Retrieving a symbol file (*.sym) from the library

Symbols library

To retrieve a symbol file (*.sym)

1. Open the Symbols library in one of the following ways:
   • Select the Library palette and open the Symbols folder.
2. Open the Symbol file folder or an appropriate subfolder.
3. Select a symbol file (*.sym)
4. Double-click the preview or drag the symbol into the workspace.
5. Place the symbol.
   A number of tools are provided in the input options to help you place SmartParts.

Tip: Each symbol is placed as an entity group. You can address an entity group as a whole by clicking one of the elements in the group with the middle and then left mouse button. Alternatively, press and hold down the SHIFT key. This selection option is especially useful for complex symbols or symbols consisting of smart symbols as it selects visible as well as invisible elements and foils.

An entity group is a group of elements which can be addressed as a whole. Polylines constructed in one step, for example, or symbols are entity groups. A group can be addressed as a whole by clicking one of the elements in the group with the middle and then left mouse button. Alternatively, press and hold down the SHIFT key and then click the element with the left mouse button. Elements can be combined into an entity group even while being created (with the Assign Group Number tool) or later (with the Modify Format Properties tool).

Tip: Place the symbols on a separate drawing file or layer – this way, you can quickly hide them all when necessary (when changing the scale, for example).

Note: You can use New symbol and Save Copy as... (How) to create symbol files (*.sym) in the Symbol file folder of the Library palette.

Activate Save Copy As... in one of the following ways

• Menu bar: File