2004

Table Of Contents
728 | Chapter 26 Access External Databases
Overview of Using AutoCAD with External
Databases
When you link database records to graphical objects in a drawing, you can
use powerful database queries to filter and sort information. You can present
the results of a query graphically.
A database is a collection of logically related information, usually presented
in a table format similar to a typical spreadsheet. The table below is an exam-
ple of a simple database that might be used by a Facilities department to
schedule maintenance work. It consists of four columns, or fields, labeled
Maintenance task, Estimated hours, Frequency, and Assigned to. Individual
fields, or cells, store data for a particular variable. Individual rows within the
table are called records.
Most database systems are extremely flexible and can be easily modified. You
can add new fields or remove existing ones from tables. Likewise, you can
add or delete records from tables and edit existing records. With many data-
bases you can also define relationships between multiple tables. For example,
suppose you have two tables that share a common field, Room ID. Using a
relational database, you can join these two tables using their common field.
You don’t have to maintain and input duplicate data across multiple tables.
You can use AutoCAD to associate data contained in an external database
table with AutoCAD graphical objects through the process of linking. Links
are pointers to a database table that reference data from one or more records
in that table. You can also use AutoCAD to attach labels that display data
from selected table fields as text objects in your drawing.
Maintenance database table
Maintenance
task
Estimated
hours Frequency Assigned to
ELEVATOR SRV 3.5 QUARTERLY RON SMITH
CARPET VAC 5.25 WEEKLY VICKI ROBERTS
A/C CHECK 2.00 BIWEEKLY AMY REED
AIR FILTER 3.00 MONTHLY DAT TAN