Each point in a data base has a point identifier.
The point identifier may be up to sixteen alpha numeric characters in length.
Invalid Point Identifier Characters
Certain characters or combinations of characters may not be used in a point identifier.
The - - (double minus keys) and .. (double dot keys) have special significance in specifying ranges and reference lines. Therefore, do not use these characters twice in a row in a point identifier, or at the start or end of a point identifier.
Also, the * and ? characters should not be used as they are reserved for other purposes.
In summary, do not use the following characters as part of a point identifier.
| - | at the start or end of the identifier |
| . | at the start or end of the identifier |
| -- | anywhere in identifier |
| .. | anywhere in identifier |
| * | anywhere in identifier |
| ? | anywhere in identifier |
Unique and Non unique point identifiers
You may configure the system to use only unique point identifiers, or to allow non unique point identifiers. Refer to the Unique Point Identifiers check box in the Utilities/Configure/Point Identifiers command. Note that if you configure the system to allow non unique point identifiers, then different points with the same identifier can be created in the data base.
Selecting a Range of Points
Many dialog box edit fields allow the entry of a range of point identifiers to which an operation is to be carried out. The range may be keyed in by separating the first and last of the required point identifiers with two dots. For example, keying in 1..10 in the Point identifier field of the Delete Points dialog box selects the points between 1 and 10 for deletion.
Selecting a Reference Line
Many dialog box edit fields allow the entry of two point identifiers separated by a double minus sign to specify a reference line which is to be used to compute the field's value. For example, keying in 1- -10 in the Bearing field of the Create Point by Radiation dialog box nominates that the bearing between points 1 and 10 will be used in the point creation process.
Selecting All objects in a block
Many dialog box edit fields use a blank field to select all relevant objects defined by a block. For example, if a block is active, then leaving the point identifier field blank in the Delete Points dialog box will select all points defined by the block for deletion. Whereas, keying in a point identifier or range of point identifiers will select only those points that are in the range and defined by the block.