Using a CAD feature layer definition query

Use a definition query to filter out unwanted CAD geometry. You can enter an expression directly into the text box or use Query Builder to define an SQL statement that specifies a unique attribute or attributes contained in the CAD file.

To display only the entities on a specific CAD drawing layer:

Steps:

1. Double-click the CAD layer in the table of contents to open the Layer Properties dialog box.
   • Or right-click the CAD feature layer and click Properties.
2. Click the Definition Query tab.
3. Click the Query Builder button.
4. Double-click the reserved CAD field Layer to enter the field name into the SQL text box.
5. Click the EQUAL SIGN button .
6. Click the Get Unique Values button to display a list of layer names contained in the CAD file.
7. Double-click a layer name from the list of unique values to complete the SQL statement.

   For example, the expression "Layer" = 'LOT-L' displays only the CAD elements residing on the drawing layer named LOT-L.

8. Click the Apply button to verify the results.
9. Click OK to close the dialog box.

Tip:

You can reduce the need for definition queries when working with AutoCAD DWG files by using CAD-defined feature classes. There are two ways to create a CAD-defined feature class:

• Automatically in ArcGIS using the Export To CAD tool
• Interactively in AutoCAD using the plug-in application ArcGIS for AutoCAD