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Linetype Name
The linetype name field begins with an asterisk (*) and should provide a
unique, descriptive name for the linetype.
Description
The description of the linetype should help you visualize the linetype when
you edit the LIN file. The description is also displayed in the Linetype Manager
and in the Load or Reload Linetypes dialog box.
The description is optional and can include
■ A simple representation of the linetype pattern using ASCII text
■ An expanded description of the linetype
■ A comment such as "Use this linetype for hidden lines"
If you omit the description, do not insert a comma after the linetype name.
A description cannot exceed 47 characters.
Alignment Field (A)
The alignment field specifies the action for pattern alignment at the ends of
individual lines, circles, and arcs. Currently, AutoCAD for Mac supports only
A-type alignment, which guarantees that the endpoints of lines and arcs start
and stop with a dash.
For example, suppose you create a linetype called CENTRAL that displays the
repeating dash-dot sequence commonly used as a centerline. AutoCAD for
Mac adjusts the dash-dot sequence on an individual line so that dashes and
line endpoints coincide. The pattern fits the line so that at least half of the
first dash begins and ends the line. If necessary, the first and last dashes are
lengthened. If a line is too short to hold even one dash-dot sequence, AutoCAD
for Mac draws a continuous line between the endpoints. For arcs also, the
pattern is adjusted so that dashes are drawn at the endpoints. Circles do not
have endpoints, but AutoCAD for Mac adjusts the dash-dot sequence to provide
a reasonable display.
You must specify A-type alignment by entering a in the alignment field.
Simple Custom Linetypes | 21