2012

Enter Direct Distances
You can specify a point by moving the cursor to indicate a direction and then
entering the distance.
To specify a line length quickly, without entering coordinate values, you can
specify a point by moving the cursor to indicate a direction and then entering
the distance from the first point. You can enter calculated distances and points
using the AutoCAD LT calculator (CAL).
Both the CAL command and the QuickCalc calculator can be used
transparently to calculate distances and points for commands that require
input. For more information, see
Use the QuickCalc Calculator on page 529.
You can use direct distance entry to specify points for all commands requiring
more than one point. When Ortho mode or polar tracking is on, this method
is an efficient way to draw lines of specified length and direction, and to move
or copy objects.
NOTE The direct distance entry method is not available while you are using the
temporary override keys for Ortho mode, object snap tracking, or polar tracking.
See also:
■
Use Polar Tracking and PolarSnap on page 501
■ Lock an Angle for One Point (Angle) on page 506
To draw a line using direct distance entry
1 Click Home tab ➤ Draw panel ➤ Line.
2 Specify the first point and then, move the pointing device until the
rubber-band line extends at the same angle as the line you want to draw.
3 Enter a distance at the Command prompt.
The line is drawn at the length and angle you specified.
514 | Chapter 16 Use Precision Tools