Understanding PICKADD, TRIMEXTENDMODE and the SYSVARMONITOR Command

PICKADD, TRIMEXTENDMODE, and SYSVARMONITOR 

System variables in LusoCAD are values that control command settings, interface behaviour and user options. Some system variables are stored within the drawing file, while others are stored in the Windows registry. In this article, you'll learn how to redefine important system variables to maximise your efficiency when using LusoCAD. After gaining an understanding, we'll review the System Variable Monitor and System Variable Editor to help us manage and maintain a standardised approach to your software workflow.

In this tutorialIn this article, we'll explore the PICKADD and TRIMEXTENDMODE system variables, which control the selection modes and cut/extend behaviour in your CAD model view. We'll also cover the SYSVARMONITOR command, a useful tool for managing system variables and receiving change notifications. These tools are essential for customising your CAD environment and ensuring optimum performance.

Exploring Selection Modes with PICKADD

The PICKADD system variable determines how objects are selected in your CAD environment. It offers three distinct modes, each influencing the selection behaviour. By understanding these modes, you can optimise your workflow and improve efficiency.

• PICKADD = 2 (Default): This is the default selection mode. You can select multiple objects individually, and they will remain selected until you deselect them. This mode is ideal for building complex selections.
• PICKADD = 0: In this mode, you can only select one object at a time. Selecting a new object will automatically deselect the previously selected object, unless you hold down the Shift key while selecting. This is useful when you need to focus on individual elements.
• PICKADD = 1: This mode is similar to PICKADD = 2, allowing multiple selections. However, by using a selection command and pressing Enter to complete it, the selected objects will automatically be deselected. This can be useful for quick, temporary selections.

Understanding Trim/Extend Modes with TRIMEXTENDMODE

The TRIMEXTENDMODE system variable controls the behaviour of the TRIM and EXTEND commands, allowing you to choose between "Fast" and "Standard" modes. This setting affects how you interact with these fundamental editing tools.

• TRIMEXTENDMODE = 1 (Quick Mode - Standard): In Quick mode, all the objects in your drawing automatically serve as potential cut or extend boundaries. You can directly cut or extend lines without explicitly selecting the boundaries first. This optimises the process for many common editing tasks.
• TRIMEXTENDMODE = 0 (Standard Mode): In Standard mode, you must first select the cutting edges or boundaries before using the TRIM or EXTEND commands. This mode provides more control and is similar to the way these commands worked in older versions of CAD software.

Managing System Variables with SYSVARMONITOR

The SYSVARMONITOR command is a powerful tool for managing and monitoring system variables within your CAD software. It provides a centralised interface for tracking changes and ensuring that your preferred settings are maintained.

Access SYSVARMONITOR: Simply type SYSVARMONITOR in the command line and press Enter. This will open the System Variable Monitor window.

• List of Variables Monitored: The window displays a list of system variables to be monitored.
• Notifications: You can activate notifications to alert you when a monitored variable changes from its preferred value. This helps you quickly identify and correct unintentional setting changes.
• Edit the list: The "Edit List" option allows you to add or remove system variables from the monitored list, adapting it to your specific needs.