How to Work with Attributes in BricsCAD
Quick answer: An attribute is text-based data saved as part of a block definition, useful for tracking things like part numbers and prices. Values can be fixed (added automatically on insertion) or variable (prompted for each time). Once inserted, attribute data can be extracted to a file and used to build a parts list or bill of materials.
What Attributes Are For
Fixed attribute values get added to the drawing automatically alongside the block; variable ones prompt you to supply a value each time you insert it. After inserting blocks with attributes, you can extract that information to a separate file and use it in a spreadsheet or database to produce a parts list or bill of materials, or simply to track how many times a particular block has been inserted into a drawing.
Visible vs Hidden Attributes
Hidden attributes neither display nor plot, but their information still gets stored in the drawing, and is still written out when you extract it, matching the Invisible flag behaviour covered on the attribute definition page.
The Attribute Commands
| Command | What it does |
|---|---|
ATTDEF |
Defines attributes through a dialog box |
-ATTDEF |
Defines attributes through the Command line |
ATTDISP |
Toggles the display of attribute text across the whole drawing |
ATTEDIT |
Edits attribute values and properties |
-ATTEXT |
Extracts attributes from drawings to data files through the Command line |
ATTREDEF |
Redefines a block and updates its associated attributes |
ATTSYNC |
Synchronizes attribute definitions across every block reference of a specified block definition |
BATTMAN |
The Block Attribute Manager: edits all aspects of attributes in a block definition, optionally applying the changes to every block of that same name in the drawing |
EATTEDIT |
Edits the attribute values and most properties within a single block |
General Workflow
- Define the attributes with
ATTDEF. - Create a block, including the attributes when prompted to select entities for the block definition. A block containing attributes prompts you every time it’s inserted, so you can specify different values for each insertion.
- Insert the block into a drawing.
- Optionally edit the attributes afterward.
- Extract the attribute information if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a fixed and a variable attribute value? A fixed value gets added to the drawing automatically with the block. A variable value prompts you to supply it fresh each time you insert that block.
Can I update an attribute across every instance of a block at once? Yes, BATTMAN can edit a block definition’s attributes and optionally apply those changes to every block of the same name throughout the drawing. ATTSYNC specifically synchronizes attribute definitions across every reference of a block.
Does a Hidden attribute’s data still get extracted to a file? Yes, hidden attributes aren’t displayed or plotted, but their information is still stored in the drawing and included when you extract attribute data.
What can I do with extracted attribute data? Use it in a spreadsheet or database to build a parts list or bill of materials, or to track how many times a specific block has been inserted into a drawing.