c0427d59 Ff51 48ad Bd10 1cec844df538.Handout10264GEN10264SurvivingtheTransitionfromMicroStationtoAutoCAD

GEN10264
Surviving the Transition from MicroStation to AutoCAD

Jeanne Aarhus
President - Aarhus Associates, LLC
jeanne@aarhusassociates.com
Learning Objectives
 Learn how to use AutoCAD from a MicroStation perspective
 Learn how you can capitalize on your MicroStation skills in the AutoCAD software environment
 Learn to manage data between the 2 CAD applications
 Learn from an instructor who also transitioned from MicroStation to AutoCAD
Description
Are you a MicroStation user moving to AutoCAD software? Is your company using both CAD packages?
One of the first steps to success is to understand the differences between these CAD packages and learn
to think like AutoCAD software. This session is designed to familiarize the experienced MicroStation user
with AutoCAD software and its functionality. Learn what makes AutoCAD software such a successful CAD
package and how you can be more productive in this environment. Learn how to capitalize on your
MicroStation knowledge so this transition can be less stressful. Attending this session is guaranteed to
improve your understanding of AutoCAD software, an essential skill if you are transitioning from another
CAD package or working in a multi-CAD environment.
Your AU Expert
Jeanne Aarhus
Jeanne is known for keeping her training sessions fast moving and fun. She is a nationally known speaker
and expert in CAD and presents seminars and workshops on CAD productivity for managers and users in
both corporate and academic settings. She has over 30+ years’ experience involving production drafting,
user support, standards coordination, programming, and training in various CAD applications. She is an
independent consultant offering training and implementation services and is certified in several Autodesk
and Bentley products. She continues to be actively involved in international, national, and local CAD user
groups and received the much coveted Top Ten Speaker award for her presentations at AU. She has been
a popular speaker at AU for several years.
GEN10264 - Surviving the Transition from MicroStation to AutoCAD
AutoCAD for MicroStation Users

Preparing for a Successful Transition or “Co-Existence”
First and foremost……NO two CAD packages are exactly alike. But as technology progresses (and the
“Windows” interface invades just about every application), AutoCAD and MicroStation are getting more
and more similar with each new version. However, they are still different CAD packages in some ways,
specifically in design and usage. Our goal is to help you make this transition as seamless as possible.
Learn the possibilities, the limitations, and most importantly learn the differences……and work with
them.
For this presentation we will compare AutoCAD Release 2016 and MicroStation V8i. We will also discuss
some aspects of “previous” versions where necessary.
We will look at:
 Learning to “SPEAK” their language
 User Interface Similarities
 Zooms - Windows
 Mouse Functions
 Command Line - Key ins
 Direct Distance Entry - AccuDraw
 Alias Commands - Shortcuts
 Viewports - Views
 Templates - Seed Files
 Object Snap - Tentative Snap
 Transparent Commands - View Commands
 Grips - Handles
 Layers - Levels
 Linetypes - Line styles
 Attributes - Tags and Enter Data Fields
 Color - LineWeight
 Xrefs - Reference Files
 DesignCenter - Cell Libraries
 Purge - Compress
What’s NEW in AutoCAD for MicroStation Users?

Additional topics covered:
 DGN Enhancements
 Dynamic Blocks
 Text Editors
 <Double-Click> Editing
 Level Symbology/Overrides
 Standards Checking
2
Learn to Speak “THE” Language

One of the first barriers for AutoCAD and MicroStation users is the language barrier. The table below
shows how a simple conversation can result in a multitude of misunderstandings on BOTH sides.
Learning to speak the “other” language can minimize these misunderstandings and simplify the whole
process.
AutoCAD MicroStation
Objects or Entities Elements
Layers Levels
Properties Attributes
Blocks or WBlocks Cells
Drawing File or Drawing Database Active Design File
Xrefs or Reference Files Reference Files
Prototype or Template File Seed File
Explode Drop
Current Active
Attributes Tags
Linetypes Linestyles
Text or Attributes (blocks) Enter Data Fields (Cells)
Zoom Extents Fit
Zoom Window Window Area
N/A – closet match are the Fence
Selection tools Window and Polygon
Hatch Pattern
2D Solid or Solid Hatch Solid Fill
Grips Selection Handles
Selection Window Fence or Selection INSIDE
or
Polygon Selection (PowerSelector)
Selection Fence Line Selection (PowerSelector)
Selection Crossing Fence or Selection OVERLAP
or
N/A Fence or Selection CLIP
EXCLUDE Window (Express Tools only) VOID
EXCLUDE Crossing (Express Tools only) VOID OVERLAP
N/A VOID CLIP
BYLAYER or BYBLOCK BYLEVEL or BYCELL
LEVEL 0 (zero) DEFAULT level
Modelspace (limited to one) Models
Layouts Sheets
N/A Drawings
3
How do “Graphics” Compare DWG  DGN

This table displays the comparable elements to objects found in AutoCAD and MicroStation.
Objects or Entities Elements
Layers Levels
Properties Attributes
Blocks or WBlocks Cells
Drawing File or Drawing Database Active Design File
Xrefs or Reference Files Reference Files
Prototype or Template File Seed File
Explode Drop
Current Active
Attributes Tags
Zoom Extents Fit Window
N/A – closet match is the Fence
Selection Window/Crossing
Hatch Pattern
2D Solid or Solid Hatch Solid Fill
Grips Selection Handles
Selection Window Fence or Selection INSIDE
or
Selection Fence Line Selection (PowerSelector)
Selection Crossing Fence or Selection OVERLAP
or
N/A Fence or Selection CLIP
EXCLUDE Window (Express Tools only) VOID
EXCLUDE Crossing (Express Tools only) VOID OVERLAP
N/A VOID CLIP
BYLAYER or BYBLOCK BYLEVEL or BYCELL
LEVEL 0 (zero) DEFAULT level
4
User Interface Similarities

Toolboxes, Toolbars and Ribbons
Frankly, these aren’t that different…isn’t everything “Windows-Like” anymore? Let’s take a look.
AUTOCAD CLASSIC: Draw and Modify Toolbars
AUTOCAD RIBBON: Draw and Modify Ribbon Panels
MICROSTATION: Draw and Modify Toolboxes
5
Different Similarities?
This section focuses on the areas of the interface that most affect the transitioning MicroStation user.
With the introduction of the “Windows-like” interface; most computer applications resemble each other
automatically. However, in AutoCAD there are some additional concepts that have been integrated into
this environment to simplify use.
For example, toolbars and fly-outs are similar in every windows application. Let’s look at some of the
“extra” features introduced by Autodesk.
Places Bar
The first difference is the functionality of the AutoCAD Places
Bar in the File Open, Save dialogs. Autodesk introduced several
versions ago the ability to control what “places” are saved in
this shortcut bar. You can add your favorite places to this bar
to quickly add your project folders for easy access. Similar to
the “directory history” available in MicroStation and
MicroStation Manager.
If you have a large amount of “favorite

places” to access you can also use the default
“Favorites” icon to store the shortcuts to your
“favorite places or projects”.
Open Options
Select Initial View
Use this option to open a DWG file to a specific named view. If you used saved views in MicroStation
you will “love” this option! It has recently been improved to save more settings than previous versions.
Be sure to check out both Named Views and this Open option.
Partial Open
You can open a DWG file normally or
you can “partially” open the DWG to
increase performance and large file
usability. Don’t worry you can add
additional “parts” of the file after it is
open using
File  Partial Load.
6
Main Tool Frame and Task Navigator

If you loved using your Main Tool Frame or the new Task Navigation then you might want to take a look
at the AutoCAD Ribbon. This most represents the same functionality in the AutoCAD interface.
Option 1
Use the new “ribbon” interface and dock it
vertically on either side of the screen rather
than horizontally at the top of the screen.
Option 2
Use the DRAW and MODIFY toolbars and dock
them. They don’t provide all the tools found in
the MicroStation MAIN; but they are a starting
place.
Option 3
Create a custom toolbar to replicate the
MicroStation MAIN tool frame. I personally
don’t recommend this direction; since it will
only “delay” your migration to the AutoCAD
environment. But if you have to be productive
immediately it might ease the transition
initially.
Command Line
The command line in AutoCAD is displayed by default but can be turned off for MicroStation users that
prefer to use buttons or pulldown menus. Just undock the command line and close it. You can use the
<CTRL+9> shortcut key to re-open the command line at any time. I also recommend using the DYNAMIC
INPUT command line option available in AutoCAD. You can use the buttons below to activate it.
Text Option on the status bar icons is no longer available in AutoCAD 2015-2016
7
AutoCAD commands are generally one or two characters in length. To use the dynamic input you need
to start typing the command without a command line and using the <TAB> key to “look up” unknown
commands. This feature is known as AUTO-COMPLETE.
For example, to access the LINE command key in <L> and <ENTER> to start
the command. If you key in <L> and then <TAB> you can look up all
commands that start with the letter “L”.
AutoCAD now automatically provides

AUTO-COMPLETE whenever you begin
typing a command.
Refer to the AutoCAD Key-in Commands section for additional AutoCAD key-in capabilities.
ESC to cancel
One AutoCAD shortcut that is extremely beneficial is the use of the ESC key to end a command.
8
Taming the Mouse

Zooming?
The zoom and pan functionality is very similar to that in MicroStation V8i. Users generally prefer to use
a wheel mouse to perform the zoom and pan commands.
 Roll the wheel mouse away from you (forward) to zoom in and towards you (backward) to zoom
out.
 Press the wheel mouse to access the PAN command. If you want to simulate the MicroStation
pan method; use the <CTRL+ Press Wheel> and move the cursor in the OPPOSITE direction as in
MicroStation. Yes, it is backwards from MicroStation; but you do get used to it eventually.
 <Double-Click> the wheel to access the ZOOM EXTENTS [FIT VIEW].
9
AutoCAD OSNAP MicroStation SNAP

ENDpoint Keypoint
MIDpoint Keypoint or Midpoint
CENter Keypoint or Center
NODe Keypoint
QUAdrant Keypoint
INTersection Intersection
EXTension Use AccuDraw’s Origin to simulate Extension
INSertion Origin
PERpendicular Perpendicular
N/A Perpendicular Point
TANgent Tangent
N/A Tangent Point
NEArest Nearest
APParent Intersection Intersection
PARallel Parallel
N/A Point Through
N/A Point On
Temporary Track Point Tentative Snap
AccuDraw (ORIGIN)
From Tentative Snap
AccuDraw (ORIGIN)
Midpoint between 2 Points AccuDraw (DIVIDE BY)
Point Filters Accudraw (SMART LOCK)
.X
.Y
.Z
.XY
.XZ
.YZ
3D Osnap Snap
Vertex Keypoint
Midpoint on Edge Keypoint
Center of Face Keypoint/Centere
Knot Keypoint
Perpendicular Perpendicular
Nearest to Face Keypoint
None None
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Precision OSnaps
AutoCAD snaps automatically work like AccuSnap in MicroStation. Remember, AccuSnap provides the
user with the ability to combine commonly used snap modes. This prevents the user from having to
change the snap modes during typical design session operations. It also provides on-screen feedback to
confirm accuracy during drawing and editing commands.
Similar to MicroStation, AutoCAD has two methods for setting OSNAP modes; SINGLE-SHOT [SINGLE-
SHOT] and RUNNING[MULTI-SNAPS]. Single-shot osnaps are available for one snap only; whereas
running osnaps are continuously available until turned off.
You can access the AutoCAD OSNAP settings using the following options.
Option 1
<Right-Click> on top of the OSNAP ICON in the drawing status bar to access the
individual snap modes; or the settings dialog. The settings dialog allows you to
define what running osnaps are defined at the same time. Be careful though,
more is not necessarily better!
The icon displayed next to each osnap mode represents the on-screen
feedback displayed when using each specific osnap mode.
Option 2
You can use the <SHIFT> + <Right-Click> to access the same menu options;
individual osnaps or the settings dialog.
There is no exact equal to the old “TENTATIVE SNAP” in AutoCAD, and
depending on how you used it in MicroStation you might want to
investigate OTRACK and TEMPORARY TRACK POINTS.
11
AutoCAD Key-in commands

It is common practice for an AutoCAD user to key in common commands instead of using the command
buttons or pull-down menus. These AutoCAD commands are defined in the file ACAD.PGP and can be
edited as needed.
If you are already using the new MicroStation position mapping shortcuts you
could define your favorites in the ACAD.PGP file to ease your transition! You can
access this file using Express  Tools  Command Alias Editor.
Get a Grip on Handles

Most MicroStation users do not commonly use the “handles” provided on elements to make editing
changes. However, that is not true with AutoCAD grips since they provide a very quick and easy way to
make simple editing changes to any object type.
If you “hover” on a grip, the tooltip will display what grip capabilities are available and the overall
dimensions of the object. If you select the grip it will become a “hot grip” and a series of command
options are available.
Use the <Right-Click> menu to select a command, or the command line <Spacebar> to toggle between
the “grip” commands; stretch, move, rotate, scale, or mirror.
You can customize the size and colors of grips

using the following settings.
Tools  Options  Selection Tab
12
Smarter Grips
AutoCAD 2012 introduced additional command functionality available when “hovering” on a grip. For
example, inserting a vertex in MicroStation has been easy for a long time using the INSERT VERTEX
command. Now AutoCAD supports the same capabilities (and a lot more) with the newly added GRIP
functions.
13
Selection Sets
There are several methods for selecting multiple objects for
editing and manipulation. MicroStation users that are familiar
with the Power Selection tools will be ready to go with
AutoCAD selection.
Individual Selection
Select objects individually to add them to a selection set. You can use the <SHIFT> key to remove any
object from the selection set.
Window Selection
This selection method is activated by dragging the cursor LEFT to RIGHT and is visually represented by a
solid line and a blue fill type. A window selection includes everything that falls INSIDE the selection
window.
Use the key in WP to activate a non-rectangular window shape.
Crossing Selection
This selection method is activated by dragging the cursor RIGHT to LEFT and is visually represented by a
dashed line and a green fill type. A crossing selection includes everything that falls INSIDE and
OVERLAPS the selection window.
Use the key in CP to activate a non-rectangular crossing shape.
A Fence by Another Name

AutoCAD does not provide the exact equivalent of the MicroStation Fence; but it does have a fence
which can be used during the selection set commands. It is available whenever the command line
prompts the user to SELECT OBJECTS. Just key in an “F” and you can select objects using the AutoCAD
FENCE[LINE] selection tool. This tool is equivalent to the MicroStation Power Selector LINE tool.
Anything that OVERLAPS the defined fence line is selected or de-selected.
Fence Selection
Specify the window points in a linear configuration and you will automatically get a fence selection
method that includes everything that OVERLAPS the selection fence.
Fence PowerSelect
This selection method is activated by drawing
a line through elements in the drawing and is Tool Settings:hod:
visually represented by a dashed line. Pick the Method Line.
Pick the Mode ADD.
14
Units and Angles

AutoCAD uses a single default unit and does not
breakdown the units into Master and Sub Units.
When you key in a distance value it can be
interpreted as either feet or inches depending on
the user preference. Units are only defined in
terms of Type and Precision in AutoCAD. You can
access these settings using Format  Units to
define the type of units and angles; and their
precision.
Clear Selection Set

Use the <ESC> key to clear any active selection set in AutoCAD.
Quick Select
Use the Quick Select tool to simulate the same functionality as found
with Select By Attributes in MicroStation. This tool can be found in
several places in AutoCAD.
Option 1
Access the Quick Select command using the default <Right-Click>
menu.
Option 2
Quick Select is also available from the Properties dialog to create or
“tweak” a selection set.
15
Locks
There are several locks available in AutoCAD to control layers, grids, units, etc. You can activate and
define these locks using various settings on the drawing status bar.
Snap Lock [Grid Lock]

The snap lock in AutoCAD is used to snap to grid and unit points. Snap lock is not the same as osnap and
does not snap to individual objects.
Grid Lock [Grid Lock]

The grid lock is used to snap to
defined grid points only.
Ortho and Polar

Lock [Axis Lock]
The ortho and polar settings are used to snap to specific angles while drawing in
AutoCAD. Ortho locks the angles to increments of “0” and “90”. Polar locks the angles
to increments
defined by the user
in the settings
dialog.
Unit Lock
Use the Polar and Polar spacing distance to define the unit lock. You
must use the Polar axis lock in conjunction with these settings to snap
to unit distances.
16
Association Lock
The use of associated objects is controlled by several different system variables and dialog settings
depending on the object type.
Dimensions – use the system variables DIMASSOC to control dimension association.
Hatch Patterns – use the system variable HPASSOC to control hatches and pattern fill association.
Layer Lock
Use the layer manager to lock layers as needed during the design process. Layer locking is not the same
in AutoCAD as it is in MicroStation; if fact, it is the opposite.
In MicroStation, if you lock a level you no longer have access to any other level; you are locked to that
level only.
In AutoCAD, if you lock a layer you no longer have access to that layer; it is locked from access.
17
Tool Settings
In MicroStation, you used the Tool Settings dialog to control all command options. In AutoCAD, this
functionality is available as <Right-Click> menu options, or key in options using the AutoCAD command
line.
For example, if you want to draw a POLYLINE [SMARTLINE] you can use the <Right-Click> menu to toggle
between straight lines and arcs during the drawing process.
STEP 1: Start the POLYLINE
[SMARTLINE] command.
STEP 2: Identify a start point

issuing a <Left-Click>
[data point].
STEP 3: <Right-Click> to access

the ARC option and draw
an arc object in the
polyline sequence.
If you use the command line in

AutoCAD you can use the following
steps to perform the same command
options
STEP 1: Start the POLYLINE
[SMARTLINE] command.
STEP 2: Identify a start point

issuing a <Left-Click>
[data point].
STEP 3: Key in A to access the ARC option and draw an arc object in the polyline sequence.
If you use dynamic input in AutoCAD you can use the

following steps to perform the same command options.
STEP 1: Start the POLYLINE [SMARTLINE]
command.
STEP 2: Identify a start point issuing a <Left-Click>

[data point].
STEP 3: Use the keyboard  to access the ARC

option and draw an arc object in the polyline
sequence.
18
Groups
Graphic groups are used by most MicroStation users and are available in AutoCAD; though
most AutoCAD users do not use this functionality because it wasn’t as easy to use.
However, now in AutoCAD 2012, you can use the same functionality and even assign the
same shortcut keys to perform the GROUP and UNGROUP commands.
STEP 1: Select the new GROUP command from the GROUPS

panel on the HOME ribbon.
STEP 2: Select the objects that you want to group together.
STEP 3: Select the new group to verify that it is all connected

into a single object.
STEP 4: Use the new UNGROUP command from the GROUPS panel to remove the group definition.
Use the shortcut keys <CTRL+SHIFT+A> to toggle group recognition on and off.
Purge [Compress]
Use the PURGE command to clean up your drawing files and maintain smaller more efficient file sizes.
You might need to run this command two or three times to get the full benefit of a purge if the file
contains many nested objects; or use the PURGE
NESTED ITEMS and PURGE ALL to insure that all
unused objects are purged from the file.
19
View Commands
Update View
You will probably use the mouse wheel to perform the majority of your view manipulation commands
such as zoom, pan and zoom extents. To update a view you must use the REGEN [UPDATE VIEW]
command to refresh the screen when needed. You can access this command from View  Regen or
View  Regen All.
Zoom Window [Window Area]

Use the Zoom Window command to perform a zoom to a specific drawing area. This is similar to the
Window Area command in MicroStation.
View Previous and View Next

AutoCAD does not differentiate between primary commands and view commands. So UNDO and REDO
will perform the MicroStation View Previous and View Next functions.
View command Comparison
Regen All Update View
Zoom Extents Fit View
UCS about Z with UCSFOLLOW ON Rotate View
Zoom Previous View Previous
Zoom Next View Next
Zoom to Objects N/A
N/A Copy View
3D Orbit Change View Perspective (3D only)
3D Orbit Clip/Live Sections Set Display Depth (3D only)
3D Orbit Clip/Live Sections Set Active Depth (3D only)
Live Sections Show Display Depth (3D only)
Live Sections Show Active Depth (3D only)
Camera Camera Settings (3D only)
3D Orbit Clip/Live Sections Clip Volume
3D Orbit Clip/Live Sections Clip Mask
View Attributes
The settings that control the view display and appearance are controlled using the following.
20
Tools  Options  Display  Window

Elements
Pick the COLORS button to define and
modify the colors of the view window
elements.
Select the interface element and modify
the color using the color drop down list.
Be careful on the color

picker; AutoCAD allows
you to set the view
elements to any color
choice and white on
white is pretty hard to
read!
Pick the FONTS button to define and

modify the fonts used by the view
window elements.
UCS Icon
Use the UCSICON system variable to turn on or off the coordinate system display icon.
0 No icon is displayed
1 On; the icon is displayed in the lower-left corner of the current
viewport or layout
2 Origin; if the icon is on, the icon is displayed at the UCS origin, if
possible
Grid
Use the GRID status bar button to turn the grid display on and off.
Lineweights
The display of lineweight in AutoCAD has been available for many years, even though the typical
AutoCAD user chooses not to use this feature. Use the LINEWEIGHT status bar button to turn the
lineweight display on or off.
21
Linestyles
Use the LTSCALE system variable to display the non-continuous linetypes in AutoCAD.
Plot or Annotation Scale LTSCALE
Full Size 1:1 0.375
3" = 1'-0" 1.5
1 1/2" = 1'-0" 3
1" = 1'-0" 4.5
3/4" = 1'-0" 6
1/2 = 1'-0" 9
3/8" = 1'-0" 12
1/4" = 1'-0" 18
3/16" = 1'-0" 24
1/8" = 1'-0" 36
1/16" = 1'-0" 72
PSLTSCALE
Use the PSLTSCALE system variable to control linetype scales in paperspace viewports.
0 No special linetype scaling. Linetype dash lengths are based on

the drawing units of the space (model or paper) in which the
objects were created. Scaled by the global LTSCALE factor.
1 Viewport scaling governs linetype scaling.
If TILEMODE is set to 0, dash lengths are based on paper space
drawing units, even for objects in model space. In this mode,
viewports can have varying magnifications, yet display linetypes
identically. For a specific linetype, the dash lengths of a line in a
viewport are the same as the dash lengths of a line in paper
space. You can still control the dash lengths with LTSCALE
MSLTSCALE
Use the MSLTSCALE system variable to scale linetypes automatically based on the active annotation scale displayed
on the model tab.
0 Linetypes displayed on the Model tab are not scaled by the

annotation scale
1 Linetypes displayed on the Model tab are scaled by the
annotation scale
22
Named Views
I often wonder why AutoCAD users don’t use named views more than they do. I consider this one of the
most overlooked tools in the AutoCAD arsenal.
So what are the differences between Named views and Saved views? The following is a list of what is
saved with each view type. MicroStation‘s saved views store more information than their counterparts
in AutoCAD. Saved Views can memorize window aspect ratios, size and position, camera position, view
attributes, clip volume, levels, and reference settings.
AutoCAD Named Views MicroStation Saved Views
Category – defines what Sheet Set category N/A
Location – defines which model or layout Window
Viewport – defines any viewport association N/A
Layers – defines what layer state is stored for both
Levels
the active file and all reference files.
UCS – defines what coordinate system to use Window
Perspective – defines if view is in perspective Camera
N/A View Attributes
N/A Clip Volume
Layer settings stored for reference files Reference Settings
View Rotation
Below is a list of predefined view orientation settings that are available by default.
AutoCAD Orientation Views MicroStation Orientation Views
Top Top
Bottom Bottom
Front Front
Back Back
Left Left
Right Right
Southwest Isometric Isometric
Southeast Isometric Right Isometric
Northwest Isometric Must be rotated manually
Northeast Isometric Must be rotated manually
3D Orbit Dynamic
Be sure to use the new View Cube to rotate to the desired view
orientation.
23
Visual Styles [Render View]

Use and define Visual Styles to view your 3D models in various shaded and rendered modes. You can
access these tools using Views  Visual Styles.
Persistant Commands
One of the hardest interface differences to get accustomed to is the lack of “persistant” commands in
AutoCAD. In MicroStation, when you select a primary command, it remains running until you select
another primary command. AutoCAD stops and starts commands at the end of each object creation.
There are a couple of options available to modify this if you find you can’t live with this behavior.
Option 1
If you are willing to adapt to the AutoCAD method for persistant commands, try using the <SPACEBAR>
to recall the previous command and to stop the current command. Placing your thumb on the spacebar
is an easy way to recall and stop commands in AutoCAD.
This is so handy I find myself trying to use the spacebar this way in MicroStation! So give it a try.
Option 2
You can customize many commands and make them “persistant” if you add an “*” (asterisk) as the first
character of the icon macros.
For example, the line command runs the following macro by default:
^C^C_line
You can change this to a “persistant” line command by changing the macro syntax to the following:
*^C^C_line
24
Reset Mouse Command

Miss your RESET command? You can get the same mouse functionality by modifying the Options 
User Preferences  Right-Click Customizations and turning ON the Time Sensitive Right Click option.
You may need to modify the settings in this dialog to “tweak” how the <Right-Click> actually works for
you.
25
Workspaces
The AutoCAD Workspace does not compare to the MicroStation Workspace. Don’t let the “language”
trip you up! The AutoCAD Workspace is most comparable to the User Preferences in MicroStation; and
the Task Navigation panels provided in the latest versions of MicroStation.
The AutoCAD Profile is the feature most similar in function to the MicroStation Workspace.
The AutoCAD Workspace

AutoCAD Workspaces manage a set of menus, toolbars, palettes, and ribbon control panels that are
grouped and organized to work in a task-oriented drawing environment.
When you use a workspace, only the menus, toolbars, and palettes that are relevant to the task are
displayed. In addition, a workspace may automatically display the ribbon, a special palette with task-
specific control panels.
The AutoCAD Profile

Profiles allow you to configure and manage support paths, resources and other settings within the
AutoCAD environment. Below are some of the settings most relevant to MicroStation users.
Menu: Tools  Options  Display Tab

Ribbon: Application Icon  Options
Window Elements
This section of the profile options allows you to define what windows items are visible in AutoCAD such
as the following:
 Display Scroll Bars = View Scroll Bars
 Display Drawing Status Bar = MicroStation Status Bar
 Use Large Buttons
 Show Tool Tips (Rollover Tips)
 Colors & Fonts = View background color and other item colors and fonts
Layout elements
This section allows you to change the appearance and access method for models and layouts; similar to
the design models and sheets in MicroStation.
 Display Layout and Model Tabs
 Display Paper Background
 Display Paper Shadow
 Create Viewport in new Layouts
Display Resolution
This section controls the display and resolution of objects in the AutoCAD file.
 Arc and Circle smoothness = controls the “jagged” appearance of curved objects
 I recommend you set this number higher than the default 1000; try 10000 but be aware of any
performance issues if your graphics card is not the best it can be!
26
Menu: Tools  Options  Open & Save Tab

Ribbon: Application Icon  Options  Open & Save Tab
File Safety Precautions
This section allows you to set automatic saves and backups for the drawing file.
 Automatic Save =
 Create backup copy with each save =
File Open
 Display Full path in Titlebar
Menu: Tools  Options  Plot and Publish Tab

Ribbon: Application Icon  Options  Plot and Publish Tab
Default Plot Settings

This section allows you to define your preferred default plotters, paper sizes, etc.
 Default Plot Device
 Last Successful Plot Settings
Plot Stamp Settings

These settings allow you to define plot stamp settings; but I recommend that you use the new field
objects to define your plot stamp in a border file.
Plot Style Table Settings

Plot Style Tables are equivalent to the plot configuration files (.PLT) used in MicroStation. They allow
you to define the final plot output appearance. Linetypes are defined in the drawing file using the
linetype definition file (.LIN).
Menu: Tools  Options  User Preferences Tab

Ribbon: Application Icon  Options  User Preferences Tab
Windows Standard Behavior

These settings allow you to customize your mouse <Double-Click> settings and your mouse <Right-
Click> settings.
 Double click editing = <Double-Click> on any object to edit
 <Right-Click> menus in drawing area = enables multiple <Right-Click> menus
 <Right-Click> Customizations = define and customize your preferences for using <Right-Click>
menus
27
Insertion Scale
This section controls the size or scale of blocks into a drawing file. This performs similar to the True
Scale options in MicroStation. If you have blocks that are defined in FEET and you want to insert them
into a drawing where the base unit is INCHES you should modify these settings accordingly. This
automatically scales the blocks as needed upon insertion.
Don’t forget to set this setting to your “DEFAULT” preference. You can change it
when needed.
Fields
These settings allow you to control the background “shading” on field objects; and when the fields
update automatically. I recommend that you leave the “shading” turned on so you can distinguish the
difference between text and fields.
Lineweight Settings
These settings allow you to control your “display lineweight” appearance; and does not necessarily have
anything to do with plotting lineweight. Lineweight at plot time is determined by the selected plot style
table. See the section on plotting for more on this topic.
Edit Scale List

These settings define your preferred
“annotation” scales; and plot scales.
Customize this list as needed and
simplify it for your environment.
You can use the

following command to
RESET the scale list.
SCALELISTEDIT
28
OTRACK [AccuDraw]
The introduction of OTRACK and POLAR tracking in AutoCAD provides a method for issuing graphical
“reference points” for precision input. These temporary reference points allow the user to input
coordinates or distances from existing objects similar to AccuDraw’s Reference Origin. Temporary
reference points are displayed on the screen as “blips” shown in the diagram below.
The AutoCAD user can

then use this “OTRACK blip” as a reference point for
precision input. The diagram shows how you can
reference an object endpoint and key in data referenced to
that location.
Direct Distance Entry

The introduction of Direct Distance entry
minimized the keyboard strokes required for
precision input in AutoCAD. The dynamic screen
feedback allows the user to easily “sketch” with
precision and is very similar to AccuDraw
feedback provided in MicroStation.
Heads-Up Design
The introduction of Heads-Up design in AutoCAD 2006 provides
another input alternative and displays feedback previously
displayed in the command line right on the cursor. This live
feedback provides input data for coordinates, lengths and
angles; similar to AccuDraw.
Coordinate Input
To draw a 2’- 6“ line starting at 0,0 use the following key-ins.
0,0 and 2.5’ (representing 2.5’)
or 2’6 (representing 2’- 6”)
or 30 (representing 30”)
29
Relative Input
To draw a 2’- 6“ line at 20 degrees, starting at 0,0 use the following key-ins.
0,0 and @2.5’,0 (representing 2.5’ in the X direction and 0 in the Y direction)
or @2’6,0 (representing 2’6” in the X direction and 0 in the Y direction)
or @30,0 (representing 30” in the X direction and 0 in the Y direction)
Polar Input
To draw a 2’- 6“ line at 20 degrees, starting at 0,0 use the following key-ins.
0,0 and @2.5’<20 (representing 2.5’ and 20 degrees)
or @2’6<20 (representing 2’- 6” and 20 degrees)
or @30<20 (representing 30” and 20 degrees)
30
Basic Draw Commands

LINE [LINE]
Use OTRACK and Direct Distance Entry to specify precision input to specify Length and Angle.
AutoCAD AutoCAD Hints
Use the SPACEBAR to not only recall the LINE

Line
command.
Line
Use an “extra” SPACEBAR to recall the last
point.
Home Draw Line
Command Options
Command Description
Close Use this option to close the line segments to
the first point on the line. Key in “C” to access
The CLOSE command option is implied and this option.
not noted in any menu.
Undo Use the UNDO and REDO commands to undo

while running the command. By default they
are transparent commands in AutoCAD.
Command Line
RC Menu
31
POLYLINE [SMARTLINE]
Use the Polyline command to draw “smartline-like” objects in AutoCAD.
Use the SPACEBAR to not only recall the PLINE

Polyline
command.
PLine
Use an “extra” SPACEBAR to recall the last point.
Home Draw Polyline
Line Command Options

Use the Polyline command with the Lines option which is equivalent to the MicroStation Segment
Type: Lines
Command Description
Halfwidth Use Halfwidth to simulate a “thick” lineweight
appearance on the screen. You can use normal
lineweight assigned as a property setting to get the
same appearance.
Length Use Direct Distance Entry to define specific line and
arc lengths and sizes.
Width Use width to simulate “thick” lineweight appearance
on the screen. You can use normal lineweight
assigned as a property setting to get the same
appearance.
Close Snap to the “first” point to close the polyline shape.
Undo Use the UNDO and REDO commands to undo while
running the command. By default they are
transparent commands in AutoCAD.
Arc Command Options
Use the Polyline command with the Arc option which is equivalent to the MicroStation Segment
Type: Arcs
Command Description
Angle Use Dynamic Input to define the arc angle.
Center Use OTRACK and Dynamic Input to define the
Center point of the arc segment
Close Snap to the “first” point to close the Polyline
shape.
Direction Using POLAR you can draw in any direction.
Line Use Direct Distance Entry to draw line segments.
32

Radius Use Dynamic Input to define the arc radius.
Second Pt Use this option to define the arc midpoint.
Command Line
RC Menu
Use the <CTRL> key to change the direction of an ARC or POLYARC.
33
CIRCLE [CIRCLE]
Use the circle command in AutoCAD along with the Tool Settings dialog to find matching command
options.
Circle
Circle
Home Draw  Circle
Command Options
Command Description
3P – Circle by 3 points Equivalent to the MicroStation Circle Method:
By Edge tool setting.
2P – Circle by 2 points Equivalent to the MicroStation Circle Method:
Diameter tool setting.
TTR – Circle by Tangent-Tangent-Radius Equivalent to the MicroStation Circle Method:
By Edge tool settings
+ Radius definition
+ Tangent Snap mode
Undo Use the UNDO and REDO commands to undo
while running the command. By default they
are transparent commands in AutoCAD.
Command Line
RC Menu
34
Basic Object Editing

COPY
The copy commands are primarily identical between AutoCAD and MicroStation.
Copy
COpy
Home Modify Copy
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint Identify the “copy from” point.
Displacement Identify the “copy to” point or key in the distance

and angle using direct distance entry.
mOde
Single Creates a single copy of selected objects and ends
the command
Multiple Overrides the Single mode setting. The COPY

command is set to repeat automatically for the
duration of the command.
Array Arranges a specified number of copies in a linear

array.
Number of Items to Array Specifies the number of items in the array,

including the original selection set.
Second Point Determines a distance and direction for the array

relative to the base point. By default, the first copy
in the array is positioned at the specified
displacement. The remaining copies are positioned
in a linear array beyond that point using the same
incremental displacement.
Fit Positions the final copy in the array at the specified

displacement. The other copies are fit in a linear
array between the original selection set and the
final copy.
35
MOVE
The move commands are primarily identical between AutoCAD and MicroStation.
Move
Move
Home Modify  Move
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint Identify the “move from” point.
Displacement Identify the “move to” point or key in the

distance and angle using direct distance entry.
Command Line
RC Menu
36
OFFSET [COPY PARALLEL]

This command is equivalent to the COPY PARALLEL command found in MicroStation.
These commands are functionally identical.

Offset
Offset The “make copy” option is automatic.
Home Modify  Offset
Command Options
Command Description
Distance Key in the offset distance
Through Use the T (Through) command option to
graphically define the offset distance.
Erase Use the E (erase) option if you want to offset
the original object.
Layer Use the L (Layer) option to create the new
offset object on a different layer than the
original.
Be sure to set the “new” layer current before
running the OFFSET command.
Basepoint Identify the “move from” point.
Displacement Identify the “move to” point or key in the

distance and angle using direct distance entry.
37

Command Line
RC Menu
Differences
There is no option to Chamfer or Fillet the corners during the offset command in AutoCAD.
38
SCALE
The Scale commands are functionally identical between AutoCAD and MicroStation.
Scale
SCale
Home Modify  Scale
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint Identify the “rotate about” point.
Rotation Angle Key in the rotation angle required.
Copy Use this option to rotate a copy rather than

Reference Use this option to define the rotation angle

using graphical input.
Command Line
RC Menu
Differences
There is no way to Scale About Center using the AutoCAD scale command.
39
ROTATE
The Rotate commands are functionally identical between AutoCAD and MicroStation
Rotate
ROtate
Home  Modify  Rotate
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint Identify the “rotate about” point.
Rotation Angle Key in the rotation angle required.
Copy Use this option to rotate a copy rather than

Reference Use this option to define the rotation angle

using graphical input.
Command Line
RC Menu
Differences
There is no way to Rotate About Center using the AutoCAD Rotate command.
40
MIRROR
The Mirror commands are functionally identical between AutoCAD and MicroStation.
The AutoCAD command does not distinguish

Mirror
between horizontal, vertical and about-a-line
axis definitions. This requires the user to
MIrror define two points for every mirror.
Home  Modify  Mirror The MIRRTEXT system variable in AutoCAD

controls how text is handled during a mirror
operation.
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint Identify the “mirror about” point.
Second Point Define the direction of the mirror axis
Erase Source Objects Use this option to remove the original

object(s) and keep just the mirror copy.
Command Line
RC Menu
41
ALIGN
The Align command is VERY different from the command found in MicroStation. The AutoCAD Align
command is intended primarily for 3D operations. It does work in 2D; just not what you will be
expecting. I hate to say it, but you will not be too happy with this one after using the simple alignment
available in MicroStation.
The Align command is buried in the 3D

operations of AutoCAD and many users don’t
even know it is there. It requires that you
ALign
define points on the objects to be aligned and
points to define the alignment axis.
Home  Modify  Align
Command Options
Command Description
One Pair of Points When you select only one source point and
destination point pair, the selected objects
move in 2D or 3D alignment from the source
point (1) to the destination point (2).
Two Pair of Points When you select two point pairs, you can
move, rotate, and scale the selected objects
in 2D or 3D to align with other objects.
Three Pair of Points When you select three point pairs, you can
move and rotate the selected objects in 3D to
align with other objects.
Command Line
42

RC Menu
Differences
The AutoCAD Align command is not an efficient way to align objects to a single axis. I recommend using
OTRACK and POLAR to align objects in AutoCAD about an axis.
43
ARRAY
The new Array command is actually better than what we had in MicroStation. It not only previews the
array with the actual objects but is also associated now in 2012. You will love this new enhancement to
the AutoCAD Array command.
The array results can be distributed in 2D or 3D. Way too cool!
Array
ARray
Home  Modify  Array
Command Options
Command Description
Rectangular Distributes object copies into any
combination of rows, columns, and
levels.
You can dynamically define the

opposite corner of the array in either
the positive or negative direction.
Basepoint Redefine the basepoint of the array.

Angle Define the angle of the array.
Count Define the number of items in the
array.
Number of Rows Define the number of Rows
Number of Columns Define the Row Spacing graphically
or with Direct Distance Entry.
Row Spacing Define the spacing between rows
dynamically using the cursor or with
Direct Distance Entry.
Column Spacing Define the spacing between columns
dynamically using the cursor or with
Direct Distance Entry.
Spacing Define the spacing between rows
and columns dynamically using the
cursor or with Direct Distance Entry.
ASsociative Toggles ON and OFF the associativity

of the array.
44

Levels Define the number and spacing of
levels (Z direction) in the array.
Command Line
Rectangle RC Menu
POlar Evenly distributes object copies in a

circular pattern around a center
point or axis of rotation.
Total number of items and angle to
fill
Angle to fill and angle between

items. You can graphically define
the angle to fill in AutoCAD.
The angle setting for a polar array is

a delta angle between items not
the entire polar angle to fill.
45

Center Point Define the center of the polar
array.
Basepoint Define the basepoint of the first
item.
Keypoint For associative arrays, defines a
valid constraint (or key point) on
the source objects to use as the
base point.
If you edit the source objects of the

resulting array, the base point of
the array remains coincident with
the key point of the source objects.
Axis of Rotation Specifies a custom axis of rotation

defined by two specified points in a
3D plane.
Angle Between Define the angle between items in
the polar array.
Fill Angle Define the angle between the first
and last object in the polar array.
Rotate Items Define if individual items rotate in
the array.
Command Line
46

Polar RC Menu
47
PAth Evenly distributes object copies along a

path or a portion of a path.
Number of Items Define the number of items along the
path.
Orientation Define the alignment of items to the
path.
2 Points Define two points to align the items with
the starting point of the path.
Normal Objects are aligned to be normal to the
starting point of the path.
Distance Between Items Define the distance between the items along
the path.
Divide Define the number of items along the
path using a division factor.
Total Define the total number of items along the
path.
Command Line
Path RC Menu
Differences
The most notable difference is the ability to graphically define most settings using the AutoCAD Array
dialog.
48
STRETCH
The STRETCH commands are identical in functionality if using the new STRETCH modification command
available in MicroStation.
You must use a crossing window to stretch

Stretch
objects in AutoCAD. All objects inside the
crossing window will be moved; similar to an
STRetch overlap fence operation in MicroStation
Home Modify  Stretch
Command Options
Command Description
Basepoint (Displacement) Define the basepoint or “stretch from” point
on an object.
Second Pt Define the “stretch to” point from an object.
Command Line
RC Menu
N/A
That's probably more than I have time for….but hopefully not

more that you wanted to know!
49
Thank you for your time!

Hope you enjoyed the session!
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GEN10264

Surviving the Transition from MicroStation to AutoCAD

AutoCAD for MicroStation Users

What’s NEW in AutoCAD for MicroStation Users?

Learn to Speak “THE” Language

How do “Graphics” Compare DWG  DGN

User Interface Similarities

AUTOCAD CLASSIC: Draw and Modify Toolbars

AUTOCAD RIBBON: Draw and Modify Ribbon Panels

MICROSTATION: Draw and Modify Toolboxes

If you have a large amount of “favorite

Main Tool Frame and Task Navigator

AutoCAD now automatically provides

Taming the Mouse

AutoCAD OSNAP MicroStation SNAP

AutoCAD Key-in commands

Get a Grip on Handles

You can customize the size and colors of grips

Use the key in WP to activate a non-rectangular window shape.

Use the key in CP to activate a non-rectangular crossing shape.

A Fence by Another Name

Pick the Mode ADD.

Units and Angles

Clear Selection Set

Snap Lock [Grid Lock]

Grid Lock [Grid Lock]

Ortho and Polar

STEP 2: Identify a start point

STEP 3: <Right-Click> to access

If you use the command line in

STEP 2: Identify a start point

If you use dynamic input in AutoCAD you can use the

STEP 2: Identify a start point issuing a <Left-Click>

STEP 3: Use the keyboard  to access the ARC

STEP 1: Select the new GROUP command from the GROUPS

STEP 2: Select the objects that you want to group together.

STEP 3: Select the new group to verify that it is all connected

Zoom Window [Window Area]

View Previous and View Next

View command Comparison

Tools  Options  Display  Window

Be careful on the color

Pick the FONTS button to define and

0 No special linetype scaling. Linetype dash lengths are based on

0 Linetypes displayed on the Model tab are not scaled by the

Visual Styles [Render View]

Reset Mouse Command

The AutoCAD Workspace

The AutoCAD Profile

Menu: Tools  Options  Display Tab

Menu: Tools  Options  Open & Save Tab

Menu: Tools  Options  Plot and Publish Tab

Default Plot Settings

Plot Stamp Settings

Plot Style Table Settings

Menu: Tools  Options  User Preferences Tab

Windows Standard Behavior

Edit Scale List

You can use the

The AutoCAD user can

Direct Distance Entry

Basic Draw Commands

Use the SPACEBAR to not only recall the LINE

Undo Use the UNDO and REDO commands to undo