Xref, Bind and Explode

[louis.64641]

I am trying to write a macro that would allow me to bind and explode and item onscreen without using the xref manager dialog box. My reasons for wanting to do this is for years now we have been customizing our pulldown menus to insert blocks but having made changes to the blocks if the blocks already exist within the drawing it automatically inserts the one within the drawing without asking to redifine it. I have determined the xrefs would be a better way to ensure the current updated block. But alot of times there are modifications to be made per the specific job so it would then need to be binded and then exploded. And i like any other draftman am looking for a shortcut

[Mike.Perry]

Hi

Please note I have *moved* this thread from the AutoCAD 2006 CUI Menus (http://forums.augi.com/forumdisplay.php?f=209) forum to this one, as I believe it will be better served here.

If you would like to use a different API please let me know, I will then happily move this thread to your chosen API forum.

Thanks, Mike

Forum Moderator

[Mike.Perry]

Hi

The following thread should help you get started...

Programmed folder bat file... Ready for issue.

Have a good one, Mike

[sinc]

I am trying to write a macro that would allow me to bind and explode and item onscreen without using the xref manager dialog box. My reasons for wanting to do this is for years now we have been customizing our pulldown menus to insert blocks but having made changes to the blocks if the blocks already exist within the drawing it automatically inserts the one within the drawing without asking to redifine it. I have determined the xrefs would be a better way to ensure the current updated block. But alot of times there are modifications to be made per the specific job so it would then need to be binded and then exploded. And i like any other draftman am looking for a shortcut

I suspect the path you are choosing is the beginning of a long and hard one. As you get into this task, I suspect you will discover lots of caveats and issues.

In general, Blocks and XREFs are not really interchangeable. There is some overlap in functionality, but generally one is distinctly better than the other in a given situation. So, using XREFs instead of Blocks doesn't strike me as a wise solution.

Instead, it seems like ending the practice of customizing your "standard" blocks would be better. For example, one option might be to create a copy of the block with a different name, and customize that copy, so that the "standard" one is still "standard". It also sounds like Dynamic Blocks might solve many of your issues.