To Create a Customized North Arrow

To use this procedure, you should be familiar with the AutoCAD Block Editor, the Block Authoring palettes, and AutoCAD attribute definitions.

To create a custom north arrow

  1. Create an AutoCAD block containing the graphical representation of the north arrow.

    Use the Block Editor to create the north arrow block.

    • Type BE at the command line to open the Block Editor.
    • Specify a name for the north arrow block.
    • Add any desired graphics or decorations.

  2. Define the rotation property.
    • On the Block Authoring Parameter Sets palette, click Rotation Set.

    • Right-click the resulting parameter and click Properties.

      You can also type PROPERTIES at the Command prompt.

    • In the Properties palette, under Property Labels, change the Rotation Set to Map.View.Rotation.

      AutoCAD Map 3D uses this parameter to calculate the angle of the north arrow.

    • To avoid displaying this property, under Misc in the Properties palette, change Show Properties to No.
    • To avoid displaying the grips for this property, change Number of Grips to 0.
  3. Save the block and close the Block Editor.