file.
Update view Cleans up the screen. It does not alter any of the elements in the design file
or the current zoom magnification.
Zoom Out Zooms away from the elements at a specified zoom ratio. Pick the button and
it will automatically zoom out from the center of the window.
Zoom In Zooms in closer to the elements at a specified zoom ration. It shows a
rectangular outline of the area it will zoom in around. Position the
rectangle over the area you want increased in size and pick.
Window Area Allows you to create a rectangular window around part of your drawing and
zooms in on it. It does not require a zoom ratio. When you pick your first

point, a rectangle will appear that you can resize until you select the second
point. The rectangle will always be the shape.
Fit View Zooms in or out until all the elements in a design file are showing in the
window.
Rotate View Primarily a 3D command, but you can rotate the view in the Window around
the x-axis if you are working on a mechanical Auxiliary view or if you have a
building that sits at an angle.
Pan View Remains at the same magnification but allows you to move to a different part
of the screen. Pick the first point and then the second point to define the
amount of panning you want to do. The arrow points the way the screen will
move.
View Previous Takes you back to the previous view. MicroStation
remembers up to eight previous views.
View Next Used only after a View Previous, takes you back to the view you just left.
 You can also pan by holding down the <shift> key on your keyboard and the data button on your pointing device.
The screen will pan at the speed you move your cursor.
 You can also pan by using the scroll bars around each window.
2.2.3.1 Common View Attributes

Many of these attributes settings refer to elements that we will discuss later in the course.
Constructions Any element you create in Construction class (see Element
Attributes) will display if this is checked.
Dimensions Shows dimensions in your window.
Fast Changes complex geometry so that it will take less time to show
up in a window. For example, Fast Curves makes curves look
more like lines than arcs.
Fill If you draw a closed object such as a circle or a block you can
have it filled solid.
Grid Displays the grid.
Line Styles Displays the line styles of complex lines.
Line Weights Displays the line weight.
Patterns Displays hatching and patterns.

Text Displays text.
Text Nodes Displays text nodes. These are X’s with a number on them that show up when you
put in more than one line of text. For this class we will turn them off.
View number Sets the view for which the attribute settings are displayed
ACS Traid If on a coordinate traid representing the active auxiliary coordinate system (ACS) is
displayed.
Background If on the view background is displayed.
Camera If on, the view camera is on for the view. This control is disabled(Dimmed) if the
active design file is 2D.
Dynamics If on, element are dynamically updated as they are displayed or modified. Letting you
see an element or modification before it is actually placed in the design. Turning of
can reduce the view update time.
Data Fields If on enter data fields are displayed.
Level Symbology if on, level symbology the color, numbered linestyle and line weight associated with
each level is displayed in the view, instead of the color numbered line style, and line
weight of each element.
Tags if on, tags are displayed in the selected views.
Apply Applies attribute changes to the chosen view. The view is updated, if necessary to
show the effects of the changes.
All Applies the displayed attributes to all views.
2.2.4 Changing View Attributes

View windows have many other aspects you can control besides the magnification of the view. Most of these are
found in the View Attributes setting box. View Attributes let you determine how certain types of elements will display,
or whether other types of elements will display at all. For example, in a small key plan, you might not want line
weights to be displayed; or in a furniture layout, you would want to turn off the dimensions.
2.2.5 Saving Views by Name

One of the useful utilities MicroStation offers is the ability to save a window you have set up with a specific view and
attributes, and bring it back again when you need it.
For example, you can have some portion zoomed & saved. Later, whenever you want that view again, you can bring it
back in any open window, not matter how you have changed your view windows in the meantime.
2.2.6 Element Information

Opens the Element Information settings box, which is used to change the attributes of an element(s) and review
design file data associated with them, such as geometry and database attributes.
If a single element is selected when Information is chosen, the displayed data pertains to that element. If more than
one element is selected, the items selected will be listed one below the other and any deserved item can be selected
to view its attributes. (If there are no selected elements, you are prompted to identify an element. After you do so, the
settings box opens.)
The element type and level are shown in the status bar.

3.0 Chapter Three
3.1 Understanding Levels
3.1.1 Using Levels

Rather than drawing on a single “sheet” of virtual paper in MicroStation, you actually have number of sheets, or levels,
where you can place elements within a design file.
“There is no limit on the number of levels per DGN file. Each level is named and stored as an element”.
Organizing the elements within your drawing on levels makes it easy to manipulate them as a group. Elements on a
given level can be made visible or invisible. Proper use of levels can greatly assist with editing and system
performance.
 The active level is the level that newly drawn elements, such as lines, circles and text, will be placed on.
3.1.1.1 Setting the Active Level

Pull-Down: Settings> Level>Manager or Click the Active Level field on the status bar
: Settings> Level>Display
Level manager: The Level Manager dialog box is used to create and delete levels, modify level attributes,
and define filters for controlling the display of groups of levels based on their attributes.
Defining filters: Filters are a useful way to group associated levels for the purposes of viewing or not viewing
as a group. For example, you might have a DGN file with several hundred levels. Within these levels could be
filters for different disciplines such as Civil, Architectural, and Mechanical. Within Civil there might be levels for
Civil-Existing, Civil-Proposed, Civil-Annotation, etc. You could easily define a filter called Civil that would show
only levels that had the word Civil as part of the description
3.1.2 Level Visibility

The most useful aspect of levels is the ability to make them visible or invisible. If you have conscientiously changed
the active level while creating the different objects in your design file, you will be able to use this feature.
The visibility of levels can be controlled independently in each view window. For example, in an architectural drawing,
you could have one window that showed the walls, windows, doors and furniture, and another that showed the walls,
lights, and ceiling grid, just by turning the appropriate levels off and on.
3.1.3 Level Symbology

MicroStation allows you to associate certain element attributes (colors, line weights and line styles) with a level. For
instance, you could set up a level so that all objects created on it would automatically be blue with a dashed line style.
This feature is called Level Symbology.
 For Level Symbology to work, it must be turned ON in the View Attributes settings box
 Sybology for levels can be set using Level manager.
3.2 Creating Precise Elements

In this chapter you will learn how to:
 Draw to keypoints of objects
 Use tool settings
3.2.1 Drawing to Keypoints of Objects

The first, and one of the most important, methods of creating a precise drawing is using the tentative point to snap to
objects when you draw or edit. The basic snaps are called keypoint snaps because they let you grab “keypoints” on
the subject.
 To use keypoint snaps, start a command such as Place Line and pick near an object using the tentative point
button(s) on your pointing device. It will highlight the object and snap to a keypoint, according to the type of object
and the location where you picked the tentative point.
 Typically, you can snap to the endpoints, midpoints and nearest points of linear elements and the quadrants and
centers of circular elements etc.
3.2.2 Other Tentative Point Snaps

While you will use the key point snap most of the time, MicroStation provides a wide variety of other tentative snaps
that attach to other geometrical points. In fact, there are 14 different snaps available in MicroStation. Not all snaps
are usable with every command, but every snap can be used with the Place Line command.
 Double clicking any button will make that as default and any other can be selected for temporary basis.
 You can access these snaps from the pull-down menu (Settings>Snaps), or choose Settings>Snaps>Button
Bar to bring up a toolbar that will show all the snaps on screen.
 The status bar shows the current snap mode as an icon. You can also hold down the data button on this icon to
bring up a menu and choose another snap mode.
3.2.2.1 Snap Modes

Nearest – Snaps to the closest point on the element from your tentative point. It is not precise
but it will make sure you are touching an element
Key point – Any node point on any type of object including text.
Midpoint – Snaps to the midpoint of elements.
Center – Snaps to the Center of gravity of any element, not just circles. You need to tentative
point to the edge of the element, not in the center.
Origin – Snaps to the beginning point of the element such as the end of the Line that you
created first. It also works with Cells (symbols) and Text, snapping to the origin point
of each.
Bisector – Snaps to the point halfway between the origin and the end point of any element.
For a line this is the same as the Midpoint.
Intersection – Snaps to the intersection of two elements either existing or implied. You
must tentative point to each element before it will snap to the Intersection.
Tangent – Snaps tangent to a circle or arc.
Perpendicular – Snaps perpendicular to any element.
Snap Lock Settings

The Snap Lock controls whether or not you have tentative snaps working. You should leave this ON at all times.
The Mode allows you to set the primary snap. Again, this should be left at Keypoint. It is easier to change this at the
Snap Mode bar when needed.
Use Settings>Design File for snap and other DGN settings.

Start the Place Line command.
Select the Nearest snap and tentative point and accept on the circle. Notice that it does not
jump to a key point of the circle.
Select the Midpoint snap and tentative point to the top line of the rectangle and Accept.
Select the Center snap and tentative point to the edge of the rectangle and accept. The line will
jump to the center of the rectangle.
Select the Origin snap and tentative point to the edge of the rectangle again and accept. The
line will jump to the lower left corner of the rectangle where it was started.
Select the Bisector snap and tentative point to the edge of the rectangle one more time and
accept. The line will jump to the upper right corner of the rectangle opposite of the
origin.
Select the Intersection snap and tentative point to TWO different lines in the design file and then
accept. The line will jump to the intersection of those two lines.
Select the Perpendicular snap. Tentative point to one of the angled lines outside the circle and
accept.
Select the Tangent snap. Tentative point to the circle and accept.
As time permits, try snaps on other parts of the drawing.
Save the design file settings.

4.0 Chapter Four
4.1 Drawing Precise Elements
4.1.1 Drawing Precise Lines
4.1.1.1 Using the Tool Settings Box

Another method for drawing precisely in MicroStation involves the Tool Settings box. You may have noticed
this box changing as you choose different commands. For each command that creates elements (such as
Place Line or Place Circle), the Tool Settings box will allow you to type in exact sizes or angles for the object
you’re creating.
4.1.1.2 Place Line Tool Settings

For the Place Line command, the tool settings let you specify the Length of the line and the Angle of the
line.
 If you do not check either of the boxes but draw a line, the Length and Angle edit boxes will show the
distance and direction you move as you position the endpoint of the line
 If you pick only the Length box, you will draw a line of a specific length that can extend any direction.
 If you pick just the Angle box, you can draw a line of any length but it must extend in the direction you
specify by the angle. You need to change the angle after each line segment is drawn.
 If you choose both boxes, you will create a line of the length and angle you specify.
4.1.2 Open and Closed Elements

An important concept to understand in MicroStation is the difference between open and closed shapes. Several
commands treat elements differently depending on this status. Place Line should only be used to draw open
elements while Place Block and Place Shape can be used for closed elements.
The tool settings boxes for closed elements include a separate section that allows you to set the Area, Fill type, and
Fill Color.
Method Sets how the block's orientation is determined.
Orthogonal — Block is orthogonal to the view in which the first data point is entered
Rotated — Orientation is defined with a data point
Area Can be a solid or a hole. It is best to leave this as solid at all times. There are other
ways to make a closed shape into a hole that will work
Fill Type There are three fill types: None does not fill closed element; Opaque Fills the element
with the active color; and Outlined uses the active Color to draw the object, but fills it
with the Fill Color.
Fill Color You can choose a fill color different from the active color if you
 The Fill may not always appear in the view window. This is controlled by the View Attributes for each window
4.1.3 Drawing Precise Blocks and Shapes

Blocks and Shapes are both closed elements. As we saw earlier, the Place Block command is a rectangle. You pick
two opposite corners of the rectangle to create it. The Place Shape command is closer in execution to the Place
Line command but automatically closes on itself when you pick the last point.
4.1.3.1 Place Shape

The Place Shape tool settings box works like the Place Line command at the top and the Place Block
command at the bottom, with one extra button. That extra button, Close Element, is what makes the Place
Shape command different. After creating the segments of the shape, you must close it to finish it off. If you
do not close the shape you will loose all the line segments.
 You can use the Length or Angle options to create the shape segments, but not both together.
 You can choose the Close Element button or pick near the start point of the shape to close it. You do not
need to use a tentative point to snap to the endpoint of the first line.
4.1.3.2 Place Orthogonal Shape

Used to place a non-rectangular shape in which each segment is either perpendicular or parallel to all other
segments.
4.1.3.2.1 To place an orthogonal shape
1. Select the Place Orthogonal Shape tool.
2. Enter a data point to define the first vertex.
3. Enter a data point to define the orientation and second vertex.
4. Continue to enter data points to define the other vertices.
5. Close the shape by entering the last data point at the location of the first vertex
4.1.4 Drawing Precise Circles and Arcs

The two main circular elements are circles and arcs. Each command offers a variety of options for creating the
elements. Circles are often easier to create than arcs, and you can draw a circle and trim it (as we’ll see later) to
create the desired arc.
4.1.4.1 Place Circle

Because there are many different situations where you will use circles, MicroStation provides three different
ways to create them. You may not know the radius or diameter of the circle, but need to have it touching the
endpoints of two lines. Or you may want to draw a circle based on a diameter value rather than a radius.
Center – Choose the center point and the radius of circle if you pick a point. You can also
type in the radius or diameter by checking the box at the bottom of the tool settings, picking
Radius or diameter, and filling in the size.
Edge – Pick two or three points on the circle. If you have not chosen a radius Or diameter,
you must pick three points. If you specify a radius or Diameter, you choose
two points.
Diameter – Pick two points that define the diameter of the circle.
4.1.4.2 Place Arc

The essential thing to remember about arcs is that they are created counter-clockwise, so the order in
which you pick points is crucial. There are two methods for creating arcs, Center and By Edge, with
three options in each.

Center When you start this command you create a temporary full circle of the radius
you specify by typing a value or by picking on screen. The first Point you
pick then becomes your start point of the arc. The second Point you pick is
the endpoint.
Edge Pick three points on the edge to define the arc. This method is best used if
you do not need precision.
4.1.4.3 Options
Radius – The distance from the center to the edge.
Start Angle – The angle from the x-axis to where the arc starts.
Sweep Angle – The angle from the start angle to where the arc ends.
4.1.5 Undo and Redo

The Undo command is an easy way to correct a mistake; it reverses the effects of the last command. If the user
draws a circle, for example, and then issues the Undo command, the circle will be “undone” and the drawing will be
just as it was before the circle was drawn.
The Redo command reverses whatever the Undo command did. It only works after an Undo command.
 There are several ways to issue Undo and Redo: from the Standard tool bar, from the Edit pull-down menu, and
with the quick key-ins <ctrl>+Z (Undo) and <ctrl>+R(Redo).
 Edit>Undo Other from the pull-down also allows you to undo everything you have drawn back to the very
beginning or undo to a mark that you have placed in the design file. The Set Mark command is also located
under the Edit pull-down.
 The number of times you can undo and redo depends on the amount of memory your machine has in its undo
buffer.
 Once you close or compress a file, you can no longer use the Undo command until you do something else to the
design file.
4.2 Drawing Precision
4.2.1 Setting Working Units

Pull-Down: Settings>Design File> Working Units
4.2.1.1 Working units

Working units are the real-world units that you work with in drawing or creating your models in a DGN file. Typically
the working units are defined in seed DGN files, from which you create your working DGN file. Normally, they will not
require any adjustment.
You can choose master units and subunits by name, such as Feet and Inches, or Meters and Centimeters. Changing
the working units Unit Names does not affect the size of geometry in your model. In summary:
 Working units are set as Master Units (the largest units in common use in a design, such as meters) and
fractional Sub Units (the smallest convenient unit to use, such as centimeters or millimeters). Sub Units
cannot be larger than Master Units.

 You can change your working units without affecting the size of elements in the design. That is, you can draw
in Meters and Centimeters, for example, and then change the Unit Names to Feet and Inches to get the
English measurements
Working Units are made up of Master Units (MU), Sub Units (SU) and Positional Units (PU). In MicroStation this is
written as MU: SU: PU. The Master Units are made up of Sub Units which in turn are made up of Positional Units.
You can use any mixture of Master Units to Sub Units to Positional Units.
4.2.1.1.1 To select the Unit Names for your Working Units
1. From the Settings menu, choose Design File.

The DGN File Settings dialog box opens.
2. In the Category list, select Working Units.
3. From the Master Unit option menu, choose the units required.
If you change the Master Units from Metric to English or vice versa, the Sub Unit is changed to a suitable unit
also.
Similarly, if you specify a Master Unit that is smaller than the current Sub Unit, the Sub Unit is changed to a
suitable unit.
4. (Optional) From the Sub Unit option menu, choose the units required
The following table has examples of distances expressed in the latter form.
Working Units MU:SU Distance
Feet / Inches 120:10 120 feet, 10 inches
Miles / Yards 350:65 350 miles, 65 yards
Meters/Centimeters 5:25 5 meters, 25 centimeters
Millimeters / Micrometers 0:500, or :500 One half millimeter
Press the OK button and exit the dialog box.
4.2.2 Using the Grid

Once you have the Working Units set up, you may also want to set up a grid as a visual reference in the view window.
The grid is not associated directly with the Working Units, but you should know what the working units are before you
set the grid.
The grid is made up of a Grid Master of dots and a Grid Reference of crosses. The Grid Master is smaller and set by
a distance in MU: SU format. The Grid Reference is made up of a desired number of Grid Master units. For example,
you may set the Grid Master to 0:1 (1 sub unit) and the Grid Reference to 5. In this case, every fifth grid point in the x
and y directions will be a cross.
4.2.2.1 Grid Lock

The GridLock, if turned on, will force the cursor to the points of the grid. The GridLock is set under
Settings>Design File>Grid, or by picking on the “Lock” icon on the status bar and checking the Grid box.
This feature is most useful for schematic drawings, because it will give some precision without requiring the
user to calculate distances.
4.2.2.2 Notes:
 The grid is most useful when you are drawing a schematic design rather than a dimensioned design.
 In a large drawing, the Grid Master should be set to a large distance for it to display when you are viewing
the entire drawing.
 To control whether the grid appears in a view window, choose Settings>View Attributes, where you can
toggle the grid on and off.
4.2.3 Precision Input

We’ve already seen that MicroStation has several ways of locating positions in the drawing. The tool settings, snaps,
and grid can all help to position points precisely. But these methods won’t be adequate in every case. For even more
control, MicroStation lets you use precision input to key-in exact coordinates. Mastery of the three different forms of
precision input will greatly increase your drawing proficiency.
You can use precision input key-ins to locate a specific point in a design file, create a line of a certain length and
direction, or even move and copy objects at a specified distance.
 To use the key-in you will need to have the Key-in window open (Utilities>Key-in). Size the window so that just
the typing area is open.
 Remember to always press the <enter> key on the keyboard to have the key-in command take effect.
 The three forms of precision input are Absolute Cartesian, Relative Cartesian, and Relative Polar.
4.2.3.1 Absolute Cartesian (XY=x,y)

Absolute Cartesian coordinates specify a point’s exact distance from the Global Origin of the drawing.
For example, typing xy=8,2 tells MicroStation to locate a point eight units in the X direction and two units in the Y
direction from the absolute point 0,0.
 Use this method if you know the actual coordinates of a point. For example, a series of elevation points on a
topographic map.
4.2.3.2 Relative Cartesian (DL=delta x, delta y)

Relative Cartesian coordinates specify a point’s exact distance away from the last point entered. Delta is the
mathematical term meaning change, so the delta x and delta y listed above are the change in the x direction and
change in the y direction from the last point picked.
For example, typing DL=6,0 specifies a point six units in the X direction and zero units in the Y direction from the
last point entered.
 You may also use the key-in DX=delta x, delta y. The only difference will come if you are using 3D rotated
views.
 This key-in command is very useful for creating rectangles or blocks. The Place block command asks for the
first point and opposite corner. For example, you want to draw a 4 x 3 unit block. You would pick the first
point and then type in DL=4,3. This would position the opposite corner over 4 in the x direction and up 3 in
the y direction from the first corner.
4.2.3.3 Relative Polar (DI=distance, angle)

Relative polar coordinates identify a point located at a specific distance and angle from the last point entered.

For example, DI=6,45 identifies a point six units away, up and to the right at a forty-fix degree angle from the last
point entered.
 This is the easiest way of typing in coordinates, but you must remember how MicroStation defines. Angles
are measured counterclockwise relative to the positive X-axis:
4.2.3.4 Using Snaps and Key-ins Together

How would you draw an object at a certain distance from another object in your drawing, without using
construction lines that you will later have to erase? You can use tentative point snaps along with the precision
key-in methods we just learned to accomplish this.
4.2.3.5 Example
You need to draw a wall that starts ten master units above the intersection of two existing walls.
1. Start the Place Line command.

2. At the “Enter first point” prompt, tentative point snap to the intersection of the two interior wall lines.
DO NOT accept.
3. Using the key-in type in DI=10,90. This will start your line 10 master units above the point to which
you snapped.
4. Continue drawing the rest of the lines you need.
4.2.4 Introduction to AccuDraw

If you are not a very good typist or even if you are but do not want to have to type very much, MicroStation has a
feature called AccuDraw that will help you with relative coordinates. You can use AccuDraw in place of the key-in
commands we learned in the last section.
AccuDraw “thinks” along with you. It anticipates where you might pick next, so you can save time drawing. For
example, when you start the Place Line command, it will bring up an indicator that shows the X and Y directions. The
center of the indicator becomes the origin (last point picked) each time you enter a new point.
The red line represents the positive X-axis and the green line represents the positive Y-axis. The white lines
represent the negative X and Y-axes.
 MicroStation will automatically snap the cursor to the X or Y direction if the cursor is close to those marks on the
indicator. If you pull the cursor in a particular direction and type in a number on the keyboard AccuDraw will let
you draw that length in the direction you pull.
 You can leave AccuDraw up all the times because it works with most MicroStation commands. If it does not work
with a particular command the indicator will not appear.
 AccuDraw also works in the polar format. The indicator for the polar coordinate system is a circle. To switch
between Cartesian and polar coordinate systems, press the spacebar.
4.2.5 Introduction to SmartLines

Sometimes it’s advantageous to draw lines and arcs as one continuous element. The Place SmartLine tool creates
open or closed elements that can be made up of lines and arcs. They can be created as one element or separate
elements. You can also automatically round or chamfer the corners, which could save you a step later in a design.
4.2.5.1 Options
Segment Type You can choose from line or arc segments. You can draw several lines and
then change the segment type from lines to arcs without ending the
SmartLine.

Vertex Type You can choose from Sharp, Rounded or Chamfered vertices. If the vertex
Type is set to Sharp the program ignores the Rounding Radius. If the Vertex
Type is set to Chamfered the Rounding Radius will change to Chamfer
Offset.
Rounding Radius The size of the fillet radius if rounded vertex type is selected.
Chamfer Offset The size of the chamfer if chamfered vertex type is selected.
Join Elements If checked, the lines/arcs will all be one element, similar to a shape but open.
If not checked, the lines and arcs created with the SmartLine command will
be separate elements.
 Because there are no distance or angle options with SmartLine, you must use Precision Input or
AccuDraw to create specific lengths.

5.0 Chapter Five
5.1 Manipulating Elements
5.1.1 Copying Elements

One of the most important features of MicroStation is its ability to duplicate objects. The Copy command is
MicroStation’s most basic mechanism for making additional copies of selected objects. With CAD you need never
draw the same object more than once. Let the computer do the work!
5.1.1.1 Notes
 You will be able to copy the object as many times as needed, (No. of copies can be specified in the option box
provided)
 For greater precision, tentative point to pick up the object and put it down.
 The new copies will have the same level, color, line style, and line weight as the original object. This also applies
to related commands such as Mirror, Array, and Copy Parallel.
5.1.2 Moving Elements

In many situations, it may be necessary to change the location of a particular feature within the drawing. The Move
command allows the user to relocate a selected object from one location in the drawing to another.
5.1.2.1 Notes
 You will be able to move the object as many times as you would like.
 For greater precision, you can tentative point to pick up the object and put it down.
 If “Copies” option is checked out in Copy command, it will turn to be move command.
5.1.3 Scaling Elements

Often it becomes necessary to change the size of an existing object or a complete drawing. Use the Scale command
to save hours of drafting time. The Scale command enlarges or reduces the physical size of selected objects around
a defined reference point.
5.1.3.1 Notes
 The X and Y scales are set to a scale factor. For example, to double the size of an object set X and Y to 2. To
shrink the object to half its size, set X and Y to 0.5.
 The lock beside the X and Y scale allows you to set the scale factor the same for X and Y (locked) or different
(unlocked). Data point on the lock to change it.
 The 3 points method allows you to scale to specified points. It can be proportional or not, according to whether
you check the box.
5.1.3.2 Active Scale

When you change the X and Y scale factors in the tool settings box for the Scale command, you are actually setting
the Active Scale for the entire design file. This also affects cells (symbols). It is a good idea to always set the scale
back to 1 before you leave the command.
 You can key-in AS=scale factor. For example, AS=1 will set the scale factor to 1.
5.1.4 Rotating Elements

Design changes sometimes require modifying the placement angle of an object. The Rotate command rotates an
object around a defined pivot point. For instance, in an interior layout, a particular piece of furniture may have to be
rotated.
5.1.4.1 Active Angle

When you change the scale in the tool settings box for the “Rotate” command, you are actually setting the Active
Angle. This also affects cells (symbols), Text, the Place Line command and arrays. It is a good idea to always set
the angle back to 0 before you leave the command.
 You can key-in AA=angle. For example, AA=0 will set the active angle to 0.
5.1.4.2 Note
 The other two methods allow you to pick points in the drawing to specify the angle.
Two points After you identify the element, you pick a pivot point to rotate
about. Then you pick a second point that spins the element.
Three points After you identify the element you pick a pivot point to rotate
about. Then you pick two points that define the angle for the
rotation.
5.1.5 Mirroring elements

At times, it is advantageous to draw an object in a reflected position. Consider the time saved by constructing only
one half of a symmetrical building façade or machine part, and then automatically duplicating the other half.
The Mirror command makes reversed or symmetrical copies of objects across a vertical, horizontal, or user-specified
mirror line.
5.1.5.1 Note
 If the Mirror Text option is checked in the tool settings box, text will be mirrored like any other object. If this
option is not checked, text will automatically turn around so it can be read.
5.1.6 Arraying Elements

In many designs, objects are placed in a rectangular or circular pattern. For example, light fixtures in a ceiling grid,
fasteners along a connecting edge, utility poles along a right-of-way, and desks in an office layout are duplicate
objects arranged in a constant pattern of rows and columns.
The Construct Array command generates copies of selected objects at fixed intervals. There are two types of
arrays: Rectangular and Polar.
 Rectangular array is set up in rows (the Y direction) and columns (the X direction). The user also specifies how
many copies to make in each direction.
 Polar array copies an item a specified number of times at a set angle around a central pivot point.
5.1.6.1 Command Options

Rectangular
Active Angle – The angle for the array of objects. This is the same as the Active

Rows – The number of rows that will be made.

Columns – The number of columns that will be made.
Row Spacing – The vertical distance from origin to origin of the row elements.
Column Spacing – The horizontal distance from origin to origin of the column elements.
Polar
Items – The number of items in the polar array.
Delta Angle – The angle from origin to origin of the items. This is not the Active angle
Rotate Items – Allows you to rotate or not rotate the items as they are arrayed.
5.1.6.2 Notes
 When specifying the number of copies to array, the original object is counted as one.
 To create a rectangular array to the left and down from the original object, use negative numbers for the column
and row spacing.
5.1.7 Creating Parallel Copies

Occasionally it is necessary to construct an element parallel or concentric to another element. Examples include the
floor plan of a building, a gasket used on a pipe flange, and a triple line border on a titleblock. Rather than draw each
line separately. MicroStation allows the user to create parallel shapes with a single editing command, Move/Copy
Parallel.

Distance – The parallel distance the object will be moved or copied.
Make Copy – Allows you to choose to copy the element you are moving parallel.
Use Active Attribute – The moved/copied objects will get the active layers attributes even though the
element has different attributes.
5.1.7.2 Note
 The Move Parallel command works with lines, circles, arcs, curves, shapes, blocks and SmartLines.
5.1.8 Self Check: Manipulating Elements

How many copies of an object can you make during one use of the Copy command?
Which option of the Mirror command would you use if you wanted to mirror the element at an
angle?
What are the two forms of the Array command?
What is the difference between the Copy command and Copy Parallel?

6.0 Chapter Six
6.1 Working with Multiple Elements
6.1.1 Using Fences

So far we have been using commands to manipulate a single element. Most of the time, however, you will be
required to manipulate in groups. This is where fences come in.
 A fence is a temporary boundary surrounding elements in your drawing that groups those elements to act as one
item.
Once you have a fence in your drawing, you will be able to pick the Use Fence button in the tool settings box for most
of the manipulation commands we just learned.
 Fences do not work with Move Parallel.
6.1.2 Fence Types

Fences come in several shapes and can be created by several methods.
Block – Created in the same manner as the Place Block command by picking two opposing corners.
It is one of the quickest ways to place a fence.
Shape – Created in the same manner as the Place Shape command by picking the vertices and
closing the shape on itself. This method can take more time to create than it is worth.
Circle – Created in the same manner as the Place Circle by Center command. It is a quick way to
place a fence.
Element – Allows you to use an existing closed object in your drawing as the outline of the fence.
Identify the element and accept; the fence will be placed over the element. The element is
still present under the fence, though you may need to update the view after removing the
fence to see it.
From View – Creates a fence at the edge of the view window so that everything totally in the window
is selected. Select the window by picking anywhere in it.
From Design File – Creates a fence around everything in the design file. It is the quickest way to
select everything in your drawing.
6.1.3 Fence Modes

Besides the different methods of creating fences, you can also choose how the fence will act with the surrounding
elements. These are called Fence Modes. You can change them in the Place Fence tool settings or in any tool
settings where you have checked Use Fence.
Inside – Selects everything totally inside the fence.
Overlap – Selects everything totally inside or touching the fence.
Clip – Selects everything totally inside or touching the fence, and clips off the elements at the fence
line. Often used with Copy and Scale. For example, you may want to put a detail in another part of
your design file. You can fence the area, use Copy with the clipmode, and copy the objects to
another part of the design. Then you would scale the detail up as needed.
Void – Selects everything except what is inside the fence.
Void-Overlap – Selects everything except what is inside the fence and touching the fence.
Void-Clip – Selects everything except what is inside the fence and touching the fence, and clips it off
at the fence line.
6.1.4 Special Fence Commands

Along with the basic Fence command, MicroStation provides several other commands to help you work with fences.
6.1.4.1 Modify Fence

The Modify Fence command allows you to change the shape of a fence that is already in the design file. You can
modify either the vertex or the position. The position allows you to move the fence in its original shape and size.
Modifying the vertex allows you to change the actual shape of the fence. You can even add vertices to the fence
circles.
 Think about the quickest way to create a fence. Sometimes it will be faster to modify an existing fence, especially
a fence shape. Other times it will be faster to create a new fence rather than modifying an existing one.
 Note that Modify fence option will enable only if a fence is present in the file.
6.1.4.2 Manipulate Fence Contents

Instead of creating a fence and then going to the Manipulate toolbar, MicroStation allows you to get to the primary
manipulation commands right from the Fence toolbar. These commands are Copy, Move, Rotate, Scale, Mirror, and
Stretch.
Note: Only if a fence is present in file “Use Fence” option can be selected
Fence Stretch is the only tool we have not dealt with yet. It must be used with a fence. This command allows parts of
objects to be moved leaving other parts stationary.
For example, in architectural design, room sizes may be stretched to increase the square footage. In mechanical
drafting is may be necessary to stretch the length of a part of the drawing while leaving the width constant.
6.1.4.3 Notes
 The distance can be to a tentative point snap, but you will have to start with a tentative point snap as your data
point in the design file.
 You can also define the distance with any of the key-in commands or AccuDraw. You do not need to have a
specific data point to use these.
 You can use Stretch Fence Contents to either extend or shorten items.
6.1.4.4 Delete Fence Contents

Sometimes you forget that you have a fence in your design file. That is why MicroStation has a separate command to
delete the contents of a fence. You have to make an effort to delete items surrounded by a fence. Just add a fence to
the drawing around the items you need to be deleted, pick this command, and data point on the screen.
6.1.5 Using the Element Selection Tool

While Fences are the customary way to select multiple objects for editing, MicroStation also has an Element Selection
tool that allows you to pick any number of elements to edit even if they are not side-by-side in a fence.
For example, you may want to change the attributes of several items in your design file from one color to another.
The problem is that they are spread out through out the file. You could select and change them one by one or create
a very elaborate fence shape - or you could use the Element Selection tool.
 When you pick an object with the Element Selection tool, dots or handles will appear at specific geometric points
on the element.

 To pick more than one element at a time, you must either hold down the <ctrl> key as you pick or press the data
button out in space or hold it down while you move the point to form a rectangle. Everything inside the rectangle
will be selected.
 You can also make the rectangle act in the overlap mode by holding down the <shift> key.
 You can use a combination of methods as long as you hold down the <ctrl> key to add more elements to the
group.
 To deselect an element, pick on it again. Remember to hold down the <ctrl> key if you have other elements
already selected.
 A quick way to select everything in your design file with the Element Selection tool is to use the Edit>Select All
command from the pull-down menu.
6.1.6 Modifying Elements Using Element Selection

Not only does the Element Selection tool group elements together temporarily, but it will also allow you to modify the
shape of individual elements.
6.1.6.1 To modify an element:

1. Center the circle on the end of the pointer over one of the dots created when you select an element.
2. Hold down the Data button.
3. Drag the vertex to a new location.
 Be especially careful with circles. If you pick one of the four corners you will change the size of the entire circle. If
you pick one of the dots that are actually touching the circle you will change the circle to an ellipse. A circle is
defined in MicroStation as an ellipse with equal axes.

7.0 Chapter Seven
7.1 Modifying Elements
7.1.1 Modify Elements

The Modify Element command is similar changing the size and shape of elements using the Element Selection tool.
Like the Element Selection tool, this command lets you manipulate the vertices of the element, picking them and
moving them to a different location. The main difference between this command and Element Selection is that you do
not drag the vertices.
Refer to below table for various options of Modify,
The tools in the Modify tool box are used to modify element geometry.
Command name Description
Move a vertex of a linear element
Modify rounded segments of complex chains and complex shapes.
Change rounded segments of complex chains and complex shapes to

vertices and vice-versa.
Scale a circular arc while maintaining its sweep angle.

Modify Element
Move dimension text.
Change dimension extension line length.
Scale a block about the opposite vertex.
Change a circle's radius or the length of one axis of an ellipse.
Delete Part of element Delete part of an element
Extend Line Extend or shorten a line.
Extend Two elements to

Extend or shorten two open elements to their intersection.
Intersection
Extend element to Extend or shorten an open element to its intersection with another
Intersection element.
Trim a series of elements at their intersection with one or more other

Trim element
elements.
Simultaneously trim or extend multiple elements at their intersection with

IntelliTrim
one or more other elements.
Insert Vertex Insert a vertex in a linear element
Delete Vertex Delete a vertex from a linear element

Construct Circular Fillet Construct a circular fillet between two element
Construct a chamfer between two lines or adjacent segments of a line

Construct Chamfer
string or shape.
7.1.1.1 Notes
 Circles remain circles with this command; they do not become ellipses.
 Be careful if you use this command with SmartLines. When you choose a SmartLine it will add new segments to
the group of lines and arcs. Therefore, it may produce some unexpected outcomes.
 There are three choices available when you choose an arc: change the included angle, change the radius around
the center, and change the radius while preserving the endpoints.
 When you pick a shape at an endpoint, you can add a rounded or chamfered vertex or leave it sharp (similar to
the SmartLine vertex options). When you pick the shape in the middle of a segment, it stretches that segment
and the one next to it rather than just the vertex.
 If you pick on the endpoint of a block you will have extra choices in the tool settings. You change the Vertex Type
just like the Shape. You can also choose whether or not to modify the block in an orthogonal direction. If
Orthogonal is checked, the block will change size but remains a block. If it is unchecked, you can modify the
location of the individual vertex just like you do to a shape.
7.1.2 Inserting and Deleting Vertices

Another way you can modify elements is by adding or deleting a vertex. These are easy commands to use, though
you may not find that many uses for them in your drawings at first. Insert Vertex can help you modify a shape without
breaking the shape apart so you keep a closed element. Delete Vertex removes an extra vertex and creates a line
segment between the two remaining vertices.
7.1.2.1 Notes
 Circular elements cannot have vertices added to them. If you try to pick one, MicroStation reports “Element not
found” in the status bar. This is also true for arcs in SmartLines, but you can add or delete vertices to the linear
elements.
 The minimum size for an open element is a line. The minimum size for a closed element is a triangle.
7.1.3 Deleting Parts of Elements

In the following sections we will show a variety of ways to delete parts of elements, trim elements, and extend
elements. Each command has a special purpose. You will need to learn which one is the best tool to use in different
circumstances.
The Partial Delete command removes segments from existing entities such as lines, SmartLines, arcs, circles, blocks
and shapes. It will remove the portion of the selected entity that lies between two user-specified points, creating a
break or opening.
7.1.3.1 Note
 It is important to differentiate between open and closed elements when using the Partial Delete command. With
an open element you simply pick the two points that define the opening. With a closed element you need to pick
the first point, then the direction of the partial delete, and finally the second point.

7.1.4 Extending and Trimming Lines

If you need to lengthen or shorten individual lines, the Extend Element command will allow you to dynamically
choose a new endpoint or specify a distance in the tool settings box. The line will be lengthened or shortened,
remaining at the same angle.
7.1.4.1 Notes
 To lengthen a line by a specific distance, type a positive number in the tool settings box.
 To shorten a line by a specific distance, type a negative number in the tool settings box.
 Make sure you choose a point close to the end that you want to lengthen or shorten. If you choose in the middle,
you cannot know which end the computer will pick. You do not need to tentative point.
 This command will not work with SmartLines that have arcs, rounded vertices, or chamfered vertices, but will work
with SmartLines made up of only line segments.
7.1.5 Extending Elements to an Intersection

Frequently in drafting it can be useful to trim or extend two lines to a real or implied intersection. For example, you
have two construction lines that overlap but you want them to touch each other in the final drawing. The lines are at
the correct angles so you don’t want to modify them. Use the Extend Elements to Intersection command to make
them touch.
7.1.5.1 Notes
 This command will trim a line that passes beyond the intersection and extends a line that does not reach the
intersection.
 You can use any mixture of arcs and lines with this command. However, they must just be open objects.
SmartLines that have arcs, rounded vertices, or chamfered vertices will not work, but SmartLines made up of only
line segments will.
7.1.6 Extending an Element to an Intersection

Extending a line works without any other elements, and extending to an intersection works with open elements. What
do you do if you want to butt an open element against a closed element? In this case, you have to use the Extend
Element to Intersection tool.
7.1.6.1 Note
 The command will trim a line that passes beyond the intersection and extends a line that does not reach the
intersection.
7.1.7 Trimming Elements

The Trim Elements command was devised specifically to trim more than one element at a time. It is as useful as the
erasing shield is in hand drafting. This command only trims; it will not extend.
7.1.7.1 Notes
 Note the sequence for selecting objects: this command works exactly the opposite of previous commands.
 To make the Trim Elements command more useful, you can pre-select any number of cutting edges using the
Element Selection tool. Then you can use these edges to trim out between two lines or just save time since you
don’t have to start the command again to select a new cutting edge.

7.1.8 Fillet
SmartLines can automatically add rounded vertices when you create them but what if you want to add them later?
The Fillet command will do this, and also to leave the existing line segments in place rather than trimming them off.
You can also use this command much like the Extend Elements to Intersection command and force two lines to an
exact intersection.

Truncate None – Both segments you choose will remain the length they were but the fillet will be created as
an arc touching the two segments.
Truncate Both – The segments will be extended or trimmed to the point where the arc begins.
Truncate First – The first segment you pick will be truncated but the second segment will remain the same
length it was when you started.
 Fillet will work on all open and closed elements except circles. It will work with arcs.
7.1.9 Chamfer
The Chamfer command is similar to Fillet, except that it produces an angled corner rather than a radius. Instead of a
radius, you specify distances for the chamfer. There are no truncation choices; it will always trim or extend the lines.
7.1.9.1 Notes
 You can use this command on open or closed elements, but it will not work on circles or arcs.
 The distances you set do not have to be equal values. “Distance 1” applies to the first line picked and “Distance
2” applies to the second line picked.

8.0 Chapter Eight
8.1 Points
8.1.1 Placing Points

Points are used to mark a location in your design file. Points are just like other elements in that they take on the
active attributes and can be moved, copied, and so on. They can be made of an element, a character, or a cell.
8.1.2 Point Types

Element This is a line with zero (0) length. It is a good idea to increase the line weight before you
enter element points so the points will be easy to see.
Character Allows you to put in a letter, number, or other typed character as a point. It will take on the
active attributes as well as the active text settings.
Cell You can use a cell from the attached cell library to place as points. The active angle and
scale affect this placement, as well as the active attributes if it is a point cell.
8.1.2.1 Notes
 Use the tentative point snaps to position points precisely.
 If the point is set to Character or Cell, its origin will be the origin point of the cell or the justification point of the text.
Using the Place Active point command put a character point in the center of each of the medium
circles across the bottom of the object. Change the text of the characters so that it
reads A, B, C, D, E by circle.
Attach the cell library call ARCH.CEL. Highlight any cell and make it the active point cell. Set the
active scale tp .04 (Hint: Key in AS=.04)
In the Place Active Point command, change the type to cell. Then place a cell point in the
center of each of the largest circles in the object.
Set the Active Scale back to 1, Active level back to 1 and Active Color back to 0.
8.1.3 Using Points to Divide

Points placed individually, as we did in the last section, can be handy. But they become a
much more powerful feature when placed with commands that will add multiple points and adjust the spacing between
them. Two of these commands are Construct Points between Data Points and Construct Points Along Element.
The first constructs points at an evenly spaced distance between two points you pick in the design file; the second
places points evenly along an element.
8.1.3.1 Note
 The two commands are similar except that Construct Points Along Element requires an element to base the
points on. If you use a complex chain, shape, or SmartLIne, the points will follow the entire element.
8.2 Measure
 Measure Distance
 Measure Length
 Measure Angle
 Measure Area
 Measure Radius
 Measure Volume
The tools in the Measure toolbox are used to perform measuring operations.
8.2.1 Measure Distance:

Used to measure distance.
8.2.1.1 Command Options:
Distance: To measure:
Between Points Cumulative distance from an origin
Along Element Along an element from an origin.
Perpendicular Perpendicular distance between an element and a data point.
Minimum Between Minimum distance between two elements.
8.2.2 Measure Radius:

Used to measure:
a) The radius of a circle or circular arc.
b) The radius of a cone or cylinder.
c) The primary and secondary axes of an ellipse or elliptical arc.
d) The radius of a circular segment or axes of an elliptical segment of a complex chain or complex shape.
8.2.3 Measure Angle Between Lines:

Used to measure the angle between two lines or segments of a line string, shape, or multi-line. If the identified lines
do not intersect, an intersection point is computed to serve as the vertex of the measured angle.
8.2.4 Measure Length:

Used to measure the length of an element (also angle with X – Axis) and to analyze mass properties. For a closed
element or a surface, the length of the perimeter or wireframe geometry is measured.

8.2.5 Measure Area:

Used to measure the area and perimeter of 2-dimension shapes.
Method: If elements do not overlap, then:

Intersection "Elements do not intersect" is displayed.
Union Each element is highlighted.
8.2.6 Measure Volume:

(3D only) Used to measure the volume enclosed by an element or a set of elements and to analyze mass properties.
The element(s) must completely enclose a volume; if a volume is not enclosed, a message appears in the status bar.
8.3 Creating Complex Elements
8.3.1 Drop Element

Used to break up an element(s) into simpler components. Tool settings (see table below) are used to specify the
element types on which the tool operates.

Tool Settings: Effect:
Complex If on, complex elements (cell, complex chain, complex shape,
text node, surface, or solid) are dropped into their components.
Dimensions If on, dimension element(s) are dropped into lines, line strings,
ellipses, arcs, and text.
Line Strings/Shapes If on, line strings and shapes are converted to series of individual
line elements.
Multi-lines If on, multi-line elements are converted to sets of line strings,
lines, and /or arcs.
Shared Cells If on, shared cells are dropped. If To Geometry is chosen from
the option menu, they are dropped into their components; if To
Normal Cell is chosen, they are converted to unshared cells.
Text If on, text characters in text elements are converted to the
individual elements that are used to draw the characters -- lines,
line strings, arcs, ellipses and shapes.
8.3.2 Creating Complex Chains and Shapes

While you can use SmartLines to create groups of arcs and lines, another method is to create the lines and arcs
separately and then make them into a complex chain or complex shape. In some cases, you will have to use this
method – for example, if you create your radial geometry from circles that you then trim off.
 Complex chains are open groups of lines and arcs. Complex shapes are close groups of lines and arcs and will
close automatically if you do not have a line in place.
 You can add SmartLines to complex chains.
8.4 Cells
8.4.1 What is a Cell?

A group of elements can be converted into a single symbol, or cell, that can be used in any design file. Since
most drawings are constructed with complex components rather than simple lines or circles, using cells is one
of the most important and powerful techniques in MicroStation.
A cell can be as simple as a circle with two lines through it (an outlet symbol) or as complex as an entire detail
of a roof drain.
MicroStation includes many pre-defined cells that may be suitable to use in your designs. You can also
create cells for your specific discipline and needs.
8.4.2 Loading a Cell Library

Pull-down: Element >Cells
To use cells, you must first load the cell library where they are stored. Typically, cells are grouped together in libraries
in logical categories. For example, all Architectural cells would go in one library, all Mechanical cells in another, all
Landscape cells in a third, and so on. If your office works in only one discipline, you may want to organize the cells in
even more specific categories, such as all trees in one library, all bushes in another, and cars or parking symbols in a
third.
8.4.2.1 Note
 Only one cell library can be open at a time. When you attach a second library, it automatically closes the
first one.
8.4.3 Placing Cells

As with many settings in MicroStation such as Active Angle, Active Scale and Active Attributes, cells also have an
Active status. There are actually four types of Active cells: the active Placement cell, the Point cell, the Terminator cell
and the Pattern cell. In this section we will concentrate on the Place Active Cell command with the active Placement
cell.
There are two ways of selecting the Active Cell:
1. Highlighting it in the Cell Library settings box and picking the Placement button.
2. Typing the cell name in the Active Cell edit box in the Place Cell tool settings box.
 If you pick a cell in the Cell Library settings box, it will automatically show up in the Place Cell tool settings box.
Tool Setting Effect
Active Cell Can be keyed-in here or set in the Cell Library dialog box (Element menu > Cells).
Browse Cells Opens the Cell Library dialog box to let you select an active cell.
Active Angle Sets the angle by which the cell is rotated, if Interactive is off.

X Scale Horizontal scale factor (along x-axis)
Y Scale Vertical scale factor (along y-axis)
Z Scale Depth scale factor (along z-axis)
If on, cells that were created in a model with different units from those of the active model are scaled to
True Scale
adjust them to the units of the active model.
If the active cell is a graphic cell and Relative is:
 On — lowest level in cell is placed on the Active Level, and higher levels in cell are placed
Relative
relative to the Active Level.
Off — cell is placed on same level(s) as in cell library (the level(s) that components were on
when the cell was created).
Interactive If on, the scale and rotation angle are defined graphically by data points.
If on, 3D cells can be flattened, or projected, on to one of the standard view projections — Top, Front,
Flatten Right, Isometric, Bottom, Back, Left, Right Isometric — which is selected from the option menu. Lets you
place a view of a 3D cell into a 2D model.
Association If on, lets you associate cells to elements in the model.
8.4.3.2 Note
 The point around which the cell is placed is the origin point. It is important to know that point, because it impacts
how and where you place the cell.
Shared Cells
When you put a cell into your design file, MicroStation keeps track of each instance that you put in. To save space
and to keep a cell useful even after another cell library is opened, you can use shared cells.
When you pick the Use Shared Cells button in the Cell Library settings box, MicroStation will keep track of the first
instance of the cell you put in and then point back to this instance for each additional cell. This saves space in your
design file. You can also load a different Cell Library and the shared cell will still be usable in the file. If you update
the cell, the change will also be reflected in all instances of the shared cell.
 Because there are some problems with incompatibility, you should check with your CAD manager to see whether
or not to use shared cells.
8.4.4 Creating Cells

While MicroStation provides many ready-made cells in the sample directories, you will probably need to make your
own cells for your specific discipline or company. Remember that a cell can be as simple as a circle and a number for
a tag, or as complicated as a detail for a circuit board.
You can plan many of the cells you need in advance and make them all at one time, or you can make them as you
need them. In either case, you need to plan the cell libraries you will use. These should be grouped in a logical
format for your type of work, and be consistent with any standard arrangement your company uses.
8.4.4.1 Types of Cells

There are four types of cells you can create. In this class we will be focusing on two types: Graphic and Point.
Graphic This is the type of cell you will use the most. It keeps the color, line style, line weight, and
level of the elements from which it is created. Use this if you are creating a cell that is on a
number of different levels with different attributes.
Point This cell will take on the active color, line style, line weight, and level. Use this when the cell
is only one level and attributes. You must remember to set the active attributes before you
insert this type of cell.
8.4.4.2 Notes
 Use the description for more information about the cell.
 The origin point of the cell should be a logical point to place the cell when you insert it. For example, if you
generally want to put a filing cabinet up against the wall, pick the middle of the back line as the origin, rather than
the center of the block that defines the cell.
8.4.5 Placing Multiple Cells

Sometimes you will want to put many cells into a design file at one time. One way to do this is with the Place Active
Cell Matrix command. This command is similar to Construct Array, except that you choose a cell name instead of
picking objects in the drawing to array.
8.4.5.1 Command Sequence

Start the command and specify the Active Cell, the number of Rows and Columns, and the Row
and Column Spacing in the tool settings box.
Pick a point on the screen for the lower left corner of the matrix.
8.4.5.2 Note
 The first cell will come in with its origin point at the point at the point you pick. The other cells will be the
distance you set from the first cell.
8.4.6 Selecting and Placing Cells

You can speed up the process of choosing what cell to place by selecting a cell already present in your design file and
using that as the active cell. The Select and Place Cell command let you do this.
 This command works only with shared cells or when the cell library that holds the cell is attached to the design
file.
 The difference between this and the Copy command is that you can also set the angle and scale of the new cell
insertion.
8.4.7 Using the Active Line Terminator

A Line Terminator is any cell that you use to end a line, linestring, curve, or arc. Usually you
will use a cell that looks like an arrowhead. The best part about using this tool is that you do not have to know the
angle of the line or arc. You simply pick towards the end of the element and Accept. The Line Terminator will be
placed at the angle of the element.
8.4.7.1 Notes
 Create the Line Terminator cells at an angle of zero.

 If you use one or two terminators in most of your design files, you may want to include the cell in all of your cell
libraries to save you from having to load a different library.

9.0 Chapter Nine
9.1 Text
9.1.1 Placing Text in Your Design File

A large portion of many drawings is filled with text in the form of notes, titles, captions, and revision information.
Adding text to your drawing is a fundamental part of creating the drawing. When you select the Place Text command,
it will bring up both the Text Editor and the Text tool settings.
9.1.1.1 Text Editor

The Text Editor box will come up as soon as you select the Place Text command. This is where you type in your text.
 MicroStation’s text is a paragraph-oriented text. You can type in one line or many lines of text with the same
command.
9.1.1.2 Text Tool Settings

The Place Text tool settings box includes many of the basic settings needed to place text in your drawing, including
the method of insertion, the height and width of the text, the font, the justification, and the active angle.
 The default method of entering text is placing it “By Origin.” This means the text will be inserted at the justification
specified in the tool settings.
 If your text comes in at an angle, the Active Angle has been set in some other command. To change the Active
Angle back to 0, set it in the text tool settings box, or type in AA=0 in the Key-in window.
9.1.1.3 Note
 All the active attributes (color, line weight, level, and active angle) affect the text except the active line style. Text
also uses the active Text Attributes shown in the next section.
9.1.2 Setting Up the Text Style

Before putting text into your drawing, you need to specify the text height, justification, and other properties. Many of
these attributes can be set in the Text tool settings box, as we saw in the last section. But they are also available,
along with other settings, in the Text Settings box.

Font You can choose from a variety of different items. There are three ways
to set the font: by number, by name, and by View, if you want to see on
example of each of the fonts.
Height & Width You can set the height and width the same size or different sizes. If the height is larger
than the width you will get tall skinny letters. If the width is larger than the height you will get
fat letters. The “lock” controls whether or not the sizes must be the same. If locked,
changing one will automatically change the other. If unlocked, you can change Height and
Width independently.
Line Spacing The distance between the lines of text when you are working with multiple lines of text. We
recommend that it is at most half of the text height.

Line Length The maximum number of characters allowed per line. You can set this to a number that will
control the length of your line with the word wrap. Use this if you are doing a set of notes that
must fill a certain space. The maximum number is 255.
Interchar Spacing The distance between each character. In most cases you will leave this at 0 and let the
default work.
Fractions If checked, it will treat any fractions as one character as long as the font you are using
supports fractions.
Underline If checked, it will underline all the text characters.
Vertical Text If checked, it will change the text characters to display in vertical lines rather than horizontal
lines.
Slant Slants the letters to make them italic. Positive numbers give a right-leaning slant,
negative numbers a left-leaning slant. You should not use a number much higher than 15
because it will be unreadable.
Justification You can have different justifications for Single and Multi-line text. The basic justifications are
Left, Center, and Right; Top, Center, and Bottom.
9.1.2.2 Note
 Your company will probably have a number of styles that they prefer you to use. Check with your CAD Manager.
9.1.3 Text Placement Methods

While you will normally use the By Origin method of inserting text, other methods are sometimes helpful. These
methods include fitting text between two points on your screen, putting text above, below or on another element, and
even placing text along the path of an element such as a curve or a circle.

By Origin The basic method of inserting text. It follows the information set
up in the text settings including justification. The active angle
affects this text.
Fitted This will only work with one line of text. When you pick the two data points to specify
the beginning and end of the line of text you are also specifying the text height and
angle. Other attributes remain the same.
View Independent At the Active Angle and the active text settings. Once placed, text stays at the same
orientation regardless of the view rotation
Fitted VI (View)(Independent) Combines fitted and view independent views
Above Element You must have another element such as a line or shape in your drawing for this to
work. It will automatically place the text above the element at the distance set by the
line spacing in the text attributes. Other attributes remain the same including
justification.
Below Element Below a line segment at the active text settings at the same angle as the line
segment at a distance equal to the Active Line Spacing
On Element You must have another element such as a line or shape in your drawing for this to
work. It will automatically place the text on the element and break out the area
needed by the text. Other attributes remain the same including justification.
Along Element You must have another element such as line, SmartLine, curve or shape in your
drawing for this to work. It will automatically place the text above or below the
element at the distance set by the line spacing in the text attributes. Other attributes
remain the same including justification. The text created by this method

becomes separate letters of text. The distance between the letters can be set with
the Interchar spacing available in the tool settings box.
Word Wrap (Available only if Word Processor is selected in the Preferences dialog box, Text
category, Text Editor Style option menu.) Allows you to contain text within a box, once
a box is identified. If a word is entered that exceeds the limit of the box, that word
drops to the next line
9.1.3.2 Notes:
 Don’t forget to change the text method back to By Origin after you have used any of the other methods.
9.1.3.3 Adding Notes to Your Design File

Many drawings call for text with an arrow and line connecting the annotation to some feature. To create annotation of
this sort, MicroStation provides the Place Note command. Place Note allows you to add as many lines of text as
needed. Notice that it is found on the Text tool bar, not with the dimensioning commands.
9.1.4 Editing Text

Text is one of the most frequently modified types of elements in any CAD drawing. It is easy to make spelling and
typing errors. Most drawings also have to be changed and updated as new information comes along. MicroStation
allows you to change text through the Edit Text command.
9.1.4.1 Note
 It’s easy to forget to hit the Accept data point to make the text go into the Text Editor. Remember your highlight
color, and you will know you have to do something else when the text highlights but does not show in the editor.
9.1.5 Changing and Matching Text Attributes

Another aspect of editing text is to change the text attributes: its height, width, font, slant, and more. You may need to
do this if you forgot to change the text style before you started typing, or if you have decided to use a different font
after you start the drawing.
There are two commands that will help you change text attributes. The first matches the text attributes. This allows
you to make the active text attributes match a piece of text that is already in the drawing. The second changes
existing text to the active text attributes.
9.1.5.1 Notes
 You can change or match only part of the text attributes by using the check boxes in the tool settings box.
 You can change several pieces of text by picking one after another rather, than accepting out in space. Make
sure you do a final accept when you are done, or the last text will not change.
9.1.6 Using Enter Data Fields

When you need to fill in titleblocks or tables, it is easier to use a feature called an Enter Data Field than to use regular
text. An Enter Data Field is nothing more than a series of underlines that bring all the text attributes with them. You
can then use the Enter Data Field commands to fill the underlines in.
9.1.6.1 To Create Enter Data Fields

1. Set up the text attributes, layer, color, and line width, as you want them. Make sure you have the right text font
and size.

2. Start the Place Text command.

3. In the Text Editor, type in the number of underlines that will fill the space needed, and data point to the location of
the text. For example, if you name all your design files with eight-letter names, you can put in eight underlines in
the Enter Data Field for the drawing name in your titleblock.
9.1.6.2 Copy/Increment Text

Start the command from the Text tool bar.
Select the text that you want to copy and increment.
Enter the Increment number, for e.g.: if you want to place texts, 1 2 3 etc, increment number will
be 1 OR if 1 3 5 increment will be 2 etc.
9.2 Basic Dimensioning
9.2.1 Dimensioning Concepts

A dimension is a size description of the elements you have drawn in your design file. Dimensions are important to
meet the needs of precision manufacturing and laying out a house plan in the field, among other things. Dimensions
give the worker a set of instructions to bring the machine part or entire house layout to its final state.
9.2.1.1 Semi-Automatic Dimensioning

MicroStation’s dimensioning commands create dimensions based on points or elements specified by the user. The
beauty of using these commands is that they are semi-automatic: if you have drawn your objects properly to actual
size, then you can add the dimensions quickly and easily with just a few picks.
9.2.1.2 Associative Dimensioning

Dimensions can be associative just like patterning. That means that if the elements you dimensioned are changed,
the dimensions will change and recalculate automatically. You can drop the association using the Drop Element
command with the Dimensions box checked, but we do not recommend doing so.
9.2.1.3 Turning Off Dimensions

It is a good idea to put your dimensions on a separate level. This allows dimensions to be turned off when you do not
need them. You can also turn off dimensions in specific windows through the View Attributes.
9.2.1.4 Dimension Settings

Dimension settings control how dimensions look, including text style and height, type and size of arrowheads, etc. By
setting up these variables and saving them you create a dimension style. This allows you to apply the proper
dimension look quickly and consistently. Check with your CAD Manager about the Dimension Settings you should
use.
9.2.2 Linear Dimensioning

MicroStation offers two different methods of dimensioning, by element and by points. The Dimension Element
command, as we’ve seen, works fine as long as the object you need to dimension is all one element. But this won’t
always be the case. For example, you may need to dimension the distance between the center of a circle and the
end of a line. To do this you must use the linear dimensioning (“Dimension Size”) commands.
Linear Dimensioning needs points on the element to work from. You select these points with a tentative point snap.
You also need to data point to the location of the dimension line with no snap.

9.2.2.1 Notes
 When you create a string of dimensions they all act as one set. If you try to delete one of them the entire string
will disappear.
 When you are dimensioning around an element, it helps to Reset a few times before you change direction.
 When you pick the second point of the linear dimension you are actually choosing the length of the extension line.
It is best to pick directly above the first point you picked. If you pick too far to the right or left, you will get a
dimension going in the opposite direction.
9.2.3 Non-Linear Dimensioning

Besides linear dimensions, MicroStation offers a variety of other dimensioning tools: Radial for circles and arcs,
Angular for measuring angles, and Notes to put notes in your drawing pointing to the object you wish to annotate.
9.2.3.1 Radial Dimensioning

We saw earlier that you can apply radial dimensions with the Dimension Element tool. MicroStation also provides a
separate Dimension Radial command that lets you place a center mark. The other modes are the same as the
Dimension Element choices.
 MicroStation will automatically add the diameter symbol for diameters or “R” for radius in front of the numbers.
9.2.3.2 Angular Dimensioning

Angular Dimensioning shows the angle between two lines. There are a variety of commands to create angular
dimensions, but the basic one is the Dimension Angle Between Lines. All you have to do is select two non-parallel
lines and place the dimension to where you want it to rest.
9.2.3.3 Notes
 You do not need to use tentative points with this command because it works with elements.
 Data point to the elements in a counterclockwise sequence to make sure you get the angle you want
dimensioned.
9.2.4 Editing Dimensions

Most items that you draw in MicroStation are drawn to full scale. If the objects are drawn correctly then the
dimension commands will automatically insert the desired information. But, sometimes you will misplace dimensions
or you will need to change the dimension text. Two commands discussed previously, Modify Element and Edit Text,
allow you to edit dimensions.
9.2.4.1 Editing Dimension Placement

The Modify Element tool lets you change the location of the dimension text and the dimension lines. If the dimension
is associated with an element you cannot edit the extension lines. If you did not tentative point and accept to an
element when you dimensioned you will now be able to move the extension line to the correct point. You must select
the part of the dimension you want to move.
 You may need to zoom in closer to the dimension you want to edit to select the correct part of it.
9.2.4.2 Editing Dimension Text

Sometimes you will want to add information before or after the dimension or to change the original dimension text.
You can edit the text of a dimension using the Edit Text command. Instead of bringing up the next editor, the
command will start the Dimension Text dialog box.
9.2.4.3 Notes
 The asterisk (*) in the Text edit box symbolizes the true distance that is referenced by the dimension. If you leave
this alone it will automatically update if you change the element it is associated with. If you delete it, the
dimension will no longer automatically updates.
 You can add text before or after the asterisk without changing the association.
9.2.5 Dimension Settings

The appearance of dimensions is controlled the Dimension Settings. There are many different settings, but the two
major areas we will consider here are the Text settings and the Units settings.
9.2.5.1 Text
Pull-down:Element>Dimensions
The Text settings for dimensions can be controlled by the active text settings and element attributes, or you can
control them in this dialog box. This box gives you a place to override the active attributes, which include color, line
weight, font, and text height and width.
9.2.5.2 Options
Orientation Controls the location of the text in reference to the dimension line. The
Choices are in Line, Above and Horizontal.
Justification Controls the location of the text in relation to the extension lines. The
Choices are Left, Center, and Right.
Text Frame Controls whether or not the dimension text is framed. The choices are None, Box, and
Capsule. Box designates a reference dimension. Capsule Designates a dimension for
quality control.
Margin Sets the space between the dimension line and the dimension text.
Underline Text (NTS) Controls whether or not the text is underlined. Underlining typically
Stands for Not To Scale (NTS).
9.2.6 Units
Pull-Down: Element>Dimension
The Units can set to AEC (Architectural, Engineering and Construction) which typically is used to show feet and
inches, or Mechanical, which typically does not show any information but the dimension number. Once you have
selected the format you have several more options:
9.2.6.1 Options
Units Allows you to choose the English or Metric forms of measurement.
Accuracy Can be set to several decimal places or to fractions.
Label The Label in the primary units is only available when AEC units are selected. You can choose
from several methods of showing feet and inches. The Label In the secondary units allows
you to add any suffix to the secondary units.
Show Secondary Units You can choose to show both English and Metric units. If the primary units are English the
secondary will automatically be Metric and the opposite.

Scale Factor Lets you set a scale factor for the input of all the dimensions. If it is left at 1 all the
dimensions will be true to the size of the item dimensioned. If you set it to another number it
will scale all the dimensions by that number.
9.2.6.2 Notes
 The Working Unit names control the label for AEC format. For example, if you set the names to FT and IN, then
the dimension will read 12FT-4IN. Use the feet and inches symbol in the Working Units names so it will read 12’-
4”.
9.3 Reference Files
9.3.1 What are Reference Files?

One of the most powerful timesaving features of MicroStation is its ability to combine one drawing with another. For
example, a standard window detail can be drawn once, saved, and then used in any other design file. When you
insert a cell, the graphics actually become part of the file and no link remains. A reference file is any other design file
brought into the active design file that acts, as a reference for the active file while it remains linked to the original file.
9.3.1.1 Notes
 A reference file remains in the design file until you detach it.
 Reference files allow a number of separate drawings to be viewed at the same time, but only the active drawing
may be edited.
 You can view the reference file, plot it, and even snap to it, but you cannot change the elements in it. Each
drawing’s data is still stored in separate design files.
 Reference files save drawing space.
 A design file can be referenced to itself.
 Levels in the attached reference file are separate from the active file. You can control the visibility of the reference
file levels separately from the active file using level Manager.
 You can copy parts of the reference file into active file.
 You can Move, Scale, Rotate and Mirror reference files, but you must use specific reference file tools to do this.
The regular commands will not work.
9.3.2 Attaching Reference Files

The process of adding a reference file to an active design file is called attaching.
The Attach Reference File command will bring up a dialog box just like the Open command to allow you to select the
file you want to attach.
 Any other design file can be attached to the active design file, including a copy of the active file itself.
 You can also attach multiple copies of a file by giving each reference file a different Logical Name.
9.3.2.1 Notes
 Files of various other CAD applications can also be attached, for e.g.; - CAD files, Cell files, Sheet files, etc
9.3.3 Merging a Reference File into the Active (Master) file

The final method of manipulating reference files is to merge the file into active file, to make the features present in the
reference file as active features.

9.3.4 Attaching reference raster files:

A raster is an image created either scanning a photograph or converting vector to raster. Raster images can be of
Aerial Photograph, Topographic maps etc, which will be used as a reference for conversion purpose.
The attachment of raster file is similar to that of attaching a design file. The attachment can be made interactively by
defining two points that identify where the image rectangle is located in the design plane, or at a predefined location
(Intergraph raster formats only). The latter is possible because the Intergraph formats include positional data in the
file to map the raster image to a specific location on the design plane.
A reference raster file’s full path specification is stored as part of the attachment information. This differs from
reference design file attachments in which storing the full path specification is an option.
Pull down: File>Raster Manager
9.4 MDL Applications
9.4.1 MDL applications

MDL applications are extensions to MicroStation. MDL stands for MicroStation Development Language – essentially
the C language executed by MicroStation. Many parts of standard MicroStation are actually MDL applications.
The MicroStation Solutions catalog, which you will receive after you return your registration card, describes hundreds
of commercially available MDL applications.
An MDL application cannot be used in MicroStation until it is loaded. MicroStation can be (and almost always is)
operated with more than one MDL application loaded at a time. As a practical matter, you can load as many MDL
applications as you want.
Some MDL applications insert their own sub-menus in the Applications menu in MicroStation’s main menu bar. (The
Applications menu only appears in the menu bar when an MDL application has inserted a sub-menu in it.)
9.5 Function Keys
9.5.1 Function Keys

A function Key is a Keyboard shortcut key to perform a MicroStation command. Some commands that we use
frequently in a file can be assigned to a function key, for e.g.: “Pan” is most frequently used command and key F1 can
be assigned to it. Same way “Update View” can be assigned to F2 etc.
A function key menu is a file that contains keyboard function key assignments
Pull down: Workspace>Function Keys

10.0 Chapter Ten
10.1 Other important Menus in MicroStation
10.1.1 MultiLines
A multi-line element consists of up to 16 independently defined lines and optional end caps and joints.
10.1.1.1 Creating MultiLines

Multi lines can be created using MltilLine command from Linear Elements
10.1.1.2 Setting MultiLines option

The properties should be set using Settings>MultiLines
The active multi-line definition specifies the form of multi-lines placed with the Place Multi-line tool. The component
lines can be varying distances apart. Each component line can have its own level, color, line style, and line weight.
10.1.2 Import/Export
File>Import/Export commands are used to import or export other application files/3D files to 2D files etc.
Select File>Export to export the current working 2D file to 3D and set view as applicable.
10.1.3 Select By Attributes

Select by attributes can be used to select elements based on their attributes such as Level, Color etc.
10.1.3.1 Select By Attributes Options

Pull Down: Edit>Select By Attributes
10.1.3.1.1 Click the layer name/names of the element to be selected
10.1.3.1.2 Click the type of the element, if known or select all
10.1.3.1.3 Set the Symbology if known or check out the options
10.1.3.1.4 Click execute to select
10.1.4 Lock Settings

Lock settings are used to lock the precise drawing elements such as Snap, Grid, Axis etc. A lock options dialog box
will come when LOCK symbol is clicked in status bar,
Different locks available in MicroStation.
Axis Lock: If on, each data point is forced to lie at an angle (or multiples of that angle) from the previous data point.
The angle is specified by the (Axis) Increment relative to the (Axis) Start Angle.
Grid Lock: If on, each data point is forced to lie on the grid

Level Lock: If on, you can select elements only on the Active Level; you cannot manipulate elements that are not on
the Active Level,
Note: Fence contents and graphic group manipulations ignore Level Lock
Text Node Lock: If on, newly placed text is attached to empty text nodes, and you cannot place text if there aren't any
empty text nodes.
Graphic Group Lock: If on, any manipulation performed on one member of a graphic group is automatically
performed on all members.
If off, the member elements of a graphic group can be manipulated individually
10.1.5 Batch Converter

Batch converter will be used to convert individual files, or entire directories of files, from any of the MicroStation DGN
file formats to any other supported format, for e.g.: from older version (MicroStation 7) to new and vice versa.
Pull down: Utilities>Batch Converter
10.1.6 Batch Process

Batch process is used to create and run a script that can be performed on individual files or entire directories
of files. The script is a text file that contains a series of MicroStation key-ins that can run commands,
MicroStation BASIC macros, VBA macros, or MDL applications.
Pull down: Utilities>Batch Process.
10.1.7 MicroStation Basic Macros

MicroStation BASIC Macros are BASIC programs that automate often-used, usually short sequences of
operations. Many MicroStation-specific extensions have been added to the BASIC language to customize it
for the MicroStation environment.
In its simplest form, a macro “drives” MicroStation in much the same way a human user does. Macros select
tools and view controls, send key-ins, manipulate dialog boxes, modify elements, and more, using many of
the tools documented in this guide. The obvious advantage of writing a macro to perform a task that could
otherwise be done manually is automating mechanical and repetitive tasks. Several sample macros are
supplied with MicroStation.
“Macro” code is stored in text files with .bas file extension. The macro language is BASIC with MicroStation-
specific extensions. Compiled macros are stored in resource files with .ba extensions
10.1.7.1 Running macros

You can load, run, and edit a macro using the Macros dialog box or a key-in.
Pull down: Utilities>Macro> MicroStation BASIC.
The Macros dialog box opens.
1. In the Macro name list box, select the macro.
2. Macros also can be select by browsing the directories where macros are stored
3. Click the Run button.
10.1.7.2 Creating macros

A macro can be created by using menu, Utilities>Macro>Visual Basic Editor.

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IIC Academy Page 1 of 53 430956776.doc

1.0 Chapter one..................................................................5

4.1.4 Drawing Precise Circles and Arcs..........................................................21

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1.0 Chapter one

1.1 Getting Started with MicroStation

1.1.1 Starting MicroStation from Operating System

1.1.2 Using the MicroStation Manager

1.1.2.1 The MicroStation Manager dialog box contains several areas.

1.1.2.2 Pull-down menus

1.1.3 Opening an Existing Design File

1.1.4 MicroStation’s Screen Layout

1.1.4.1 Title Bar

1.1.4.2 Main Menu Bar

1.1.4.3 View Windows

1.1.4.4 Tool Boxes

1.1.4.5 Tool Settings

1.1.4.6 Status Bar

1.1.5 Using Your Pointing Device

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1.1.5.1 Mouse or Puck Buttons

1.1.5.2 2-button mouse

1.1.5.3 3-button mouse

1.1.6 Using the Keyboard

1.1.7 MicroStation’s Cartesian Workspace

Selecting a point on the screen with the pointing device.

1.1.7.1 Angles in MicroStation

1.2 Understanding the User Interface

1.2.1 Pull-down Menus

Main Tool Palette of MicroStation 95

1.2.2 View Windows

1.2.3 Tool Boxes and Tool Bars

1.2.3.1 Moving and Resizing Tool Boxes

1.2.4 Tool Settings

1.2.5 Status Bar

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1.2.5.1 Left Side

1.2.5.2 Right Side

1.2.6 Dialog Boxes and Settings Boxes

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2.0 Chapter Two

2.1 Understanding Design Files

2.1.1 Creating a Drawing

2.1.2 Starting a New Design File

2.1.3 Drawing Smart Lines

2.1.4 Deleting Elements

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2.1.5 Drawing Rectangles

2.1.6 Drawing Circles

2.1.6.1 Using Element Attributes

2.1.7 Saving Your Work

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2.2 Viewing Design Files

2.2.1 Arranging View Windows

2.2.2 Opening and Closing Windows

2.2.2.1 Cascading and Tiling Windows

2.2.3 Using the View Controls

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2.2.3.1 Common View Attributes

Patterns Displays hatching and patterns.

2.2.4 Changing View Attributes