Write block to file dialog box

The Write Block to File dialog box allows you to write blocks and other drawing parts to a separate drawing file.



  1. Destination file
  2. Save Block
  3. Insert units
  4. Block Source
  5. Entities
  6. Options
  7. Base Point

Destination file

Specifies what the file should be named and where it should be saved.
  • Name and path: Specify the default path and file name (new block.dwg).

Save Block

Changes the path and file name. Opens the Save Block dialog box.

Insert units

Specifies the units to be used by the exported entities when they are later inserted into other drawings.

You can choose the measurement unit from the drop-down list.

Units are saved in the INSUNITS variable.

Block Source

Selects the part of the drawing to save to a new block:

  • Block: Saves a block from the drawing. This option is unavailable when no blocks exist in the drawing. When this option is selected, the other options become unavailable. You can choose from the drop-down list the name of a block you want to save.
  • Entire drawing: Saves the entire drawing to the file. When this option is selected, all other options become unavailable.
  • Entities: Saves entities that you select to the file.

Entities

When the Block Source is set to Entities, you are prompted at the Command line to choose one or more entities using any selection method.

Options

Specifies what to do with the selected entities after you click OK to close the dialog box:

  • Retain: Keeps the selected entities as they are; this is like copying the selection to a new drawing.
  • Convert to block: Converts the selected entities to a block in the current drawing.
  • Delete: Deletes the entities you had selected in the drawing; this is like moving the selection to a new drawing.
    Note: If the Delete option was set, the OOPS command brings back the erased block entities.

Base Point

Specifies the origin point of the saved entities in the new file. You can pick a point in the drawing or specify the X, Y, Z coordinates.