COMMAND OF THE MONTH

Command of the Month: Array
by Ralph Grabowski

The purpose of the Array command is to make multiple copies of objects. Now, it is true that the Copy command can do that as well, but Array is for making copies precisely in rows, columns, matrix, and in circular patterns.

In addition to the Array command, you can also make copies in AutoCAD with the following commands (all operate at the command line):

-- The 3dArray command creates the objects in 3D space. The rectangular option arrays the objects in x, y, and z-directions (rows, columns, and levels), while the polar option creates the circular array at a specified angle in 3D space.
-- The Minsert command inserts a block as an array. Think of this command as -Insert command followed by the -Array command.
·-- The Copy command creates a single copy of one or more selected objects; when you use the M (multiple) option, the command allows you to place copies of the object(s) all over the drawing. Use object snap options to place the copies accurately.
·-- The Divide and Measure command places points or blocks along an object's perimeter. The difference between the two is that divide places a specified number, while measure places them a specified distance apart.

Tip: To make a block immune to the Explode command, insert it with the MInsert command, and set the number of rows and columns to 1.

Until recently, the Array command operated at the command prompt. As of AutoCAD 2000i and LT 98, the Array command displays a dialog box, while the -Array command does its work on the command line. (If you have used Array in any macros or programs, you'll need to add the hyphen prefix.)

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Command: Array and -Array
Purpose: Creates copies in a linear, array, or circular pattern; the Array command displays the Array dialog box; the -Array command displays prompts at the command line.
Notes: This command is available in AutoCAD 2000i and in AutoCAD LT since version 98.

Aliases: ar
Shortcut: Alt+MA
Menu bar: Modify | Array
Tablet menu: V18
Status bar: none
Toolbar: none

Related commands:
Copy Copies objects
Divide Places a specified number of points or blocks along an object's perimeter.
Measure Places points or blocks a specified distance along an object's perimeter.
Minsert Inserts a block as an array.

Related system variables:
SnapAng Determines the angle of a rectangular array.

Example command usage:
Command: array
(Displays the Array dialog box.)

1. Select the type of array: rectangular or polar.
2. Specify parameters, such as the number of rows and columns.
3. Click Select Objects to specify the objects to be arrayed.
4. Click OK to dismiss the dialog box. Notice that the objects are arrayed.

Commands from Previous Months