Special Edition Using AutoCAD® 2000

Using a Link Template to Link Objects to a Database

Before any linking can take place, a link template must be created. A link template determines the location of the table and the field you want as the key column. The key column, or index column, defines each row in the table with an individual number or indicator specifically used to relate to data in that row.

Unlike attributes assigned to blocks, the advantage of linking drawing objects to an external database is that the data can be edited outside of AutoCAD. For example, suppose you have linked all door blocks in a drawing to an external database. Information linked to these blocks, such as manufacturer or fire rating, can be edited as often as needed without opening AutoCAD. If this information ...