FRAMECAD Steelwise

Reference Guide
Disclaimer
This document has been published for the purpose of providing information of a general nature
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Further, no guarantee, warranty, or any other form of assurance is given as to the accuracy,
currency or completeness of the information provided.
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Copyright 2025 FRAMECAD Limited.

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Contents
Disclaimer............................................................................................... i
Intellectual Property Notice.................................................................... i
Confidentiality ........................................................................................ i
Contents ................................................................................................ ii
1 Introduction ................................................................................... 12
2 Setting Commands.......................................................................... 13
2.1 BSET – Border Setup ............................................................................ 13
2.1.1 Layouts Tab............................................................................................................. 13
[Link] Client Options: ....................................................................................................... 13
[Link] Sheet Options ........................................................................................................ 14
2.1.2 Engineering Tab ....................................................................................................... 15
[Link] Various Tools ......................................................................................................... 15
2.1.3 Options Tab ............................................................................................................. 16
[Link] Design Codes ......................................................................................................... 16
[Link] Loading Earthquake Code ........................................................................................ 17
[Link] Design Options....................................................................................................... 17
[Link] Drawing Options .................................................................................................... 17
[Link] Dimension Options ................................................................................................. 17
[Link] 3D Colour Options .................................................................................................. 18
[Link] Layer Names ......................................................................................................... 18
[Link] Reference Options .................................................................................................. 18
[Link] Gridline Options ..................................................................................................... 19
[Link] Export Options ..................................................................................................... 19
[Link] Folder Settings Information.................................................................................... 20
2.2 JSET - Floor Settings ............................................................................ 20
2.2.1 Layouts Tab............................................................................................................. 21
[Link] Member Information ............................................................................................... 21
[Link] Layout Information ................................................................................................. 22
[Link] Applied Loads ........................................................................................................ 24
[Link] Ceiling Battens Information ..................................................................................... 25
[Link] Creation Options .................................................................................................... 25
[Link] Report Options ....................................................................................................... 25
[Link] Labelling Options Information .................................................................................. 26
2.2.2 Options Tab ............................................................................................................. 26

2.3 PSET - Panel Settings ........................................................................... 26

2.3.1 Panels Tab .............................................................................................................. 27
[Link] Panel Information ................................................................................................... 27
[Link] Panel Widths and Lengths ....................................................................................... 27
[Link] Opening Options .................................................................................................... 28
[Link] Integrity Check Option ............................................................................................ 29
[Link] Brace Panel Information .......................................................................................... 29
[Link] Panel Options ........................................................................................................ 29
[Link] Brick Gauge Options ............................................................................................... 31
2.3.2 Openings Tab .......................................................................................................... 32
[Link] Common Setting Information ................................................................................... 32

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 2.3.3 Options Tab ............................................................................................................. 32
[Link] Ceiling Panel Options Information ............................................................................. 32
[Link] Stud Array Options Information................................................................................ 32
[Link] Notch Settings ....................................................................................................... 33
[Link] Labelling Option Information .................................................................................... 33
[Link] Folder Settings Information ..................................................................................... 34
[Link] Detail Sheet Options ............................................................................................... 34
2.4 TSET - Truss Settings ........................................................................... 34
2.4.1 Layout Tab .............................................................................................................. 34
[Link] Layout Options....................................................................................................... 34
[Link] Truss Spacings ....................................................................................................... 42
[Link] Truss Spacings Types.............................................................................................. 43
[Link] Truss Directions ..................................................................................................... 43
[Link] Loads.................................................................................................................... 44
[Link] Batten Spacings ..................................................................................................... 44
[Link] Roof Batten Settings ............................................................................................... 44
[Link] Ceiling Batten Settings ............................................................................................ 45
[Link] Valley Supports ...................................................................................................... 45
[Link] Solar Panels ......................................................................................................... 46
[Link] Roof Panel Options................................................................................................ 46
2.4.2 Options Tab ............................................................................................................. 46
[Link] Height Split Options ................................................................................................ 46
[Link] Report Options ....................................................................................................... 46
[Link] Detail Sheet Options ............................................................................................... 46
[Link] Dimension Options ................................................................................................. 47
3 General Commands ......................................................................... 48
3.1 ADD – Border...................................................................................... 48
3.2 ADD – Wall ......................................................................................... 48
3.3 ADD – Beam ....................................................................................... 51
3.4 ADD – Post ......................................................................................... 52
3.5 ADD – Opening ................................................................................... 53
3.6 ADD – Joist......................................................................................... 54
3.7 ADD – Truss ....................................................................................... 54
3.8 ADD – Truss/Joist/Wall Members ............................................................ 55
3.9 C3D – Copy to Model ............................................................................ 56
3.10 CB – Clear Border ........................................................................... 56
3.11 CC – Copy Posts ............................................................................. 57
3.12 CSL - Create Support Line ................................................................ 57
3.13 CTH - Convert to Hexagonal End ....................................................... 58
3.14 CTR – Centered .............................................................................. 58
3.15 CV - Copy View .............................................................................. 59
3.16 DET - Detail/Frame Builder............................................................... 59
3.17 DO_ONCE - Reset CAD Environment .................................................. 60

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3.18 ET - Explicit Tool Input .................................................................... 60
3.19 FFIND - Find Item........................................................................... 63
3.20 GL – Gridline ................................................................................. 64
3.21 IC – Integrity Check........................................................................ 65
3.22 ID – Insert Detail ........................................................................... 68
3.23 LA – Label All ................................................................................. 69
3.24 LI – List Item ................................................................................. 69
3.24.1 Bath Editor .............................................................................................................. 71
3.24.2 Beam Editor ............................................................................................................ 71
3.24.3 Brace Editor ............................................................................................................ 72
3.24.4 Fixings Details ......................................................................................................... 72
3.24.5 Floor Member Editor (Webbed Joist) ........................................................................... 73
3.24.6 Gridline Editor.......................................................................................................... 77
3.24.7 Layout Title ............................................................................................................. 77
3.24.8 Opening Editor ......................................................................................................... 78
3.24.9 Post Editor .............................................................................................................. 80
3.24.10 Panel Properties Editor ............................................................................................ 81
3.24.11 Reference Point Editor............................................................................................. 90
3.24.12 Section Marker Editor ............................................................................................. 91
3.24.13 Smart Panel Editor ................................................................................................. 91
3.24.14 Stick Editor (v11.1 onwards only) – previously Member Editor ..................................... 91
3.24.15 Stud Editor ............................................................................................................ 91
3.24.16 Tool Action Editor ................................................................................................... 92
3.24.17 Truss Editor ........................................................................................................... 92

3.25 MV – Move View ............................................................................. 95

3.26 QT – Quick Text Input ..................................................................... 95
3.27 REF – Reference Point Input ............................................................. 96
3.28 RESETALL – Reset Registry .............................................................. 97
3.29 REV – Revision Cloud ...................................................................... 98
3.30 SECT – Section Properties and Capacities ........................................... 98
3.31 SETREF – Set 3D Marker in Model Space ............................................ 98
3.32 SHOW – Show Start End of Entities and Show Engineering Failures ........ 99
3.33 SL – Code Support Line ................................................................. 100
3.34 SN – Cursor Snap Angle at 45° ....................................................... 100
3.35 SP – Spool Print ........................................................................... 100
3.36 SS – Steel Profiles ........................................................................ 101

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 3.37 TCNC – Text/Lines to CNC.............................................................. 101
3.38 VER – Software Version ................................................................. 102
4 Exports ......................................................................................... 105
4.1 ACNC – Common CNC Export .............................................................. 105
4.2 CNC - Common CNC Export ................................................................. 105
4.3 IFC - IFC Export ................................................................................ 105
4.4 PDF - PDF Export ............................................................................... 107
4.5 RFY – Machine File Export ................................................................... 108
5 Wall Framing Commands .............................................................. 111
5.1 Defined Door Input Commands ............................................................ 111
5.2 LP - Load Path................................................................................... 111
5.3 PAB - Auto Break Panel....................................................................... 112
5.4 PBN - Bath Noggin ............................................................................. 112
5.5 PBS - Build Studs .............................................................................. 113
5.6 PCB - Calculate Bracing ...................................................................... 113
5.7 PD - Wall Input (Panel Draw) ............................................................... 116
5.8 PFB - Opening to Fit Brick ................................................................... 117
5.9 PIB - Insert Brace .............................................................................. 117
5.10 PLB - Lap Beam............................................................................ 119
5.11 PN - Panel Notch .......................................................................... 119
5.12 PPD - Panel Builder ....................................................................... 121
5.13 PPD - Panel Builder (Silent) ............................................................ 122
5.14 PRA - Rake Panel .......................................................................... 122
5.15 PRP – Panel Reaction Plan .............................................................. 122
5.16 PSA - Stud Array Input .................................................................. 123
5.17 PSC - Stud Array Copy .................................................................. 125
5.18 PSN - Special Noggin Input ............................................................ 125
5.19 PST – Panel Stacks ....................................................................... 126
5.20 PUA - Update Panels ..................................................................... 128
5.21 SB - Show Brick ........................................................................... 128
5.22 SH - Show Heights........................................................................ 129
6 Truss Commands .......................................................................... 131
6.1 BG - Box Gutter ................................................................................ 131
6.2 CM - Code Member ............................................................................ 131

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 6.3 CRL - Create Roof Lines ...................................................................... 131
6.4 RCR - Copy Roof ................................................................................ 134
6.5 RL - Code Roof Line ........................................................................... 135
6.6 RS - Roof Shape Input ........................................................................ 136
6.7 TC – Truss Connections ...................................................................... 139
6.8 TD - Truss Layout Input ...................................................................... 140
6.9 TOA - Truss Accessories Report ............................................................ 141
6.10 TPL - Add Truss Point Load ............................................................. 141
6.11 TRE - Rebuild Eaves ...................................................................... 142
6.12 TS – Solar Panel ........................................................................... 142
6.13 TTD - Truss Builder ....................................................................... 143
6.14 -TTD - Truss Builder (Silent)........................................................... 147
6.15 TUA - Update Truss Engineering ...................................................... 147
6.16 TUP - Truss Uplift Plan ................................................................... 148
7 Floor Commands ........................................................................... 149
7.1 FD - Draw Floor ................................................................................. 149
7.2 FR – Floor Recess .............................................................................. 149
7.3 FSD - Floor Sheet Input ...................................................................... 150
7.4 JD - Joist Layout Input ....................................................................... 150
7.5 JJD - Floor Joist Builder ...................................................................... 151
7.6 JSV - Floor Section View ..................................................................... 152
7.7 Under Floor Pier ................................................................................ 152
7.8 Under Floor Post ................................................................................ 152
8 Smart Panel Commands ................................................................ 153
8.1 SC – Smart Ceiling Panel Input ............................................................ 153
8.2 SR – Smart Roof Panel Input ............................................................... 155
8.3 SF – Smart Floor Panel Input ............................................................... 155
8.4 SPD – Smart Panel Builder .................................................................. 156
9 Editing Commands ........................................................................ 157
9.1 AS - Add Support............................................................................... 157
9.2 BM - Box Member .............................................................................. 157
9.3 C - Copy Member............................................................................... 158
9.4 IP - Inherit Properties ......................................................................... 158
9.5 IW - Insert Web ................................................................................ 159

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 9.6 M - Move .......................................................................................... 160
9.7 MB - Break Member ........................................................................... 160
9.8 MC - Cut Member .............................................................................. 161
9.9 MD – Member Divide .......................................................................... 163
9.10 ME - Extend Member ..................................................................... 163
9.11 MF - Fillet Member ........................................................................ 163
9.12 MI - Mirror .................................................................................. 164
9.13 MJ - Join Members ........................................................................ 165
9.14 ML - Lengthen .............................................................................. 165
9.15 MO - Offset Member...................................................................... 166
9.16 MP – Match Properties ................................................................... 166
9.17 MR - Reverse Member ................................................................... 166
9.18 MU - Update Member (Previously MS – Member Resquare) .................. 167
9.19 MX - Trim Crossing Members .......................................................... 167
9.20 RF - Reverse Frame ...................................................................... 168
9.21 SE - Special Erase ........................................................................ 168
9.22 STRIP - Strip Entity Property Intelligence ......................................... 168
10 Dimension Commands ............................................................... 170
10.1 DA - Aligned Dimension ................................................................. 170
10.2 DH - Horizontal Dimension ............................................................. 170
10.3 DL - Line Dimension ...................................................................... 170
10.4 DM - Dimension Members .............................................................. 171
10.5 DO - Ordinate Dimension ............................................................... 171
10.6 DV - Vertical Dimension ................................................................. 172
11 Report Commands ..................................................................... 174
11.1 JOA – On Page Joist Accessories Report ........................................... 174
11.2 OR - On Page Summary................................................................. 174
11.3 POA – On Page Panel Accessories Report .......................................... 175
11.4 POB - On Page Beam Report .......................................................... 175
11.5 POO - On Page Opening Report ....................................................... 176
11.6 POP - On Page Post Report ............................................................. 176
11.7 POS - On Page Panel Report ........................................................... 176
11.8 RA – On Page Roof Area Report ...................................................... 177
11.9 REP - Report ................................................................................ 177

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 11.10 TOA – On Page Truss Accessories Report .......................................... 178
11.11 TOS – On Page Truss Summary ...................................................... 179
11.12 SUM – Report Summary ................................................................ 179
12 Viewing Commands ................................................................... 181
12.1 A3D (or 3D) - Full Layout 3D .......................................................... 181
12.2 J3D - Floor Joist 3D ...................................................................... 182
12.3 P3D - Panel 3D............................................................................. 183
12.4 R3D – Roof Plane 3D ..................................................................... 183
12.5 T3D - Truss 3D ............................................................................ 184
12.6 S3D – Smart Panel 3D................................................................... 184
12.7 TEMPHIDE ................................................................................... 185
12.8 V - Go to View… ........................................................................... 185
12.9 VM - Make View ........................................................................... 186
12.10 VR - Restore View......................................................................... 187
12.11 VV - View Next ............................................................................. 187
12.12 VV - Next 3D View ........................................................................ 187
12.13 VVD – 3D Views ........................................................................... 188
12.14 X - View Previous ......................................................................... 188
12.15 ZZ - Layout/Detailing Space Toggle ................................................. 189
13 Layer Commands ....................................................................... 190
13.1 CL - Copy Layer ........................................................................... 190
13.2 IL - Isolate Layer .......................................................................... 190
13.3 LC - Current Layer ........................................................................ 190
13.4 LE - Erase Layer ........................................................................... 191
13.5 LF - Freeze Layer.......................................................................... 191
13.6 LS - Show All Layers ..................................................................... 192
13.7 LT - Toggle Temporary Layer On/Off ................................................ 192
13.8 LX - Add Layer ............................................................................. 193
13.9 VC - Visual Controls ...................................................................... 193
14 How To’s (and other general information) ................................ 195
14.1 General....................................................................................... 195
14.1.1 RESETALL ............................................................................................................. 195
14.1.2 A3D - Frames Not Lining Up .................................................................................... 195
14.1.3 Aliases – How to Resolve Missing Alias Commands ..................................................... 195

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 14.1.4 Command Bar Display ............................................................................................ 195
14.1.5 Copy .................................................................................................................... 195
14.1.6 Create a Custom Border .......................................................................................... 195
14.1.7 Data File Updates ................................................................................................... 196
14.1.8 ELEVATIONLINE Command Not Recognised ............................................................... 196
14.1.9 Export .................................................................................................................. 197
[Link] Export As… ........................................................................................................ 197
[Link] Nexa Upload ...................................................................................................... 197
[Link] RFY Export ......................................................................................................... 197
[Link] PDF Export ........................................................................................................ 197
[Link] CNC Export ........................................................................................................ 197
[Link] ACNC Export All .................................................................................................. 197
[Link] VRML Export ...................................................................................................... 197
[Link] IFC Export ......................................................................................................... 197
[Link] STP Export ......................................................................................................... 198
14.1.10 Exporting Gridlines to IFC ...................................................................................... 198
14.1.11 File Dialogue Boxes Missing ................................................................................... 198
14.1.12 Importing an Architectural Into a Job as a Block ....................................................... 198
14.1.13 Importing IFC file into REVIT ................................................................................. 198
14.1.14 Input Method for Imperial Measurements ................................................................ 199
14.1.15 Labelling Issue ..................................................................................................... 200
14.1.16 Menus – How to Resolve Missing Menus .................................................................. 200
14.1.17 Mirroring Jobs (New) ............................................................................................... 200
14.1.18 Move .................................................................................................................. 200
14.1.19 PCB (Calculate Wind) Not Working.......................................................................... 200
14.1.20 PDF (PDFSPOOL) Bad Fonts ................................................................................... 200
14.1.21 PDF (PDFSPOOL) Not Working ............................................................................... 201
14.1.22 REF – Multiple Reference Marker Placement ............................................................. 201
14.1.23 Restoring an ‘AutoSave’ Drawing ............................................................................ 201
14.1.24 Scroll Between 3D Views ....................................................................................... 202
14.1.25 SECTION MARK .................................................................................................... 202
14.1.26 SECTIONLINE Command Not Recognised................................................................. 202
14.1.27 SHOW – Engineering Failures ................................................................................. 203
14.1.28 STRIP – Strip Entity Property Intelligence ................................................................ 203
14.1.29 SUM – Report Summary ........................................................................................ 203
14.1.30 TEMPHIDE ........................................................................................................... 203
14.1.31 -TTD – Truss Builder (Silent) ................................................................................. 203
14.1.32 Using Viewports (Standard IntelliCAD usage not directly related to Steelwise usage) .... 203
14.1.33 Updated Frames Only Showing............................................................................... 203
14.1.34 VM – Make View ................................................................................................... 203
14.1.35 X – Previous Zoom ............................................................................................... 204
14.1.36 Zone Labelling ..................................................................................................... 204

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 14.1.37 ZZ – Toggle Tabs ................................................................................................. 205

14.2 Floor Detailing ............................................................................. 205

14.2.1 Add or Amend Floor Beams ..................................................................................... 205
14.2.2 Adjusting Floor Joist Web Spacing ............................................................................ 206
14.2.3 Automatically Hide Layout Layers on PPD (PSET – Options) ......................................... 206
14.2.4 Deep C Floor Joists – Creating RFY File to Send to Rollformer ...................................... 206
14.2.5 Deep C Floor Joist – Service Hole Engineering ............................................................ 206
14.2.6 Detail Sheet Border Size ......................................................................................... 207
14.2.7 Floor Member Summary – No Ceiling Batten Material Displayed ................................... 208
14.2.8 Move Joist Labels ................................................................................................... 208
14.2.9 Opening Joist in Detail Space from the Layout ........................................................... 208

14.3 Wall Detailing .............................................................................. 208

14.3.1 Add Lintel Plates to a Frame .................................................................................... 208
14.3.2 ADD – Beam Heights .............................................................................................. 208
14.3.3 Check Load Path onto Walls ..................................................................................... 209
14.3.4 Defined Door Input ................................................................................................. 209
14.3.5 Detail Sheet Border Size ......................................................................................... 209
14.3.6 How to Erase Lintel L Plates and Leave Member Screws .............................................. 210
14.3.7 Inserting Webs into Wall Frames (IW)....................................................................... 210
14.3.8 MB vs MC on Raking Walls ....................................................................................... 210
14.3.9 Opening Commands ............................................................................................... 210
14.3.10 Opening Input by Point ......................................................................................... 210
14.3.11 Openings – Label Options ...................................................................................... 210
14.3.12 PCB – Panel Calculate Brace .................................................................................. 211
14.3.13 Panel Labelling Options (PSET – Options – Labelling Option) ...................................... 212
14.3.14 Resetting Stud Data ............................................................................................. 212
14.3.15 SB – Show Brick................................................................................................... 212
14.3.16 SH – Show Heights ............................................................................................... 212
14.3.17 Sill and Head Check .............................................................................................. 212
14.3.18 Stud Design ......................................................................................................... 213
14.3.19 Updating a Wall in the Detail Sheet After Making Changes to it in the Layout ............... 214
14.3.20 Wall Girder Loads ................................................................................................. 214

14.4 Roof Detailing .............................................................................. 215

14.4.1 Add or Amend Roof Loads ....................................................................................... 215
14.4.2 ADD – Truss Members in Detailing Space .................................................................. 215
14.4.3 Detail Sheet Border Size ......................................................................................... 215
14.4.4 Gable End Roof Type Truss Locations ........................................................................ 216
14.4.5 Lengthening and Shortening Trusses Using the Stretch (ST) Command ......................... 216
14.4.6 Parallel Chord Girder Trusses ................................................................................... 216

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 14.4.7 Setting the height of truncated trusses ..................................................................... 216
14.4.8 TSET – Truss Spacing Types – Truncated Girder Truss ................................................ 216
14.4.9 Truss Bottom Chord Restraints ................................................................................ 216
14.4.10 Truncated Truss Horizontal Chord Restraint Message ................................................ 217
14.4.11 Truss Labelling ..................................................................................................... 217
14.4.12 TS (Truss Solar) – Solar Panel Input ....................................................................... 218
14.4.13 TTD – Existing detailed trusses not working ............................................................. 218
14.4.14 TUP or LP – Blank Screen on Input ......................................................................... 218
14.4.15 TUP – Truss Uplift Plan Values................................................................................ 218
14.4.16 User Truss Creation .............................................................................................. 218

14.5 Smart Panels ............................................................................... 219

14.5.1 Add an Opening into a Smart Panel .......................................................................... 219
14.5.2 Rake (Slope or Pitch) a Smart Panel ......................................................................... 219
14.5.3 How to reshape a Smart Panel on the layout: ............................................................ 219
14.5.4 Not Initialized ........................................................................................................ 219

15 Known Issues ............................................................................ 220

15.1 Resolve Graphics Performance Issue ................................................ 220
15.2 Erratic mouse movement after a new paper space is created and when
performing a command. .............................................................................. 220
15.3 Aliases not initialising .................................................................... 220
15.4 Command Line Message (pdfmodulevi_4.02_11.tx) ............................ 221
15.5 Post Input Error Message ............................................................... 221
15.6 Smart Panel – ‘Not initialized yet’ Message in Command Bar ................ 221
15.7 File Open and Save Dialogue Boxes Missing ...................................... 222
15.8 Hatching Not Being Displayed ......................................................... 222
15.9 BSET Not Working ........................................................................ 222

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1 Introduction
Commands:

Global name: This command is non-language dependant.

Local name: This command is language dependant.

Alias: This is the shortcut key or alias command.

Space: This is the paper space within which the command is able
to be used.

When instructed to, pressing the Enter key, the space bar or right clicking the mouse button
actions a command.

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2 Setting Commands
2.1 BSET – Border Setup
Commands:
Global name: _BORDER_SETUP
Local name: BORDER_SETUP
Alias: BSET
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Initial job border setup.
When you first start a new layout, the first thing you must do is set up the drawing sheet
borders. One of the main purposes of this is to give the operator an impression of scale. The
information that you input into the dialogue box is what appears on your drawing sheet borders.
Other items such as the drawing view notation or the current date are software generated.
The sheet size, drawing scale, units of measurement and design codes are all set within the
BSET.
This border is not just for looks; it is a vital part of the software’s operation. Without borders set
up using the BSET command, the software will not work.
Process:
• Type BSET then press enter. This will open the 'Drawing Sheet Setup' dialogue.
• If the ADD command is activated in a blank drawing, the BSET command will be initiated.

Additional Information:
• If at any stage throughout your drawing session you wish to add or remove drawing sheets,
just rerun the ‘BSET’ command again and change the border quantity. All current information
will be found and retained.
• Running the BSET command will also reset the menu if necessary.

• The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.
Setting Options:

2.1.1 Layouts Tab

[Link] Client Options:
• Fill in the required fields. 'Field Two' and 'Field Three' can be used for extra client information
such as address information.
• Enter the number of borders required in the 'Quantity' field and the row number layout
required for the borders. The limit to borders is 27 sheets. Each border inserted creates a
view. These views are numbered ‘1 to ‘27’ depending on how many borders were created. All
views are created from left to right going up the page. To restore a view, enter ‘V’ followed
by the number of the view you wish to restore.

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 •

[Link] Sheet Options

- Selection of the sheet size will depend on the size of the job you are detailing
▪ Sheet Size
and the scale with which you are working to.

- The standard border name supplied with the software is ‘BR FRAMECAD’.
Steelwise also allows for custom borders. In the ‘Border Name’ field, type in
▪ Border Name
the name of your custom border if applicable. See 'How To Create Custom
Borders' in the 'How To's' section.

- Set the border scale which best suits the size of the job and the sheet size.
Units can be entered as e.g. 50 for 1:50 or alternatively can entered in as
▪ Border Scale
1:50 using the colon separator. For imperial scales, units can be entered as
e.g. 1/8":1'

- Set the units of measurement to either 'metric units' or 'imperial units'. When
'Imperial Units' is selected, all the fields change to blue for identification. All
▪ Units Type
fields shown in black indicate that metric units are in use. Once a unit type is
set, you cannot go back into BSET and change it again.

- Set the text height which determines the height in mm of the text used on the
▪ Text Height
layout for labels and dimensions.

▪ Detail Sheet Ratio - Sizes the Detailing Space borders relative to metric or imperial sheet sizings.

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2.1.2 Engineering Tab
[Link] Various Tools
Note: These settings are not displayed when running BSET for the first time as they are
not applicable until after a job has been created.

- Users can input any text which will be applied diagonally across all the layout
▪ Watermark
borders when clicking on the ellipsis button to the right of the text.

- Enables the user to add notes whenever revisions are made.

- To operate:
- - Click on the ellipses button to the right of 'Add Revision'

▪ Add Revision

-
-
- - A 'Border Revision Notes' dialogue will open allowing you to add any revision
notes.
- - Click on 'Add'.
- - A revision number will be added to the end of the title block and the notes
will be placed outside the bottom left corner of the first border (View 1).

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2.1.3 Options Tab
[Link] Design Codes

- Set the Loading Design Code in accordance with the local building
▪ Loading Design Code
requirements for the job to be detailed.

▪ Steel Design Code - The steel design Code will be automatically updated.

▪ Loading Earthquake
-
Code

- Change the wind speed to suit the Loading Design Code selected.
- Wind pressure may be input according to the loading design code
requirements.
- The user can enter in any Wind Pressure by overwriting the Wind Speed with
▪ Wind Speed the required value. Note: Only the numerical value is required and may not
work if other characters are inserted.
- Wind Options: Allows to set your terrain and topographic factors in
accordance with your loading standards. These Factors are used in the
calculation of the wind pressure. This is not applicable to the NASH Design
Codes.

- Unconditional – Full engineering is performed unconditionally on PPD from

layout.
- Automatic – Full engineering is performed initially on PPD, then only if
changes are detected.
- Semi-Automatic – An ‘option to update’ dialogue is presented on PPD if
changes are detected.
▪ Panel Engineering - Manual – Engineering is only performed when the user selects Update Wall
Engineering (PUA) in the layout or selects the ‘Engineer All’ option in the Panel
Builder (PPD).
- Disabled – Engineering fully disabled. Build Wall Studs (PBS) is required to
build studs.
- Note: PPD from wall elevations does not update engineering. Engineering is
only updated when using the PPD command from the wall layout.

- Strength Method - Check for total bracing system strength compared with
total demand.
▪ Brace Engineering - Rigid Diaphragm - Check for bracing frame capacity and drift considering rigid
diaphragm
- Disabled – Engineering for bracing fully disabled.

▪ Joist Engineering - Enabled/Disabled

▪ Truss Engineering - Enabled/Disabled

▪ Roof Live Load -

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 - Do Not Downgrade Material – Keeps the material grade to that which is
specified in the users data file.
- Downgrade Material – Downgrades the material grade to suit the selected
▪ Downgrade Material
design code requirements.
- Note: The material grades may already be downgraded within your data file in
which case no change will be noticed regardless of what setting is selected.

[Link] Loading Earthquake Code

▪ Loading Earthquake
- Required Earthquake Code
Code

[Link] Design Options

- Tributary width from internal spans on joists is increased by 25% (i.e. 5/8 of
▪ Continuity Loads
span).

[Link] Drawing Options

- Select which beam and post data file is the preference for your region.
▪ Post Beam Data File Options available are BeamsPostsMetric (Australasia), BeamsPostsEU
(European metric) and BeamsPostsUS (US imperial).

▪ Aperture Size - Snap cursor box size

▪ Pick Box Size - Snap marker box size

▪ Roof Line Colour - Colour used for the CRL roof line input and RL roof line coding.

▪ Support Line Colour- Colour used for the SL support line coding.

▪ Roof Line Type - Linetype used for the CRL roof line input and RL roof line coding.

▪ Hide Change - Hides the ‘Yes, No, All’ options when editing multiple items. Default will be set
Prompts to 'All'.

▪ Disable Stud Locking

- Hides the stud locking prompt.
Prompts

- Disables the layout titles from being automatically generated, i.e. Roof Truss
▪ Disable Layout Titles
Layout, Wall Frame Layout, etc.

- When enabled, a dialogue box option appears when labelling a plan using LA,
▪ Use Sheet ID’s
PLA, TLA, or JLA which allows the user to add a prefix to the layout label.

[Link] Dimension Options

▪ Linear Dimensions - Dimension options as applied to the DM (Member Dimension) command.

▪ Ordinate Dimensions
- Dimension options as applied to the DO (Ordinate Dimension) command.

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 - This sets whether to show frame widths when dimensioning using the DM
(Member Dimension) command.
▪ Width Options
- The minimum width indicates whether a dimension is placed on any of the
frames that are set to 'True' but are less than the minimum width.

[Link] 3D Colour Options

- Allows the user to set colours for Walls, Trusses and Joists as viewed in the Model Space when using the
S3D command.

- Use Simple Floor 3D. This option keeps the joists as an ‘outline only’ in the 3D
view even after they have been detailed in JJD. This option is recommended
▪ Use Simple Floor 3D
for very large jobs where the 3D joists can look very cluttered and slow down
under resourced computers.

- Use Simple Panel 3D. This option keeps the wall panels as an ‘outline only’ in
the 3D view even after they have been detailed in PPD. This option is
▪ Use Simple Panel 3D
recommended for very large jobs where the 3D wall panels can look very
cluttered and slow down under resourced computers.

- Use Layout Colour - Uses the colours which are applied to the frames in the
layout space.
▪ 3D Method
- Use Detail Colour - Uses the colours which are applied to the members in
(Panels/Trusses/Floo
frames in the detailing space. This colour is determined by the thickness of
rs)
the material.
- Use Custom Colour - Allows the user to nominate any colour. See next option.

▪ Custom Colour
- This is the area where the custom colours are set when the 3D Method is set
(Panels/Trusses/Floo
to 'Use Custom Colour'.
rs)

[Link] Layer Names

Allows the user to change the names of the temporary layers.

▪ Visibility Level (%) - Indicates the visibility of the temporary layers.

[Link] Reference Options

Customisation options for the reference markers

▪ Heading Label -

▪ Heading Value -

▪ Primary Colour - Colour of the Primary reference marker

▪ Secondary Colour - Colour of the Secondary reference markers

▪ Visibility Level (%) - Visibility of the reference markers

▪ Print Reference - Do you want the Reference Marker to appear on the printed plans?

▪ Layer Name -

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[Link] Gridline Options

▪ Gridline Layer -

▪ Gridline Text Layer-

▪ Gridline Linetype -

▪ Gridline Colour -

▪ Gridline Text Colour-

▪ Gridline Text Factor-

- Yes = Horizontal gridlines are numeric

▪ Numeric is Horizontal
- No = Vertical gridlines are numeric

▪ Prompt for Marker

-
Text
▪ Show Finishing End
-
Marker

▪ Show Gridline Line -

[Link] Export Options

- Options are: Generic, Revit, SAP2000

- Generic – Exports anything that is IFC compatible
▪ IFC Export Flavour
- Revit – Doesn’t export anything less than 1mm thick as Revit will not accept it
- SAP2000 – Doesn’t export layer names as they will crash SAP

▪ IFC Invert Colours -

▪ Treat K Brace as - Exports the K Brace as a ‘Plate’ member type instead of the default ‘Stud’
Plate member type.

▪ Treat Truss Rails as- True = Top chord will be notched around rail
Bottom Plate - False = Rail will be notched around top chord

▪ Export Wall Joins in

- Prints the adjoining end wall labels on the first and last stud
XML

- True – Exports frames in the reverse order that is shown in a wall frame stack
▪ Use Reverse Order when using the stacking option (PST), i.e. exports frames in order from top to
XML bottom of the stack.
- False – Exports frames from bottom to top of stack.

▪ Export Header Text

- Prints the L-Plate lintel type and quantity on the opening header member
in XML
▪ Export Arrows in
- Prints wall direction arrows (from left to right) on the bottom plate
Wall in XML
▪ Export FIM All to One
-
File

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▪ VRML Swap Y and Z
-
Co-ordinates

- Default – Material exported in order from top left of frame to bottom right.
- Plates First – Horizontal members

▪ RFY Ordering - Studs First – Vertical members

- Assembly Priority – For walls, this will export the top plate first; then nogs and
studs up to the first opening; then opening material; then nogs and studs to
the next opening; etc; then bottom plate.

- Single File – All material will be exported in the one RFY file. The rollforming
machines Factory software will then filter out any material that exists in the
▪ RFY Export Files file that is not set up to be run through that machine. This allows for the one
file to be used in all machines as long as they are setup to filter.
- By Section – Different material sections will be split into separate RFY files.

[Link] Folder Settings Information

Allows the user to modify the folder locations for specific usage or export.

2.2 JSET - Floor Settings

Commands:
Global name: _JOIST_SETTINGS
Local name: JOIST_SETTINGS
Alias: JSET
Space: Layout and Detailing Space
Purpose:
Floor framing setup form. Floor settings will be applied to the joists created after using the 'JSET'
command.
Process:
• Type JSET then right click or press Enter.
• Make any required changes then Save (or Cancel to exit without saving).

Additional Information:
Changing values in the JSET will not affect joists that already exist on plan. To change the
settings of existing joists, use the List command 'LI'.
Setting Options:

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2.2.1 Layouts Tab
[Link] Member Information

- The system to be used for the joists. After selecting a joist system, all joist
▪ System Name
settings will be restored to the selected system defaults.

- Sub System to be used. To find out specifically what the sub system is, you
▪ Model Name
will need to talk with your systems administrator.

- Type of end bearer to be used. An 'End Bearer' is a member that carries

terminating joints. If you do not wish to use any 'End Bearer', select 'None'
from the drop-down box.
- All other joist types below this item will be populated with the same
selection.
- Selecting 'None' will not affect other joists selections.
▪ End Bearer Type

- Type of Internal bearer to be used. An 'Internal Bearer' is a member that

usually carries joists on each side. If you do not wish to use any 'Side
Bearer', select 'None' from the drop-down box.
- All other joist types below this item will be populated with the same
selection. Joist types above this item will remain unaffected.
- Selecting 'None' will not affect other joists selections.
▪ Int Bearer Type

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 - Type of side bearer to be used. A 'Side Bearer' is a member that usually
does not carry joints. If you do not wish to use any 'Side Bearer', select
'None' from the drop-down box.
- All other joist types below this item will be populated with the same
selection. Joist types above this item will remain unaffected.
- Selecting 'None' will not affect other joists selections.
▪ Side Bearer Type

- Type of joist to be used.

- Joist types above this item will remain unaffected.
- Selecting 'None' will not affect other joists selections.

▪ Joist Type

▪ Member Height - Overrides the default joist Depth. Does not override the height of deep cee
Override joists.

[Link] Layout Information

- This sets the maximum spacing of the joist. It is defined as the distance
▪ Joist Spacing
from the centre of one joist to the next.

▪ Int Bearer Spacing - Maximum spacing of the Internal Bearers.

- Spacing of the ceiling Batten along the bottom chord of the joists. Used for
▪ Ceiling Batten Spacing
bottom chord restraint engineering calculations.

- This is the height of the floor system and is measured to the top chord of
the joists. This value is critical when joists layouts are detailed in association
▪ Reduced Level
with the wall framing. The value must be less than the joist depth plus or
minus 100mm of the wall height before loads are able to be transferred.

▪ Bearers Method -

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 Bearers Inline: The 'End Bearers' will be located inline.

Bearers Under: The 'End Bearers' will be located under the joist.
• Bearers Method

▪ Blocking: The 'End Bearers' will be inline and split up as short blocking
members between the ends of the joists.
▪ True: The 'Internal Bearers' will be located inline

▪ Inline Internal Bearers

▪ False: The 'Internal Bearers' will be located under the joist.

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 ▪ True: a set of 2 'Internal Bearers' will be used.

▪ Double Int Bearers ▪ False: A Single 'Internal Bearer' will be used.

- Vertical webs will be placed to align with any oncoming members for fixing
▪ Oncoming Web Align
purposes.

- Places two vertical members inside each edge of a support line of a pre-
defined width.

▪ Double Webs to
Supports

-
- To apply a width to a support line, list (LI) the support line and change the
‘Support Line Data’ parameters to suit.

[Link] Applied Loads

- Dead Load from the floor which will be applied to the joist. The unit is KPa
▪ Dead Load (unit)
for metric, and psf for imperial.

- Live Load from the floor which will be applied to joist. The unit is KPa for
▪ Live Load (unit)
metric, and psf for imperial.

- Dead Load from the ceiling which will be applied to the bottom chord of the
▪ Ceiling Load (unit)
truss. The unit is KPa for metric, and psf for imperial.

▪ Snow Load (unit) - Snow load on the joist. The unit is KPa for metric, and psf for imperial.

▪ Design Point Load

- Joist Point Load. The unit is kN for metric, and kip for imperial.
(unit)

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[Link] Ceiling Battens Information

Used for quantity take-off purposes only

▪ First Ceiling Batten - Section profile to be used for the first ceiling batten

▪ Next Ceiling Batten - Section profile to be used for all subsequent ceiling battens

▪ First Batten Length -

▪ First Batten Lap -

▪ Next Batten Length -

▪ Next Batten Lap -

▪ End Screw Type -

▪ End Screw Frequency-

▪ Int Screw Type -

▪ Int Screws per

-
Crossing

[Link] Creation Options

▪ True: Automatically include the floor member summary in the floor layout
view if joists are labelled.
▪ Auto Cutting List
▪ False: Does not Automatically include the floor member summary in the
floor layout view.
▪ True: Label joist automatically
▪ Auto Label Members
▪ False: Does not label joist automatically
▪ True: Preserve the floor outlines
▪ Preserve Floor Outline
▪ False: Automatically delete the floor outlines
▪ True: Automatically inserts the Floor sheeting layout in the selected
▪ Auto Floor Sheet location using the sheeting settings from the JSET 'Others' Tab. The Floor
Layout Sheeting layout can also be manually inserted using the 'FSD' command.
▪ False: Does not automatically insert the Floor sheeting layout

[Link] Report Options

▪ Include Members -

▪ Include Connection
-
Brackets
▪ Include Connection
-
Fixings

▪ Include Weight -

▪ Include Battens -

▪ Include Batten Fixing-

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[Link] Labelling Options Information

▪ End Bearer Prefix - Choose Prefix for End Bearer label. Example: E

▪ Side Bearer Prefix - Choose Prefix for Side Bearer label. Example: S

▪ Int Bearer Prefix - Choose Prefix for Internal Bearer label. Example: I

▪ Joist Prefix - Choose Prefix for Joist label. Example: J

▪ Include Joints -

▪ Include Supports -

▪ Include Service Holes-

▪ Include Smart Ends -

▪ Use Continuous
-
Numbers
▪ Collect Common
Members

2.2.2 Options Tab

Sheet Information

Under Floor Information

Rough In Options

Detail Sheet Option

2.3 PSET - Panel Settings

Commands:
Global name: _PANEL_SETTINGS
Local name: PANEL_SETTINGS
Alias: PSET
Space: Layout and Detailing Space Purpose:
Wall framing setup form. Settings will be applied to the panel created after using the 'PSET'
command.
Process:
• Type PSET then press Enter.

• Make any required changes then Save (or Cancel to exit without saving).
• Additional Information:

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 • Changing values in PSET will not affect walls/beams that already exist on the plan. To change
the settings of existing walls or beams, use the List command (LI) and select the walls you
wish to edit.
• The PSET dialogue box can also be accessed from the PD (Panel Draw) command by pressing
Enter again after activating PD.
• Most of the options in this dialogue are basically pre-set options and can be changed at a
later stage if desired with the LI (List) command. However, there are two options that
cannot be changed at a later stage and MUST be correct at the time of drawing. These
options are ‘Drafting Width’ and ‘Offset Distance’.
• After changes have been made to the settings, you can save these for future use by holding
down the 'ALT' key and clicking on 'System Name*'. These settings will be saved to a user
defined data file which can be updated at any stage by repeating the above procedure.

• If you wish to have different settings applied to different framing models, then hold down the
'ALT' key and click on 'Current Model*'.
Setting Options:

2.3.1 Panels Tab

[Link] Panel Information

- The system to be used for the wall panels. You may mix systems within a
▪ System Name
single job.

- This is the sub system or member profile requirements for the job. If a user
has a list of commonly used profile sizes, this list can be modified to suit by
▪ Current Model
creating a ticket and requesting a custom data file through the 'FRAMECAD
Care' or 'My Support' section in [Link]

[Link] Panel Widths and Lengths

- Sets the width of the wall frame as drawn. This is purely for visual plan
▪ Drafting Width purposes and dimensioning purposes. Any adjoining walls will ignore this
width and automatically extend to suit the 'Actual Width'.

- The actual width of the frame. This is generally the width of the standard steel
section profile being used. The software will automatically adjust the length of
adjoining frames to cater for the actual width.
▪ Actual Width
- If this width is changed to match the Drafting Width, any adjoining walls will
be shorter or longer by the difference between the width nominated and the
steel profile actual width.

- Stores the desired maximum length of the wall panels. This value is later used
by the ‘IC’ command (Integrity Check) to warn users of frames of excessive
▪ Maximum Length
length. See 'Additional Information' above to change settings for existing
walls.

- This will offset the wall frame by this distance in the direction of the side
selected. If one side or another is not selected, then the frame will be drawn
▪ Offset Distance using the center line method and no offset will occur. This setting is generally
used when tracing over a plan where the frame width drawn includes
claddings, etc.

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 - The distance by which the plaster stud will be offset from the face of the
intersecting wall. To move outwards, use a positive number, to move inwards,
use a negative number. This option is generally used to allow for wall lining
thicknesses.

▪ Plaster Stud 1

- The distance by which the plaster stud will be offset from the face of the
▪ Plaster Stud 2 intersecting wall when using the command 'PAB' (Panel Auto Break). To move
outwards, use a positive number, to move inwards, use a negative number.

- Distance within which a stud will be placed under all trusses landing on the
wall frame. If another stud is found within this distance, then no stud will be
placed under that truss. If no stud is found within this distance, then a stud
▪ Truss Location will automatically be placed under the truss only if required by the
Tolerance engineering.
- This field overrides the automatic stud placement in such a way that only a
higher level of structural integrity is provided.

- Distance within which a stud will be placed under all joist landing on the wall
frame. If another stud is found within this distance, then no stud will be
▪ Joist Location placed under that joist. If no stud is found within this distance, then a stud
Tolerance will automatically be placed under the joist only if required by the engineering.
- This field overrides the automatic stud placement in such a way that only a
higher level of structural integrity is provided.

▪ Add Service Holes to

- Includes or excludes service holes to the top plate.
Top Plate
▪ Hide Truss Holes to
- Includes or excludes truss locator (Web) holes to the top plate.
Top Plate

▪ Ribbon Plate Type - Type of ribbon plate configuration used if required.

▪ Ribbon Plate
- Includes or excludes ribbon plates.
Required

[Link] Opening Options

- Lintel Head - Opening header which uses L-Plate lintels fixed to vertical
webs. It can be reinforced with 1x L-plate or 2x L-plates fixed at the top of the
frame. In cases where the engineering status of the Lintel Head has failed
with the reinforced L-plates, the software will automatically add diagonal webs
to reinforce the Header.
▪ Opening Head Style
- Webbed Head - Opening header which uses diagonal webs. The Webbed
Head can be reinforced with 1x L-plate or 2x L-plates fixed at the top of the
opening. The web pattern can be changed by listing (LI) the opening.
- Beam Head - Opening header which uses a Deep Cee member. The Deep Cee
profile can be changed by listing (LI) the opening.

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 - Minimum width for openings without diagonal webs in Load Bearing walls.
▪ LB Web to Openings
Openings less than this width will not have diagonal webs added.

- Maximum width for openings without diagonal webs in Non-Load Bearing

▪ NLB Web to walls. Opening above this width will have webs added even if the software
Openings engineering analysis says they are not required. When set to zero, no
maximum width will be considered.

[Link] Integrity Check Option

The various CHECK options can be enabled or disabled in the Integrity Check Options by changing to
True or False.

▪ Reference Points - True: Report if panel is missing a reference point

▪ Panel not coded - True: Report panels that are not coded

▪ Panel Labelling - True: Report panels that are not labelled

▪ Panel Length
- True: Report panels that are short
Shortage

▪ Panel Overlaps - True: Report panels that are overlapping

▪ Maximum Panel
- True: Report panels that are exceeding the maximum length
Lengths

▪ Transport Limits - True: Report panels that are exceeding transport limitations

▪ Openings Across
- True: Report openings that are spread over two wall panels
Joins
▪ Bracing Over
- True: Report braces that are over openings
Openings

▪ Panel Imposed Loads

- True: Report panels that are found with no Dead Loads

▪ Duplicate Labels - True: Report panels that have the same label

▪ Show Items Not

- True: Report panels that have not been detailed
Detailed

▪ Select All -

▪ Clear All -

[Link] Brace Panel Information

- Select the bracing type required. The bracing type can also be changed when
▪ Brace Type
using the command 'PIB' (Panel Insert Brace).

▪ Stud Bays or Strap- Number of Stud Bays a K Brace is allowed to go over.

Angle - Strap angle to be maintained.

[Link] Panel Options

Sets the brace type which will most commonly be used and the number of stud bays to limit the input
to. These options can also be changed when using the PIB (Brace Input) command.

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 - True: Cluster stud (or plaster stud) will be added on Load Bearing wall
▪ Use LB Clusters
intersections

- True: Cluster stud (or plaster stud) will be added on Structural wall
▪ Use ST Clusters
intersections

- True: Cluster stud (or plaster stud) will be added on Non-Load Bearing wall
▪ Use NLB Cluster
intersections

- Displays a warning on the elevation sheet if the panel weight exceeds this
▪ OH&S Weight Limit
value.

Panel Stacking Options

Settings the 'PST' command

▪ Max Height stack - Maximum height of the pack for transportation purposes

- True: The Maximum stack Height will govern the number of stacks required
▪ Use Height Method - False: The user will be asked the number of stack required and the maximum
height stack will be ignored.

▪ Separate Different
- Separates outs different modes into separate stacks.
Models

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[Link] Brick Gauge Options

Brickwork setting useful only if openings will be fitted to suit brickwork

▪ Actual Length of
- Horizontal length of bricks
Brick

▪ Actual Depth of Brick

- Depth of the brickwork

▪ Actual Height of
- Vertical Height of bricks
Bricks

▪ Brick Joint Width - Vertical and horizontal gap between bricks, also known as perpends

▪ Cavity Width - Gap between the back of the brickwork and the wall frame

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 - Brick Bond Type. Normally a brick bond type is either 2 for standard brickwork
or 3 for modular brick work

Brickwork
Bond Qty

2.3.2 Openings Tab

[Link] Common Setting Information

- This is the opening library file to be used. This applies to the 'AW', 'AD', 'TW',
▪ Window Library
and 'TD' commands only.

▪ Window/Door/Robe- This is the side offset distance that will be used when the 'Auto' insert option
Auto Offset is used.

- This is an additional clearance in the width that will be allowed for to use
▪ Floating Stud Gap
floating studs.

▪ Prompt Width First - Set to TRUE to input width first.

2.3.3 Options Tab

[Link] Ceiling Panel Options Information

▪ Ceiling System -

▪ Current Model -

▪ Maximum Length -

▪ -

[Link] Stud Array Options Information

- Select material from the dropdown box if a specific material is required

▪ Material Type otherwise, leaving set to ‘Auto’ will use whatever material that has been set
by the data file for the default system.

- This is the location of the first stud that will be inserted. This option is only
▪ Starting Position
available when using the ‘By Points’ insert option.

- This is the stud to stud spacing, i.e. the distance from the centre of one stud
▪ Stud Spacing
to the centre of the next stud.

- This is the stud arrangement of the studs that will be used.

▪ Stud Type - Boxed studs will only be shown if it is enabled in the data file. If using boxed
studs, please ensure that the material is boxable, as the software will not
check for this.

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 - Allows the user to select either ‘Single Insert’, ‘By Points’ or ‘By Entities’
methods.
- With the ‘Single Insert’, the user selects a single point anywhere along a wall
frame, the cursor snap mode remains set at end point or intersection. The
stud is inserted in the wall with the insertion point being dictated by the ‘Stud
▪ Stud Insert Type Setout’ option.
- With the ‘By Entities’ method, the user is prompted to select a wall entity,
then for a starting point. Set out is calculated from this point.
- With the ‘By Points’ method, the studs are set out from the first point selected
through to the second point selected. This selection can be applied along
multiple walls.

▪ Opening Option

[Link] Notch Settings

Places a notch in the bottom corner of a frame.

▪ Notch Height - Height of notch from the bottom of the frame.

- Width of the notch from one end of the frame or the other.
▪ Notch Width - A positive value places the notch at the left-hand end of the frame and a
negative value places the notch at the right-hand end of the frame.

[Link] Labelling Option Information

- Traditional Method - Labels all walls from the top left-hand corner of the
framing layout in a diagonal direction towards the bottom right.
- Directional Method - Labels the external walls anti-clockwise from the
▪ Labelling Method corner of the layout as indicated by the 'Labelling Direction' (walls may be
labelled in a clockwise direction if the start walls are lapped differently).
Internal walls are then labelled from the same corner then towards the
opposite corner of the layout.

▪ Labelling Direction - This is the starting corner for 'Directional Method' labelling.

- If set to TRUE, then the wall labelling will start at 1 and continue for all the
▪ Use Continuous walls regardless of the wall type.
Numbering
- If set to FALSE, then the numbering will restart from 1 for each wall type.

▪ Restart Zone - If set to TRUE, then the wall zone labelling will restart at 1 for each zone.
Numbering - If set to FALSE, then the numbering will be continuous through all zones.

▪ Ignore Overlay - Checks to see if an existing label or intersecting wall is present and moves the
Checks label for clarity. This can slow down the labelling process on large jobs.

▪ Label Prefix -

▪ Label Marker -

▪ Disable Sorting - If sorting is disabled then walls can be labelled in the order they are selected.

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 - When enabled, wall labels will have a suffix added to indicate whether they
▪ Use Location Marker
are internal or external, e.g. LE1 = Loadbearing External 1

[Link] Folder Settings Information

[Link] Detail Sheet Options

2.4 TSET - Truss Settings

Commands:
Global name: _TRUSS_SETTINGS
Local name: TRUSS_SETTINGS
Alias: TSET
Space: Layout and Detailing Space
Purpose:
Truss framing setup form. Settings will be applied to the trusses created after using the 'TSET'
command.
Process:
• Type TSET then right click or press Enter.

• Make any required changes then Save (or Cancel to exit without saving).
Additional Information:
Note: Changing values in the TSET will not affect trusses that already exist on plan. To change
the settings of existing trusses, use the List command (LI) and select the trusses you wish to
edit.
Setting Options:

2.4.1 Layout Tab

[Link] Layout Options

▪ System Name
- The system to be used for the trusses. After selecting a truss system, all truss
settings will be restored to the selected system defaults, however the roof
load and truss pitch will remain unchanged.
- To save all settings for future jobs, left click on the System* wording while
hold down the Alt key. Doing this will create a user defined data file containing
this information that will take precedence over the standard data file.

▪ Model Name
- Indicates available profile size and section orientation.
- LE System: Inline trusses
- LC System: Back-to-Back trusses

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▪ Roof Load
- SHEET = Lightweight roofing material; TILE = Heavyweight roofing material.
- To add or amend a load, left click on the Roof Load* wording while holding
down the Alt key. Doing this will create a user defined data file containing this
information that will take precedence over the standard data file.

▪ Roof Pitch
- This is the angle of the roof slope defined in decimal degrees, rise:run
notation or a percentage.
- If you wish to define the roof pitch by rise over run in degrees, then click on
the ellipsis button to the right of this field. Enter in the run and rise values
(the pitch field will automatically update) then click on 'Transfer' to place the
'degrees' value into the main dialogues pitch field.

▪ Sub Pitch
- This is the sub pitch or secondary pitch. This pitch is applied to the hip or
valley ends of a roof block.

-
▪ Wind Speed
- The available wind speed options will vary according to the Design Code that
is set in the Roof Loads section.

- This is the amount of snow load that will be used for the design of the roof
▪ Ground Snow Load
trusses. This load is measured in kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.

- This is the level of the roof in relation to the walls below and is measured to
the bottom chord of the trusses. This value is critical when truss layouts are
▪ Reduced Level
detailed in association with the wall framing. The value must be less than plus
or minus 100mm of the wall height before loads are able to be transferred.

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▪ Hip Method Half Truss - Half trusses (or jack trusses) are placed at the hip ends attached
to the last truncated truss with the top chord extending up to the hip line.

Rafters - Rafters are placed at the hip ends. The truncated truss heights are
dropped to suit the rafters web width.

Panel Jacks
- These are roof panels that are placed over the horizontal top chords of the hip
end truncated trusses, thus, replacing the hip end jack truss top chord
extensions.

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 - The panel starts from the first truncated truss and finishes at the hip apex.
- Note: The top front edge of the roof panel sits flush with the front face
of the truncated truss.
- The first truncated truss is raised slightly to allow for the bottom edge of the
roof panel to sit directly on it based on the roof pitch.

- The roof panel model and other options can be set in the ‘Roof Panel Options’
in TSET.

Note that panel jacks are ‘Smart Panels’, therefore they must be labelled, built
and 3D generated using the associated smart panel commands, i.e. PLA, SPD
and S3D respectively.

During onsite erection, the front edge of the roof panel must line up with the
face of the truncated truss.

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▪ Overhang Method Overhang Frames - Gable frames are automatically placed. The height of the
gable end truss is lowered by the section depth set in the model to allow the
top of the gable frame to sit flush with the roof plane and cantilever out over
the gable truss. The overhang distance is set by the roof lines.

Outriggers - Gable verge outriggers are placed on the plan. These members
are detailed to sit on the first truss into the building, over the gable truss,
then cantilever out to the overhang line and have a vertical piece attached to
the end to attach the barge board to. They are intended to be fixed under the
roof battens so that every 1st, 2nd or 3rd batten (depending on the batten
spacing and the outrigger spacing) sits inside the outrigger.

None - No gable end members or framing is allowed for.

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▪ Eave Options Standard Eave – The top chord of the truss is extended past the heel of the
truss out to the roof line (RL)

Extended Eave - This option extends the bottom chord out past the heel
location to meet the top chord. This option effectively cuts down the cantilever
distance of the top chord overhang.

Separate Eave – This option removes the top chord past the heel point. A
rafter member in the deep axis is added to the layout separately which is
attached to the side of the truss on site to create the overhang.

Reinforced Eave - Standard eave reinforced with a C section on the deep axis.

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 Dropped Eave – Additional members are added to the top chord overhang to
create a flat soffit.

When Dropped Eave is selected, an Eave Option Tab will appear where you
can define the dropped eave dimensions. Click on the button to the right of
the ‘Values Not Set’ field.

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 The Minimum Eave distance is the minimum overhang that the dropped eave
option will be applied to.

No Eave

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▪ Layout colour Colour of the roof block.
▪ Heel Height This is the truss heel height. To use a default calculated height, set this value
to 0. The default height is based on the member depth in the LC orientation
divided by cosine of the pitch.
▪ Bracing Type Type of roof bracing material

[Link] Truss Spacings

▪ Truss Spacing This sets the maximum spacing of the standard type trusses. It is defined as
the distance from the centre of one truss to the next.
▪ First Truncated Truss Location of the first truncated truss. It is defined as the distance from the end
wall to the centre of the truncated truss.
▪ Truncated Truss This sets the maximum spacing of the truncated trusses. It is defined as the
Spacing distance from the centre of one truss to the next.
▪ First Jack Rafter Location of the first jack rafter/half truss on a hip end roof. It is defined as the
distance from the hip end corner to the centre of the first jack rafter/half
truss.
▪ Next Jack Rafter Location of the second jack rafter/half truss on a hip end roof. It is defined as
the distance from the hip end corner to the centre of the next jack rafter/half
truss.
▪ Jack Rafter Spacing Maximum spacing of the jack rafters/half trusses on a hip end roof. It is
defined as the distance from the centre of one jack rafter/half truss to the
next.
▪ Eave Search The software will only search for a roof line within this distance. If a roof line
Distance is found within this distance, then no roof eave will be added.
▪ Minimum Eave
Any eave under this length will not be generated.
Length
▪ Truss Offset All trusses and jacks will automatically be cantilevered by this distance from
the support lines selected.

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▪ Ceiling Ties This is the spacing of the ceiling ties along the truss bottom chord. Ceiling ties
are only used if the ceiling batten spacing (see 'Batten Spacings') is set to
zero or a figure greater than the value shown here, i.e. the item with the
lowest value (but greater than zero) will take precedence.
Ceiling ties are also required when setting the ‘Suspended Ceilings’ to ‘True’.
If you do not wish to use bottom chord ties at all, set this value to zero.
▪ Outrigger Spacing This is the spacing of the gable roof overhang outriggers which extend out
over the gable end truss top chord. This only applies when the 'O/H Method' is
set to 'Outriggers'. It does not apply to Gable Frame members.

[Link] Truss Spacings Types

▪ Standard Absolute False: Trusses will be evenly spaced within the available area with a truss
Spacing spacing not exceeding the maximum truss spacing defined in the 'Truss
Spacing' tab.
True: Truss spacing will be the maximum truss spacing defined in the 'Truss
Spacing' tab.
▪ Trunc Absolute False: Truncated Trusses will be evenly spaced within the available area with a
Spacing truncated truss spacing not exceeding the maximum truncated truss spacing
defined in the 'Truss Spacing' tab.
True: Truncated Truss spacing will be the maximum truncated truss spacing
defined in the 'Truss Spacing' tab.
▪ Jack Absolute False: Truncated Trusses will be evenly spaced within the available area with a
Spacing truncated truss spacing not exceeding the maximum truncated truss spacing
defined in the 'Truss Spacing' tab.
True: Truncated Truss spacing will be the maximum truncated truss spacing
defined in the 'Truss Spacing' tab.
▪ First Truncated as When the ‘First Truncated as Girder’ is set to ‘True’, the first truncated truss
Girder generated for a hip end will be a girder truss instead of a standard truss. As a
result, web members will be aligned with the oncoming hip end trusses and
the loads will be calculated using the ‘Additional Area’ method.
Use this option for roofs with heavy loads or roofs where supported jack
trusses are cantilevered past the support line.
▪ Trusses Use Nominal Enables the truss engineering to use the design centres, as specified in the
Spacing Truss Spacings section.
By default, these are set to ‘False’, which will use the actual spacing of the
trusses when input using the TD truss input method.
NOTE: Truss spacings do not automatically adjust if trusses are moved or
added in layout. The user must list trusses to alter the spacings if required.
▪ Jacks Use Nominal
Spacing
As above.

[Link] Truss Directions

Allows the user to set the orientation of LC (Deep Axis/B2B) truss systems on a truss layout plan
prior to input. The settings for this can be found in TSET – Layouts – Truss Directions. Only
available in v11.1 onwards.
The ‘Truss Face Inwards’ options will have the webs of the trusses facing towards the centre of
the roof block.

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 The ‘Truss Face Outwards’ options will have the webs of the trusses facing towards the
ends/corners of the roof block.
The ‘Normalised’ options will orientate the trusses the same as if they were LE (inline) trusses.
Note that these can be set as default settings if you have a custom data file. You will need to
submit a support ticket through MyFramecad to request this.

[Link] Loads

▪ Roof Live Load Live Load from the roof which will be applied to the top chord of the truss. The
unit is kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.
▪ Ceiling Live Load Live Load from the ceiling which will be applied to the bottom chord of the
truss. The unit is kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.

▪ Roof Dead Load Dead Load from the roof which will be applied to the top chord of the truss.
The unit is kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.
▪ Ceiling Dead Load
Dead Load from the ceiling which will be applied to the bottom chord of the
truss. The unit is kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.

▪ Ceiling Service Load Service Load from the ceiling which will be applied to the bottom chord of the
truss. The unit is kPa for metric, and psf for imperial.
▪ Design Point Load Truss point load applied at mid span of each major segment of the truss. A
minimum point load of 0.5kN (0.112 kip) is considered.
▪ Suspended Ceilings True: When using a suspended ceiling, the deflection criteria for the bottom
chord is less restrictive. The Bottom chord restraints are still defined by the
ceiling tie spacing defined in 'Truss Spacings' tab.
False: Not using suspended ceiling.
▪ Shuttered Conditions True: shuttered conditions (use of shutter in front of openings). With
shuttered condition and cyclonic wind, the internal wind pressure coefficient
will be taken as the non cyclonic internal wind pressure coefficient.
False: non-shuttered conditions.
▪ Brick Clad Exterior If selected, reduces the lateral wind applied to external wall frames.

[Link] Batten Spacings

▪ End Roof Batten Maximum spacing from the first roof batten to the next roof batten. Usually
Spacing the spacing here is less than that of the balance of the roof battens.
▪ Int Roof Batten Maximum spacing of the roof batten excluding the first roof batten spacing.
Spacing This value is used for engineering calculations and batten quantities.

▪ Ceiling Batten Maximum spacing of the ceiling battens. This value is used for engineering
Spacing calculations and batten quantities.

[Link] Roof Batten Settings

▪ First Batten Type Type of roof batten used for the first row of battens around the building.
▪ First Batten Length Finished cut length of the first roof batten that will be supplied. This value is
used for bill of material calculations.

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▪ First Batten Lap The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 first roof batten together. This
value is used for first batten quantity calculation, using the batten full length
minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to increase or decrease
wastage.
▪ First Fixing Type Screw type used to fix the first roof batten
▪ First Fixing Qty Screw quantity per connection used to fix the first roof batten
▪ Next Batten Type Type of internal roof batten used next to the first roof batten.
▪ Next Batten Length Finished cut length of the internal roof batten that will be supplied. This value
is used for bill of material calculations.
▪ Next Batten Lap The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 internal roof batten together.
This value is used for internal batten quantity calculation, using the batten full
length minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to increase or
decrease wastage.
▪ Next Fixing Type Screw type used to fix the internal roof batten
▪ Next Fixing Qty Screw quantity per connection used to fix the internal roof batten

[Link] Ceiling Batten Settings

▪ End Ceiling Batten Type of ceiling batten used for the first row of ceiling battens along the walls.
▪ Material Length Finished cut length of the end ceiling batten that will be supplied. This value is
used for bill of material calculations.
▪ Lap Allowance The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 end ceiling batten together.
This value is used for end ceiling batten quantity calculation, using the batten
full length minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to increase or
decrease wastage.
▪ Int Ceiling Batten Type of internal ceiling batten used next to the first row of ceiling battens
along the walls.
▪ Material Length Finished cut length of the internal ceiling batten that will be supplied. This
value is used for bill of material calculations.
▪ Lap Allowance The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 internal ceiling batten
together. This value is used for internal ceiling batten quantity calculation,
using the batten full length minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to
increase or decrease wastage.
▪ First Fixing Type Screw type used to fix the end ceiling batten
▪ First Fixing Qty Screw quantity per connection used to fix the end ceiling batten
▪ Next Fixing Type Screw type used to fix the internal ceiling batten
▪ Next Fixing Qty
Screw quantity per connection used to fix the internal ceiling batten

[Link] Valley Supports

▪ First Valley Support Type of batten that will be used to support the sides of the valley gutter.
▪ Material Length Finished cut length of the member that will be supplied. This value is used for
bill of material calculations.

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▪ Lap Allowance The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 valley support batten
together. This value is used for quantity calculation, using the batten full
length minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to increase or
decrease wastage.
▪ Next Valley Support
Type of batten that will be used to support the sides of the valley gutter.

▪ Material Length Finished cut length of the member that will be supplied. This value is used for
bill of material calculations.
▪ Lap Allowance The overlapping length that is allowed to join 2 valley support batten
together. This value is used for quantity calculation, using the batten full
length minus the batten lap. This field can also be used to increase or
decrease wastage.

[Link] Solar Panels

[Link] Roof Panel Options
Allows you to set the roof panel parameters when using the ‘Panel Jack’ hip end type. Refer to
Smart Panel Commands for settings.

2.4.2 Options Tab

[Link] Height Split Options

▪ Max Height This is the maximum height required when splitting trusses horizontally.
▪ Required Gap This is the gap requirement between the top and bottom halves of a split
truss. This distance would generally be set to the depth of roof battens which
are required to restrain the main truss, then the top hat truss section is
attached on top of these battens.
Labels Options
▪ Truss Type Prefix that will be given to each type of truss listed. It is recommended to
keep the prefix to less than 3 characters. Spaces or punctuation are not
allowed.
▪ Continuous If set to TRUE, then the truss labelling will start at 1 and continue for all the
Numbering trusses regardless of the truss type.
If set to FALSE, then the numbering will restart from 1 for each truss type.
▪ Auto Label Layout If set to TRUE, trusses will automatically be labelled on input.

[Link] Report Options

▪ General Notes Select true for all information needed in the report.
▪ Minimum Uplift Value Any values less than the value indicated will not display on the Truss Uplift
Plan. Generally, this would be used for plan clarity.

[Link] Detail Sheet Options

Options to be included or excluded on the truss elevations in Detailing Space

▪ Include Materials Turns the material list on or off

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▪ Collect Common
Combines common lengths in the cutting list.
Length
▪ Include Parts
▪ Include Design
Summary
▪ Show Major
Dimensions
▪ Show Minor
Dimensions
▪ Show Engineering
Percentage
▪ Show Uplifts
▪ Border Sized to Fit If set to FALSE, the largest border size required will be used for all trusses.
▪ Auto Update
Supports
▪ Engineering Detail
Report

[Link] Dimension Options

▪ General Notes Choose Location of Dimensions appearing on the layout drawings

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3 General Commands
3.1 ADD – Border
Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Launches the Border Setup only if no borders exist.
Process:
Type ADD or A then right click or press Enter.
Additional Information:

3.2 ADD – Wall

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs a single wall frame by points or lines and multiple wall frames by lines.
Process:
• Type ADD then press Enter.

• Select the Wall tab.

• All the options in the 'General Values' will be populated according to the Wall settings (PSET).

• Changing any of the 'General Values' will precede what is in the Wall settings.
• Settings in the 'Other Values' section will be applied if the walls do not find any referenced
truss or joist loadings on the plan.
Tip: Double clicking on a Property will automatically change to the next option in the 'Value' column.

General Values

The system to be used for the wall panels. You may mix systems within a single
job.
▪ System Name
Note: To save system settings as default, hold down the 'ALT' key and click on
'System Name*'. See Additional Information below.

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 This is the sub system or member profile requirements for the job. If a user has
a list of commonly used profile sizes, this list can be modified to suit by
requesting a custom data file through the FRAMECAD Care section under 'My
▪ Current Model Support' in [Link]
Note: To save current model settings as default, hold down the 'ALT' key and
click on 'Current Model*'. See Additional Information below.
Load Bearing: The wall will be designed for vertical and horizontal loads.
Non-Load Bearing: The wall will not be designed for vertical load.
▪ Panel Usage Structural: The wall will be designed for vertical and horizontal loads but
presumes that the wall is not point loaded in any way, i.e. studs will not be
placed under trusses or joists even if required.

Linked to the truss settings from the 'TSET' command. Changing this value will
open the Truss Settings where you can make the change and Save. Changing the
▪ Roof Load
roof load will not change the settings of any trusses which have already been
built.
Set what type of floor the wall is fixed to. There are currently 3 choices,
▪ Floor Type 'Concrete', 'Steel' and 'Timber'. This is used to calculate the bill of material
and/or the strength of hold down fasteners.
Linked to the truss settings from the 'TSET' command. Changing this value will
open the Truss Settings where you can make the change and Save. Changing the
▪ Wind Speed
roof load will not change the settings of any trusses which have already been
built.
This is the height from the base to the top of the wall frame top plate, assuming
▪ Wall Height
the wall is not raked.
This is the base level of the wall frame bottom plate. This value is critical as the
▪ Base Level software uses it to create 3D models and for the purpose of load transfers. The
'S3D' command will allow the user to detect any base level mistakes.
▪ Opening Options Settings coming from the 'PSET' command. They can be changed here without
modifying the 'PSET' settings.
Lintel Head: Header which only uses vertical webs as long as the Lintel Head
passes the engineering analysis. It can be reinforced with 1 L plate or 2 L plates
fixed on each side of the opening at the top of the frame. In case the engineering
status of the Lintel Head has failed with the reinforced L plates, the software will
▪ Opening Head automatically add diagonal webs to reinforce the Header.
Style Webbed Head: Webbed Header using diagonal webs. The webbed Head can be
reinforced with 1 L plate or 2 L plate fixed above the opening. The web pattern
can be changed by listing the opening.
Beam Head: Header composed of a Deep Cee Joist. The Deep Cee profile can be
changed by listing the opening.
Maximum width for openings without diagonal webs in Load Bearing walls.
▪ LB Web to Opening above this width will have web added even if the software engineering
Openings analysis says they are not required. When set to zero, no maximum width will be
considered.
Other Values

▪ Drafting colour Set colour of the wall.

Allows to enter an extra truss span in order to add extra roof load to the wall in
addition with any other load already applied to the wall through truss and or floor
▪ Extra Truss Span
layouts. Note that the roof load taken in account for this extra truss span will be
the one defined in the 'TSET' command.

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 This is the pitch of the extra truss span. It is the angle of the extra truss slope
defined in decimal degrees. If you wish to define the truss pitch by rise over run,
▪ Truss Pitch then click on the ellipsis button to the right of this field. Enter in the run and rise
values (the pitch field will automatically update) then click on 'Transfer' to place
this value into the main dialogues pitch field.
Allows to enter an extra floor span in order to add extra floor load to the wall in
addition with any other load already applied to the wall through truss and or floor
▪ Extra Floor Span
layouts. Note that the Floor load taken in account for this extra floor span will be
the one defined in the 'JSET' command.
▪ Extra Snow Load Allows to set a specific snow load to the extra truss span
Stud spacing measured from face to face of the stud. This value may be updated
▪ Stud Spacing
in accordance with the engineering analysis results of the wall panel.
Weight of the wall panel cladding when it is used as an external wall panel. The
▪ Ext Wall Mass
unit is KPa for metric, and psf for imperial.
Weight of the wall panel cladding when it is used as an internal wall panel. The
▪ Int Wall Mass
unit is KPa for metric, and psf for imperial.
Creation Options

True : Will code the frames as they are input.

▪ Code as you go False : Will allow for un-coded frames. Frames will then need to be coded using
the List (LI) command.
By Points :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the start point and end point of the wall, then the direction (or side of line) to offset the
frame.
▪ This option can be set to code the walls on input.
▪ The Panel Draw (PD) command also achieves the same result.

▪ Creation Method

By Lines :
▪ Create a line or polyline.
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the line or polyline then click on the side of the line/polyline for the wall placement.
▪ Walls input using this method can be coded on input if ‘Code as you go' is set to 'True’.
▪ Use the Member Fillet (MF) command to tidy up any wall intersections.

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 True : Will erase the line entities when walls are created using the 'By Lines'
▪ Erase original input method.
entity False : Will leave the line entities in place when walls are created using the 'By
Lines' input method.

Additional Information:
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.3 ADD – Beam

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs a single beam by points or lines.
Note: Beams are detailed only. The loads carried and incurred by these are not
transferred to structural elements. Beams are not considered nor calculated by the
software and should be engineered by others.
Process:
• Type ADD then press Enter.

• Select the Beam tab.

• Check and change the parameters as required.

General Values

This should be set to the same system name as that used for the wall panels in
PSET, however you may mix systems within a single job.
Please also ensure you have set the required default BeamsPosts data
file in the BSET – Options – Drawing Options dialogue.
▪ System Name

Beams will then first be selected from the data file as set in the ADD dialogue (if
any exist there), then further selections will be made from the BeamsPosts data
file that is set in BSET – Drawing Options.
List of pre-defined beam types to select from, i.e. Webbed, Lipped Cee, PFC,
▪ Beam Category
RHS, UB, etc.
▪ Beam Name Select the name of the type of beam to be used.
This option is only available for Webbed Beams. Select the profile type to be
▪ Model Type
used.
This is the relative level of the top of the beam.
▪ Beam Top RL
Changing this value will alter the Base RL relative to the beam height.
This is the relative level of the underside of the beam.
▪ Beam Base RL
Changing this value will alter the Top RL relative to the beam height.

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 This is the Height of the beam. This value will be automatically generated after
▪ Beam Height the selection of the 'Beam name' and can also be manually changed.
Changing this value will alter the Base RL while maintaining the Top RL.
This is the width of the beam. This value will be automatically generated after
▪ Beam Width
the selection of the 'Beam name' and can also be manually changed.
▪ Drafting Colour Sets colour of the beam.
▪ Treat as Non- As beams are not engineered, this option does not affect anything.
Structural
▪ Detail This Item If set to ‘No’, beam will not be sent to the Wall Builder (PPD)
Creation Options

By Points:
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the start point and end point of the beam, then the direction (or side of
▪ Creation Method line) to offset the beam.
By Entity:
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select a line entity then click on the side of the line for the beam placement.

Additional Information:
More options are available when listing (LI) the beam. See LI – List Item – Beam Editor.
Beams running over the top of walls places a single stud in the wall below the beam.
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.4 ADD – Post

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs a series of posts by points or lines.
Process:
• Type ADD then press Enter.

• Select the Post tab.

• Check and change the parameters as required.

General Values

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 This should be set to the same system name as that used for the wall panels in
PSET, however you may mix systems within a single job.
Please also ensure you have set the required default BeamsPosts data
file in the BSET – Options – Drawing Options dialogue.
▪ System Name

Posts will then first be selected from the data file as set in the ADD dialogue (if
any exist there), then further selections will be made from the BeamsPosts data
file that is set in BSET – Drawing Options.
Select the post type to be used. If you wish to add more posts to your data file
▪ Post Type refer to the instructions at the end of this section.

Post dimensions are automatically generated after selecting the Post Type and
▪ Post Size (W x D)
cannot be changed manually.
Post profile shape (ie Round, Square...) is automatically generated after selecting
▪ Post Profile
the Post Type and cannot be changed manually.
▪ Maximum Post Maximum spacing between the post when a run of posts is inserted. If required
Spacing post may be moved after they have been inserted.
▪ Post Overall This is the overall height of the past. It will appear on the cutting lists.
Height
▪ Post Base RL Relative level of the base of the post.

Creation Options

By Points :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the start point for the first post, then the end point of the last post,
then the direction (or side of line) to place the posts.
▪ Posts will be placed at spacings equal to or less than the 'Maximum Post
Spacing' specified in the General Values.
▪ Creation Method
By Entity :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select a line entity then click on the side of the line for the post placement.
▪ Posts will be placed at spacings equal to or less than the 'Maximum Post
Spacing' specified in the General Values.

Additional Information:
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.5 ADD – Opening

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs openings into wall frames.
Process:

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 • Click on the 'Settings' button at the bottom of the dialogue box to go to the Opening Settings
(PSET) if required. 'Save' or 'Cancel' will return the user to the ADD dialogue.
• Double click on the door or window type to start the input.

• Follow the prompts in the command bar.

Tip: user defined doors and windows can be input directly by using the UD and UW
commands respectively.
Additional Information:
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.6 ADD – Joist

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs a single joist by points or lines.
Process:
• Type ADD then press Enter.

• Select the Joist tab.

• Click on the 'Settings' button at the bottom of the dialogue box to go to the Floor Settings
(JSET) if required. 'Save' or 'Cancel' will return the user to the ADD dialogue.

• Check and change the parameters as required.

• Changing any of the 'General Values' will precede what is in the Joist settings.

Creation Options

▪ Auto Label True : Activates auto label and automatically relabels the floor joist layout.
Member False : Deactivates auto label.
True : Automatically recreate the on page floor member summary report
▪ Auto Cutting List
False : Does not recreate the on page floor member summary report
By Points :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the start point and end point of the joist, then the direction (or side of
▪ Creation Method line) to offset the joist.
By Entity :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select a line entity then click on the side of the line for the joist placement.

Additional Information:
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.7 ADD – Truss

Commands:

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 Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A
Space: Layout Space
Purpose:
Inputs a single truss by points or lines.
Process:
• Type ADD then press Enter.
• Select the Truss tab.

• Check and change the parameters as required.

• Changing any of the 'General Values' will precede what is in the Truss settings.

Creation Options
By Points :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select the start point and end point of the truss, then the direction (or side of
▪ Creation Method line) to offset the truss.
By Entity :
▪ Click on ‘Create’.
▪ Select a line entity then click on the side of the line for the truss placement.
True : Will add truss eaves if Roof Lines are present and are within the eave
▪ Add Eaves
search distance as set in the TSET settings.
True : Will automatically label the truss on input. This option will also
automatically update the truss labels on other trusses present in the job. Labels
▪ Auto Label Truss will automatically be changed to suit the truss locations.
False : Will not label the truss. Use this option if you have other trusses present
that you do not wish to have labels inadvertently updated.

Additional Information:
The ADD command will activate BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.8 ADD – Truss/Joist/Wall Members

Commands:
Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER
Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER
Alias: ADD or A (or CM for Code Member)
Space: Detailing Space
Purpose:
To add an individual member to a truss, joist or wall in detailing space.
Process:
• Ensure Ortho mode is either ON or OFF depending on the input requirements.
• Type A then right click or press Enter to open the:

o 'Code as Truss Member' dialogue box for trusses,

o 'Code as Floor Member' dialogue box for joists,

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 o 'Code as Wall Member' dialogue box for walls.
• Change parameters as described in the following table.

General Values:
▪ Material Usage Trusses - Top Chord / Horizontal Top Chord / Bottom Chord / Web / Rail
Joists - Bottom Chord / Top Chord / Rail / Vertical Web / Angular Web
Walls - Members as listed in dialogue drop down
▪ Material Name Set to 'Auto' unless a different material type is required.
▪ Auto Complete True - This will label the member and re-engineer the truss on completion
of input.
False - Member will be input without label or re-engineering.
▪ Method By Points - Allows for a start and finish point to be selected.
By Entity - Select a line entity to convert to a member.

Additional Information:
• When inputting a vertical web into a truss, ensure ortho mode is ON and input method is set
to 'By Points', select the first point along a chord member, then select the second point
between the two edges of the opposite chord member (i.e. do not select on the chord edge
line). The web member will automatically be adjusted to fit between the 2 chord members.
Also see: IW - Insert Web for alternative truss member input method.
The ADD command activates BSET on a new drawing if no borders are present.

3.9 C3D – Copy to Model

Commands:

Global name: COPYMODEL

Local name: _COPYMODEL

Alias: C3D

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to easily copy selected entities/items from the Layout space into the exact same
co-ordinate location in the Model space. The co-ordinate location in Model space will be
determined by the presence of REF markers in the layouts.
Process:
• In Layout Space, type C3D then right click or press Enter.
• Select the entities/items to be copied.

• Right click – selected items will appear in Model Space

Additional Information:

3.10 CB – Clear Border

Commands:

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 Global name: ClearBorder

Local name: _ClearBorder

Alias: CB

Space: Layout and Detail Space

Purpose:
Clears the entire contents of a border.
Process:
• Ensure that the border to clear is centralised on the screen.
• Type CB then right click or press Enter.
Additional Information:

3.11 CC – Copy Posts

Commands:

Global name: COPYPOST

Local name: _COPYPOST

Alias: CC

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Copies posts from one view (layout) to another and removes all entity system information from
the copied posts.
Process:
• Ensure that the plan to copy from is centralised on the screen.
• Type CC then right click or press Enter.
• Press Enter for entire view selection.
OR
• Select the posts to be copied.
• Press Enter to accept. The drawing will zoom out to include all border views.
• Select anywhere within the border to copy to.
Additional Information:

3.12 CSL - Create Support Line

Commands:

Global name: CREATE_SUPPORT

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 Local name: _CREATE_SUPPORT

Alias: CSL

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Creates support lines on a plan based on the centreline of selected walls or beams from another
plan.
Process:
• Ensure that the plan to copy from is centralised on the screen.
• Type CSL then right click or press Enter.
• Select the walls and/or beams.
• Press Enter to accept. The drawing will zoom out to include all border views.
• Select anywhere within the border to copy to.
Additional Information:

3.13 CTH - Convert to Hexagonal End

Commands:

Global name: _ TO_HEX

Local name: TO_HEX

Alias: CTH

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Converts the square end of a building to a hexagonal end. The resulting lines will all be of equal
length.
Process:
• Type CTH then press Enter.
• Select the end line and then

3.14 CTR – Centered

Commands:

Global name: _CENTERED

Local name: CENTERED

Alias: CTR

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to select an entity or number of entities and move them to the centre of a
border.

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 Process:
• Type CTR then right click or press Enter.
• Select the items you wish to move.

• Right click or Enter to finish.

Additional Information:
Centering ignores the size and location of the title block within a border.

3.15 CV - Copy View

Commands:

Global name: COPYVIEW

Local name: _COPYVIEW

Alias: CV

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Copies selected entities from one view (border) to another. The border to copy entities from must
be centralised on the screen for this command to work.
Process:
• Ensure that the view you are copying from is centralised on your screen.
• Type CV then right click or press Enter.

Additional Information:

3.16 DET - Detail/Frame Builder

Commands:

Global name: _DETAIL

Local name: DETAIL

Alias: DET

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
This is a universal command that performs the same function as the TTD, PPD and JJD
commands, with the exception that the frames to be built must be in focus on the screen.
Process:
• Ensure that the frame type to be built is in focus on the screen.
• Type DET then right click or press Enter.

Additional Information:
When a layout is in focus and if frames of the same type, e.g. wall frames, also occur on another
layout, all frames of that type in the job will be built, i.e. will include the frames on other layouts.

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3.17 DO_ONCE - Reset CAD Environment
Commands:

Global name: _DO_ONCE

Local name: DO_ONCE

Alias: do_once

Layout and
Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Resets the CAD environment to the default values required by the Operating System.
To be used if the 'Design' menu is missing from the menu bar or aliases are not working.
Process:
• Type 'do_once' then press Enter.
Additional Information:
This command generally only needs to be used after the initial installation of the software.
Also, to be used to fix menu and alias issues.

3.18 ET - Explicit Tool Input

Commands:

Global name: _ TOOL_ACTION

Local name: TOOL_ACTION

Alias: ET

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to manually add extra tooling to framing members in elevation view.
Allows the user to increase the length of a member while also adding any selected tooling to
framing members in elevation view, but will not show the increase in the layout or 3D views –
Composite Options.
Process:
• Type ET then press Enter.
• The following dialogue will open.

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 • Select the required tool (or combination of tools) from the Detail Information by changing the
option to ‘Yes’.
• Select ‘Insert’

• Select a point along a member and right click to insert the tooling indicator line.
• OR

• Select a first and second point across the member at the location where you wish to place the
selected tool actions. The line must cross the centre of a member for it to take effect.
• Please note that where the line intersects the centre of a member, this indicates the
centreline of the tool action selected.

• Composite Tool Input:

• Set the material length as required

• Set the tool action location as required. This is the distance from the end of the member to
the centre of the tool action.

• Select the drafting colour for the tooling indicator line.

• Select ‘Insert’

• While holding the Alt key down, click on (or close to) the end of the member in the frame
elevation that you wish to place the Composite Tool Action. An indication marker line will be
placed at the centre of the end of the member.

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 Additional Information:

Tool Action List

Composite Options

Material Increase Length to increase a member by

Tool Location Distance in from the end of a member to apply any selected tool actions

Drafting Colour Colour applied to the tooling indicator line

Detail Information

▪ Lip notch To add a lip cut

▪ Web Notch To add a web notch

▪ Left Flange Notch To cut the left flange

▪ Right Flange Notch To cut the right flange

▪ Mitre Notch To add a flange chamfer

▪ Std Service Hole To add a standard web service hole
▪ Long Service To add a long web service hole
▪ Hold Down Hole To add a web hold down hole
▪ Bolt Hole To add a web bolt hole
▪ Truss Hole To add triple web hole
▪ Flange Hole To add a flange hole
▪ Swage To add a swage
▪ Dimple To add a dimple

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▪ Clear All Resets all selections back to ‘False’

Composite Tool
Listing (LI) a Tool:
• Type LI and select the Explicit Tool line.
• Right click, press Enter or Spacebar to open the Tool Editor.

• Lists the tool type that was used on Explicit Tool input. This can then be changed in the
editor if required.

3.19 FFIND - Find Item

Commands:

Global name: _FIND_ITEM

Local name: FIND_ITEM

Alias: FFIND or FF

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To easily locate a member.

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 Process when in Layout Space:
• Type FFIND and press Enter.
• Type in the name of the member then right click or press Enter to finish.
• The item(s) is highlighted with an asterisk.
Process when in Detailing Space:
• Type FFIND and press Enter.
• Type in the name of the member then right click or press Enter to finish.
• The item is centred on the screen.
To find a member in the Layout Space when in Detailing Space:
• Ensure the required truss/panel/joist is centred on the screen.
• Type FFIND and press Enter twice.
• Program momentarily switches to the Layout Space and highlights the members with an
asterisk.
Additional Information:
• FIND is a standard IntelliCAD command used to find and replace text.

3.20 GL – Gridline
Commands:

Global name: _GRIDLINE

Local name: GRIDLINE

Alias: GL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to input a series of gridlines on the layout.
Process:
• Type GL then right click or press Enter.
• Select the start point for the first gridline.
• Select the end point for the gridline.
• Select the location for each subsequent gridline.
• Press Enter or right mouse click to finish.
Additional Information:
The Gridline settings can be found in BSET – Options – Gridline Options.
Listing a Gridline:
• Type LI and select the Gridline.

• Right click or press Enter or Spacebar to open the Gridline Editor.

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 • Marking Text
• Gridline Line Layer

• Gridline Text Layer

• Gridline Line Linetype

• Gridline Line Colour

• Gridline Text Colour

• Show Finishing End Marker

• Show Gridline Line

• Text Height

3.21 IC – Integrity Check

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_CHECK

Local name: MEMBER_CHECK

Alias: IC or CHECK

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
This command is used to check for drafting errors and simple mistakes made by the detailer. It
checks for eleven major errors and issues two types of warnings. It should be stressed that this
command could not be used enough. It should be used several times on EVERY job. Whilst it
should not be relied upon, this command could be your best friend, and save much

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 embarrassment by attempting to eliminate errors. The eleven major errors detected are listed
below:

Integrity of reference points (critical

warning)

Wall panels that are not (warning

(cyan)
coded only)

Wall panels that are not (warning

(yellow)
labelled only)

(warning
Wall panels that are short (blue)
only)

Wall panels that are (warning

(yellow)
overlapping only)

Wall panels exceeding (magenta) (warning

maximum length only)

Wall panels exceeding (warning

(magenta)
transport limitations only)

Openings spread over two (brown) (warning

wall panels only)

Braces spread over two wall (warning

(brown)
panels only)

(warning
Imposed panel loads
only)

(warning
Duplicate labels
only)

Entities of very small (critical

(red)
lengths warning)

Entities with a ‘Z’ coordinate (critical

(red)
value warning)

(warning
Engineering failures (red++) only)

The various CHECK options can be enabled or disabled in the Integrity Check Options within the
PSET dialogue box.

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 The two types of warnings issued are ‘Critical Warnings’ and ‘Warning Only’. Should you receive a
‘Critical Warning’ then this MUST be fixed before proceeding any further, but a ‘Warning Only’ is
purely up to your own discretion. Whenever a ‘Critical Warning’ is generated or present, the ‘PPD
- Panel Builder’ command will not operate. Once a ‘Critical Error’ has been detected, the only way
to clear the error is to fix the problem and run the ‘CHECK’ command until the ‘Critical Error’
warning does not appear.
Of the twelve warnings, only the first ten are optional and can be accessed via the settings
option. We do recommend that 'Reference Points', 'Panel Length Shortage' and 'Panel Overlaps'
remain on at all times as these are a major cause of drafting errors.
Process:
• Type IC then press Enter. It is important to remember that the ‘CHECK’ command will only
check items found in the current view.
• Enter again to go to the setup. This allows the user to turn on or off items as required.
• Select Save or Cancel to go back to the layout.
• Select the items to be checked and Enter or right click.
• When an error is found, the location is marked with an asterisk and a warning box appears
showing the errors found. The asterisk is colour coded making it easy to identify the error at
that point. The colours used are listed above beside each error type.

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 • The warning box can be moved to one side to see the indicated errors on the plan.

3.22 ID – Insert Detail

Commands:

Global name: _INSERT_DETAIL

Local name: INSERT_DETAIL

Alias: ID

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Inserts predefined details onto the drawing.
Process:
• Type ID then enter.
• The 'Detail Inserts' form opens.

• Select the 'Detail Type' from the drop down menu.

• Select the 'Detail Name' from the drop down menu.
• Change any of the other parameters as required.
• Click the Insert button.
• Click on the required plan location.
• To add a detail:
• In the 'Other Actions' drop down, select Add Detail.
• Click on 'Add'.

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 • Select entities for the new detail.
• Select the insertion point for the new detail.
• Enter the detail description into the text editor.

• Select 'Change'.

3.23 LA – Label All

Commands:

Global name: _LABEL

Local name: LABEL

Alias: LA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
• Used to label any selected joists, walls, trusses, etc.
• Used to update all text information on all paper space borders at once, e.g. if material
thickness is changed on every frame at once, LA will update the member cutting list
information in one go.
• When making major changes to frames in Detailing Space, LA will update all the information
in all the borders and reassociate the frames with the Model Space 3D.
Process:
• Ensure the border of the layout to be labelled is in focus on the screen. If in doubt, run ‘V’
and then the border number.
• Type LA then press Enter.
• Select entities to label or press Enter again to label all. Only the entities that are in the focus
border will be able to be labelled.
Additional Information:
Wall, beam, truss and joist labels can’t start with an ‘X’. X is the default used for unlabelled
frames.

3.24 LI – List Item

Commands:

Global name: _FRAMING_LIST

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 Local name: FRAMING_LIST

Alias: LI

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Opens an editor dialogue box for most Steelwise entities that are selected. If an editor is not
applicable to an entity, the standard CAD listing entity information window will open.
Process:
• Type LI then press Enter.
• Select the entity to list.
OR
• Double mouse click on an entity.
• An editor dialogue box relevant to the item selected will open giving the user the option to
make any changes.
• Click on 'Amend' (or ‘Change’) to activate any changes. The 'Amend' button is made active
after changes are made within the dialogue.
• Multiple items can be selected and altered at once.
• After clicking on 'Amend', and if the Change Prompts are not hidden, type in 'a' for 'all' to
make the change to all of the selected items.
To select only common multiple items on a view that contains multiple different entity types and
items that are on other layers:
• Type LI then press Enter.
• Select one instance of the item to list.
• Drag a fence over the total area containing all items to be listed.
• An editor dialogue box relevant to the items selected (based on the initial item selection) will
open giving the user the option to make any changes.
• Click on 'Amend' to activate changes. The 'Amend' button is made active after changes are
made in the dialogue.
• After clicking on 'Amend', and if the Change Prompts are not hidden, type in 'a' for 'all' to
make the change to all of the selected items.

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3.24.1 Bath Editor
3.24.2 Beam Editor

Changing the Beam Top RL value will alter the Base Level RL according to the beam height value.
Changing the Beam Base RL value will not alter the Top Level RL, it will only change the beam
height value.

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3.24.3 Brace Editor
3.24.4 Fixings Details

Product Information:
• Joint Type - Main, Web, Rail, Boxing
• Main screw type - this is the primary screw fixing
• Sub screw type - this is the secondary screw fixing
• Quantity of main fixings
• Quantity of sub fixings
Strengths:
• Total capacity - total capacity of fixing (kN or kip)
• Joint load - total load at joint (kN or kip)

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3.24.5 Floor Member Editor (Webbed Joist)
General Information:

• System Name - Data File Name

• Member Name - Model
• Member Usage
o End Bearer – This member sits on the perimeter of the floor layout and is
perpendicular to the joists. They do not support any other members and are
continuously supported.
o Side Bearer – This member sits on the perimeter of the floor layout and is parallel
to joist layout. They do not support any other members and are continuously
supported.
o Internal Bearer – This member is perpendicular to, and located somewhere
between the ends of the joists at a pre-determined spacing as selected in the
‘Layouts Information’. They do not support any other members and are
continuously supported.
o Joist – This is a standard joist which support the floor only.
o Joist Beam – This is a joist that supports other joists.

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 o Beam Bearer – This is defined as an End Bearer that supports Joists and Joist
Beams, but spans between two or more supports, whereas an End Bearer is
continuously supported.

In the second example above, the End Bearer has been split into two members, so
the unsupported portion can be defined as a Beam Bearer.

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 In the example above, the member on the cantilevered end of the joists will
remain as an End Bearer because it is supported by the joists.
• Member Type - Webbed Joist or Unlipped Cee
• Label
• Zone Location (refer to the zone location description in Panel Properties Editor)
• Member Height - This value can only be changed for webbed joists.
• Member Width
• Length Drawn
• Clearance Allowed - The joist will be shortened by this distance.
• Nominal Weight - Approximate weight only.
• Layout Colour
• Reduced Level - Height from the base of the building to the top of the joist member
• Redline Text - This text is placed diagonally across the elevation in Detail Space and is
shown in red.
• Engineering Status - This is only populated after the joists have been built (JJD).
• Detail This Item - If set to 'No', the joist will lose its label and will not export with JJD.
• Show In 3D - If set to 'No', the joist will not appear in the 3D view.
• Joist Spacing - Centre to centre distance as set in JSET.
• Oncoming Web Align - If set to 'True', vertical webs will be placed at oncoming joist
locations.

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 • Double Webs to Supports - If set to 'True', double webs will be placed at support locations
whenever a width is applied to a support line but only if that width is greater than 2x the
member web width.
• Hide Joist Labels - Turns the joist label visibility off for viewing clarity.
• Material Information

• Bottom Chord; Top Chord; Vertical Member; Web Material.

• Web Pattern - Choose from 11 different web patterns. Web pattern 1 and 2 will reduce
• Web Spacing
• Bottom Chord Quantity
• Top Chord Quantity

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3.24.6 Gridline Editor

• Marking Text
• Gridline Line Layer
• Gridline Text Layer
• Gridline Line Linetype
• Gridline Line Colour
• Gridline Text Colour
• Show Finishing End Marker
• Show Gridline Line
• Text Height

3.24.7 Layout Title

When listing a title more options are available in the Sheet Label Editor including the option to
change the default layout name.

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3.24.8 Opening Editor
Allows changes to be made to properties of an opening.
Opening Information:
• Library – This is the opening configuration that was used at the time that this opening
was inserted into the panel. If a user defined opening was inserted, then UD or UW will
show.
• Code – This is the code or window text label shown on the layout drawing. You may
change this description if required.
• Head Location – This is the location of the opening head from the underside of the
bottom plate to the underside of the header. Changing this value will change the sill
height where possible.
• Overall Height – This is the height from top of the sill to underside of header for windows,
or from the underside of the bottom plate to the underside of the header for doors.
Changing this value will change the sill height where possible.
• Sill Height – This is the height of the sill measured from the underside of the bottom
plate to the top side of the sill. Changing this value will also change the opening height
where possible.
• Overall Width – This is the width of the opening measured from inside of jamb stud to
inside of jamb stud. Changing this value changes the width based on the centreline of the
opening.
• Allowed Clearance – This is the clearance that has been allowed for on each side of the
opening. This value is only used when fitting openings to brickwork and serves no other
purpose.
• Fitted to Brickwork – This shows whether the user has fitted the opening to suit
brickwork (PFB).
• Engineering Status –
o This field shows the current engineering status of the opening.
o Prior to walls being engineered, the status will be set to 'Unknown'. Once the
walls have been through the PCB, PPD or have been updated using the PUA
command, then the status will change to 'Passed'. If any of the parameters under

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 'Construction Methods' is manually altered, then the status will change to
'Amended'.
o If you wish to change an amended opening back to its original passed state, click
on the drop down and change to 'Unknown'. In the detailing space, the opening
will revert back to its passed state; in the layout space you will need to PUA the
job to finalise the process.
• Reset all Labels – Resets all opening labels back to default e.g. accidentally deleted labels
will be restored.
Locations:
An opening can be moved in the elevation view by listing it and changing the distance in the
Location area. The Start location is the distance from the left-hand end of the panel to the left
side of the opening. The End Location is the distance from the right-hand end of the panel to the
right side of the opening. The same option is available in the plan view.
• Start Location –
• End Location –
Construction Methods:
• Head Type –
• Web Pattern –
• Lintel Materials –
• Lintel Quantity (only visible when a lintel material is selected) –
• Jack Stud Spacing – Allows the header jack stud spacing to be changed. Set as ‘Default’,
this will use the nominal stud spacing. The user can overwrite the word ‘Default’ with a
required spacing value.
Note that it will only work for web patterns that have vertical members in them. Also,
this only applies to the header jacks and not the sill jacks.
Once applied, the opening header will automatically re-engineer.
• Web to Openings -
o For loadbearing walls, this is the minimum width of an opening before diagonal
webs are placed. Openings below this value will only have vertical jack studs as
per a non-loadbearing wall opening.
o For non-loadbearing walls, this is the maximum width of an opening before
diagonal webs are placed. Openings below this value will only have vertical jack
studs.
• Maximum Head Depth –
• Head Split Depth –
• Split to Base –
• Mullion Top Location – The mullion option allows an opening to be split into two openings
horizontally. This value is to set the top of the horizontal mullion.
• Mullion Depth (only visible when a value is entered into ‘Mullion Top Location’) – This is
the depth from the top of the mullion down to the underside of it.
• Mullion Webs (only visible when a value is entered into ‘Mullion Top Location’) – This
option allows for diagonal webs to placed inside the mullion if required.
• Framing Option – This option is only applicable to walls that are imported from an
external source, e.g. Revit (via Revlink). If an opening gets imported through with wall
frames e.g. a ducting or pipe or electrical opening, the user can choose to ignore framing
around that opening.
Construction Options:
• Top Noggin
• Bottom Noggin
• Head Check Calcs
• Sill Check Calcs

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 • Head Stiffener –
• Sill Stiffener –
• Align Head Studs – Allows the user to activate web alignment to trusses in opening
headers. This only applies to web patterns that have vertical members.
Note: Studs will only be placed where point loads are. Use the Stud Array (PSA)
command if any other stud placement is required.
• Maximum Web Spacing – This value changes to suit the ‘Jack Stud Spacing’ in the
‘Construction Methods’ section. It can be overwritten to apply a maximum value.
• Bottom Plate Cutout –
• Minimum Studs Left/Right –

Dynamic Sizing:
This allows the user to add top bottom and side clearances to their openings. Multiple
openings can be edited at once.
One method of selecting multiple openings is to run the IL (Isolate Layer) command, select
an opening, then right click to confirm selection. That way, it will make it a little easier to
single out window from door openings when running the LI (List) command.
Load Information:

3.24.9 Post Editor

Do Not Detail – This prevents the post from being labelled or sent to the Panel Builder (PPD).

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3.24.10 Panel Properties Editor
General Information:

• System Name - The system data file to be used.

• Model Type - The member profile, gauge, steel grade to be used.
• Panel Label - This label is generated by the software.
• Zone Location - When Listing (LI) walls, trusses or joists, the listing dialogue box shows
an option in General Information called ‘Zone Location’. This allows a selection of entities
(walls, trusses or joists) to be grouped into areas.

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 To use this, select and list (LI) a group of walls, trusses or joists, then in the Zone
Location, overwrite ‘Zone Not Used’ with a label that best describes the location of the
selected frames, e.g. Unit1. Select the next set of frames and type in Unit2. When you
perform a PPD, TTD or JJD, these frames can then be filtered by zone when building. The
zone label will be shown in front of the panel or joist label in the elevation views.
In PSET – Options – Labelling Option Information, you can set ‘Restart Zone Numbering’
to ‘False’ to have continuous numbering through all zones, i.e. all numbers will only be
used once and not repeated.

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 Note: Zones cannot start with the characters ‘X’ or ‘Z’ and the first character
cannot be a number. Zone text length must also be greater than 2 characters
long and is limited to 6 characters. Spaces will be eliminated.
This option is ideal for large commercial or multi-unit buildings.
• Drafting Width - The width of the panel as drawn on the layout.
• Actual Width - Actual width of the steel profile.
• Panel End Clearance - The distance to shorten a wall when it is sent to the Panel Builder
(PPD). This distance is applied to both ends of the panel and the end studs are moved in
by this distance. The maximum value allowed is 5mm which would shorten the wall by an
overall total of 10mm. Openings, beam pockets, etc. within approximately 100mm of the
end of the panel will move by this value. This is to eliminate the possibility of members
overlapping each other. It is advised that the user double checks components at the ends
of shortened panels prior to manufacture to ensure the results are what they are
expecting.
• Length Drawn -
• Maximum Length -
• Drafting Colour -
• Redline Text -

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 • Detail This Item -
• Show in 3D Model -
• Convert to Beam -
• Go to Detailed Panel -
Height Information:

• Reduced Level - height to the bottom of the panel

• Starting Height - the overall frame height at the left-hand end
• Finishing Height - the overall frame height at the right-hand end
• Starting Angle - top plate raking angle from the left-hand end
• Finishing Angle - top plate raking angle from the right-hand end
• Bottom Chord Rake - bottom plate raking angle from the left-hand end
Loading Information:

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 • Vertical Load - roof load as determined in the Truss Settings (TSET)
• Usage Type - Loadbearing, Non-loadbearing or Structural
• Wind Speed - as determined in the Border Settings (BSET)
• Location – used for calculating wind bracing (PCB).
External or Internal – This is automatically set by the walls physical location as
determined by the software. This can be manually altered to suit.
Mixed – If a wall is a mix of internal and external, then self-weight is altered to suit
internal wall linings on both sides and horizontal wind is decreased. This option needs to
be manually set by the user.
• Floor Type - Concrete, Steel or Timber. This setting only determines what hold-down
fixings are to be used as set in the data file.
• Extra Truss Span - this allows the user to add truss loads that are not present on any
referenced Truss Layout drawings. NOTE: Tributary loaded width applied to wall is one-
half of the extra span.
• Extra Joist Span - this allows the user to add floor joist loads that are not present on any
referenced Floor Joist Layout drawings. NOTE: Tributary loaded width applied to wall is
one-half of the extra span.
• Extra Snow Load - this allows the user to add snow loads that are not pre-set in the
Truss Settings (TSET).
• Wall Mass - this is the self-weight of the wall unlined. The user can add the weight of
claddings, if required, by clicking on the ellipsis button to the right of the value.
• Structural Tolerance - this determines the allowable gap between the bottom of a wall
and the top of the wall below before loads are no longer transferred.
Stud Data:

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 • Stud Arrangement – Select from the options available in the drop-down list. Selecting
‘Auto’ will reset the stud data. The Actual and Nominal Stud Spacing will change to 0.
After selecting ‘Amend’, the stud arrangement, actual stud spacing and nominal stud
spacing will be recalculated.
• Actual Stud Spacing – This is the value as set in the data file. If the Nominal Stud
Spacing drops below this value, then the Actual Stud Spacing will drop to suit.
• Nominal Stud Spacing – This is the value that is calculated by the software and does not
allow for top or bottom plate strength.
• Stud Restraint Height – This is particularly useful with taller walls that have a floor,
ceiling or roof structure attached to the side of the wall. The restraint height is the
distance from this restraint to either the top plate or bottom plate, whichever is the
greater, and the stud spacing and arrangement is calculated based on that height.
• Noggin Heights – This height is automatically calculated as a single row of nogs evenly
spaced between the top and bottom of the wall up to 1399mm to the centre of the
noggin (as set in the standard data file). Once the wall exceeds 2798mm, the wall height
will be divided into two rows of noggins.
• User Noggin Heights – The user can enter in a value to add extra noggins. Heights are to
the centre of the noggin.
• Service Holes – The heights shown are the heights that are set up in the data file. The
user can enter in a value to add extra service holes or clear existing ones.
• Truss Tolerance – This means that when placing a stud under a truss, if another stud is
found within this distance, then a stud will not be placed under that truss, unless the top
plate bending check determines that a stud is required.
• Joist Tolerance – This means that when placing a stud under a joist, if another stud is
found within this distance, then a stud will not be placed under that joist, unless the top
plate bending check determines that a stud is required.
• Front Align – Allows studs to align with trusses or joists that connect to the front face of a
wall. Note: Truss/Joist tolerance must be set to “0” for this option to work.

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 • Back Align – Allows studs to align with trusses or joists that connect to the back face of a
wall. Note: Truss/Joist tolerance must be set to “0” for this option to work.
• Double Jamb Studs – Allows the user to always include a minimum of double jamb studs
to openings greater than the value specified.
• Jamb Stud Gap – Gap between multiple jamb studs. This setting does not affect back to
back common wall studs.
• Jack Stud Gap – Gap between jack stud and jamb stud. This also sets the gap for back to
back common wall studs.
• Initial Stud Spacing – Allows the user to decrease the initial stud spacing from whatever
is set in the data file.
Most of these default values can be set in the data file – please create a ticket in MyFramecad
to request any data file changes.

Construction Information:

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 Notching Information:

Materials Information:

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 Fixings Information:

Calculated Loads:

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 Search Options:

3.24.11 Reference Point Editor

• Reference Type - Primary or Secondary

• Reference Index
• Heading Text - Adds extra information above the leader line
• Heading Value - Adds extra information below the leader line
• Colour

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 • Visibility Level (%)
• Print Reference - Default is 'No'

3.24.12 Section Marker Editor

• Marking Text
• Text Height

3.24.13 Smart Panel Editor

3.24.14 Stick Editor (v11.1 onwards only) – previously Member Editor
This is used to edit “stick” members in the detail sheet (frame elevations) and is only applicable
to jobs that have been created in Structure v11.1 onwards. The only additions are the ‘Drawing
Options’.

3.24.15 Stud Editor

If the stud location is to be fixed, select 'True' from the drop-down list next to 'Location Fixed'.

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3.24.16 Tool Action Editor

Lists the tool type that was used on Explicit Tool input. This can then be changed in the editor if
required.

3.24.17 Truss Editor

Trusses can be listed from the layout or from the Truss Builder (by double clicking on the truss in
the list).
General Information:

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 • System Name – As set in TSET
• Truss Type – As defined on input
• Model Name – As set in TSET
• Zone Location – This allows a selection of trusses to be grouped into areas.
• To use this, select and list a group of trusses, then in the Zone Location, overwrite ‘Zone
Not Used’ with a label that best describes the location of the selected frames, e.g. Unit1.
Select the next set of frames and type in Unit2. When you perform a TTD, these trusses
can then be filtered by zone when building. The zone label will be shown in front of the
truss label in the elevation views.
• In TSET – Options – Labelling Option Information, you can set ‘Restart Zone Numbering’ to
‘False’ to have continuous numbering through all zones, i.e. all numbers will only be used
once and not repeated.
• Note: Do not start the zone location description with ‘Z’ or ‘X’ or a number. Description
length must be greater than 2 characters long and is limited to 6 characters. Spaces will
be eliminated.

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 • This option is ideal for large commercial or multi-unit buildings.
• Truss Orientation – ‘Right Handed’ trusses will display only for LC (B2B) half trusses on hip
ends and only if that option is set to be used in the data file, otherwise, all trusses will be
displayed as ‘Left Handed’.
• Roof Load – As set in TSET
• Wind Speed – As set in BSET
• Ground Snow Load – As set in TSET
• Truss Label – As set when using LA
• Drafting Colour – As defined in the data file
• Redline Text – User option – will be displayed in truss elevation view
• Engineering Status – Changes from ‘Unknown’ after trusses have been built (TTD)
• Go to detailed truss – If trusses have already been built, clicking on the button to the right
of 'Click to go' will jump directly to the selected truss elevation in the truss detailing tab.
• Detail This Item – Item to be detailed or ignored
• Show in 3D Model – Item to be displayed in model view or ignored
Construction Information:
• Truss Spacing – By default, this is the actual spacing as determined by the software on TD
(Truss Layout) input.
• End Web Setback (v11.1.6.0) – Allows for the end vertical web at the high end of half
trusses or the cut-off end of stop ended trusses to be edited to a set distance from the end
of the truss.
Span Information:

Pitch Information:

Height Information:

Eave Information:

Web Information:

Materials:

Fixings:

Editing Tools:
Effective Length Factor:
o Effective Length (Kx)
o Effective Length (Ky)
o Torsional Length (Kt)
o Horizontal Restraint (Lh)
▪ This allows the horizontal top chord restraint spacings to be modified in situations where
the hip end rafters or half truss top chords don’t run over the horizontal top chord of the
truncated truss, e.g. where the horizontal top chord is flush with the roof plane.

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 ▪ By default, a calculated value is applied to truncated trusses that have been input
automatically using the JD command. If a truncated truss of any type is manually input
using the ADD command or if a truss is listed and changed to any truncated type truss,
then this value will be reset to zero which is the default setting that uses the roof batten
spacing and the following warning message will be displayed:

▪ You can then change the restraint value if required, as described above.

Split in Height
o Split in Height - Click on the button to the right of 'Click to Split' to activate the split.
o Split Height - This is the height required to split the trusses.
o Split Gap - This is the gap required between the base truss (truncated truss) and the top hat
truss (saddle truss) to run horizontal restraint members.
o Split Pitch - This is the pitch that will be applied to the top hat truss.
Additional Information:
* Alt + right click on 'System Name' to save user settings.

3.25 MV – Move View

Commands:

Global name: _MOVEVIEW

Local name: MOVEVIEW

Alias: MV

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Moves entities from one border to another.
Process:
• Type MV then press enter.
• Select the entities that you wish to move then enter.
• The display will zoom out to show all borders.
• Select anywhere within the border that you wish to move the selected items to.

3.26 QT – Quick Text Input

Commands:

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 Global name: _QUICK_TEXT

Local name: QUICK_TEXT

Alias: QT

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To quickly add commonly used text to plans - generally plan labels.
Process:
• Type QT then press Enter.
• Select the required text from the Quick Text Options dialogue box predefined list.
• Click on any line on the title box to place the text in the recommended location (or select a
different location if required).
• Dialogue Box Options:
o Category: Select a category from the drop down menu for more text. Click on the
hash # button next to Category to add or amend categories.
o Add Text: Type in any required text and click on this button to add it to the
selected category.
o Insert: Inserts any selected text onto the plan.
o Delete Text: Highlight text in the list and click on this button to delete.

3.27 REF – Reference Point Input

Commands:

Global name: _REF_POINT

Local name: REF_POINT

Alias: REF

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
References one plan to another for the purpose of transferring loads from one layout to the other
(specifically from trusses or joists through to walls).
The software is basically a 2D program however with the ‘Reference Point’ system it has all the
functionality of a 3D program. By inserting a ‘Reference Point’ on the wall layouts and
corresponding ‘Reference Points’ on a truss layout or floor layout, the software will see this as an
overlay, thus transferring loads automatically.
The first point inserted is called the primary point and subsequent points are called secondary
points. The primary point is the point where the structure is built from. When the software needs
to transfer loads, or build 3D views etc, the primary point is where they are built from, and all
entities associated with secondary points are transferred to the primary point location.
For the ‘Reference Point’ system to work correctly there are four rules which must apply:
1. The first rule is that there can only be one ‘Reference Point’ within a border.

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 2. The second rule is that there must be a minimum of two ‘Reference Points’ for each reference
number used.
3. The third rule is that there can only be one ‘Reference Point’ number for each structure.
4. The final rule is that each ‘Reference Point’ must be placed in a corresponding point within a
border to the primary ‘Reference Point’.
The ‘CHECK’ command will check and warn if any of the rules one to three are broken, however
the software cannot check the fourth rule, so it is up to the user be aware and be careful.
Process:
• Type REF then press Enter.
• Select a location on the wall framing plan to place the primary marker which is common on
all other plans (make sure end snap is on). When the first ‘Reference Point’ is inserted into
the drawing, it is automatically a primary marker and will be given an ID of one.
• Right click to repeat command to insert a secondary marker. All subsequent markers inserted
will be secondary markers given the same ID number.
• Additional Information:
• The ID number will not change until such time as a new primary ‘Reference Point’ is inserted.
To insert a new primary point, press ‘P’ before inserting the ‘Reference Point’. The ID number
will be automatically incremented. There is no way to add a specific ID number however, the
ID number can be edited through the ‘LI’ command.
• When a ‘Reference Point’ is inserted, it is placed on the layer ‘Defpoints’. This is a special
layer that does not print therefore ‘Reference Points’ are only visible to the operator. The
primary reference marker is shown in a bright green colour and secondary reference markers
are shown in a dull green colour.
• Note: It is essential that the DEFPOINTS layer is visible at all times. Items drawn on this
layer never get printed.
• Ensure that the reference marker and number lie on or within the border. If it sits outside the
border, it will not be recognised. The ideal recommended location is at the bottom left-hand
corner of the building being detailed.
• The primary reference marker can also be placed in the model space. This is useful when
working with IFC models and you wish to see the 3D viewed in that exact location.

3.28 RESETALL – Reset Registry

Commands:

Global name: _RESETALL

Local name: RESETALL

Alias: resetall

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Deletes all the historical Steelwise information from the computer’s registry, thus all settings will
be set back to default as if it was a brand-new install on a clean computer.
Process:
Type RESETALL then press Enter.
Additional Information:

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 Some software issues may be resolved by activating RESETALL.

3.29 REV – Revision Cloud

Commands:

Global name: _REVISION_CLOUD

Local name: REVISION_CLOUD

Alias: REV

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To draw in a revision cloud where required.
Process:
• Type REV then press Enter.
• Select one corner to start the revision cloud.
• Select the opposite corner to finish.
• The revision cloud will be input as a rectangular shape.

3.30 SECT – Section Properties and Capacities

Commands:

Global name: SECT

Local name: _SECT

Alias: SECT

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
This tool shows the properties and capacities of any profile as entered in by the user.
Process:
• Type SECT then right click or press Enter.
• Select the appropriate Design Code.
• Select the appropriate Section Profile. The user must have some knowledge of the various
section types if they wish to use this tool.
• Type in the appropriate size parameters.
• Click on the 'Calc' button to update the properties and capacities.

3.31 SETREF – Set 3D Marker in Model Space

Commands:

Global name: _SETREF

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 Local name: SETREF

Alias: SETREF

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:

Allows the user to place a locating reference mark in Model space by selecting a point
on the Layout space. This allows the user to copy and paste entities in exactly the right
location from the layout to the model.
Process:
• Ensure that the REF reference markers are placed in the layout space plans to ensure that
the layouts are all linked.
• Staying in the layout space, type SETREF
• Click on the required location on the plan. A 3D Marker will be placed in that location on the
border which contains the primary reference marker - if one exists. A corresponding 3D
Marker will be placed in the Model space.
• Type COPYBASE. You will be prompted to select the base point. Select the corner of the
entity which intersects with the 3D Marker.
• Go to the Model space tab and ensure the ‘Node’ snap is set.

• Paste the entity using ctrl+v and click on the 3D Marker.

3.32 SHOW – Show Start End of Entities and Show Engineering Failures
Commands:

Global name: _SHOW

Local name: SHOW

Alias: SHOW

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:

Shows the starting end of an entity and also shows any truss or wall lintel engineering
failures.
Process to show start end:
• Type SHOW then press Enter.
• Select the member to query.
• An asterisk is placed at the start end.

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 Process to show engineering failures:
• Type SHOW then press Enter.
• Press Enter again to show engineering failures.
• An asterisk is placed over all failed trusses or openings.

3.33 SL – Code Support Line

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_SLINE

Local name: TRUSS_SLINE

Alias: SL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Codes a line as a support line. Its main purpose is to enable the software to see where the
trusses or joists are being supported. The support line intelligence is transferred through to the
truss/joist builder as a support point on each truss/joist.
Process:
• Type SL then press Enter.
• Select the lines to be coded.
• Additional Information:
• If you select a polyline, it will be converted to ordinary lines.

3.34 SN – Cursor Snap Angle at 45°

Commands:

Global name: _SN

Local name: SN

Alias: SN

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Rotates the cursor crosshair snap angle to 45°
Process:
• Type SN then press Enter.

3.35 SP – Spool Print

Commands:
Global name:
Local name: SPOOL_PRINT

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 Alias: SP
Space: Layout and Detailing Space
Purpose:
Displays the Print dialogue box so you can print the current drawing.
Prints layouts or elevations from layout space.
Process:
Type SP then press Enter.
Dialogue Box Options:
Printer Name - Select the printer and view its details.
Orientation - Select the paper orientation from the printer setup.
Paper Size - Select the paper size from the printer setup.
Pen Library -
Process:
• Selected Window - Drag a window out to the required print area.
• Auto Borders - Select this option to print all borders.
• Current Screen - Select this option to print current screen.
• Selected Borders - Click on borders that are required to print (borders will be printed in the
same order as selected; dragging a window to select borders may not print in the order
expected).
• Quantity - Either type in a number or use the up or down arrows to change.
• Select GO to start the print or select Cad Print to go to the standard IntelliCAD print dialogue
box.

3.36 SS – Steel Profiles

Commands:

Global name: _STEEL_PROFILES

Local name: STEEL_PROFILES

Alias: SS

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Adds a steel profile to your drawing.
Process:
Type SS then press Enter.
Select the profile type then the member from the Steel Profiles Selection dialogue box.
Change the alignment method and scale if required.
Click on Draw then select the location to add the steel profile to.

3.37 TCNC – Text/Lines to CNC

Commands:

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 Global name: _TEXT_CNC

Local name: TEXT_CNC

Alias: TCNC

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Use this command to send additional text that is manually added to an elevation to the .xml file
during the CNC operation.
This command can also be used to send lines through to the .xml file.
Process:
• Type TCNC then press Enter. The command can also be found under ‘Miscellaneous’ in the
Steelwise drop down menu.
• Select the required text. This will only work for standard text input and will not work for
multiline text.
• And/or:
• Select the required lines. This will only work for lines and will not work for polylines or any
other shapes.

3.38 VER – Software Version

Commands:

Global name: _VERSION

Local name: VERSION

Alias: VER

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Displays all the version information relating to the installed software.
Displays the Licence Information.
Process:
• Type VER then press Enter.
• The following information is displayed:
o 'Cad Module Version' - This is the version of the IntelliCAD platform.
o 'Initial IRX Version' - When a drawing is started, and on the initial save, the current
version of Steelwise that is being used is saved with the job.
o 'Last IRX Version' - When a drawing is last saved, the current version of Steelwise
that is being used is saved with the job.
o ‘Current IRX Version’ - This is the version of Steelwise that is currently installed. This
is the number that should be quoted whenever asked for a Steelwise version number
by FRAMECAD support staff. This number also appears at the top of all Steelwise
dialogue boxes.

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 o 'Platform' - This is the Operating System bitrate that is loaded on the computer (64-
bit or 32-bit).
o 'Operating System' - This is the version of the Windows OS that is loaded on the
computer.
o 'Expiry Date' - Softkey licence expiry.
• Scroll down to view other features enabled in your licence.

• Softkey licence expiry date also appears in the Command Bar when the program is first
opened.

• Click on the ‘Licence’ button at the bottom left to open the Licensing dialogue box.

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4 Exports
4.1 ACNC – Common CNC Export
Commands:

Global name: _CNCALL

Local name: CNCALL

Alias: ACNC

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Creates separate XML files from all detailing space tabs at once.
Process:
• From within any space within the job, type ACNC then press Enter.
• Wait for process to finish.
• Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC Files’ are deposited in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.

4.2 CNC - Common CNC Export

Commands:

Global name: _ CNC

Local name: CNC

Alias: CNC

Space: Detailing Space (Layout Space for deep C joists)

Purpose:
Creates an XML file from the current detailing space tab ready for sending to the rollforming
machine.
The XML file for deep C joists is created straight from the joist layout plan.
Process:
• Go to the required detailing space tab or the layout plan for deep C joists.
• Type CNC then press Enter.
• Wait for process to finish.
• Upon completion of this routine, the ‘CNC File’ is created in the
‘C:\Users\username\Documents\CNC’ folder.

4.3 IFC - IFC Export

Commands:

Global name: _IFC

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 Local name: IFC

Alias: IFC

Space: Model Space

Purpose:
Creates an Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) file which is used by Building Information Modelling
(BIM) programs (e.g. Tekla, Revit, SAP, etc.)
Process:
• In the ‘BSET’ command, go to the 3D Options in the ‘Options’ tab and select the type of IFC
you will be creating. Some trial and error may be required when selecting these options for
other programs.

• Create a 3D model using the ‘A3D’ command in the ‘Model’ tab

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 • From the model space, type IFC then right click or press Enter.
• The IFC file is created in ../Documents/CNC
• You can now open your IFC with the software you created the model for.
Additional Information:
Currently, hot rolled steel beams will export as long as they are detailed, i.e. sent to CAD from PPD. Posts
will export straight from the 3D as long as they have been input using one of the BeamsPosts data files
(see BSET – Options – Drawing Options to set the correct beams and posts data file usage for your
region).

Gridlines can be exported in the IFC by using the C3D (CopyModel) command to copy them from the
layout space to the model space. However, note that not all applications are capable of displaying gridlines
from the IFC file.

4.4 PDF - PDF Export

Commands:

Global name: _PDFSPOOL

Local name: PDFSPOOL

Alias: PDF

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To export views to a pdf file.
Process:
• Type PDF then right click or press Enter.
• Select required views to export from the Tables list in the Export to PDF dialogue box.
• Change any other parameters if required.

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 • Press 'OK' to export.
Additional Information:
When viewing PDF’s, sometimes the fonts don’t view correctly because the computer or device
does not have the required true type fonts installed. In this situation you will need to tick on the
Embed and/or Convert TTF options when creating the PDF.

Please note that doing this will increase the file size.

4.5 RFY – Machine File Export

Commands:

Global name: _ RFYEXPORT

Local name: RFYEXPORT

Alias: RFY

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Creates an RFY file ready for sending to the roll forming machine.
The RFY output for deep C joists is created straight from the joist layout plan, therefore JJD is not
required.
Process:
• Type RFY then press Enter – this opens the Export RFY dialog box.

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 • Select the required tabs/frames to export.
• Edit the required filename and location if required.
• Click on Export to create the RFY file.

Additional Information:
All RFY export options that were in Detailer can now be found in BSET – Options – Export
Options.

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 - Default – Material exported in order from top left of frame to bottom right.
- Plates First – Horizontal members

▪ RFY Ordering - Studs First – Vertical members

- Assembly Priority – For walls, this will export the top plate first; then nogs and
studs up to the first opening; then opening material; then nogs and studs to
the next opening; etc; then bottom plate.

- Single File – All material will be exported in the one RFY file. The roll forming
machines Factory software will then filter out any material that exists in the
▪ RFY Export Files file that is not set up to be run through that machine. This allows for the one
file to be used in all machines as long as they are setup to filter.
- By Section – Different material sections will be split into separate RFY files.

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5 Wall Framing Commands
5.1 Defined Door Input Commands
Commands:

Global name:

Local name:

Alias: As per list below

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To insert door openings based on the actual door leaf size (actual physical width of door
component).
Process:
The following commands are used in conjunction with the parameters set in the PSET – Windows
options. When a door leaf size is entered into the relevant command, the set clearances are
added to create the correct trim opening size in the wall frame.

Command Type PSET Openings Settings

AR Archway Opening
(Square Set)
CS Cavity Slider Cavity Sliding Door
ED External Door External Hung Door
FS Face Slider Face of wall sliding door
PA Passage Door Internal Hung Door

R1 Robe Door x1 Hinged Robe Doors - Single Width Factor

R2 Robe Door x2 Hinged Robe Doors - Double Width Factor
R3 Robe Door x3 Hinged Robe Doors - Triple Width Factor
S2 Internal Slider x2 Sliding Robe Doors - Double Width Factor
S3 Internal Slider x3 Sliding Robe Doors - Triple Width Factor
S4 Internal Slider x4 Sliding Robe Doors - Quad Width Factor

5.2 LP - Load Path

Commands:

Global name: _SHOW_LOAD

Local name: SHOW_LOAD

Alias: LP

Space: Layout Space

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 Purpose:
To show the referenced load paths of trusses or joists down onto walls below.
Process:
• Ensure reference markers are present on plans. See REF - Reference Point Input.
• Ensure wall layout border is in focus.
• Type LP then press Enter. Layout will zoom to extents.
• Select border containing supported truss or joist layout. Truss/joist load paths are indicated
by lines.
• Type LP then press Enter to erase load path lines.
Additional Information:
Lines coloured orange indicate that the loads are being transferred correctly.
Lines coloured red indicate that no loads are being transferred. Generally, this indicates that the
height settings are incorrect, i.e. the heights are greater than +/-100mm from one plan to
another.
Note: If walls are set as “Structural”, then the truss or joist lines will show as being red. The
loads are still being transferred but only as evenly distributed loads, not as concentrated loads.

This is purely a visual representation of the load paths and is not a required step of the load
transfer process. Loads are only transferred once the reference markers have been placed and
the wall engineering has been activated using either the PCB, PPD or PUA commands.

5.3 PAB - Auto Break Panel

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_AUTO

Local name: PANEL_AUTO

Alias: PAB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Automatically break panels at optimum frame junction locations only while taking into account
the maximum wall length setting. If the distance between junctions is greater than this length,
no break will occur along this section of wall.
Method:
Type PAB then enter.

5.4 PBN - Bath Noggin

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_BATH

Local name: PANEL_BATH

Alias: PBN

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 Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Used to insert a bath or shower as a rectangular object which in turn automatically inserts a wall
noggin at the specified height.
Process:

5.5 PBS - Build Studs

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_STUD

Local name: PANEL_STUD

Alias: PBS

Space: Layout space only

Purpose:
Generates or regenerates studs in the wall frames with no engineering considered.
Process:
Type PBS then press Enter.
Additional Information:
All studs (except for PSA or locked studs) will be regenerated.
To re-engineer and rebuild studs, use the PUA command.

5.6 PCB - Calculate Bracing

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_WIND

Local name: PANEL_WIND

Alias: PCB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Calculates the bracing requirements for wall framing and allows the user to insert bracing
elements, wind force markers and racking resistance markers, creates a bracing plan and
produces a bracing report.
Process:
Inserting Braces

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 Note: Make sure the truss and floor layouts have been completed before proceeding
with this stage of the Wall Detailing Process as roof and floor loads must be applied to
the walls.
Note: Bracing should not be inserted until the ‘Reference Points’ markers have been
placed on all wall framing, floor framing and truss layout plans. For the bracing
calculations to be accurate, the applied loads must all be known.
• Ensure the wall framing layout is in focus on the screen.
• Type PCB and press Enter.
• Look at the ‘Shortage X and Y’ figures.
• If the ‘Shortage X and Y’ values are less than the ‘Wind Force X and Y’ values, this usually
means that there are other bracing options selected. Go to ‘Bracing Options’ section and
select or de-select whatever is or is not required.

• Click on ‘Insert Brace’ or use the command - Panel Insert Brace (PIB) to insert braces. Return
for Setup to set required Brace Type. Refer to PIB – Insert Brace for more detailed brace
input and editing information.
• Check PCB periodically to see remaining number of bracing requirements in each direction.
Add more bracing until the ‘Shortage’ figures read zero in both the ‘X’ and ‘Y’ directions.

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 Creating a Bracing Plan
• To create a Bracing and Racking Resistance Plan, ensure that the Wall Layout Plan is in focus
on the screen, then re-activate Panel Calculate Brace (PCB).
• In the PCB form, go to Detailing Options and select ‘Create Bracing Plan’ then click on
‘Insert’. The plan will ‘zoom to extents’ to display all the borders
• Select an empty border to create the bracing plan in.

Creating a Bracing Report

• To create a Bracing Report, ensure that the Wall Layout Plan is in focus on the screen, then
re-activate Panel Calculate Brace (PCB).
• Click on the ‘Report’ button at the bottom of the dialogue box.

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5.7 PD - Wall Input (Panel Draw)
Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_TRACE

Local name: PANEL_TRACE

Alias: PD (Panel Draw)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Function for drawing in un-coded wall frames between two selected points. There are a number
of other options associated with this command as detailed below. These options are Model,
Query, Undo, Setup and Rectangle.
• Process:
• Input by points method:
• The input works on a three-point selection process.
• Type PD then press Enter (press Enter again to go to the setup options if required).
• Select the start point of the wall.
• Select the end point of the wall.
• Select which side of the line between these two points that you wish to place the wall.
• If a third point is not selected then the wall will be centred through the first two points
selected.

•
• Input by Rectangle method: This method is useful when tracing walls over an imported dwg
or dxf plan (see LX and LS under Layer Commands).
• Type PD then press Enter.
• Type R for rectangle input method.
• Select the first point by clicking on one internal corner of a room then the second point by
clicking on the opposite corner of the room. The walls will automatically be placed on the
outside of this rectangle. Walls in subsequent rooms will automatically merge with existing
walls.
• If walls need to be placed on the inside of the rectangle, hold the ALT key down when
selecting the first corner point.

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 Additional Information:
Model: Type M to change to the various available wall models sequentially.
Query: Type Q to display the various models available.
Undo: Type U at any stage during the wall input to delete the last panel.
Setup: Type S to open the PSET settings.

5.8 PFB - Opening to Fit Brick

Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_ BRICK

Local name: PANEL_ BRICK

Alias: PFB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Moves openings to suit brick module sizes.
Process:
• Type PFB then press Enter.
• Select the opening to move.

5.9 PIB - Insert Brace

Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_ BRACE

Local name: PANEL_ BRACE

Alias: PIB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Allows the operator to insert bracing into the wall panels at layout stage. This command works
with several different types of bracing. The available types are K-Brace, Bridging Brace, Double
Strap brace, Single Strap brace, Engineered Wood and Wallboard Panel.
Process:
• Type PIB then press Enter.
• Press Enter again to go to the Brace Information section of the PSET dialogue box.
• After selecting the required brace type and making any other changes required, click on
Save.
• Click on the panel locations where you wish to input any braces.
• Brace Types:
• Bridging Brace

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 This provides an angle member between 2 studs and below the bottom nog of a wall frame. This
bracing type is more commonly used in the American market, but could also be used for frame
squaring purposes.

Additional Information:
K-Braces at the end of panels are orientated to allow for easier panel-to-panel fixing access at
the top of the frame.
Type U at any stage during input to remove the last brace.
Reverse Brace Direction:
K-Braces and Bridging Braces show an arrow at one end on the plan view. This indicates the start
end of the brace member at the bottom plate of the wall. Strap braces and sheet braces show an
arrow at both ends. You are able to reverse the direction of K-Braces and Bridging Braces in both
the plan layout view and the detail (elevation) view as per the instructions below:
• If you list (LI) a k-brace (or bridging brace) on the layout plan, there is now a ‘Reverse
Brace’ option in the Brace Editor. The Reverse Frame/Reverse Member (RF/MR) command
also works on the layout plan.
• If the elevation has already been built, you will need to run PUA for the brace direction to
update in the detail sheet.
• If you list (LI) a k-brace (or bridging brace) on the detail sheet, there is now a ‘Reverse
Brace’ option in the Panel Member Editor. The Reverse Frame/Reverse Member (RF/MR)
command does not reverse the brace in the detail sheet. It will only flip the selected member
orientation.
• Reversing the brace direction in the detail sheet will also reverse the brace in the layout plan.
K-Braces, Bridging Braces and Strap Braces can be input directly onto a wall panel in the detail
sheet using the Insert Brace (PIB) command.
When running the command, the user is asked to select the start and finish studs. You must have
the End Snap turned on and selection must be one end of the stud.

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 Note: Inputting K-Braces in the detail sheet will not automatically reverse the direction of the
right-hand stud.

5.10 PLB - Lap Beam

Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_ LAP

Local name: PANEL_ LAP

Alias: PLB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To lap a beam into a wall panel thus creating a beam pocket within the wall.
Process:
• Insert a beam to meet the wall (not extending into or crossing the wall).
• Type PLB then press Enter.
• Enter a distance to lap the beam.
• Click on the end of the beam to lap. The length of the beam in plan view does not change,
however the detailed length and reported length will be adjusted by these amounts. If you
click on that beam end again, the lap will be removed.
• If you change a lap back to zero, then the marker circles on the layout will be removed.
Likewise when you change a lap from zero to a positive number the marker circles will be
added.
Additional Information:
For beams that are perpendicular to a wall and extend over the wall, the pocket will automatically
be inserted.
A pocket will not automatically be inserted into walls where the beam is in line and passing over
the wall.

5.11 PN - Panel Notch

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_NOTCH

Local name: PANEL_NOTCH

Alias: PN

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Places a notch at the start or end of a wall frame along the bottom of the frame at a user
specified height and width. Generally this notch would be used to facilitate and access the hold
down flange of a structural steel post placed between wall frames.
Process:
• Type PN then right click or press Enter.

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 • Edit the height and width as required. The height refers to the distance from the bottom of
the frame to the top of the notch. The width refers to the width of the notch from the end of
the frame selected. Alternatively, select 'S' to go to the PSET settings to set a default size.
• Select close to the end of the wall in the layout that requires the notch.
• Selecting the same location again will remove the notch.
Additional Information:
After a notch is inserted, an asterisk is placed at the start or end of the wall label to indicate
which end of the wall that the notch was placed.
When you list a notched frame, the Notching Information will show the show of the notches at
the start end and finish end of the frame.

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5.12 PPD - Panel Builder
Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_ BUILDER

Local name: PANEL_ BUILDER

Alias: PPD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Exports wall panels, ceiling panels and beams to the 'Panel Builder'.
Process:
• From the wall framing layout, type PPD then press Enter. This will update all the studs and
engineering for the walls then export them to the 'Panel Builder' dialogue box.
• From here the user can check each wall/beam individually in the 'Fabrication' window (or
click on the Check button to do an automatic check). Other options available here are to be
able to check the quantities for each wall/beam in the 'Bill of Materials' window, print or
locate.
• Next, select the required walls/beams and click on To Cad to export to detailing space.
Additional Information:
To export frames one level at a time using the filter option:
Ensure that the border for the required layout is in focus.
Activate the PPD command.
Within the Panel Builder, select the 'Filters Are Off' option.
Change the 'Current View Only' option to 'True' and click on Change.
All other frames that are not within the initial screen view will be filtered out.

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5.13 PPD - Panel Builder (Silent)
Commands:

Global name: _-PANEL_BUILDER

Local name: -PANEL_BUILDER

Alias: -PPD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to build panels from the layout while by-passing the Panel Builder dialogue box.
Process:
• From the wall layout type -PPD then press Enter.
• A new detailing space will be created within the job labelled 'Panel.1' into which the panels
will be exported to.

5.14 PRA - Rake Panel

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_RAKE

Local name: PANEL_RAKE

Alias: PRA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To slope the top plate of a wall panel.
Process:
• Type PRA then press Enter.
• Select the walls to rake.
• Select two points to define the raking plane.
• Select the direction of the raking plane.
• Enter the required raking angle.
Additional Information:
Walls running parallel to the rake will have their height changed to suit the rake plane.

5.15 PRP – Panel Reaction Plan

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_REACTION

Local name: PANEL_REACTION

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 Alias: PRP

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
This is basically a gravity reaction plan which shows the average uniform load from supported
trusses, joists and wall panels. It also shows any point load reactions for jamb studs, both within
a wall and from walls above, and from girder trusses and floor joist beam bearers.
Process:
• Ensure the wall layout plan is centred on the workspace.
• Type PRP then Enter.
• Layout will zoom to extents to show all borders.
• Click anywhere within the border that you wish to display the panel reaction plan.
• Enter or Esc to finish.

5.16 PSA - Stud Array Input

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_ARRAY

Local name: PANEL_ARRAY

Alias: PSA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
The stud array routine is used to place studs at specific locations overriding the automatic stud
placement routines. This is very useful when studs need to be located at specific locations for the
fixing of claddings.
This command also facilitates the insertion of single studs.
Process:
• For this command to work correctly the wall panel must already be coded.
• Type PSA then press Enter. The Stud Array Options Information in the PSET dialogue box will
open.
• Make any changes and click on Save or click on Cancel if no changes are required. See
'Options' below for further detail.
• Once these settings have been saved, the command will default to these settings every time
the command is used in this session.
• If settings need to be changed any time after the initial use, press Enter again to open the
Stud Array Options Information in the PSET dialogue box.
• Make the necessary adjustments and Save.
Options – Stud Array Options Information:

▪ Material Type
- Select material from the dropdown box if a
specific material is required otherwise,
leaving set to ‘Auto’ will use whatever

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 material that has been set by the data file for
the default system.
▪ Starting Position
- This is the location of the first stud that will
be inserted. This option is only available
when using the ‘By Points’ insert option.
▪ Stud Spacing
- This is the stud to stud spacing, i.e. the
distance from the centre of one stud to the
centre of the next stud.
▪ Stud Type
- This is the stud arrangement of the studs
that will be used.
Boxed studs will only be shown if it is enabled
in the data file. If using boxed studs, please
ensure that the material is boxable, as the
software will not check for this.
▪ Stud insert Type
- Allows the user to select either ‘Single
Insert’, ‘By Points’ or ‘By Entities’ methods.
- With the ‘Single Insert’, the user selects a
single point anywhere along a wall frame, the
cursor snap mode remains set at end point or
intersection. The stud is inserted in the wall
with the insertion point being dictated by the
‘Stud Setout’ option.
- With the ‘By Entities’ method, the user is
prompted to select a wall entity, then for a
starting point. Set out is calculated from this
point.
- With the ‘By Points’ method, the studs are set
out from the first point selected through to
the second point selected. This selection can
be applied along multiple walls.
▪
-

The ‘Material Type’ combo box shows the type of stud to be used. To change stud type, select a
stud as required from the drop-down list. Only studs available within your system are shown
within this list. If the user selects ‘Auto’ then whatever type of common stud that would normally
be used in that wall would be used.
The ‘Starting Position’ field is the location or position of the first stud. This is the distance from
the starting point to the face or web of the stud. If the ‘By Entity’ or ‘Single Insert’ options were
selected in the ‘Insert Type’ field then this field would be disabled.
The ‘Stud Spacing’ field is the spacing of all the other studs after the first stud. This distance is
measured from face to face of the studs. If the ‘Single Insert’ options were selected in the ‘Insert
Type’ field then this field would be disabled.
The ‘Stud Type’ combo box shows the available methods of insertion that will be used. The
options available are ‘Single Stud’, ‘Back to Back Studs’ and ‘Boxed Studs’.

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 The ‘Insert Type’ option allows the user to select either ‘Single Insert’, ‘By Points’ or ‘By Entities’
methods. With the ‘Single Insert’, the user selects a single point anywhere along a wall frame,
the cursor snap mode remains set at end point or intersection. The stud is inserted in the wall
with the insertion point being the middle of the flange of the stud unless a ‘Back to Back’ option
was selected. In this case the insert point is the middle of the ‘Back to Back’ studs. With the ‘By
Entities’ method, the user is prompted for a reference point and the set out is calculated from
this point. For the selection of the set-out point, the cursor snap mode has been set to select end
points or intersection and may be overridden using the standard Cad object snaps. With the ‘By
Points’ method, the studs are set out from the first point selected through to the second point
selected.
These dialogue settings are stored in your systems register and within ‘Layer Zero’ of the current
drawing for future reference. When studs are inserted, the software will not insert studs at the
ends of each wall panel or within a stud’s thickness of the starting and ending point of a window.
The tolerance for this is 1.25 times the stud width.

5.17 PSC - Stud Array Copy

Commands:

Global name: _ARRAY_COPY

Local name: ARRAY_COPY

Alias: PSC

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Copies the arrayed studs that were input using the PSA command, from one layout to another.
Process:
• Ensure that the border containing the stud array to be copied and the border that the stud
array is to be copied to both have reference markers.
• The border that contains the stud array to be copied must be in focus.
• Type PSC then press Enter. The drawing will zoom out to show all the available borders.
• Select the border to copy the stud array to. Remember - this border must have a reference
marker allocated to it.

5.18 PSN - Special Noggin Input

Commands:

Global name: _SPECIAL_NOGGIN

Local name: SPECIAL_NOGGIN

Alias: PSN or PSX

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To set up and place any special nog inputs that are used regularly.
Process:
• Type PSN then press Enter.

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 • Select an item from the description list.
• Select a point on a wall to locate the item.
Additional Information:
To add more special noggin options, go to the dialogue box, hold down the 'Alt' key and click on
'Description*'. This will change the options to enable a new special nog to be added or to amend
an existing entry.

5.19 PST – Panel Stacks

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_STACK

Local name: PANEL_STACK

Alias: PST

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To create a panel stacking order diagram. The order of the panels in the consecutive stacks will
determine the order in which the panels will be sent out in the XML file during the CNC process
starting with the frames from bottom to top of each stack.
Process:
• Type PST then press Enter.
• Enter again to go to the Panel Stacking Options.

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 • Press ‘Save’ to save any changes and return to the next step, which is to select entities for
stacking.
• Drag a fence over the panels within the layout to be included in the stacks.
• Select a location on a plan to display the stacks.
• By default, the panel stack order is based on panel length starting from longest on the
bottom of the stack.
• Panels can be moved around within a stack using standard CAD operations.
• When moving panels within a stack or when moving panels from one stack to another, the
recommended procedure is to run the MOVE command first, and then select and move the
panels.
• If your preference is to use the context menu, i.e. select the panel first, then right click to
select the Move command from the context menu, then you must run the LA command and
select the amended stacks individually to update them prior to running the CNC command in
the panel tab.
• There is a limitation of six panels that can be moved between stacks.
• If the stack information does not update correctly after any editing, i.e. dimensions or
weights, then run the LA command and drag a fence over the stack to update.
• Stack label names can be changed by running the LA command and selecting the stack.
Additional Information:
PSET - Panel Stacking Options Description

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 Max Height Stack Determines the maximum stack height before a new stack is
created.
Use Height Method Allows the user to create stacks based on maximum height
or total stack quantities.
Separate Different Models Separates the different wall models into different stacks.
Label Stack Determines whether the stacks require labelling or not.
Include ID in XML/FIM Includes the stack ID in the panel label when exported.
XML/FIM Prefix Sets the required ID prefix.
Show Openings Displays a representation of any openings on the end of
each panel.

5.20 PUA - Update Panels

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_UPDATE

Local name: PANEL_UPDATE

Alias: PUA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Engineers and updates wall frames.
Process:
• Type PUA then press Enter.
Additional Information:
All studs (except for PSA or locked studs) will be regenerated.
To rebuild studs without any re-engineering, use the PBS command.
This command will also re-engineer all the trusses in the detail sheet elevations when run in the
truss Detail Space.

5.21 SB - Show Brick

Commands:

Global name: _SHOW_BRICK

Local name: SHOW_BRICK

Alias: SB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
This is a checking command which shows indicative brick set out along a specified wall. Bricks
are shown as half brick modules.
Process:

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 • Ensure correct brick size dimensions and brick cavity dimensions are set correctly in the PSET
settings under 'Brick Gauge Options'.
• Type SB then press Enter.
• Select the wall to check then enter or right click.
• Select the end of the wall from where the brick veneer is to set out.
• If the brick veneer is set out from an internal corner, type 'I' then enter, then select the
internal corner location.
• Enter again to remove brick or type SB and enter.
Additional Information:

5.22 SH - Show Heights

Commands:

Global name: _SHOW_HEIGHTS

Local name: SHOW_HEIGHTS

Alias: SH

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Shows walls in different fill colours according to height for checking purposes only.
Process:
• Ensure wall framing plan is in focus.
• Type SH then press Enter.

• Click on 'Show' to activate colours.

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 • Hold mouse button while selecting top bar of dialogue box and drag to one side to uncover
the plan or
• Click on 'Remove' to uncover the plan.
• Click on 'Remove' to remove colours and revert plan back to normal.
Additional Information:
Colours can be changed by changing the numbers or clicking on the button to the right of the
numbers and selecting the required colour.

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6 Truss Commands
6.1 BG - Box Gutter
Commands:

Global name: _BOX_GUTTER

Local name: BOX_GUTTER

Alias: BG

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
This option allows the user to input a notch in the end of a truss which would generally be used
for a boxed gutter situation.
Process:
• In the truss detailing space, ensure the truss to be modified is in focus.
• Type BG then right click or press Enter.
• In the command bar, enter in the size required.
• Click on the bottom chord and closest to the end of the truss where the boxed gutter is to be
applied.
Additional Information:
Note: The use of this command will require some manual modification in most cases. Member
reinforcing may be required for engineering to work.

6.2 CM - Code Member

Commands:

Global name: _LAYOUT_MANAGER

Local name: LAYOUT_MANAGER

Alias: CM or ADD

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to code a line as a member (i.e. web, chord or rail).
Process:
• Draw a line or lines at the required location and length.
• Type CM then press Enter. This launches a 'Code to a Member' dialogue box.
• Select the member type from the Material Usage list. Select the correct Material Name.

6.3 CRL - Create Roof Lines

Commands:

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 Global name: _ROOF_LINES

Local name: ROOF_LINES

Alias: CRL

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Creates Hip, Valley and Ridge lines by selecting Roof Blocks on the Eave Lines (Blue lines only)
Process:
• Type CRL then press Enter
• Select first and second points for roof lines; points 1 and 2 determine the common truss
orientation (roof width)
• Select third point for roof lines; point 3 determines the extent of the trusses (roof length)

• Select the roof type for the first roof end as indicated by the asterisk:
• o Dutch (D), Hip (H), Gable (G), Valley (V), GAmbrel (GA), Boomerang (B), Radial (R),
Unequal Radial (U), DOrmer (DO) and DRopped Valley (DR); enter the upper case letter(s)
Select the roof type for the second roof end as indicated by the asterisk.
• The following images show the three selection points and examples of several roof type
selections:

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 Additional Information:
By default, the Roof Type is Gable which is the simplest type; if no letter is entered the roof type
is assumed Gable

6.4 RCR - Copy Roof

Commands:

Global name: _ROOF_COPY

Local name: ROOF_COPY

Alias: RCR

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Copies the roof lines and support lines from one plan to another.
Process:
• Ensure that the border of the roof outline that you wish to copy is in focus on the screen.
• Type RCR then press Enter. The plan will zoom to extents.
• Select the border that you require the roof and support lines to be copied to.
• Press Enter or Escape to exit the command. The plan will zoom back into the original roof
border.

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6.5 RL - Code Roof Line
Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_RLINE

Local name: TRUSS_RLINE

Alias: RL

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Codes a line as a roof line. The roof lines are a vital part of truss layouts as they are used to
detect eave overhangs.
Process:
• Type RL then press Enter.
• Select the lines to be coded then press Enter.

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 Additional Information:
The line is changed to a different linetype and colour, plus it breaks the lines at all roof line
intersection points and embeds a mark to allow the software to recognise it as a roof line. If you
select a polyline, it will be converted to ordinary lines.

6.6 RS - Roof Shape Input

Commands:

Global name: _ROOF_SHAPE

Local name: ROOF_SHAPE

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 Alias: RS

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to input pre-defined roof shapes and generate trusses for that roof. Generally this
command is used as a quick roof input for demonstration purposes.
Process:
• Ensure that the border you wish to use is in focus and centralised on the screen. The best
way to ensure this is correct is to type V (Go To View) then Enter, then the border letter then
Enter.
• Type RS then press Enter.
• Select the required shape.
• Enter the roof pitches, eaves width and predominant roof type.
• Tick on or off to include roof trusses.
• Roof settings can also be altered here by clicking on the 'Settings' button.
• Click on 'Create' to input the roof.

• As the perimeter is being input, the user can edit any of the lengths as required; a marker
indicates the current side for length entry.

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 • After length of all required sides are entered, the roof trusses are created if 'Include Roof
Trusses' was ticked.

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6.7 TC – Truss Connections
Commands:

Global name: _TRUSSCONNECTIONS

Local name: TRUSSCONNECTIONS

Alias: TC

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to create a truss connection layout plan. This plan displays the brackets required
for truss to top plate connections and truss to truss connections.
Available Options:
Options for this command are located in ‘TSET’ => ‘Options’ => ‘Connections Option’:

Connection Data File

Here you select the data file you want to use that contains the connection data. This is a point in
time setting, meaning that if you create a bracket plan after changing this setting then previous
bracket plans will remain unchanged.
Separate Connection Plan
If value is set to ‘Yes’ the bracket plan will be placed on a separate border prompting the user to
select a point within the border. Anything within the selected borders will be deleted. Gridlines
and reference points are also copied.
If value is set to ‘No’ the bracket plan will be placed on top of the roof truss layout, if the bracket
plan already exists in the truss layout, it will be deleted and redone not affecting the truss layout.
Summaries on page will be added in addition to the layout summaries.
Add Part Drawing
If value is set to ‘Yes’, when you create a connection plan you will be prompted for the locations
of blocks of all the brackets used when the blocks are available. Please note, this is the blocks of
brackets and NOT connection details.
If value is set to ‘No’, no bracket blocks will be inserted. If the user did not opt to insert the
bracket drawings at the command time, he/she can do so later with the ‘ID’ command.
How to Use the command:

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 Make sure you have a truss layout on the screen before running the command. The command
should be run after the trusses have been laid out and built on a detail sheet and after the walls
have been laid out and built on a detail sheet. Currently, floor framing has no effect on it.
If the user did not opt to insert the bracket drawings at the command time, he can do so later
with the ‘ID’ command.
Listing:
There are two methods of listing. You can list the individual symbols on the bracket plan, or you
can list the symbol in the top left summary box. Listing individual items will change those
individual items only and should update the summary boxes when completed.
Listing a symbol in the top left list box will change all symbols (with the same symbol) on the
current plan. When complete, it will update the current plan and cutting lists.
Hyperlinks:
Hyperlinks are set to various items on the bracket plans. The text at the top middle of the border
has a hyperlink attached to it. This link is set in the data file and is currently set to
‘[Link]’. Each bracket block can also have a hyperlink attached to it. Once again
that is set in the data file. Currently no blocks have a hyperlink set. To use the hyperlink option,
hover over the item, hold your finger on the ‘CTRL’ key and click on the item. It should then take
you directly to the web location. Refer to IntelliCAD help for more information.
Colour Coding:
Symbols are colour coded and are not customizable by the user.

Colour Purpose

Green (3) Used prescriptive method

Red (1) Reactions or data was not found

Yellow (2) Calculated OK

Dark Green Amended by user

(106)

Reports:
‘REP’ and ‘SUM’ commands should pick up the brackets and the relevant fixings. These items are
no longer included in the ‘TOA’ command - existing calculation methods were removed from the
‘TOA’ command. The ‘OR’ command should update the on-page summaries.

6.8 TD - Truss Layout Input

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_LAYOUT

Local name: TRUSS_LAYOUT

Alias: TD (Truss Draw)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Tool to create roof truss layouts of various roof end types and truss types, e.g. half trusses,
parallel chord trusses, etc.

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 Also used for inputting top chord and bottom chord strap bracing.
Process:
Before any trusses can be input, a polyline must be drawn around the building to represent the
external loadbearing support lines. This polyline will represent the heel location (support line) of
the trusses and be coded as a Support Line (SL). Roof lines representing the eaves overhang
may also be added if required. These lines will have to be coded as Roof Lines (RF).
The TD command can only input trusses onto theoretical rectangular blocks defining the width of
a roof block and the length of a roof block, therefore, the building will have to be broken up into
theoretical rectangular blocks connected to each other. Once this has been done the truss layout
can then commence.
• Type TD then press Enter.
• Right click or press Enter to display the TSET dialogue box.
• Make any setting changes and Save.
• Select the two corners at one end of the rectangular roof block which determine the width of
the block and then a point anywhere along the opposite end of the rectangle to establish the
length of the roof block. Remember: the first two points determine the width of the block (or
the main truss span) and the third point determines the length of the block.
• Next, select the roof type at the first end of the block. This can either be done by typing the
shortcut for the roof type (indicated by the uppercase letters of the names displayed in the
command bar) or type M for More. 'More' will display the full list of roof end types. Select the
roof type option and click on ‘OK’ or double click on the required roof type if selecting from
the More dialogue box.
• Repeat the process for the opposite end of the roof block. The trusses will be placed
according to the TSET settings.

Please refer to the Truss Layout Input section of the Procedures Overview manual for more
detailed information.

6.9 TOA - Truss Accessories Report

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_ ACCESSORIES

Local name: TRUSS_ ACCESSORIES

Alias: TOA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Adds an on-page report for the truss accessories to the truss layout.
Process:
• Type TOA then press Enter.
• The accessory report is automatically added to the top right corner of the truss layout plan
regardless of where the focus is on the plan.

6.10 TPL - Add Truss Point Load

Commands:

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 Global name: _TRUSS_ POINT

Local name: TRUSS_ POINT

Alias: TPL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows a point load to be added to a truss.
Process:
• Type TPL then press Enter. This will open the Point Load Editor dialogue box.
• Change the required values then click on 'Add'.
• Select the location for the point load on the truss. Right click for single insert.
• For multiple insert, drag the second point location to the last truss.
Additional Information:
Point loads can only be added to a truss chord member.

6.11 TRE - Rebuild Eaves

Commands:

Global name: _REBUILD_EAVES

Local name: REBUILD_EAVES

Alias: TRE

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Rebuilds any missing truss overhang extensions.
Process:
• Type TRE then press Enter.
• Select the trusses to rebuild the eaves then right click or press Enter.
• Or...
• Press Enter for a global selection then right click or press Enter.

6.12 TS – Solar Panel

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_SOLAR

Local name: TRUSS_SOLAR

Alias: TS

Space: Layout Space

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 Purpose:
Adds a solar panel to a roof which applies point loads to the trusses.
Process:
• Type TS then right click or press Enter.
• Press Enter again to go to the settings. Select 'Save' if any changes are made or 'Cancel' if no
changes are made.
• Select the location to place the solar panel(s).
• Select the orientation of the panel. The label text should run perpendicular to the trusses.
Note: The orientation MUST be correct otherwise the loads will not be applied to the
trusses.
Solar Panel Settings:

Panel Height Vertical dimension

Panel Width Horizontal dimension
Horizontal dimension will be multiplied
Panel Quantity
by this value
Spacing distance for supports running
Support Spacing
horizontally
Panel Weight Weight in kN/m²
Panel Weight Weight in kg/m²
Panel Text Change to suit
Panel Colour Change to suit

Additional Information:
Point Load markers are added to the top chord of the trusses at the support member locations in
the truss elevations.

6.13 TTD - Truss Builder

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_BUILDER

Local name: TRUSS_ BUILDER

Alias: TTD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to build trusses from the layout or add or amend trusses in detailing space.
This command runs in several modes, each is listed below:
Builds trusses from the layout drawing and displays in a dialogue box. This occurs when the
drawing is in layout space and there is a truss layout present.
Allows the user to build a truss and displays it in a dialogue box. When adding to CAD, it adds it
to a new detailing space. This occurs when the drawing is in layout mode and there are no
trusses present.

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 Shows the current truss in a dialogue box and allows the user to alter or update this truss with
the tools available or shows complete engineering data. This occurs when the drawing is in
detailing space and there is a truss current on the screen.
Allows the user to build a truss and displays it in a dialogue box. The user can then add it to the
current trusses in the current detailing space. This occurs when the drawing is in detailing space
regardless of whether trusses are present or not.
Allows the user to print various engineering reports for individual or multiple trusses at once.
Process:
Exporting Trusses from Layout (Layout Space):
• Type TTD then press Enter.
• The Truss Builder dialogue box will open listing all the trusses in the job. All the trusses have
been engineered at this stage. Within this dialogue box you can check the material usage,
engineering diagrams and results for each truss. You can also change any individual truss
parameters in the Truss Editor dialogue box by double clicking on a truss in the Item list.
• Select the required trusses to export then click the 'To Cad' button.
• A new detailing space will be created within the job labelled 'Truss.1' and all the selected
trusses will be drawn in.
Amending Trusses in Elevation View (Detailing Space):
• Ensure that the truss you wish to amend is in focus.
• Type TTD then press Enter. The Truss Builder dialogue box will open listing the truss in focus.
• Double click on the name of the truss in the left pane; this will open the Truss Editor dialogue
box.
• Make any changes and click on the 'Amend' button then click on the 'Update' button in Truss
Builder. The truss will be updated and engineered.

Viewing Bill of Materials:

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 In the Truss Builder view, select a truss in the left pane
Click on the Bill of Materials (BOM) tab
BOM for the selected truss is displayed in a table
Select another truss in the left pane to display the BOM of that truss

Viewing Engineering Summary & Diagrams:

On the Truss Builder dialogue box select a truss in the left pane
Click on the Engineering tab
Select an item from the dropdown list at the top-right on the Truss Builder dialogue box. Select a
Load Case from adjacent dropdown list, if available, to generate diagrams corresponding to the
selected load case.

Following diagrams are available:

Summary: Shows engineering summary, including the maximum design index (stress or
deflection) for all load cases
Member Diagram: Shows the analytical member numbers (IDs); long segments between two
panel points are divided into two or more analytical (finite) members
Node Diagram: Shows the analytical node numbers (IDs); each analytical member has two end
nodes - start and end nodes
Load Diagram: Shows load diagrams mainly as distributed loads for different load cases;
including a set of loadings with a moving point load o Deflection Diagram: Shows the
maximum deflection envelope under selected load case o Bending Diagram: Shows the
maximum bending moment envelope under selected load case o Shear Diagram: Shows the
maximum shear envelope under selected load case o Axial Diagram: Shows the maximum axial
force (compressive or tensile) envelope under selected load case

Viewing Detail and Engineering Results:

On the Truss Builder dialogue box select a truss in the left pane
Click on the Results tab
Select an item from the dropdown list at the top-right on the Truss Builder dialogue box. Select a
Load Case from adjacent dropdown list to generate result table corresponding to the selected
load case.

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 Following result tables are available:
Node Inputs: Lists coordinates, applied node forces, support type, member release, etc. for each
Node
Node Results: Lists displacements, reactions, joint load, joint capacity, etc. for each Node o
Member Input: Lists IDs of end nodes, segment length, design length, restraint length,
forces, member type (BC, TC or Web), etc. for each Member
Member Shape: Lists CFS section profile, profile dimensions, coil thickness, steel properties, etc.
for each Member
Member Properties: Lists coil width, cross-section area, linear weight, and other physical and
engineering properties for each Member
Member Capacities: Lists member and section capacities (shear, tensile, compressive, bending
up, bending down) and sectional properties for each Member
Member Forces: Lists maximum axial force, shear force, bending moment and displacement at
characteristic points along each Member
Code Status: Lists shear, tensile, compressive, bending and combined strength index, and
deflection index in accordance to selected Design Code, for each Member

Printing Engineering Results:

Select the Engineering tab.
Select all the trusses in the left-hand pane (individual trusses can also be selected if required).
Click on Print to activate the Printing Options.

Add the required options from the left-hand pane to the right-hand pane.

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 Click on Continue to print.
Additional Information:
Truss web extension past dimple
There is a data file option which allows individual truss types to have their webs extended to within a given
distance of the edge of the chords. This is a data file setting – please create a ticket in MyFramecad to
request any data file changes.

6.14 -TTD - Truss Builder (Silent)

Commands:

Global name: _-TRUSS_BUILDER

Local name: -TRUSS_ BUILDER

Alias: -TTD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to build trusses from the layout while by-passing the Truss Builder dialogue box
or re-engineers a given truss.
This command runs in two modes, each is listed below:
1. Builds all trusses from the layout drawing and sends through to detailing space. This occurs
when the drawing is in layout space and there is a layout present. When in this mode all
filters are ignored.
2. Updates engineering status of current truss. This occurs when the drawing is in detailing
space and there is a truss current on the screen.
Process:
1. Exporting trusses from layout (layout space):
▪ Type -TTD then press Enter.
▪ A new detailing space will be created within the job labelled 'Truss.1' into which the
trusses will be exported to and engineered.
2. Updating engineering status of current truss in elevation view (detailing space):
▪ Ensure that the truss you wish to engineer is in focus.
▪ Type -TTD then press Enter. The truss will be updated and engineered.

6.15 TUA - Update Truss Engineering

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_UPDATE

Local name: PANEL_UPDATE

Alias: TUA

Space: Detail Space

Purpose:
Updates engineering for all trusses in the detail space.

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 Process:
• Go to the truss detail sheet tab
• Type TUA then press Enter.
Additional Information:

6.16 TUP - Truss Uplift Plan

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_UPLIFT

Local name: TRUSS_UPLIFT

Alias: TUP

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Inserts a truss uplift plan into a selected border.
Process:
• Ensure the truss layout plan is in focus.
• Type TUP then press Enter. Plan will zoom out to extents.
• Select the blank border where the truss uplift plan is to be placed. Plan will zoom back to the
truss layout plan.

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7 Floor Commands
7.1 FD - Draw Floor
Commands:

Global name: _ ROUGH_IN

Local name: ROUGH_IN

Alias: FD

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Creates an underfloor layout in one border and a floor framing layout in the next border. A
flooring sheet layout will also be drawn in the next border if the 'Auto Floor Sheet Layout' option
is set to 'True' in the Layout Options of the JSET.
Process:
• Ensure you have your floor outline(s) drawn in.
• Type FD then press Enter.
• Select the outline(s) and right click or press Enter.
• Select a set out point from which all the joists will be set from.
• Select the direction that the joists will run. The underfloor piers will be drawn in on the initial
border, an identical layout will be reproduced on the next border with the floor joists detailed
in, and if the Auto Floor Sheet Layout option is on, a floor sheet layout will appear in the
following border.

7.2 FR – Floor Recess

Commands:

Global name: _ FLOOR_SETDOWN

Local name: FLOOR_ SETDOWN

Alias: FR (Floor Recess)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Allows a top chord recess to be applied to designated area of floor joists.
To be implemented at the users discretion – see additional information below.
Process:
• On the floor joist layout plan, draw a polyline to represent the area to be recessed.
• Type FR
• Enter in the recess drop value.
• Click on the polyline.
Additional information:

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 Important Note: Recessed floor joist Engineering Status is set to ‘Non-Structural’. They are not
engineered in the Steelwise software, therefore it is the responsibility of the user to have these
joists engineered externally.

7.3 FSD - Floor Sheet Input

Commands:

Global name: _ FLOOR_SHEET

Local name: FLOOR_SHEET

Alias: FSD (Floor Sheet Draw)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To lay out floor sheathing over a floor joist layout.
This command works similar to the ‘JD’ command. All you need to do is select the boundaries of
the floor you wish to add sheeting to. The boundaries could be either lines or polylines and
should be a closed area. The boundaries could consist on any shape or collection of shapes and
several separate boundaries could be included.
Process:
• Type FSD then press Enter.
• Press ‘Enter’ again to go the 'JSET' setup form.
• On completion of ‘JSET’, you will be returned to this routine. Select a boundary then
right click or enter.
• Select a set out point from which all the sheeting is set from.
• Next you will be prompted for the direction of the joists. Drag the mouse and click anywhere
along the first joist.
• The floor sheets will be laid out accordingly and an on-page report is generated with sheet,
screw and glue quantities.

7.4 JD - Joist Layout Input

Commands:

Global name: _ FLOOR_LAYOUT

Local name: FLOOR_LAYOUT

Alias: JD (Joist Draw)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Function for inputting floor joist members within a designated area.
To use this command, all you need to do is select the boundaries of the floor you wish to detail.
The boundaries could be either lines or polylines and should be a closed area. The boundaries
could consist of any shape or collection of shapes and several separate boundaries could be
included or excluded.

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 Process:
• Ensure that you have the correct system, model and other settings correct in JSET.
• Ensure you have your floor outline(s) drawn in.
• Type JD then press Enter.
• Select the outline(s) and right click or press Enter.
• Select a set out point from which all the joists will be set from.
• Next you will be prompted for the direction of the joists. Drag the mouse in the joist direction
required and click anywhere along the line adjacent to the setout point.
• The floor joists will be created accordingly and automatically labelled if that option is set to
'True'.
Additional information:
Refer to the Procedures Overview manual for more comprehensive floor input information.

7.5 JJD - Floor Joist Builder

Commands:

Global name: _ FLOOR_BUILDER

Local name: FLOOR_BUILDER

Alias: JJD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to build floor joists from the layout or amend floor joists in the detailing space.
This command runs in several modes, each is listed below:
Builds joists from the layout drawing and displays in a dialogue box. This occurs when the
drawing is in layout space and there is a joist layout present.
Shows the current truss in a dialogue box and allows the user to alter or update this truss with
tools available. This occurs when the drawing is in detailing space and there is a joist current on
the screen.
Process:
• Exporting joists from layout (layout space):
• Type JJD then press Enter.
• The Joist Builder dialogue box will open listing all the joists in the job. The materials usage
can be checked for each joist from within this dialogue box. You can also change any
individual joist parameters in the Joist Editor dialogue box by double clicking on a joist.
• Select the required joists to export then click the 'To Cad' button.
• A new detailing space will be created within the job labelled 'Floor.1' and the joists will be
drawn in.
Amending joists in elevation view (detailing space):
• Ensure that the joist you wish to amend is in focus.
• Type JJD then press Enter. The Joist Builder dialogue box will open listing the joist in focus.
• Double click on the name of the joist in the left hand space. This will open the Joist Editor
dialogue box.

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 • Make any changes and click on the 'Amend' button then click on the 'Update' button in Joist
Builder. The joist will be updated.

7.6 JSV - Floor Section View

Commands:

Global name: _ FLOOR_SECTION

Local name: FLOOR_SECTION

Alias: JSV

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Creates a cross section through a floor layout.
Process:
• Type JSH then press Enter. If you are in detailing space, actioning this command will revert
to layout space.
• Drag a horizontal or vertical line through a floor layout then click on a space to display it.

7.7 Under Floor Pier

Commands:

Global name: _ ISOLATED_PIER

Local name: ISOLATED_PIER

Alias:

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:

Process:

7.8 Under Floor Post

Commands:

Global name: _ ISOLATED_POST

Local name: ISOLATED_POST

Alias:

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:

Process:

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8 Smart Panel Commands
8.1 SC – Smart Ceiling Panel Input
Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_CEILING

Local name: PANEL_CEILING

Alias: SC (Smart Ceiling)

Space: Layout space

Purpose:
To create ceiling panels of any shape.
Note: Smart panels are non-structural hence they are not engineered, and loads are
not transferred to any frames below. The PPD/SPD command only serves the purpose
of building the frame of the panels.
Process:
• Type SC then press Enter.
• If you get a ‘Not initialized yet’ Message in Command Bar, do the following:

o Type ‘AECOBJECTS’ and set to ‘ON’

o Restart IntelliCAD
o In later versions of the software, this is done automatically, however the user will be
prompted to save their job and restart the software before the setting will take effect.

• Select ‘S’ to go to the Ceiling Panel settings.

• Make any required changes and save.

• Select ‘P’ to input panel by points.

• OR
• Select ‘I’ to input panel inside a polygon or closed polyline.

• Label and SPD to build separately from wall panels.

• OR

• Label and PPD to build with wall panels.

• Panels will build as Blocks.

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 • In the layout space, list (LI) a panel and click on the ‘Press to Edit’ button to edit members in
the Block Editor.
• OR

• In the detail space, double click anywhere on the panel block to edit members in the Block
Editor.
• ‘Save Block’ then ‘Close Block Editor’ to exit.
• If ‘Close Block Editor’ is selected first, the user will be prompted to save.

PSET - Ceiling Panel Options Information

Additional Information:
How to rake (pitch) a smart panel:
• List (LI) the smart panel
• Under AEC Basics, change the ‘3D Raking Angle’ to the desired pitch.

• Change the ‘2D Raking Direction’ to suit the required pitch direction. The arrow indictor on
the panel will change to suit.
• You can also use the PRA (Rake Panel) command to create a pitch on a smart panel.

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 How to add an opening into a smart panel:
• Draw a rectangle of the required size and location within the smart panel.
• Type MJ (MEMBER_JOIN) and select the panel.

• Hold the ALT key down and select the opening polyline. All framing in the opening will be
subtracted from the panel.
Note: This process can also be used to create notches in the corners and edges of
panels.
How to reshape a smart panel on the layout:
• In the layout, run the MD (MEMBER_DIVIDE) command
• Set the number of segments required to divide the side of a panel by (2 will add one extra
grip)

• Click on the smart panel

• Once the panel is selected, then click on the segment that you need to add the extra grip(s)
to.
• Select the panel to highlight the grips, then click on the grip that you wish to move.

• Stretch the grip to the required location

• Important: LI the panel and go to ‘Other Tools – Rebuild Blocks’ and activate the ‘Press to
Rebuild’ button

• Now your panel is ready to send to the Panel Builder (SPD) and/or Insert Block

8.2 SR – Smart Roof Panel Input

Commands:

Global name: _ROOFPANEL

Local name: ROOFPANEL

Alias: SR (Smart Roof)

Space: Layout space

Purpose:
To create roof panels of any shape.
Note: Smart panels are non-structural hence they are not engineered, and loads are
not transferred to any frames below. The SPD/PPD command only serves the purpose
of building the frame of the panels.
Process:
Please refer to Ceiling Panel input.

8.3 SF – Smart Floor Panel Input

Commands:

Global name: _FLOORPANEL

Local name: FLOORPANEL

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 Alias: SF (Smart Floor)

Space: Layout space

Purpose:
To create floor panels of any shape.
Note: Smart panels are non-structural hence they are not engineered and loads are not
transferred to any frames below. The PPD/SPD command only serves the purpose of
building the frame of the panels.
Process:
Please refer to Ceiling Panel input.

8.4 SPD – Smart Panel Builder

Commands:

Global name: _NPANEL_BUILDER

Local name: NPANEL_BUILDER

Alias: SPD (Smart Panel Builder)

Space: Layout space

Purpose:
Exports smart panels to the 'Panel Builder'.
Process:
• From the wall framing layout, type SPD then press Enter. This will export them to the 'Panel
Builder' dialogue box.

• From here the user can check each panel individually in the 'Fabrication' window (or click on
the Check button to do an automatic check). Other options available here are to be able to
check the quantities for each panel in the 'Bill of Materials' window, print or locate.
• Next, select the required panels and click on To Cad to export to detailing space.

Additional Information:
To export panels one layout at a time using the filter option:
Ensure that the border for the required layout is in focus.
Activate the PPD command.
Within the Panel Builder, select the 'Filters Are Off' option.
Change the 'Current View Only' option to 'True' and click on Change.
All other frames that are not within the initial screen view will be filtered out.

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9 Editing Commands
9.1 AS - Add Support
Commands:

Global name: _
TRUSS_SUPPORT

Local name: TRUSS_SUPPORT

Alias: AS

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
To add a support point to a truss or floor joist.
Process:
Type AS then press Enter.
Select the location on a truss where the support is be placed.
The support type (pinned, x-roller or y-roller) is automatically determined by the software
according to the location and what supports already exist. A support type can be changed by
listing (LI) and editing it.
Additional information:
By default, only one pinned support is applied to a truss, therefore when editing supports, please
ensure that you don’t end up with multiple pinned supports unless specifically required by an
engineer.

9.2 BM - Box Member

Commands:

Global name: _ TRUSS_BOX

Local name: TRUSS_BOX

Alias: BM

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to fully or partially box a member to a detailed truss, floor joist or wall panel.
When the command is complete, in the case of a truss, the truss is automatically re-engineered
and the material summary list is automatically updated with the individual members being
labelled.
Process:
• Type BM then press Enter.
• To fully box a member, click anywhere on the member to select it then right click or press
Enter to finish.

Or...

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 • To partially box a member, select the start location of the boxing member then the finishing
location.
• Partial boxing also allows a distance to be entered in as the second point.

Additional information:
• Note: Boxing of truss chords is not recommended therefore, holding down the 'ALT' key (as
noted in the Command Bar) allows the boxing member to be placed in the alternative axis
alongside the main member as a 'reinforcing member'. This must be fixed in accordance with
an engineer’s specification or as per the software’s recommendation. The reason for not
boxing chords is that the intersecting webs must have notches taken out of them so they can
tab over the boxed chord. This renders the web to be unable to work in compression as the
unsupported flanges will buckle under load.
• When a member has been fully boxed, the toolings are automatically updated.

• If a wall member other than a stud is boxed in the elevation view (Detailing Space), then a
note is placed in the Panel Properties Editor – General Information – Redline Text to say that
the wall has been amended when you list (LI) that wall in plan view.

9.3 C - Copy Member

Commands:

Global name: _ COPY

Local name: COPY

Alias: C or COPY

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To copy an entity to another location.
Process:
• Type C then press Enter.
• Select the entity then right mouse click or press Enter.

• Select the location to copy the entity to by first selecting a base point then a displacement
point or type in a distance.
• If Orthogonal mode is on, the selected item will only copy horizontally or vertically from its
original location. Holding down the 'Shift' key will allow displacement in any direction. The
opposite also applies if Ortho mode is disabled.

• Escape to exit the command.

Additional Information:
If multiple copied members are required, continue selecting displacement points, then escape to
exit command.

9.4 IP - Inherit Properties

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_ INHERIT

Local name: MEMBER_ INHERIT

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 Alias: IP

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Copies the properties from one member to another.
Process:
• Type IP then press Enter.

• Select the member you wish to copy the properties from.

• Select the member or members you wish to copy the properties to.

• Right click or press Enter to finish.

9.5 IW - Insert Web

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_ADDWEB

Local name: TRUSS_ADDWEB

Alias: IW

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows the user to insert individual webs to a detailed truss. The user may add any quantity of
webs desired and the type of web inserted will be the default type for that frame. If a web is over
length then that web will be boxed automatically if the data file allows boxing. Fixings are
automatically added to the member. When the command is complete, the truss is automatically
re-engineered and the material summary list is automatically updated with the individual
members being relabelled. All toolings are updated automatically.
This command also allows webs to be added to wall frames.
Process:
• Type IW then press Enter.
• Click on a chord for the start point for the web.

• Click on a chord for the finish point for the web.

Note: If ORTHO mode is on, toggle it off using the F8 key to make the second point
selection.
• Right click or press Enter to place the web.
• A similar procedure is required to add webs to wall frames. See bottom of Additional
Information section for wall frames.

Additional Information:

When selecting existing fixing nodes on adjacent webs as starting points and / or
ending points, the software sets the starting and ending points of the newly inserted
web at the correct location from the selected fixings node. The software also modifies
the selected points so that the webs are inserted evenly into the truss.
If absolute web input locations are required, type 'a' after the last entry selection.

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 Also see: Add - Truss Members for alternative member input method. Use this option
for vertical web input.
Wall Frames:
• If a member is inserted vertically (or within 5° of vertical), it will snap into place as a vertical
stud member.
• If a member is inserted horizontally (or within 5° of horizontal), it will snap into place as a
horizontal web member.

• If a member is inserted diagonally from a member location close to one intersection and then
to another intersection, the member will snap to the selected member at a predetermined
distance.

9.6 M - Move
Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_ MOVE

Local name: MEMBER_ MOVE

Alias: M or MOVE

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Moves an entity or object by given points.
Process:
• Type M or MOVE then press Enter.
• Select the entity then right mouse click or press Enter.

• Select the location to move the entity to by first selecting a base point then a displacement
point or type in a distance.
• If Orthogonal mode is on, the selected item will only move horizontally or vertically from its
original location. Holding down the 'Shift' key will allow displacement in any direction. The
opposite also applies if Ortho mode is disabled.

• Escape to exit the command.

9.7 MB - Break Member

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_ BREAK

Local name: MEMBER_ BREAK

Alias: MB

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:

Breaks multiple members or frame entities (generally joists or trusses) at a given

location. This command is generally used to break multiple members along a line.

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 Process:
• Draw a reference line through one or more members at the break location.
• Type MB then enter.

• Select one end of the reference line then the other.

• Right click to break the members into two pieces or click on the side of the reference line that
you wish to delete.

Additional Information:
Do not use this command to break raking walls. The heights will not be maintained correctly
across the two panels. You should only use the MC (Member Cut) command.

9.8 MC - Cut Member

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_ CUT

Local name: MEMBER_ CUT

Alias: MC

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Cuts a member or frame at a selected location. This command can only be used to cut one
member or frame at a time. This command is used for:
• Breaking individual wall frames, joists and trusses
• Cutting individual members in frame elevations

• Cutting smart panels

• Splicing truss members in elevation view

Process:

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 To cut members or frames:
• Type MC then press Enter.
• Select the member or frame to cut.

• Select the location to cut the member at, then right click or press Enter to complete the
command.

To splice truss members (in detailing space only):

• Type MC then press Enter.
• While holding down the ALT key, select the truss member at the splice location required.

• Right click or press Enter to complete the command.

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9.9 MD – Member Divide
Global name: _MEMBER_DIVIDE

Local name: MEMBER_ DIVIDE

Alias: MD

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows frames or members to be equally divided into a set number of pieces, or equally divided
into pieces set to a maximum specified length.
Process:
• Type MD then press Enter

• In ‘Q’ - Quantity Mode – specify the number of segments required.

• Select member to break

• In ‘D’ – Distance Mode – specify the maximum length of segments required.

• Select member to break

9.10 ME - Extend Member

Commands:

Global _MEMBER_EXTEND
name:

Local name: MEMBER_EXTEND

Alias: ME

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Extends or trims one member to another selected member.
Process:
• Type ME then press Enter.
• Select the member to extend to.

• Select the member or members to extend then right click to finish.

Additional Information:
This command can also be used to trim an overlapping member back to the member to extend
to.

9.11 MF - Fillet Member

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_FILLET

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 Local name: MEMBER_FILLET

Alias: MF

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To edit the lap order of two members or frames.
Process:
• Type MF then press Enter.

• Select the dominant frame or member.

• Select the second frame or member and right click to re-order and finish.

9.12 MI - Mirror
Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_MIRROR

Local name: PANEL_MIRROR

Alias: MI

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Moves or copies the reflected image of selected entities about a line.
This command is an improvement on the standard CAD mirror command with greater intelligence
built in. It operates in two distinct modes. If the first item selected is a web of a truss, window
head, webbed beam or webbed floor member, then it will operate in 'Mirror Web' mode. If the
first item selected is anything but a web then it will operate as a simple mirror command.
Process:
• Type MI then press Enter.
• Select the entities you want to mirror, and then press 'Enter'.

Mirror Web Mode:

In 'Mirror Web' mode there is no need to select anything else except the webs. The software will
automatically select any associated parts, fixings and hatch's associated with the webs. When the
user is prompted to select a point for the mirror plane, only one point is required as the software
assumes that the point will be mirrored around the vertical plane. When selecting the mirror
point, the snap mode is automatically set to 'mid', however the user may select or override this
as required. When the command is complete, the snap mode will return to whatever it was
before the command was run.
If the webs selected were associated with a truss, then when the command is completed, the
truss will be automatically re-engineered and the cutting lists will be updated. If the webs
selected were a wall frame or a floor joist, then the cutting list will be updated only.
Simple Mirror Mode:
In 'Simple Mode' the operator is given two simple choices as to whether to delete the original
entities or not. This choice then determines how the entities will be handled. When selecting
trusses from a truss layout there is no need to select other associated parts such as direction
marker or eaves as the software will get these items for you. Same applies to openings, there is

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 no need to select the opening text as the software will automatically select this for you. However,
when selecting a wall panel from a layout, it will not automatically select the studs, bracing, etc.
It is left to the user to decide on what to select.
Delete Original Entities:
When using this option, the software does very little, it basically just checks the orientation of
various items. There is also no need to select the label text of trusses, walls, openings or floors
from a layout. The software will do this for you.
Retaining Original Entities:
With this method, truss labels, wall labels and floor labels are not mirrored. The reason for this is
that in almost all cases a global relabelling will be required. On completion of this mode, most of
the on-page reports are automatically updated.

9.13 MJ - Join Members

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_JOIN

Local name: MEMBER_JOIN

Alias: MJ

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To join two adjoining members.
Process:
• Type MJ then press Enter.
• Select both members to join.

• Right click or press Enter to finish.

Additional Information:
If the two members are not adjoining or in the same plane, then a new member will be drawn
from the furthest points of the members selected.
With this command, it does not matter which end of each member is selected as the new
member will be drawn from the furthest points of the members selected. This routine will work
on all ‘trace’ entities.

9.14 ML - Lengthen
Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_LENGTHEN

Local name: MEMBER_LENGTHEN

Alias: ML or LEN

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To lengthen or shorten a member, frame or line by a given distance.

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 Process:
• Type ML then Press Enter.
• Type in the required length (type in a negative number to shorten a member/frame/line).

• Click close to the end of the member/frame/line to be shortened.

9.15 MO - Offset Member

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_OFFSET

Local name: MEMBER_OFFSET

Alias: MO

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Offsets a parallel copy of an entity or object by a given distance.
Process:
• Type MO then press Enter.

• Enter the distance to offset by.

• Select the entity to offset.

• Click on the side of the entity that you wish to offset to.
• Press Escape to exit the command.

Additional Information:
• When using the MO command for walls or wall beams, the distance applied is the distance in
between members.
• When using the MO command for trusses or joists, the distance applied is the distance from
centre to centre of members.

9.16 MP – Match Properties

9.17 MR - Reverse Member

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_REVERSE

Local name: PANEL_REVERSE

Alias: MR or RF (Reverse Frame)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Reverses the direction of any member.

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 Process:
• Type MR then press Enter.
• Select the member to reverse then right click or Enter.

9.18 MU - Update Member (Previously MS – Member Resquare)

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_UPDATE

Local name: MEMBER_UPDATE

Alias: MU (Member Update)

Space: Detailing Space

Purpose:
Updates truss chords and webs, joist webs or wall lintel webs after editing.
Re-populates missing member connection screws in trusses, webbed joists and walls.
Process:
• Type MU then press Enter.
• Select a member to update.

• Right click or press Enter to finish.

• All other webs in the frame (and chords in trusses) will also be updated and member
connection screws re-populated.
• Note: The end of a web must be located within the edge of the member it is connected to
before the MU command will work.

9.19 MX - Trim Crossing Members

Commands:

Global name: _MEMBER_CROSS

Local name: MEMBER_CROSS

Alias: MX

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Breaks one member or frame either side of another crossing member or frame.
Process:
• Type MX then press Enter.
• Select the member/frame to cut first.

• Select the continuous member/frame second. Right click or press Enter to finish.

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9.20 RF - Reverse Frame
Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_REVERSE

Local name: PANEL_REVERSE

Alias: RF or MR (Reverse Member)

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Reverses the direction of a frame entity.
Process:
• Type RF then press Enter.
• Select the frame then right click or Enter to reverse its direction.

9.21 SE - Special Erase

Commands:

Global name: _LAYOUT_ERASE

Local name: LAYOUT_ERASE

Alias: SE

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Erases all trusses and smart panels on a roof truss layout; all joists in a floor framing layout; all
wall studs on a wall frame layout, or selected joists, trusses, wall studs or truss webs.
Method:
Type SE then press Enter.
Select a truss or joist.
Right click or Enter to perform a global erase of all joists or trusses from that plan or select
individual joists or trusses to erase.
For wall framing, this command only allows for the deletion of studs within walls - does not
delete walls themselves.
For truss webs - in Detailing Space - selecting a web will erase web label and dimples. Will also
globally delete all webs within a truss.

9.22 STRIP - Strip Entity Property Intelligence

Commands:

Global name: _STRIP

Local name: STRIP

Alias:

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 Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Strips any of Steelwises’ entities of all property intelligence.
This is useful when copying walls or beams to another layout for set out purposes, e.g. using
walls or beams on a joist layout for better clarity when inputting joists. If these members are left
as they are, you end up with a double up of members in the job. You must not combine walls,
trusses and joists on the same layout plan as it will cause issues with labelling, frame building
and reporting.
Exploding entities does not remove the data. If you explode them, you end up with a series of
individual lines that still contain entity data.
Stripping the data from entities also leaves them as complete polylines.
Process:
• Type STRIP then press Enter.
• Select the entities to strip the property data from.

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10 Dimension Commands
10.1 DA - Aligned Dimension
Commands:

Global name: _ DIMENSION_ALIGNED

Local name: DIMENSION_ALIGNED

Alias: DA

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To input dimensions aligned between two points.
Process:
• Type DA then press Enter.
• Select the dimension location.
• Select the points you wish to dimension then right click or enter to finish.
• When selecting points to dimension, the cursor has been set to pick end points or
intersections. This routine will dimension at whatever angle the second point is from the
first.

10.2 DH - Horizontal Dimension

Commands:

Global name: _ DIMENSION_ HORIZONTAL

Local name: DIMENSION_ HORIZONTAL

Alias: DH

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To input a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given reference point. It will only
dimension using the ‘X’ coordinates.
Process:
• Type DH then press Enter.
• Select the location where you want the dimensions to appear.
• Continue selecting points to dimension then right click or enter to finish.
• The first point selected will be considered to be ‘0’, the rest of the points will be set from this
point.

10.3 DL - Line Dimension

Commands:

Global name: _ DIMENSION_ LINE

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 Local name: DIMENSION_ LINE

Alias: DL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To dimension the length of a selected line segment. It is a simple routine which labels the length
of each segment of the line. It is a very useful routine for producing a simplified concrete slab set
out.
Process:
• Type DL then press Enter.
• Select the lines to be dimensioned then right click or enter to finish. Any polylines selected
will be exploded into individual lines.

10.4 DM - Dimension Members

Commands:

Global name: _ DIMENSION_ LINEAR

Local name: DIMENSION_ LINEAR

Alias: DM

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To dimension multiple member or frame entity locations.
Process:
• Type DM then press Enter.
• Click on the dimension location.
• Select the entities to be dimensioned then right click or enter to finish. A right to left fence
selection can be used to select multiple members at once.

10.5 DO - Ordinate Dimension

Commands:

Global name: _ DIMENSION_ ORDINATE

Local name: DIMENSION_ ORDINATE

Alias: DO

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To produce a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given reference point.
Process:
• Type DO then press Enter.

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 • Select an approximate location outside the end of the building where you want the
dimensions to start from and in line with where you want the ordinate dimension leader lines
to start from.

• Select the first entity (or a reference line) from where the dimensions are to start from. The
first point selected will be considered to be ‘0’, the rest of the points will be set from this
point.

• Continue selecting entities to dimension then right click or enter to finish. A right to left fence
selection can be used to select multiple members at once.
Additional Information:
Ordinate dimension can be set to dimension to the front, centre or back of entities by changing
the settings in BSET | Options | Dimension Options.

10.6 DV - Vertical Dimension

Commands:

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 Global name: _ DIMENSION_ VERTICAL

Local name: DIMENSION_ VERTICAL

Alias: DV

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To input a series of running ordinate dimensions from a given reference point. It will only
dimension using the ‘Y’ coordinates.
Process:
• Type DV then press Enter.
• Select the location where you want the dimensions to appear.
• Continue selecting points to dimension then right click or enter to finish.
• The first point selected will be considered to be ‘0’, the rest of the points will be set from this
point.

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11 Report Commands
The standard on page design report is created automatically when a wall, joist or truss layout is
created. OR will update existing reports or replace missing reports.
Other reports can be found in the Panel Editor (Bill of Materials, Stud Design), Joist Builder (Bill
of Materials) and Truss Editor (Bill of Materials, Engineering and Results). These reports can be
printed.

11.1 JOA – On Page Joist Accessories Report

Commands:

Global name: _ JOIST_ACCESSORIES

Local name: JOIST_ACCESSORIES

Alias: JOA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To create an on-page report displaying the floor accessories.
Process:
• Ensure the floor layout plan border is in focus on the screen.
• Type JOA then press Enter.
• The on-page report is automatically placed in the top-right corner of the layout border.
Note: quantities here are not rounded up.

11.2 OR - On Page Summary

Commands:

Global name: _ ONPAGE_REPORT

Local name: ONPAGE_REPORT

Alias: OR

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Creates an on-page wall panel design summary.
Creates an on-page truss design summary.
Creates an on-page floor member quantity list summary (size, quantity, length).
Creates an on-page floor sheet quantity list summary.

Updates or creates a detailed wall panels on-page cutting list.

Updates or creates a detailed truss on-page cutting list.
Updates or creates a detailed floor beam on-page cutting list.

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 Updates or creates floor sheeting on-page summary.
Updates or creates floor layout on-page summary.
Updates or creates or creates roofing materials on-page summary.
Updates or creates truss on-page accessories summary.
Process:
• Ensure the plan or detailed elevation (for material update) for the desired report is in focus
on the screen.
• Type OR then press Enter.

11.3 POA – On Page Panel Accessories Report

Commands:

Global name: _ PANEL_ACCESSORIES

Local name: PANEL_ACCESSORIES

Alias: POA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To create an on-page report displaying the wall accessories.
Process:
• Ensure the wall framing plan border is in focus on the screen.
• Type POA then press Enter.
• The on-page report is automatically placed in the top-right corner of the layout border.
Note: quantities here are not rounded up.

11.4 POB - On Page Beam Report

Commands:

Global name: _ ONPAGE_BEAM

Local name: ONPAGE_BEAM

Alias: POB

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Places a summary list of beams on the plan.
Process:
• Type POB then press Enter.
• Type 'L' to snap input to top left-hand corner, 'R' to snap input to top right-hand corner, or
'M' to snap input to the middle.
• Select location to place report.

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11.5 POO - On Page Opening Report
Commands:

Global name: _ ONPAGE_OPENINGS

Local name: ONPAGE_OPENINGS

Alias: POO

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Places a summary list of openings on the plan.
Process:
• Type POO then press Enter.
• Type 'L' to snap input to top left-hand corner, 'R' to snap input to top right-hand corner, or
'M' to snap input to the middle.
• Select location to place report.
Additional Information:
Column 1 shows the library/input method used (this ensures that the correct opening library has
been used).
Column 2 shows the height.
Column 3 shows the width.
Column 4 shows the quantity.

11.6 POP - On Page Post Report

Commands:

Global name: _ ONPAGE_POSTS

Local name: ONPAGE_POSTS

Alias: POP

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Places a summary list of posts on the plan.
Process:
• Type POP then press Enter.
• Type 'L' to snap input to top left-hand corner, 'R' to snap input to top right-hand corner, or
'M' to snap input to the middle.
• Select location to place report.

11.7 POS - On Page Panel Report

Commands:

Global name: _ ONPAGE_PANEL

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 Local name: ONPAGE_PANEL

Alias: POS

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Places a summary list of panels on the plan which contains panel quantities and total length of
wall types.
Process:
• Ensure the wall framing plan border is in focus on the screen.
• Type POS then press Enter.
• Type 'L' to snap input to top left-hand corner, 'R' to snap input to top right-hand corner, or
'M' to snap input to the middle.
• Select location to place report.

11.8 RA – On Page Roof Area Report

Commands:

Global name: _ROOF_AREA

Local name: ROOF_AREA

Alias: RA

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
To obtain a roof area report.
Process:
• Ensure the correct roof pitch is set in the truss settings (TSET)
• Type RA then press Enter or right mouse click.
• Select the points which determine the perimeter of a roof then Enter or right click.
• Select a location to place the report.

11.9 REP - Report

Commands:

Global name: _ REPORT

Local name: REPORT

Alias: REP

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
In layout space, reports a range of model properties (Framing Construction Accessories,
Engineering Summary Outputs, Cladding Geometric parameters). Outputs vary for each sub-
assembly type (Walls, Roof, Floor).

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 In detailing space, reports a range of frame material reports. Outputs vary for each frame type
(Panel, Truss, Joist).
Process:
• Make sure the relevant layout is in focus.
• Type REP then press Enter.
Additional Information:
Panel layout space report:
View, Print or Export a csv file from the Panel Layout Report. Options include Openings,
Reactions, Loads, Accessories and Statistics reports (Statistics report includes bottom plate
lengths, wall surface square areas, wall perimeters and hold down quantities).
Note: quantities are rounded up based on the rounding quantities as set in the data file, e.g.
screws are rounded to the nearest 50 when using the default FRAMECAD_FT data files.
Beams and posts included and show RL heights.
The ‘Statistics’ tab provides the following information when a report is generated from the wall
framing layout:
- A list of panel types showing location, floor type, quantity, total length, total area and total
perimeter
- The same statistics for the openings
- Bracing quantities and lengths
- Hold-down quantities
- Beam summary.

Panel detailing space report:

View, Print or Export a csv file from the Panel Usage Reports. Options include Panel Report,
Material Report and Summary Report.
Truss layout space report:
View, Print or Export a csv from the Truss Layout Report. Options included are Truss Accessories,
Engineering Status and Truss Uplift Reactions.
Truss detailing space report:
View, Print or Export a csv from the Truss Usage Report. Options included are Truss Report,
Material Report, Summary Report and Engineering Status.
Joist layout space report:
View, Print or Export a csv from the Floor Layout Report. Options included are Member Report,
Sheet Report, Batten Report and Accessories Report.
Joist detailing space report:
View, Print or Export a csv from the Floor Usage Report. Options include Beam Report, Material
Report and Summary Report.

11.10 TOA – On Page Truss Accessories Report

Commands:

Global name: _ TRUSS_ACCESSORIES

Local name: TRUSS_ACCESSORIES

Alias: TOA

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 Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Adds an on-page report for the truss accessories to the truss layout.
Process:
• Type TOA then press Enter.
• The accessory report is automatically added to the top right corner of the truss layout plan
border.
Note: quantities here are not rounded up.

11.11 TOS – On Page Truss Summary

Commands:

Global name: _ONPAGE_SUMMARY

Local name: ONPAGE_SUMMARY

Alias: TOS

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Provides a list showing the total lineal quantity of each truss type.
Process:
• In the truss layout, Type TOS then right click or press Enter.
• Click on a location within the border to place the report.

11.12 SUM – Report Summary

Commands:

Global name: _SUMMARY

Local name: SUMMARY

Alias: SUM

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Provides a material Site Summary, Manufacturing Summary and L-Plate Summary report for all
the individual detail sheet tabs.
Process:
• In the Layouts tab, Type SUM then right click or press Enter.
Additional Information:
Site Summary
- Displays quantities of frames and total lineal material quantities.
- Displays quantities of battens and total lineal quantities.
- Displays quantities of site fixings and fasteners

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 Manufacturing Summary
- Displays quantities and weights for material used for site manufactured frames for each detail
sheet tab.
- Displays full job summary of materials and weights for site manufactured frames.
L-Plate Summary
- Displays all lintel plate information for each detail sheet tab.

All information can be printed and/or export as a CSV file.

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12 Viewing Commands
12.1 A3D (or 3D) - Full Layout 3D
Commands:

Global name: _LAYOUT_3D

Local name: LAYOUT_3D

Alias: A3D or 3D

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
Creates a full wire frame view of the floor, walls and trusses.
Process:
• From within the Layout space type A3D then press Enter.
• A 3D view of walls, joists and trusses will be created in the Model space.
• Either select a preset viewpoint from the View menu or hold the CTRL key down and use your
mouse to rotate the plan.
• Select Plan View from the View menu to revert back to the original plan view. Right click or
press Enter to complete the command.
• Type A3D then press Enter to toggle the 3D view on or off.
Additional Information:
Changing to Isometric and Orthographic Views:
Viewing angle can be changed easily by using the VV (Next 3D View) command or selecting a
preset viewpoint; use following steps:
• Click on View – 3D Views on menu bar or from the View ribbon menu.
• Changing Visual Style:
• Click on View – Visual Styles on menu bar or from the View ribbon menu.
• Click on one of the following icons, 3 in the middle are mostly used

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 3D Wireframe Generates 3D wireframe
model turning all
surfaces transparent,
showing all edges and
folds as lines

3D Hidden Generates 3D model

turning all surfaces
Alias = HI
opaque, hiding all edges
and folds that are behind
any surface

Realistic Generates 3D realistic

model showing all
surfaces in colour and in
different shades for XY,
YZ and ZX planes

12.2 J3D - Floor Joist 3D

Commands:

Global name: _FLOOR_3D

Local name: FLOOR_3D

Alias: J3D

Space: Model space

Purpose:

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 Creates a 3D of the floor joists or selected floor joists only.
Process:
• From within the Layout space type J3D then press Enter.
• Press enter again for a global selection or select just the joists that you wish to 3D.
• A 3D view of the joists is created in the Model space.
• Type J3D then press Enter to toggle the 3D view on or off.
Additional Information:
To view deep C joists as more realistic ‘c’ shaped members, first you need to send the joists to
CAD using JJD, otherwise they will only appear as rectangular oblongs.
Viewing angle can be changed easily by using the VV (Next 3D View) command.
To select a pre-set viewpoint see A3D.

12.3 P3D - Panel 3D

Commands:

Global name: _PANEL_3D

Local name: PANEL_3D

Alias: P3D

Space: Layout space & Model space

Purpose:
Creates a 3D of the walls only.
Process:
• From within the Layout space type P3D then press Enter.
• Press enter again for a global selection or select just the walls that you wish to 3D.
• A 3D view of the walls is created in the Model space.
• Type P3D then press Enter to toggle the 3D view on or off.
Additional Information:
Viewing angle can be changed easily by using the VV (Next 3D View) command.
To select a pre-set viewpoint see A3D.

12.4 R3D – Roof Plane 3D

Commands:

Global name: _ROOF_3D

Local name: ROOF_3D

Alias: R3D

Space: Model space

Purpose:
Allows a 3D roof plane to be manually created in the model space.
Process:

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 • Copy the roof lines from the roof layout to the same co-ordinates in Model space
(refer to SETREF – Set 3D Marker in Model Space in the General Section).
• From within the Model space type R3D then press Enter.
• The available command bar options are:
o P = Point selection input method (allows you to select the outside points of the
roof plane).
o I = Island input method (allows you to select anywhere within bounding lines).
o S = Opens the TSET settings if required.
• Using the P (Points) input method, select the required roof line points and right click
to finish.
• Then select the start and end points of the pitching line. If the first two points
selected during the roof plane input are the pitching line, then right click to bypass
this option.
• You are then asked to select a third point of reference for the upward direction of
the slope.
Additional Information:
You can now list (LI) the roof panel if you need to alter the pitch or the height.

12.5 T3D - Truss 3D

Commands:

Global name: _TRUSS_3D

Local name: TRUSS_3D

Alias: T3D

Space: Layout space & Model space

Purpose:
Creates a 3D of the trusses only.
Process:

• From within the Layout space type T3D then press Enter.
• Press enter again for a global selection or select just the trusses that you wish to
3D.
• A 3D view of the trusses is created in the Model space.
• Type T3D then press Enter to toggle the 3D view on or off.
Additional Information:
Viewing angle can be changed easily by using the VV (Next 3D View) command.
To select a pre-set viewpoint see A3D.

12.6 S3D – Smart Panel 3D

Commands:

Global name: _SMART_3D

Local name: SMART_3D

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 Alias: S3D

Space: Layout space & Model space

Purpose:
Creates a 3D of the smart panels only.
Process:

• From within the Layout space type S3D then press Enter.
• Press enter again for a global selection or select just the panels that you wish to 3D.
• A 3D view of the panels is created in the Model space.
• Type S3D then press Enter to toggle the 3D view on or off.
Additional Information:
Viewing angle can be changed easily by using the VV (Next 3D View) command.
To select a pre-set viewpoint see A3D.

12.7 TEMPHIDE
Commands:

Global name: _TEMPHIDE

Local name: TEMPHIDE

Alias:

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows user to temporarily hide a selected entity.
Process:

• Type TEMPHIDE then press Enter.

• Select the entity (or entities) that you wish to hide.
• To show entities again, simply run the command again and type ‘S’ to show.

12.8 V - Go to View…
Commands:

Global name: _VIEW_GOTO

Local name: VIEW_GOTO

Alias: V

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Allows user to jump to any view.
Process:

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 • Type V then press Enter.
• Type the number of the view you wish to jump to.

12.9 VM - Make View

Commands:

Global name: _VIEW_MAKE

Local name: VIEW_MAKE

Alias: VM

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Definition of a View: 2 points in space diagonally opposite each other that define a viewing
area on the screen.
Purpose:

• Create a new view within a drawing. This is handy if you have drawn a detail
outside of the standard borders that you wish to refer to periodically.
• Create a new border in an elevation tab for the purposes of adding a new frame.
• Updates an existing view within a drawing. This is an important step in the process
of changing a frame and re-exporting it to use to update a previously exported
frame.
• Repair views.

Process:
When creating a new view:
1. Type VM then press Enter.
2. Enter a name or number for the view.
3. Select the view area by clicking on 2 points diagonally opposite each other.
When updating a frame:
Use these steps to update a wall, joist or truss frame in the detailing space.
This assumes that the wall, joist or truss frames have already been built and you need
to rebuild one or more frames but don't want to re-export all the frames again. This
could because too much editing has already been carried out on a number of the
existing frames.
1. Re-export the required frame(s) to a new tab.
2. Copy the new frame to the initial tab containing the original frame.
3. Delete the old frame and move the new one into its place.
4. Type VM then press Enter.
5. Enter the number of the border view.
6. Select the view area by selecting 2 diagonally opposite corners of the border.
When repairing views:
The ‘Repair’ option repairs views that have been added, deleted or moved by the user and maybe
causing issues.

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 • Deletes vacant views and updates any out of sequence remaining views.
• Resets tabs with Walls, Trusses or Joists to the correct type.

1. Type VM then press Enter.

2. Type R then press Enter.
Additional Information:
Copy a border to a new location if you wish to use a border as your new view and select this as
your new view area.

12.10 VR - Restore View

Commands:

Global name: _VIEW_RESTORE

Local name: VIEW_RESTORE

Alias: VR

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Jumps to the first drawing border in layout or detailing space.
Process:
Type VR then press Enter.

12.11 VV - View Next

Commands:

Global name: _VIEW_NEXT

Local name: VIEW_NEXT

Alias: VV

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Scrolls sequentially to the next view.
Process:

• Type VV then press Enter.

• Continue to press Enter to scroll through subsequent views.
• To go back to previous views, type X.

12.12 VV - Next 3D View

Commands:

Global name: _VIEW_NEXT

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 Local name: VIEW_NEXT

Alias: VV

Space: Model Space

Purpose:
Toggles between pre-set viewpoints of a 3D view in the Model Space.
Process:

• Create a 3D model using one or more of the 3D create commands. See: J3D, P3D,
T3D, S3D.
• From within the Model space type VV then press Enter.
• Continue entering the command to simultaneously toggle through the various
views.

12.13 VVD – 3D Views

Commands:

Global name: _VVD

Local name: VVD

Alias: VVD

Space: Model Space or Detailing Space

Purpose:
Creates a new tab with 4x different isometric 3D views of your building from the Model.
Process:

• Create your 3D in Model Space using either the A3D, T3D, P3D, J3D or S3D
commands.
• Run the VVD (3D Views) command from anywhere within the job.
• A new tab will be created called 3D Views. This will have four borders showing the
four different aeriel isometric views from the 3D that is generated in Model Space.

12.14 X - View Previous

Commands:

Global name: _X

Local name: X

Alias: X

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Scrolls sequentially to the previous view.
Process:

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 • After scrolling through views using VV, type X then press Enter.
• Continue to press Enter to scroll through preceding views.

12.15 ZZ - Layout/Detailing Space Toggle

Commands:

Global name: _NEXTTAB

Local name: NEXTTAB

Alias: ZZ

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Toggles between the Layout space and last viewed detailing space.
Process:
Type ZZ then press Enter.
Additional Information:
If you are in a detailing space tab, this command will toggle between that tab and the
Layouts space tab.
If you are in the Layouts space tab, this command will toggle between that tab and the last
detailing space tab selected.

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13 Layer Commands
13.1 CL - Copy Layer
Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_COPY

Local name: LAYER_COPY

Alias: CL

Space: Layout Space

Purpose:
The purpose of this command is to copy layers from one layout border to another. It only works
in the layout drawing space and will not work anywhere else. If a border is not found within the
centre point of a screen then it will not work. If the second point selected is not within a different
border then it will not work either.
Process:
• Ensure the source border is in focus.
• Type CL then right click or press Enter.
• Select one item of a layer(s) to be copied. View zooms out to display all the borders.
• Click within a border to copy the layer(s) to.

13.2 IL - Isolate Layer

Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_ISOLATE

Local name: LAYER_ISOLATE

Alias: IL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Isolates a selected layer.
Process:

• Type IL then enter.

• Click on an entity that belongs to the layer you wish to isolate.

13.3 LC - Current Layer

Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_CURRENT

Local name: LAYER_CURRENT

Alias: LC

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 Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Selects layer to make current.
Process:

• Type LC then press Enter.

• Select an object belonging to the layer that you wish to make current.

13.4 LE - Erase Layer

Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_ERASE

Local name: LAYER_ERASE

Alias: LE

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
To erase a selected layer or objects within a selected layer.
Process:

• Type LE then press Enter.

• Select an entity from the layer you wish to erase.
• If you wish to erase all objects within the layer, press Enter again.
• If you wish to only erase selected objects within the layer, select them individually
or by dragging a fence over them. Objects from any other layers will not be
selected.
• Right click or press Enter to finish.
Additional Information:
This command allows multiple layers to be erased at once.

13.5 LF - Freeze Layer

Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_FREEZE

Local name: LAYER_FREEZE

Alias: LF or FL

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Freezes a selected layer. Entities drawn on frozen layers do not display, do not print, and do not
regenerate. When you freeze a layer, its entities do not affect the display or printing of other
entities. For example, entities on frozen layers do not hide other entities when you use the Hide
command to remove hidden lines. In addition, you cannot draw on a frozen layer until you thaw
it, and you cannot make a fro-zen layer current.

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 You cannot freeze the current layer. If you attempt to freeze the current layer, a dialogue box
appears prompting you to specify a different layer. You also cannot freeze or thaw a viewport
layer unless you are working in a Layout tab.
Process:

• Type LF then press Enter

• Select an object to freeze the layer on which the object belongs to
Additional Information:
This command allows multiple layers to be frozen at once.

13.6 LS - Show All Layers

Commands:

Global name: _LAYER_ALL

Local name: LAYER_ALL

Alias: LS (Layer Show)

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Turns on all frozen layers.
Process:

• Type LS then press Enter.

• All frozen layers will be thawed.

13.7 LT - Toggle Temporary Layer On/Off

Commands:

_LAYER_SHOW / _LAYER_SHOW1 / _LAYER_SHOW2 /

Global name:
_LAYER_SHOW3 / _LAYER_SHOW4 / _LAYER_SHOW5

LAYER_SHOW / LAYER_SHOW1 / LAYER_SHOW2 /

Local name:
LAYER_SHOW3 / LAYER_SHOW4 / LAYER_SHOW5

Alias: LT / LT1 / LT2 / LT3 / LT4 / LT5

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Toggles the temporary layer (Temp_Layer) on or off. If the Temp_layer does not already exist,
the command will prompt the user to select entities to add to the toggle layer. This can also be
done using the LX, LX1, etc. (Layer_Add) commands.
Process:

• Type LT then press Enter.

• If temp_layer has already been created and is displayed, it will turn off.
• If temp_layer has already been created and is not displayed, it will turn on.
• If temp_layer does not exist, select entities to add and right click or press Enter to
finish.

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 Additional Information:
LT1 toggles on or off the second temporary layer created using LX1.
LT2 toggles on or off the third temporary layer created using LX2.
LT3 toggles on or off the fourth temporary layer created using LX3.
LT4 toggles on or off the fifth temporary layer created using LX4.
LT5 toggles on or off the sixth temporary layer created using LX5.
Temporary layer can be turned on or off while inputting walls using the Panel Draw (PD)
command without having to exit out of the wall input command.
Warning: Never put Steelwise entities into temp layers. Doing so will disable any intelligence
required for engineering purposes and other important functionality.

13.8 LX - Add Layer

Commands:

_LAYER_ADD / _LAYER_ADD1 / _LAYER_ADD2 / _LAYER_ADD3 /

Global name:
_LAYER_ADD4 / _LAYER_ADD5

LAYER_ADD / LAYER_ADD1 / LAYER_ADD2 / LAYER_ADD3 /

Local name:
LAYER_ADD4 / LAYER_ADD5

Alias: LX / LX1 / LX2 / LX3 / LX4 / LX5

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:
Adds a temporary layer (Temp_Layer / Temp_Layer1 / Temp_Layer2 / Temp_Layer3 /
Temp_Layer4 / Temp_Layer5).
Process:

• Type LX then press Enter.

• Select entities to put into the temporary layer (Temp_Layer).
• Right click or press Enter to finish.
Additional Information:
These temporary layers are what is known as toggle layers. Use the LT, LT1, etc. (Show_Layer,
Show_Layer1, etc.) command to toggle the temporary layers on or off.
Warning: Never put Steelwise entities into temp layers. Doing so will disable any intelligence
required for engineering purposes and other important functionality.

13.9 VC - Visual Controls

Commands:

Global name: _VISUAL

Local name: VISUAL

Alias: VC

Space: Layout and Detailing Space

Purpose:

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 Allows the user to turn layers on or off easily.
Process:

• Type VC then press Enter.

• From the Visual Controls dialogue box untick any layers to be turned off.
Additional Information:

• Click on the Press to Lock Job button to lock all labels.

• Click again to unlock job.

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14 How To’s (and other general information)
14.1 General
14.1.1 RESETALL
Some issues with the software might be able to be rectified by activating the RESETALL
command.
This deletes all historical Steelwise information from the computer’s registry, thus all user applied
settings will revert back to the default settings as if it was a brand-new install on a clean
computer.

14.1.2 A3D - Frames Not Lining Up

If for some reason your trusses, wall and/or joists are not lining up with each other in the 3D
Model Space, firstly check that you have inserted your reference markers (REF) on the layouts
prior to building your frames. If you are sure this procedure has been followed correctly, try
turning off your 3D by activating the A3D command, then turn the individual layouts by using the
J3D, P3D and T3D commands.

14.1.3 Aliases – How to Resolve Missing Alias Commands

If the Steelwise alias commands do not work after loading the software, you can reload them by
typing in the DO_ONCE command.

14.1.4 Command Bar Display

If, for some reason your Command Bar has disappeared, there are a number of options to turn it
on again.
1. Click anywhere in a blank area of the Status Bar at the bottom of program display. This
option is possibly the most common reason the Command Bar may have disappeared in the
first place.

2. Press Ctrl+9 to turn it on or off.

3. Right click anywhere on the Menu Bar and select it from the display options.

4. In the Menu Bar go to View – Display and select it from the display list.
5. In the Ribbon menu go to View – Display and click on Command Bar.

14.1.5 Copy
The Copy command uses the standard IntelliCAD COPY command instead of the old Structure
MEMBER_COPY command. This means that when copying multi-faceted members such as
trusses, all the components must be selected i.e. overhangs and truss markers. This resolves
some of the crashing issues associated with the MEMBER_COPY command.

14.1.6 Create a Custom Border

By default, the FRAMECAD Steelwise border setup routines use a border called ‘BR FRAMECAD’.
However, customers have the facility to create a customized border to reflect their company’s
image.
There is a blank border located in the ‘C:\ProgramData\FRAMECAD\FRAMECAD Steelwise\Blocks’
directory called ‘BR Blank [Link]’. To create a custom border, open this drawing in Steelwise
and use the ‘Save As’ command to rename the drawing to the desired name. You must keep the
'BR' with a space after in the name.

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 In the blank border, a space has been left where you may insert your company logo or any
required text. You may alter or rearrange any text within the blank border as you see fit. Lines
may be copied, moved or erased as required.
Please do not delete any of the attributes. These attributes are vital to the border’s operation.
Existing attributes may be moved or rearranged as required. If desired, attributes visibility may
be changed from visible to invisible.
When inserting your company's logo, make sure they are in dwg format. Inserting bitmaps
seldom work and is generally a waste of time. Also watch the size of the logo used. There is no
point creating a custom border if it winds up several megabytes in size. Whilst the border may
look pretty the speed penalty taken will certainly overrule the file size.
The FRAMECAD logo can be moved but it must remain present within the border.
Once you have created your custom border you must go to BSET and change the border name to
the same as which you have called your filename.

14.1.7 Data File Updates

Whenever a data file is updated, any setting changes will only be obvious if you change to
another data file then change back again in the settings dialogue boxes. Some changes also
require the Model Name to be changed to a different model then changed back again.

14.1.8 ELEVATIONLINE Command Not Recognised

If the ELEVATIONLINE command is not recognised, run the AECOBJECTS command and
ensure it is set to ‘ON’. The program will need to be restarted for any changes to take effect.
In later versions of the software, this is done automatically, however the user will be prompted to
save their job and restart the software before the setting will take effect.

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14.1.9 Export
[Link] Export As…
Exports job to various file formats such as pdf, svg, bmp, wmf, emf, dwf, stl, dae.

[Link] Nexa Upload

[Link] RFY Export
Launches the RFY Export dialogue for RFY Rollformer file creation.
Refer to section 4.5

[Link] PDF Export

Creates a single pdf file of the selected borders.
Refer to section 4.4

[Link] CNC Export

Creates an XML file in the C:\Documents\CNC directory from the current detailing space tab.

[Link] ACNC Export All

Creates XML files from all detailing space tabs at once.
• Type ACNC

• Separate XML files will be created in the C:\Documents\CNC directory for each existing
detailing space tab.

[Link] VRML Export

Creates a 3D .wrl file to be viewed in other software (e.g. SAP Enterprise).
• Create a 3D view of the plan in the Model Space by using A3D or T3D/P3D/J3D.
• From the Model Space, use the VRML command.

• A .wrl file will be created in the C:\Documents\CNC directory.

[Link] IFC Export

Creates an .ifc file for use in other software (e.g. Tekla, Revit, SAP, etc.)
Refer to section 4.3

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[Link] STP Export
Creates an .stp file for use in other software (e.g. SolidWorks).

14.1.10 Exporting Gridlines to IFC

Use the C3D (CopyModel) command to copy the gridlines from the Layout space to the Model
space, then create the .ifc file using the IFC command.

14.1.11 File Dialogue Boxes Missing

‘Save As’ or ‘Open Drawing’ dialogue boxes are missing. Some other dialogue boxes are also
affected. To rectify this issue, run the FILEDIA command and set to ‘ON’ by either typing in ‘ON’
or ‘1’ in the command line.

14.1.12 Importing an Architectural Into a Job as a Block

• Open the dwg/dxf file in Steelwise.
• Freeze any unwanted layers on the plan (using the LF command will help with this).
• Go to ‘Save Block to Disk’ in the ‘Tools’ menu.
• Click on the ‘Select Entities’ icon.
• Set the name and destination to save the block.

14.1.13 Importing IFC file into REVIT

1. If you haven’t before, define the IFC Import Options to a setting that matches the type of
structures and BIM model you are trying to achieve. To do that, select the “R” button (1)
then select the right arrow next to ‘Open’ (2) and select ‘IFC Options’ (3) as shown below.

2. In the IFC Options dialogue box, select the template to use for IFC Imports (1) and define
the Revit Category to use for each IFC Class / Type (2)

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 3. Once all your settings are defined, import the IFC file. To do that, select the “R” button (1)
then select the right arrow next to ‘Open’ (2) and select ‘IFC’ (3) as shown below.

14.1.14 Input Method for Imperial Measurements

Imperial measurements are generally shown as 8’-6 ½”, but must be typed in as 8’6-1/2” when
inputting values on the command bar.
You can’t include a space as the space bar performs the same function as the Enter button or
right mouse click.

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14.1.15 Labelling Issue
Wall, beam, truss and joist labels must not start with an ‘X’ as X is the default value used for
unlabelled frames.

14.1.16 Menus – How to Resolve Missing Menus

If the Steelwise menu is missing from the menu bar when loading the software, you can reload it
by activating the DO_ONCE command.

14.1.17 Mirroring Jobs (New)

This is a general guide only – some trial and error may be required to ensure that you get the
correct desired outcome.
Wall Frame Layout
• Mirror the wall layout
• Turn off (LF) or delete (LE) the studs.
• Run the Panel_Reverse (RF) command on any walls that you want to view from the
opposite side.
• PUA the walls to update the studs. Run LS to show the studs if you ran the LF command
in step 2.
• Re-PPD the walls.
• Re-P3D the walls.
The above steps will also depend on the complexity of the job and how much editing has initially
been done.
Truss Layout – LE Inline Truss System
• Mirror the truss layout
• No other steps are required
Truss Layout – LC Back-to-Back Truss System
• Mirror the truss layout
• Re-TTD the trusses
Floor Joist Layout
• Mirror the floor layout
• No other steps required

14.1.18 Move
The Move command uses the standard IntelliCAD MOVE command instead of the old Structure
MEMBER_MOVE command. This means that when moving multi-faceted members such as
trusses, all the components must be selected i.e. overhangs and truss markers. This resolves
some of the crashing issues associated with the MEMBER_MOVE command.

14.1.19 PCB (Calculate Wind) Not Working

Ensure you have reference markers (REF) on your plans.

14.1.20 PDF (PDFSPOOL) Bad Fonts

The fonts on pdf exports appear as hieroglyphics rather than proper text. This is due to the fact
that fonts are not embedded into the pdf. As a result, the device that you try to view the pdf on
may not have the matching fonts installed in it. This is a bigger issue with Apple devices as Apple
choose not to conform with anyone else.

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 In the PDF dialogue box there is an option to tick on 'Embed TTF Fonts' and 'Convert TTF fonts to
graphics'. Tick the first option to see if this resolves the issue. Failing that, try the second option
as well. The only downside is that the file size of the pdf will increase.

14.1.21 PDF (PDFSPOOL) Not Working

In version [Link] and later, the border logo had been updated which may cause issues with
the PDF command for some users with custom borders. This also depends on how the custom
border has been created. In these cases, you will need to send the file through to FRAMECAD to
be edited.
The use of ‘Splines’ within custom border logos or any imported details will also cause issues with
the PDF functionality. Splines must be converted to polylines.

14.1.22 REF – Multiple Reference Marker Placement

To add reference markers to every border in the same location, hold the ‘Alt’ key down while
placing the Primary marker.

14.1.23 Restoring an ‘AutoSave’ Drawing

To restore an ‘AutoSave’ drawing:
▪ Go to Tools – Options on the menu, go to the Paths/Files tab, expand the ‘Auto backup’
section, right click on the directory location displayed and select ‘Open Containing Folder’.

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 ▪ Find the file of the appropriate name. Sort the files in order of ‘Type’ if this makes searching
easier. You will be looking for files under the ‘SV$ File’ type.

▪ Copy the file to the directory where you would normally keep your job files.
▪ Change the files extension name from ‘.SV$’ to ‘.dwg’.

▪ Open the file as normal in Steelwise.

14.1.24 Scroll Between 3D Views

Use VV to scroll between various 3D views.

14.1.25 SECTION MARK

Cross section markers can be added to a drawing using the SECTION_MARK command.

14.1.26 SECTIONLINE Command Not Recognised

If the SECTIONLINE command is not recognised, run the AECOBJECTS command and ensure it
is set to ‘ON’. The program will need to be restarted for any changes to take effect.
In later versions of the software, this is done automatically, however the user will be prompted to
save their job and restart the software before the setting will take effect.

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14.1.27 SHOW – Engineering Failures
To show engineering failures press return while in the command.

14.1.28 STRIP – Strip Entity Property Intelligence

Strips any of Steelwises’ entities of all property intelligence.
This is useful when copying walls or beams to another layout for set out purposes, e.g. using
walls or beams on a joist layout for better clarity when inputting joists. If these members are left
as they are, you end up with a double up of members in the job. You must not combine walls,
trusses and joists on the same layout plan as it will cause issues with labelling, frame building
and reporting.
Exploding entities does not remove the data. If you explode them, you end up with a series of
individual lines that still contain entity data. Stripping the data from these entities also leaves
them as complete polylines.

14.1.29 SUM – Report Summary

Provides a material summary report for all the individual tabs and a total job summary.

14.1.30 TEMPHIDE
Allows to temporarily hide an entity (or entities).

14.1.31 -TTD – Truss Builder (Silent)

This command allows the user to re-engineer a given truss from within the elevation view
(detailing space).
What this means is that when modifications are made to a truss in elevation view (detailing
space), the user can then re-engineer the truss without bringing up the Truss Builder dialogue
box, which can result in the truss reverting back to its original state prior to any modifications
when clicking on the Update button.
It also allows you to build trusses from the layout while by-passing the Truss Builder dialogue
box.

14.1.32 Using Viewports (Standard IntelliCAD usage not directly related to Steelwise usage)
The maximum number of viewports that can be opened in one tab is 64, which is the same
limitation as AutoCAD. However, there is also a 'SETVAR' called 'MAXACTVP' which also limits the
number of viewports (value must be between 2 and 64). By default, the 'MAXACTVP' is set to 48.
To increase its quantity to the maximum, just type 'MAXACTVP' in the command line and increase
the quantity as required. Should more viewports be required, I would suggest that the user starts
off a new tab, as there is no way around the 64 limitation.

14.1.33 Updated Frames Only Showing

14.1.34 VM – Make View

In addition to being able to make new views in Detailing Space, use the following steps
to update a wall, joist or truss frame in the detailing space.
This assumes that the wall, joist or truss frames have already been built and you need
to rebuild one or more frames but don't want to re-export all the frames again. The
reason for this could be because too much editing has already been carried out on a
number of existing frames.
- Re-export the required frame(s) to a new tab.

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 - Delete the old frame from the border in the initial tab.
- Copy the new frame into its place.
- Type VM then press Enter.
- Enter the number of the border view.
- Select the view area by selecting the opposite corners of the border.
- Delete the new tab.

14.1.35 X – Previous Zoom

Enter ‘X’ to go to the previous zoom.

14.1.36 Zone Labelling

When Listing (LI) walls, trusses or joists, the listing dialogue box shows an option in General
Information called ‘Zone Location’. This allows a selection of entities (walls, trusses or joists) to
be grouped into areas.

To use this, select and list (LI) a group of walls or joists, then in the Zone Location, overwrite
‘Zone Not Used’ with a label that best describes the location of the selected frames, e.g. Unit1.
Select the next set of frames and type in Unit2. When you perform a PPD, TTD or JJD, these
frames can then be filtered by zone when building. The zone label will be shown in front of the
panel or joist label in the elevation views.
In PSET – Options – Labelling Option Information, you can set ‘Restart Zone Numbering’ to
‘False’ to have continuous numbering through all zones, i.e. all numbers will only be used once
and not repeated.

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 Note: Do not start the zone location description with ‘Z’ or ‘X’ or a number. Description length
must be greater than 2 characters long and is limited to 6 characters. Spaces will be eliminated.
This option is ideal for large commercial or multi-unit buildings.

14.1.37 ZZ – Toggle Tabs

Switches between current tab and last active tab in a job.

14.2 Floor Detailing

14.2.1 Add or Amend Floor Beams
• Make sure you have the correct System Name selected in the PSET settings.
• Activate the ADD command and go to the Joist tab

• Ensure you have the correct System Name selected

• Hold the ALT key down and left mouse click on ‘Member*’. This will open a Floor Beam Editor
dialogue box. Please contact your system administrator if access is denied.

• Add or amend floor beams as required.

• Click on Add/Amend.

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 Adding or amending floor beams will create a new user data file in the
C:\ProgramData\FRAMECAD\FRAMECAD Steelwise\Library directory with the same name as the
System Name selected but with ‘USER’ at the end of the name. Any information within this data
file will take precedence over the parent data file.

14.2.2 Adjusting Floor Joist Web Spacing

Floor Member Editor - Web Spacing
When changing the depth of a joist, the user must List (LI) the joists and change the web
spacing under Material Information. This should be changed to be equivalent to the joist depth to
achieve an approximate web angle of 45°. The default web spacing is set to 300mm.

14.2.3 Automatically Hide Layout Layers on PPD (PSET – Options)

Detail Sheet Options:

‘Hide After to CAD’ gives the option to hide (or leave unhidden) the following layers: Opening
Label, Panel Brace, Panel Opening, Panel Stud. Leaving these layers hidden allows for an
uncluttered plan for easier viewing on site by the framing erector.

14.2.4 Deep C Floor Joists – Creating RFY File to Send to Rollformer

When detailing a deep C floor layout in Steelwise, you must create the RFY file from within the
layout space. You don’t need to build (JJD) the deep C joists as there is nothing to build. The only
reason you may wish the JJD them is to see the engineering results.

14.2.5 Deep C Floor Joist – Service Hole Engineering

Scenarios:
For pre-existing system data files and jobs where the ‘Standard (service) hole included’ option in
the Floor Member Editor is set to ‘False’ – holes are not considered.

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 The Detail Design Drawing in the Joist Builder (JJD) specifies hole end distances that puts holes
outside web crippling zone.

Pre-existing data file and jobs where "service hole included" option in Floor Member Editor has
been set to ‘True’, or has been changed and service hole lines drawn: - holes considered
anywhere, but with minimum edge distance of 10 inches (US Standard). One-page report
specifies 10”-hole end distances.

New hole data file system:

Where "service hole included" option in joist LI has been set to ‘True’ - holes considered
anywhere, but with minimum edge distance of 10 inches (US Standard). The one-page report
specifies 10”-hole end distances.
Where service hole lines are drawn - holes are considered at the drawn location. The one-page
report specifies the hole locations.

14.2.6 Detail Sheet Border Size

‘Border Sized to Fit’ option added which makes all the floor joist elevation borders the same size
if preferred. The ‘Detail Sheet Options’ can be found on the ‘Others’ tab in JSET.

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14.2.7 Floor Member Summary – No Ceiling Batten Material Displayed
If you require ceiling batten material to show in the Floor Member Summary, you must make
sure that you have set the Ceiling Batten Spacing value in the Joist Settings (JSET).

14.2.8 Move Joist Labels

To move a joist label in v8.1.8 and later, the user can select the grip on the centre of the label
and move it horizontally or vertically. Also, the STRETCH command can be used by dragging a
right to left selection box over the label and moving it by base point and displacement point or
distance.
Likewise, if a series of labels needs to be moved, use the STRETCH command and select all the
required labels.

14.2.9 Opening Joist in Detail Space from the Layout

When listing (LI) a joist on the layout, the option to ‘Go to detailed beam’ in the Floor Member
Editor will open the joist elevation in Detailing Space.

14.3 Wall Detailing

14.3.1 Add Lintel Plates to a Frame
Lintel plates can be added anywhere within a wall frame in Detailing Space by drawing a line and
using the ADD command to code that line as a ‘Lintel’.
Note: Lintel plates over openings should only ever be added or changed by listing the opening
and making the change in the ‘Construction Methods’ section of the Opening Editor.

14.3.2 ADD – Beam Heights

The level to the underside of beams is displayed in the ADD – Beam dialogue box and the Panel
Coding Editor when changing a wall to a beam. Changing this value will not alter the Top Level,
it will only change the beam height value.

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14.3.3 Check Load Path onto Walls
The Load Path (LP) command provides a centre line overlay of the trusses or floor joists over wall
frames. To use this command:
• Centralise the wall framing layout on your screen.

• Type LP and Enter. The view will zoom out to display all the borders.
• Click within the border that contains the trusses or floor joists.

• The view will zoom back in to the initial layout with the truss or joist centrelines overlaid.
• If these lines are yellow, then this indicates that all the loads are being transferred correctly.

• If the lines are red, this indicates that no loads are transferred.
• Type LP again to turn the lines off.

Note: If walls are set as “Structural”, then the truss or joist lines will show as being red. The
loads are still being transferred but only as evenly distributed loads, not as concentrated loads.

14.3.4 Defined Door Input

For users that prefer to use the ‘Defined Door Input’ options as shown in the Design -
Panels/Walls – Layout menu, not all the available options are listed here. Any other required
options must be accessed from the ‘Opening’ tab in the ADD command. Double click to select the
required option.

14.3.5 Detail Sheet Border Size

‘Border Sized to Fit’ option added which makes all the wall elevation borders the same size if
preferred. The ‘Detail Sheet Options’ can be found on the ‘Misc’ tab in PSET.

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14.3.6 How to Erase Lintel L Plates and Leave Member Screws
If you delete a lintel L Plate from an opening using the SE command, all the screws on the
members underneath the plate will also be removed. To stop this from occurring, use the E erase
command instead.

14.3.7 Inserting Webs into Wall Frames (IW)

• If a member is inserted vertically (or within 5° of vertical), it will snap into place as a vertical
stud member.
• If a member is inserted horizontally (or within 5° of horizontal), it will snap into place as a
horizontal web member.
• If a member is inserted diagonally from one existing member intersection and then to
another existing member intersection, the member will snap to the selected member at a
predetermined distance.

14.3.8 MB vs MC on Raking Walls

Do not use the MB (MEMBER_BREAK) command on raking walls. Only the MC (MEMBER_CUT)
command will work properly to maintain the correct heights.

14.3.9 Opening Commands

The following commands are used in conjunction with the parameters set in the PSET – Windows
options. When a door leaf size is entered into the relevant command, the set clearances are
added to create the correct trim opening size in the wall frame.
Alias PSET Category
AR Archway Opening (or Square Set Opening) Nibbed Robe Information
CS Cavity Slider (Pocket Slider) Cavity Sliding Door Information
ED External Door External Hung Door Information
FS Face Slider or Surface Slider Face of Wall Sliding Door Information
R1 Robe Door (Single Door) Hinged Robe Door Information
R2 Robe Door (Double Bi-fold Door) Hinged Robe Door Information
R3 Robe Door (Triple Bi-fold Door) Hinged Robe Door Information
PA Passage Door (Standard Internal Door) Internal Hung Door Information
S2 Internal Slider x2 Sliding Robe Door Information
S3 Internal Slider x3 Sliding Robe Door Information
S4 Internal Slider x4 Sliding Robe Door Information

14.3.10 Opening Input by Point

All opening inputs have a ‘P’ option for placement. This allows the user to select a point which
centrally locates the opening on that point.

14.3.11 Openings – Label Options

Label Location – allows the door/window type label to be placed either before the door window
size (Pre Fixed) or after the size (Post Fixed). E.g. Pd760 or 760Pd. There is also an option to
either leave a space between the label and the size or omit it.

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14.3.12 PCB – Panel Calculate Brace

A bracing report can be generated with all the values for the Current Layout and values for each
individual wall. The brace report option has been removed from its previous location in the
Detailing Options and given its own button at the bottom of the dialogue box.
The Insert option is used to input one of the options selected in Detailing Options or, if nothing is
selected, will allow the user to input braces. PIB is also used to input braces without having to
activate the Bracing Calculator.

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14.3.13 Panel Labelling Options (PSET – Options – Labelling Option)
Labelling Method:
• Traditional Method (old) - Labels all walls from the top left-hand corner of the framing layout
in a diagonal direction towards the bottom right.

• Directional Method (new) - Labels the external walls anti-clockwise from the corner of the
layout as indicated by the 'Labelling Direction' (walls may be labelled in a clockwise direction
if the start walls are lapped differently). Internal walls are then labelled from the same corner
then towards the opposite corner of the layout.

14.3.14 Resetting Stud Data

To reset the stud data on a wall(s):
• List the wall or walls.

• Go to the ‘Stud Data’.

• In ‘Stud Arrangement’ select ‘Auto’. The Actual and Nominal Stud Spacing will change to 0.

• Select ‘Amend’ to apply.

14.3.15 SB – Show Brick

This command provides a temporary visual representation of brick veneer (shown as half
courses) along a wall to determine whether opening locations are correct in relation to the brick
veneer setout. These brick sizings are set in the Brick Gauge options in the Panels tab in PSET.

14.3.16 SH – Show Heights

This command allows the user to view all the walls on a layout infilled with a different solid colour
for each different height.

14.3.17 Sill and Head Check

When listing an opening, there is a face wind bending check option that can be activated by
setting the Check Sill and Check Head options to ‘True’. This can be found in the ‘Construction
Methods’ section. If required, the software will automatically add a boxed sill and/or head
stiffener.

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14.3.18 Stud Design
The wall stud design calculations are found in the Panel Builder.

If this tab is not displayed, it means that you probably have the Panel Engineering disabled in the
Drawing Sheet Setup (BSET).

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14.3.19 Updating a Wall in the Detail Sheet After Making Changes to it in the Layout
If you have already built (PPD’d) all your walls and now you need to modify one wall in the
layout, use the following steps to update the built wall in the detail sheet:
• Make changes to the wall in the layout
• Run the PUA command on the layout

• List the modified wall in the layout and select ‘Go to detailed panel’ to go to the detail sheet
elevation view for that wall
• PPD the wall from the detail sheet to go to the Panel Builder view

• Double click on the panel name in the left-hand column of the Panel Builder to list it
• Click on 'Amend' to amend it to the changes as made in the layout

• Click on 'Update' to update the view in the detail sheet elevation.

14.3.20 Wall Girder Loads

The wall design now evaluates girder load on an opening and includes this load when designing
the header. However, this load is still treated as a uniformly distributed load and not a point load
therefore an engineer will still be required to check the header or supporting girder truss design
for the point load.
A girder load warning message is only applied to the opening header if the supported area on the
girder truss is greater than twice the girder truss spacing.

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14.4 Roof Detailing
14.4.1 Add or Amend Roof Loads
How to make permanent changes or additions to required roof load types e.g. adding Clay Tiles.
Any temporary (or one off) changes should be made in the ‘Loads’ section of the TSET settings.
• Ensure you have the correct System Name selected
• Hold the ALT key down and click on ‘Roof Load*’. This will open a Roof Load Editor dialogue
box. Please contact your system administrator if access is denied.

• Add or amend roof loads as required.

• Click on Add/Amend.

Adding or amending roof loads will create a new user data file in the
C:\ProgramData\FRAMECAD\FRAMECAD Steelwise\Library directory with the same name as the
System Name selected but with ‘USER’ at the end of the name. Any information within this data
file will take precedence over the parent data file.
If you are unable to access the Roof Load Editor, go to your Licence Manager (VER) and see if
Sub Edit Feature 2005 is Enabled.

If it is Disabled, you can request it through MyFramecad Care -

[Link]

14.4.2 ADD – Truss Members in Detailing Space

This command allows the user to input new chord, web or rail members into a truss either by
point-to-point input or by entity (coding a line).
Also see IW in the “FRAMECAD Steelwise Reference Guide” under ‘Editing Commands’.

14.4.3 Detail Sheet Border Size

‘Border Sized to Fit’ option added which makes all the truss elevation borders the same size if
preferred. The ‘Detail Sheet Options’ can be found on the ‘Options’ tab in TSET.

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14.4.4 Gable End Roof Type Truss Locations
There is a data file option to locate the first truss back from the gable end truss, either to the
face of the truss or to the centre of the truss. This is a data file setting – please create a ticket in
MyFramecad to request any data file changes.

14.4.5 Lengthening and Shortening Trusses Using the Stretch (ST) Command
If a truss is lengthened by using the ST command, what this does is to increase the span of a
truss, therefore the trusses heel heights are maintained, the pitch is maintained, and the overall
height of the truss is increased, i.e. the apex of the truss is moved.
If a truss is shortened by using the ST command, the apex position and pitch is maintained but
the end shortened is going to be a ‘cut off’ or ‘stop end’. Therefore, in effect the heel height is
increased on that end of the truss.

14.4.6 Parallel Chord Girder Trusses

When a parallel chord truss supports other oncoming trusses, it will act as a girder. The
additional roof area load is added and it’s spacing is disregarded. Note: if the parallel chord truss
sits on a support line running parallel to it, then the oncoming trusses will load onto the support
line and not the parallel chord truss.

14.4.7 Setting the height of truncated trusses

Whenever you manually insert or move a truncated truss you will need to change the height of
the horizontal top chord. To do this, you need to list the truss using the LI command, go to the
‘Height Information’ and click on the button to the right of the Truss Height. You will then be
prompted to ‘select the truss for reference’ – this is the truss that you intend changing the height
of. Then you will be prompted to ‘select a point for height calculation’ – this is the heel line (or
support line) of the trusses/rafters which run over the top of the truncated truss.
Note: This operation will not work if you list the truss by double clicking on it. You
MUST LI, then select the truss.

14.4.8 TSET – Truss Spacing Types – Truncated Girder Truss

When the ‘First Truncated as Girder’ is set to ‘True’, the first truncated truss generated for a hip
end will be a girder truss instead of a standard truss. As a result, web members will be aligned
with the oncoming hip end trusses and the loads will be calculated using the ‘Additional Area’
method.
Use this option for roofs with heavy loads or roofs where trusses are cantilevered out to the
eaves.

14.4.9 Truss Bottom Chord Restraints

Bottom chord restraints are determined by what is set in TSET – Layouts – Batten Spacing –
Ceiling Batten Spacing. If this value is set to zero, then the Ceiling Tie value will be used (TSET –
Layouts – Truss Spacings – Ceiling Ties). I.e. the Ceiling Batten Spacing will take precedence
over the Ceiling Tie value.

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14.4.10 Truncated Truss Horizontal Chord Restraint Message

Refer to the Effective Length section in LI – List Item – Truss Editor

14.4.11 Truss Labelling

If experiencing issues with truss labelling at any stage, try using the PUA command first.

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14.4.12 TS (Truss Solar) – Solar Panel Input
This command allows the user to input a solar panel (or similar panel) on top of roof trusses. Size
and weight settings can be found in TSET.

14.4.13 TTD – Existing detailed trusses not working

If the ‘DEFPOINTS’ layer is turned off, the software does not bring up the truss as it doesn't find
the reference point.

14.4.14 TUP or LP – Blank Screen on Input

If the TUP or LP command is activated, and the plan zooms out to a blank screen when requested
to select a location border or source border, this generally means that there is an entity on the
plan that exists a very great distance away from border location. If this is true, then follow the
process below:
• Type ‘e’ for ERASE.
• Type ‘all’ to select all entities in the drawing. A quantity of entities selected will appear in the
command bar.

• Type ‘r’ to remove selection.

• Select entities to remove from selection. The quantity of selected entities will be subtracted
from total.

• Press Enter to erase the remaining selected entities.

14.4.15 TUP – Truss Uplift Plan Values

When a truss uplift is plan is created but you don’t wish to display all the values below a certain
value.
The minimum value can be set in the truss settings ‘Report Options’ which is in the TSET Options
tab.
This is useful if you only wish to display values above a set value for clarity when selecting hold
down fixings.

14.4.16 User Truss Creation

User trusses are trusses that follow a roof profile. This is only applicable to truss top chords.
Generally, User trusses are an option where a smaller roof block attaches to the end of a hip roof
or in other various colliding hip type roofs.

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14.5 Smart Panels
14.5.1 Add an Opening into a Smart Panel
• Draw a rectangle of the required size and location within the smart panel.

• Type MJ (MEMBER_JOIN) and select the panel.

• Hold the ALT key down and select the opening polyline. All framing in the opening will be
subtracted from the panel.

Note: This process can also be used to create notches in the corners and edges of panels.

14.5.2 Rake (Slope or Pitch) a Smart Panel

• List (LI) the smart panel
• Under AEC Basics, change the ‘3D Raking Angle’ to the desired slope.

• Change the ‘2D Raking Direction’ to suit the required slope direction. The arrow indictor on
the panel will change to suit.
• The PRA (PANEL_RAKE) command can also be used to rake a smart panel.

14.5.3 How to reshape a Smart Panel on the layout:

• In the layout, run the MD (MEMBER_DIVIDE) command

• Set the number of segments required to divide the side of a panel by (2 will add one extra
grip)

• Click on the smart panel

• Once the panel is selected, then click on the segment that you need to add the extra grip(s)
to.

• Select the panel to highlight the grips, then click on the grip that you wish to move.
• Stretch the grip to the required location

• Important: LI the panel and go to ‘Other Tools – Rebuild Blocks’ and activate the ‘Press to
Rebuild’ button
• Now your panel is ready to send to the Panel Builder (SPD) and/or Insert Block

14.5.4 Not Initialized

• Run AECOBJECTS and set to ‘On’.
• Restart Steelwise.

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15 Known Issues
15.1 Resolve Graphics Performance Issue
Sometimes the graphic performance of the program becomes erratic. A common cause of this is
having too many snap options selected. When initially selecting entity snaps, it is always
recommended to only select those which you will commonly use. Here is a recommended list of
options.

Note that these options will automatically change during the detailing process depending on the
command that is initiated.
In Structure v11.1, it is recommended that you should not have both the centre snap and the
perpendicular snap on at the same time.
Other graphics options can be altered by either clicking on the “Switch Graphics Device” button
below the command bar to scroll through the three available options:

OR right click on the “Switch Graphics Device” button to display the options or to go to the
settings dialogue:

15.2 Erratic mouse movement after a new paper space is created and
when performing a command.
Type OPTIONS at the Command: line, select the DISPLAY tab and make sure "Show scroll bars"
is not checked. Checking it on causes performance problem (currently known open issue with
IntelliCAD).
Too many snap options selected (refer to 15.1 above).

15.3 Aliases not initialising

• Open Steelwise and start a new job.
• Type DO_ONCE
• Check aliases are working
• Save the job

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 • Close the program
• Re-open Steelwise and see if the issue is resolved.

15.4 Command Line Message (pdfmodulevi_4.02_11.tx)

If the following message continually appears in the Command Bar after installation: ‘Application
c:\program files\framecad\framecad structure\intellicad 8.4\pdfmodulevi_4.02_11.tx has failed
to load, and will be ignored’, this generally means that Microsoft’s Visual C++ 2010
Redistributable Package has not been installed on the users computer. There are no known issues
with not having it installed, but downloading it from Microsoft and installing it will remove the
command line message.

15.5 Post Input Error Message

The above message will appear under the following circumstances:

• Post width is less than 25mm
• Post depth is less than 25mm
• Post height is less than 500mm
• Post spacing is less than 500mm
• Post weight is less than 0.25kg

15.6 Smart Panel – ‘Not initialized yet’ Message in Command Bar

• Start Steelwise
• Type ‘AECOBJECTS’ and set to ‘ON’
• Restart Steelwise
• In later versions of the software, this is done automatically, however the user will be
prompted to save their job and restart the software before the setting will take effect.

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15.7 File Open and Save Dialogue Boxes Missing
If you go to open or save a file and the dialogue box does not appear, run the FILEDIA
command and enter in 1 to turn ‘On’.
Some imported architectural files can cause this to be turned off.

15.8 Hatching Not Being Displayed

Run the FILL command and set to ‘On’.

15.9 BSET Not Working

Why do all commands work except for BSET?
This is generally caused by a licensing issue where no Design Code features have been enabled in
the licence. To double check this, open the Licence Manager dialogue (VER) and check to see if
you have a Design Code enabled.

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