Modifying Instance Properties

Use the Properties palette to modify the instance properties of

• the element you are about to place using a tool
• elements selected in the drawing area
• the active view

The content of the Properties palette varies according to the situation. If a tool is active, or one or more elements of the same type are selected, the Type Selector at the top of the palette identifies the currently selected family type.

In the following example, a single wall is selected.

In the following example, a single beam is selected.

In the following example, a single duct fitting is selected.

Immediately below the Type Selector is a filter that identifies the category of the elements a tool will place, or the category and number of elements selected in the drawing area. If multiple categories or types are selected, only the instance properties common to all display on the palette. When multiple categories are selected, use the filter’s drop-down to view the properties for a specific category.

If no tool for placing elements is active, and no elements are selected in the drawing area, the palette displays the instance properties of the active view.

The Properties palette displays both user-editable and read-only properties. To modify a user-editable property value, click it and either enter a new value, select one from a drop-down list, or select/clear a check box. For some properties, the value box contains a button that opens a dialog or browser window in which you define the desired value.

To commit a change you make to a property value, do any of the following:

• Move the cursor off the palette.
• Press Enter (twice if a new value is selected from a drop-down).
• Click Apply.

If making multiple changes, you can press Tab to move from one property to the next, or just click the next one you want to change. You can then use any of the methods listed above to commit all your changes at once.

To cancel changes before committing them, press Esc twice. Closing the palette also cancels your changes.

For specific information about the instance properties of a particular element, see the Help topic for that element type, for example, Wall Instance Properties.