Chapter 7 Computer-Aided Drafting and Design 171
list information from the database about
each object. The Status command allows
you to identify the drawing limits and other
statistics, including the number of objects in
the drawing, the current drawing settings,
and the amount of free space on the drive
where the fi le is stored. The Time command
allows you to display the current date
and time, the drawing time in the current
session, and the date and time the drawing
was created.
Using Help System
Functions
As is the case with most types of computer
software programs, CAD software programs
generally include a Help system to provide
user help. In some cases, a printed User’s
Guide may accompany the software when
purchased. However, most CAD programs
include software-based and/or online Help
systems. The tools provided do not vary
much from those provided with other soft-
ware programs. The Help system in a CAD
program is typically accessed with the Help
command or by pressing the [F1] function
key. See Figure 7-19.
Typical CAD program Help systems
include listings of help topics, search func-
tions, and question-and-answer tools. These
features provide a number of ways to seek
answers to questions encountered while using
the software. The Help system, if used prop-
erly, can help the CAD drafter become much
more proficient in using the software.
A typical Help system is organized into
a series of documents called “guides” and
“references.” The typical documents avail-
able include a User’s Guide, a Command
Reference, a Driver and Peripheral Guide,
an Installation and License Guide, and a
Customization Guide. In addition, the Help
system typically includes an Index. The Index
is an alphabetized, detailed list of topics
related to the software and its use. When the
Index is active, the user can input a keyword
in a text box and automatically “jump” to the
related topic in the listing.
Additional features and functions are
normally available when using the Help
system. The Search function allows you to
input a term or topic to search for. The system
then conducts a search and produces a list
of help topics based on the specified term fi
or topic. The Favorites function allows you
to save a “favorite” or frequently used help
topic for quick reference at a future time. The
Ask function usually provides a link to more
in-depth or online help. For example, after
entering a help topic or question, you may
be directed to the software publisher’s Web
site, a technical support chat room, or a user’s
forum for users of the CAD program.
CAD File Management and
Storage Practices
File management plays a critical role in
organizing CAD projects. Once you start
working with CAD fi les, you will find it fi
necessary to set up an organization of storage
folders that permits quick retrieval. Establish
a system that makes it easy to locate fi les for
Figure 7-19 A typical CAD program Help system
provides a comprehensive resource for locating help
topics.