SQOTD: Resolving Multiple XREFS

Q - Is there a lisp program available to redirect the saved path for xrefs when the directory changes on the network? (e.g. xrefs once located in N:\Drawings\Building\ are now found in P:\Eng\Shared\Drawings\). Looking for a better way than to doing them all manually for every drawing that gets opened.

A - There's an even better way than using a LISP routine.

There is a little-known utility that has come with AutoCAD for years that will do just what you are looking for. Look for a file named ADREFMAN.exe. This should be located in your AutoCAD folder: C:\Program Files\AutoCAD Civil 3D 200X\

[If you can't find AdRefMan.exe, look on your install DVD.]

When the manager is open, click Add Drawings. Browse to the folder where your drawings are now stored and select as many as you need.

Next, AutoCAD will ask you if you want to "Add Xrefs regardless of nesting level" or "Add only first level Xrefs". Most people should choose Add only first level Xrefs.

The manager will show you any DWG's, Images, Plot Styles or Fonts it thinks you need.

On the right hand side of the box, expand By Reference and highlight the XREFS to narrow down the listing.

Using your shift key, multi-select the unresolved XREF drawings on the right. Click Find and Replace .

Replace the old path with the new, then click Replace All.

[In this example, all of my path types were set to Relative when I created the references, therefore I am seeing just a period (.) instead of a full path for my saved path.]

Click Apply Changes at the top of the window to save the results.

You should be ready to keep working!