Topic Title

How do I add a 1:200 or 1:400 etc... scale to the Scale options.
The one I need is not currently listed on the sidebar.
I know you can only hold 18 at a time, I just don't know how to swap one for another.

Hi Eric,

In the Settings/Edit Defs/Scales list, hit the F3 Change!

Ok... so what is the scaling value for 1:400?

Thanks.

Never mind, I found it... .0020833

I might be wrong but I think you forgot a 0. I think the correct factor is .0002083 for 1:400

Another couple of questions...

What would the scale factor for 1:30 be?

Also, does DataCAD have the ability to do a "Scale To Fit".
Give a "window" and have the plot fit that window.

1:30 is .002777777

To figure out any other scales use: 1/12/(scale). this is easy for eng scales.
For arch scales like 3/8, it's the same but you have to divide the bottom number by the top and use that for the scale factor 3/8 = 2.666667 so, 1/12/2.66667 = .03125 for 3/8" scale. I don't have to this this much now that all my arch and eng defaults are set up so if someone wants to double check me thats great!

Scale Factors:
Scale Enlargement Inverse
3" 4 .25
1 1/2" 8 .0125
1" 12 .08333
3/4" 16 .0625
1/2" 24 .04167
3/8" 32 .03125
1/4" 48 .020833
3/16" 64 .015625
1/8" 96 .0104167
3/32" 128 .0078125
1/16" 192 .0052083

10' 120 .00833
20' 240 .0041667
30' 360 .002777
40' 480 .0020833
50' 600 .001667
60' 720 .0013888
70' 840 .00119
80' 960 .0010416
90' 1080 .00094
100' 1200 .00083

Hi Eric:

1" = 400' = 0.000208

1" = 30' = 0.002778

I did these on my Construction Master calculator 1"/400' = and 1"/30' = but to do them on a regular calculator you have to convert the units to make them the same. So either make the inch = 1/12' or multiply the feet X12 to make them inches; and then do the division.

Actually you don't need to do it on a calculator at all. For 1 to 400 just type =1/400/12 enter. The eaual sign tells DCAD you are doing a calculation then 1 is the numerator of the scale and 400 is the denominator and 12 is to convert it from feet to inches. The "/" signs are used for division, IOW 1 divided by 400 divided by 12. This will give you the scale factor and you can use it for any scale without picking up a calculator.

Great tip Paul! I’ve been using the calculator for years. I keep forgetting that DataCAD has that feature. Thanks.