ExternalReference object

An instance of an external reference inserted into a drawing.

An external reference (xref) links another drawing to the current drawing. When you insert a drawing as a block, the block definition and all the associated geometry is stored in the current drawing database. It is not updated if the original drawing changes. When you insert a drawing as an xref, however, it is updated when the original drawing changes. A drawing containing xrefs always reflects the most current edits of each externally referenced file.

Like a block reference, AutoCAD displays an xref in the current drawing as a single object. However, an xref does not significantly increase the file size of the current drawing and cannot be exploded. As with block references, you can nest xrefs that are attached to your drawing.

To query or edit an existing external reference, use the following methods and properties: