2011

POLARMODE
Controls settings for polar and object snap tracking.
TRACKPATH
Controls the display of polar and object snap tracking alignment paths.
Track to Offset Point Locations (Tracking)
You can use tracking to specify a point by offsetting vertically and horizontally
from a series of temporary points.
You can use the tracking method whenever you are prompted for a point.
Tracking uses the pointing device to specify a point by offsetting vertically
and horizontally from a series of temporary points. When you start tracking
and specify an initial reference point, the next reference point is constrained
to a path that extends vertically or horizontally from that point. The direction
of the offset is indicated by the rubber-band line. You change the direction
of the offset by moving the cursor through the reference point. You can track
as many points as you need. Typically, you use tracking in combination with
object snaps or direct distance entry.
For example, you can use tracking to find the center point of a rectangle
without using construction lines. Start tracking, and specify the midpoint of
a horizontal line. Drag the cursor vertically and specify the midpoint of a
vertical line (2). Press Enter to accept the point (3) at the center of the rectangle.
To use tracking to specify a point
1 Start a command, such as the LINE command.
2 Hold down Shift and right-click in the drawing area. Click Tracking.
3 Specify a point.
4 Move the cursor directly up, down, left, or right until you see the
rubber-band line.
The direction of movement affects the tracking direction. Notice that if
you move the cursor from left to right, you must then move it directly
over the last point specified in order to move it up or down.
5 Specify a second point.
6 Press Enter to end tracking.
The start point of the line snaps to the imaginary intersection of the
vertical and horizontal paths extending from the points you specified.
612 | Chapter 17 Use Precision Tools