Insert Callout Tool SPCAD: Essentials in Cartography

Insert callouts to display XY coordinates and point IDs for specific point locations. The Insert Callout tool merges the functionality of AutoCAD’s mtext and mleader tools, allowing the user to add text information as labels for point locations. This tool proves essential for adding coordinate system information to random points or selected polylines.

Starting the Insert Callout Tool 

Click Insert Callout from the Annotation panel or type `CTEXT_SP` in the command line. This action initiates the process of creating callouts for point locations or along polylines.

Assigning a Unique ID to the Callout 

Check the ‘ID’ checkbox to assign a unique ID to each callout. Specify the ID prefix, starting number, and suffix to customize the callout identification.

Displaying Projected Coordinates 

Select ‘Projected Coordinates (Northing/Easting)’ to show the projected coordinates in the callout. Customize the prefixes for the X and Y coordinates and choose the desired precision from the dropdown menu.

Setting Precision and Unit Suffix 

Choose the precision level, ranging from 0 (lowest) to 4 (highest), to define the accuracy of the coordinates. Type the unit suffix to complete the coordinate information in the callout.

Displaying Spherical Coordinates 

Select ‘Spherical Coordinates (Latitude/Longitude)’ to show geographical coordinates in the callout. Add specifications for the latitude and longitude to provide a complete geographical reference.

Specifying Callout Placement 

Under the ‘Placement’ tag, specify where to place the callout. Choose from several options depending on the location and type of object in the drawing.

Placing Callouts on the Screen 

Select ‘On the Screen’ to insert the callout for a specific point location. After clicking OK, select the desired point, then drag the cursor to the location where you want to place the callout.

Placing Callouts on Polyline Vertices 

Select ‘Vertices of Polyline’ to insert callouts at each vertex of the selected polyline. Click OK, then choose the polyline for which you want to add callouts.

Placing Callouts Along a Polyline at Intervals 

Select ‘Interval along Polyline’ to place callouts at specified intervals along the polyline. After clicking OK, select the polyline and enter the interval distance.

Inserting Callout Information as a Table 

Select ‘Insert Table’ to insert the callout information in tabular form on the drawing. This option organizes the data neatly and effectively within the drawing space.

Exporting Callout Information to CSV 

Select ‘Export to CSV’ to save the callout information in an Excel sheet. After typing the file name, save it to your desired location for further use or analysis.

Finalizing the Callout Creation 

Click OK to complete the callout creation process. The tool then generates the callouts based on the chosen parameters, delivering detailed and organized information on your AutoCAD drawing.