32. MAKING MULTI-COLOURED DATABASE SYMBOLS in Standalone

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Did you know you can specify multi-coloured symbols for some database items? This feature has been available since IRRICAD Pro Version 10. All “point” database items may be displayed as multi-coloured symbols with the exception of outlets (including nozzles) which, being compound symbols, are inherently multi-coloured.

Instructions on the creation, and use, of multi-coloured database symbols are set out below.

1. Start a new design.

2. To maintain the correct relative sizing, with existing database symbols, it is important that the dimensions of your new symbols fit within a 100 x 100 inch square.

3. An easy way to maintain the correct size is to set your "Distance" units to inches (in Settings|Units ) and then draw a 100 x 100 inch rectangle. Now draw the items which will make up the symbol inside the rectangle in the colours required. The largest dimension of your symbol should be 100 inches.

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4. Delete the Rectangle drawn in Step 3.

5. Now highlight the items that you have drawn using Select Window.

6. Select Tools|Create Symbol and click the "Database" radio button.

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7. Click [OK].

8. When selecting your new symbol for the first time in the database editor click the browse button

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on the right-hand side of the "Plotting Symbol" field and select your new symbol.

9. Check "Use symbol colour(s)” and this database item will be displayed as your multi-coloured symbol in designs. Note that if you leave this field unchecked then the symbol will be displayed in the specified “Plotting Colour”.


Next time we will cover ways to maintain the correct symbol colours when exporting designs to DXF/DWG files.

We hope you have found this helpful. If you have a tip you would like to share, please email your tip to Support@IRRICAD.com