Dynamic input in “Autocad-like” program called AViCAD
What is Dynamic Input in AutoCAD?
Dynamic input allows users to enter commands near the cursor which is alternative method to using command line and dialog boxes.
It shows updated information as you work, and you can enter options and values in a text box. It’s like the Command prompt, but you can keep your focus on the drawing area.
The dynamic input also includes absolute and relative coordinate display, direct distance entry, angle and more using the input box.
Dynamic Input was first introduced in AutoCAD 2006. In earlier versions, users had to rely on a command line and toolbars making the process slower and less efficient. It’s also a feature you will find in our AutoCAD alternative as well.
In the video above we are using an AutoCAD alternative called AViCAD. Find out how AutoCAD-like, AViCAD realy is.
Dynamic Input is like an assistant, helping you learn commands
With dynamic input, not only can you see the values they are inputting in real-time, dynamic input also auto-completes commands as you type them in. Typically typing in only 2-3 letters will populate a a small list to choose from.
And heres a big plus: With dynamic input active, you can more easily learn keyboard commands used in AutoCAD. As you type in the first 1 to 3 letter of a command, they auto-type the remaining letters and offer other matching commands. As an example, typing tying “P” key will display the PAN command and then offer suggestions like PLOT and POINT which you can simply pick by using your mouse or arrow key if you’d like.
By using keyboard shortcuts, you can get your drawing done faster with fewer clicks. Additionally, dynamic input can also help you avoid errors as it can also perform calculations based on what you enter into the input or “tooltip” box.
How to quickly activate Dynamic Input
To activate the Dynamic Input in AutoCAD, you can either type DYNMODE and set to 1-3 (see below for what each do) or simply click on the Dynamic Input button located in the status bar at the bottom of the screen. You can also press the F12 key on their keyboard to toggle the DYNMODE on / off.
You will know when DYNMODE is active when the “tooltip” box appears next to the cursor. Additionally when you draw a line for example, you’ll get distance and angle values and the ability to tab into each box to specify their values.
In certain situations you may still need to use the Command window for some operations. If you need to enlarge the command area you can use the F2 key to toggle it on and off.
Dynamic Input settings and what they do
There are three different settings for DYNMODE in AutoCAD: on, off, and settings. When DYNMODE is set to on, dynamic input is enabled, and users can input commands and values directly at the cursor.
When DYNMODE is set to off, dynamic input is disabled, and users must rely on the command line for input. This setting is useful for users who prefer the traditional drafting method.
DYMODE settings 1, 2, and 3 are options in AutoCAD that control how the dynamic input feature works.
0. Dynamic Input features, such as dynamic prompts, are disabled
1. Pointer input is enabled
2. Dimensional input is enabled
3. Both pointer input and dimensional input are enabled
When using the Pointer input, the crosshair location is displayed in tool tip boxes. You can enter coordinates in the tooltip instead of the command line.
Dynamic prompts can also be displayed in the tooltip, allowing for responses to be typed there instead of on the command line. Options can be viewed and selected by pressing the Down Arrow key.”
Dynamic Mode Settings Menu in Drawing Settings (DS) dialog
How to adjust the size of Dynamic Input Box in AutoCAD
If the text in the Dynamic Input Box appears too small, you can change its size by following these steps:
1. Right-click on the Dynamic Input button or simply type DS for Drawing Settings and select “Dynamic Input Settings”
2. Click on the “Drafting Tooltip Appearance…” button shown in image above
3. Use the slider to increase or decrease the size of the box.
To summarize here are 3 good reasons to try Dynamic Input
1. Dynamic Input allows you to keep focus on your drawing area vs the toolbar and command line.
2. Dynamic Input provides real-time feedback on cursor movements and command inputs.
3. Dynamic Input allows you to learn commands in AutoCAD.
It’s like having drawing assistant helping you access hidden gems you may have never used!
