As long as the Tracker is shown during input, just type a number for the default parameter (the one shown in bold.) The cursor will automatically jump to the Tracker and enter the value.
Note: This input method works if the “Enable direct input into Tracker fields” box is checked in Options > Work Environment > Tracker and Coordinate Input. This is the default setting.
Another way to enter the Tracker is to press Tab. The cursor jumps to the default field of the Tracker (the one shown in bold). Click Tab as many times as needed to activate the required Tracker field. Type in the desired number.
You can also activate fields by clicking them or typing the shortcut of the corresponding field. If the Tracker is displayed in its compact form, typing the shortcut for a hidden parameter will display it.
To enter numeric coordinates, type the shortcut of the desired coordinate (X, Y, Z or D/R or A) immediately followed by the value you intend to assign to it, for example X3 or Y-4. The + prefix is optional for positive values. You can type coordinate values in any order.
Note: This input method works if the “Coordinate Shortcuts prefer Tracker” box is checked in Options > Work Environment > Tracker and Coordinate Input. This is the default setting. The other way to enter coordinates is through the Coordinates Box (enable it using Window > Palettes > Coordinates).
The selected value is highlighted. At this point, you have several options:
•To enter another coordinate value, type another shortcut for the desired coordinate, then enter a value.
•To complete the element you are drawing, press Enter or click the checkmark icon in the Tracker.
•To fix the value of a coordinate, click the crosshair icon in the Tracker. The edited element will then jump into this position and, if Guide Lines are active, this will also display Guide Lines of the currently available type at this location to help you continue the input.
•To cancel the last operation, press Esc.
•Return to graphic input by typing the name of the edited coordinate again or by mouse-clicking anywhere in the window.
You can also perform additions or subtractions from the current value by typing a + or – sign after the value. For example, typing x3+ will add 3 to the x value shown in the Tracker box.
Notes for users of U.S. dimensions:
•Two dashes are required for subtraction of whole feet because the first dash is interpreted as an indication that inches are to follow.
•When 3 is entered, ArchiCAD assumes you mean three feet. Typing 3’6, 3’6’’, or 3-6 will enter three feet, six inches.
Coordinates can be copied and pasted using the clipboard. The Cut, Copy and Paste menu items are inactive during numeric input, so you must use the standard shortcuts or the context menu.
It is possible to enter a whole series of coordinates one after the other in the Tracker when drawing chains of elements (Walls, Beams, Lines, etc.). As soon as you have finished drawing the first element, the Edit Origin is immediately transferred to this endpoint, which becomes the starting point of the second element and is therefore given the x=0, y=0 value when working with relative coordinates.
You can combine coordinate input by fixing the value of a field and then editing the value of another one.
