Altium Designer Documentation

MoveObject

Created: April 13, 2022 | Updated: April 13, 2022
Applies to Altium Designer version: 22

Parent page: PCB Commands

The following pre-packaged resources, derived from this base command, are available:


Applied Parameters: None

Summary

This command enables you to move any object in the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Choosing the Edit » Move » Move command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the object in the design that you want to move then click or press Enter. The object will attach to the cursor. Move the object to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue moving further objects or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the object is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the object counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the object to the other side of the board (where applicable).
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the object along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the object by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When moving a component, the following smart actions can be performed while the component is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of this and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of this and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where the component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - the component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components can not be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - the component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.

Notes

  • If the target object is locked, this command, depending on the object type, will either be ignored or you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • Any nets associated to an object will remain connected and the connection lines will follow the object when it is moved (displayed or not in accordance with the connect mode in force). Any routed track connected to the object will not be moved.
  • Alternatively, you can move single, non-selected objects or multiple, selected objects using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: None

Summary

This command enables you to move any object in the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Move command on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the object in the design that you want to move then click or press Enter. The object will attach to the cursor. Move the object to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue moving further objects or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the object is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the object counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the object to the other side of the board (where applicable).
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the object along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the object by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When moving a component, the following smart actions can be performed while the component is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of this and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of this and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where the component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - the component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components cannot be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - the component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.

Notes

  • If the target object is locked, this command, depending on the object type, will either be ignored or you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • Any nets associated to an object will remain connected and the connection lines follow the object when it is moved (displayed or not in accordance with the connect mode in force). Any routed track connected to the object will not be moved.
  • Alternatively, you can move single, non-selected objects or multiple, selected objects using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Drag= True

Summary

This command enables you to move any object in the current document. If the object has connected tracks and/or arcs (for example, a component, pad or via), these will remain connected as the object is moved.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Choosing the Edit » Move » Drag command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the object in the design that you want to drag then click or press Enter. The object will attach to the cursor. Move the object to the required position click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue dragging further objects or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during drag while the object is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the object counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the object to the other side of the board (where applicable).
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the object along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the object by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Notes

  • If the target object is locked, this command, depending on the object type, will either be ignored or you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • For connected track to move with a component, the Comp Drag mode must be set to Connected Tracks on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog. If this mode is set to None, the command behaves just like the basic move command.
  • When using this command to drag a component with the Comp Drag mode set to Connected Tracks, the rotate and flip key commands become unavailable. Also note that smart movement actions (dynamic alignment and pushing) also are not available.


Applied Parameters: Drag= True

Summary

This command enables you to move any object in the current document. If the object has connected tracks and/or arcs (for example, a component, pad or via), these will remain connected as the object is moved.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Drag command on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the object in the design that you want to drag then click or press Enter. The object will attach to the cursor. Move the object to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue dragging further objects or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during drag while the object is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the object counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the object to the other side of the board (where applicable).
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the object along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the object by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Notes

  • If the target object is locked, this command, depending on the object type, will either be ignored or you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • For connected track to move with a component, the Comp Drag mode must be set to Connected Tracks on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog. If this mode is set to None, the command behaves just like the basic move command.
  • When using this command to drag a component and the Comp Drag mode is set to Connected Tracks, the rotate and flip key commands become unavailable. Also note that smart movement actions (dynamic alignment and pushing) also are not available.


Applied Parameters: Object= Component|Drag=True

Summary

This command enables you to move components in the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor by:

  • Choosing the Edit » Move » Component command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the component in the design that you want to move then click or press Enter. The component will attach to the cursor. Move the component to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue moving further components or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the component is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the component counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the component to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the component along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the component by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.
Clicking within the workspace away from any objects will open the Choose Component dialog. Use this dialog to locate the component you want to move (either by jumping to the component or having the component brought to the cursor) and then reposition in the same way as described above. Note that this feature will work only if the target component is not locked.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When moving a component, the following smart actions can be performed while the component is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of this and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of this and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where the component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - the component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components can not be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - the component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.

Notes

  • If the target component is locked, this command will effectively be ignored and the Choose Component dialog will open prompting you to choose a component.
  • For connected track to move with a component, the Comp Drag mode must be set to Connected Tracks on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog. If this mode is set to None, the command behaves just like the basic move command.
  • When using this command to drag a component with the Comp Drag mode set to Connected Tracks, the rotate and flip key commands become unavailable. Also note that smart movement actions (dynamic alignment and pushing) also are not available.


Applied Parameters: Object= Component|Drag=True

Summary

This command enables you to move components in the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Component command on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the component in the design that you want to move then click or press Enter. The component will attach to the cursor. Move the component to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue moving further components or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the component is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the component counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the component to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the component along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the component by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.
Clicking within the workspace away from any objects will open the Choose Component dialog. Use this dialog to locate the component you want to move (either by jumping to the component or having the component brought to the cursor) then reposition in the same way as described above. Note that this feature will work only if the target component is not locked.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When moving a component, the following smart actions can be performed while the component is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of this and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of this and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where the component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - the component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components cannot be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - the component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.

Notes

  • If the target component is locked, this command will effectively be ignored and the Choose Component dialog will open prompting you to choose a component.
  • For connected track to move with a component, the Comp Drag mode must be set to Connected Tracks on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog. If this mode is set to None, the command behaves just like the basic move command.
  • When using this command to drag a component with the Comp Drag mode set to Connected Tracks, the rotate and flip key commands become unavailable. Also note that smart movement actions (dynamic alignment and pushing) also are not available.


Applied Parameters: Object= Component|Drag=True|ContextObject=Component

Summary

This command is used to move the component that is currently under the cursor in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by right-clicking over a component then choosing the Component Actions » Move Component command from the context menu.

Use

After launching the command, the component will attach to the cursor. Move the component to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the component is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the component counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the component to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the component along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the component by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When moving a component, the following smart actions can be performed while the component is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of this and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of this and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where the component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - the component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components cannot be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - the component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.

Notes

  • If the component is locked, this command will effectively be ignored and the Choose Component dialog will open prompting you to choose a component.
  • For connected track to move with a component, the Comp Drag mode must be set to Connected Tracks on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog. If this mode is set to None, the command behaves just like the basic move command.
  • When using this command to drag a component with the Comp Drag mode set to Connected Tracks, the rotate and flip key commands become unavailable. Also note that smart movement actions (dynamic alignment and pushing) also are not available.


Applied Parameters: Object= Selection

Summary

This command enables you to manually reposition selected objects on the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Choosing the Edit » Move » Move Selection command from the main menus.
  • Clicking the  button on the PCB Standard toolbar (PCB Editor) or PCB Lib Standard toolbar (PCB Library Editor).

Use

Ensure that the objects you want to move are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to define a reference point. This is the point by which the selection is moved and placed. Position the cursor near to or on the selection then click or press Enter. The selected objects will appear floating on the cursor. Move the selection to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the selection is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the selection counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the selection to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the selection along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the selection by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When the selection being moved involves one or more components, the following smart actions can be performed while the selection is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of components in the selection and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of components in the selection and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where a component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - a component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components cannot be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - a component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.
Where the selection involves more than just component objects, Push/Avoid modes will not be available.

Notes

  • If any object in the selection is locked, you will be alerted to this and asked whether you wish to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • Any nets associated to an object in the selection will remain connected and the connection lines follow the object when it is moved (displayed or not in accordance with the connect mode in force). Any routed track connected to the object will not be moved.
  • Alternatively, you can move a selection of objects using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object= Selection

Summary

This command enables you to manually reposition selected objects on the current document.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Move Selection command () on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

Ensure that the objects you want to move are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to define a reference point. This is the point by which the selection is moved and placed. Position the cursor near to or on the selection then click or press Enter. The selected objects will appear floating on the cursor. Move the selection to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the selection is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the selection counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the selection to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the selection along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the selection by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When the selection being moved involves one or more components, the following smart actions can be performed while the selection is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of components in the selection and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of components in the selection and nearby components.
  • Press the N key to cycle through net line connect modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Pad to Pad - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the nearest pads of the same nets on the board.
    • Breaks - during the move, connection lines displayed between pads of the component being moved and the track breaks of the same nets on the board.
    • Hidden - connection lines hidden.
  • Press the R key to cycle through component push modes. The following modes are supported:
    • Ignore - default behavior, where a component can be moved regardless of creating a violation with neighboring component(s). In this mode, the same component clearance checking routines seen in previous versions of Altium Designer are used. These routines use the 3D body (if there is one) or the copper and silk primitives to identify an object's clearance.
    • Push - a component will push other components away to provide compliance with clearances between components. Components in unions can be pushed and the location of components in the union may change, but the union will not break. Locked components cannot be pushed. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
    • Avoid - a component will be forced to avoid violating component clearance rules between other components. In this mode, components are identified by their selection boundary, which is the smallest possible rectangle that encloses all of the primitives in the component.
The Status Bar at the bottom of the workspace indicates the current push and connect modes in play.
Where the selection involves more than just component objects, Push/Avoid modes will not be available.

Notes

  • If any object in the selection is locked, you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • Any nets associated to an object in the selection will remain connected and the connection lines follow the object when it is moved (displayed or not in accordance with the connect mode in-force). Any routed track connected to the object will not be moved.
  • Alternatively, you can move a selection of objects using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object= Polygon|ContextObject=Polygon

Summary

This command is used to move the polygon pour that is currently under the cursor in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by right-clicking over a polygon pou then choosing the Polygon Actions » Move Polygon command from the context menu.

Use

After launching the command, the polygon pour will attach to the cursor, drawn in outline mode. Move the polygon pour to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

A moved polygon is marked as having been modified. If the Repour Polygons After Modification option is enabled on the PCB Editor - General page of the Preferences dialog, the polygon pour and all of its dependents, will be automatically repoured. If this option is disabled, the moved polygon pour will not be repoured.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the polygon pour is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the polygon pour counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the polygon pour to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the polygon pour along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the polygon pour by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Notes

  • If the polygon pour is locked, you will be alerted to this and asked whether you want to proceed. Click Yes to continue with the move.
  • A modified polygon pour is one that has been changed in some way but has not yet been repoured. Its IsModified property, which can be seen from the PCB List panel for a selected polygon pour, is enabled (True).
  • Alternatively, you can move a selected polygon pour using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object=Room

Summary

This command enables you to move rooms in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by choosing the Design » Rooms » Move Room command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will enter room movement mode. Movement is made by performing the following sequence of actions:

  1. Position the cursor over the room in the design that you want to move then click or press Enter.
  2. If the room contains any no-net objects and/or locked objects, the Room containing No Net/Locked Objects dialog will open. Use this dialog to determine whether these objects should be moved with the room or not then click OK.
  3. The room will attach to the cursor. Move the room to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.
  4. Continue moving further rooms or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the room is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the room counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the room to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the room along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the room by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.
Objects that are moved with the room also will be rotated and/or flipped.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When the room being moved involves one or more components, the following smart actions can be performed while the selection is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of components in the room and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of components in the room and nearby components.
Since the movement of a room involves the room as well as any components and additional design objects, it is considered a complex selection. In this case, the only component push mode available is Ignore. Connection display is also disabled.

Notes

  • If the target room is locked, this command will have no effect.
  • Any nets associated to an object within the room will remain connected and the connection lines follow the object when the room is moved. Any routed track connected to the object that is outside the room will not be moved.
  • Once component(s) have been assigned to a room, they move when the room is moved. To move a room without moving the components, temporarily disable the associated Room Definition Rule in the PCB Rules and Constraints Editor dialog.
  • When a room is mirrored along the X or Y axes, the Designator and Comment of each associated component will become mirrored.
  • Alternatively, you can move a room using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object=Room|ContextObject=Room

Summary

This command is used to move the room that is currently under the cursor in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by right-clicking over a room then choosing the Room Actions » Move Room command from the context menu.

Use

After launching the command, if the room contains any no-net objects and/or locked objects, the Room containing No Net/Locked Objects dialog will open. Use this dialog to determine whether these objects should be moved with the room or not then click OK. The room will attach to the cursor. Move the room to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the room is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Alt key to constrain the direction of movement to the horizontal or vertical axis, depending on the initial direction of movement.
  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the room counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the L key to flip the room to the other side of the board.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the room along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively (on the same side of the board).
  • Nudge the room by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.
Objects that are moved with the room also will be rotated and/or flipped.

Smart Actions when Moving a Component

When the room being moved involves one or more components, the following smart actions can be performed while the selection is still floating on the cursor:

  • Press and hold the Ctrl key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the boundaries of components in the room and nearby components.
  • Press and hold the Shift key to view dynamic alignment guides (green indicator lines) in relation to the pads of components in the room and nearby components.
Since the movement of the room involves the room as well as any components and additional design objects, it is considered a complex selection. In this case, the only component push mode available is Ignore. Connection display is also disabled.

Notes

  • If the target room is locked, this command will have no effect.
  • Any nets associated to an object within the room will remain connected and the connection lines follow the object when the room is moved. Any routed track connected to the object that is outside the room will not be moved.
  • Once component(s) have been assigned to a room, they move when the room is moved. To move a room without moving the components, temporarily disable the associated Room Definition Rule in the PCB Rules and Constraints Editor dialog.
  • When a room is mirrored along the X or Y axes, the Designator and Comment of each associated component will become mirrored.
  • Alternatively, you can move a room using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object=Room_Vertices

Summary

This command is used to modify the shape of a chosen room object in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by choosing the Design » Rooms » Edit Polygonal Room Vertices command from the main menus.

Although the command name suggests it is for use with polygonal rooms only, it is in fact for use with all rooms since a rectangular room is a polygon.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair. Position the cursor over the room whose shape you want to modify then click or press Enter. The outer shape becomes defined by a series of edges where each edge is represented by an end vertex, shown as a solid white square, and a center vertex is shown as a hollow white square. Each end vertex represents the location where two edges meet.

  • Click and drag an end vertex to perform one of the following, depending on the current mode (use Shift+Spacebar to change modes):
    • Moving Vertex mode - freely move the end vertex maintaining it as an end vertex.
    • Miter to Segment mode - creates a new straight edge with the moving end vertex becoming the center vertex for that edge.
    • Miter to Arc mode - creates a new curved edge with the moving end vertex becoming the center vertex for that edge.
  • Click and drag a center vertex to perform one of the following, depending on the current mode (use Shift+Spacebar to change modes):
    • Move mode - freely move the entire edge including its end vertices. The moved center vertex remains the center vertex for that edge.
    • Break mode - move the center vertex turning it into a new end vertex and splitting the original edge into two. The end vertices remain fixed at their original locations.
    • Incurvate mode - add curvature to the edge with the end vertices fixed at their original locations. The moved center vertex remains the center vertex for that edge.
  • Click anywhere along an edge away from editing handles then drag to slide that edge - shrinking or growing the moving edge to maintain the position of adjoining edges.
  • Ctrl+click anywhere along an edge away from editing handles to insert a new end vertex.

Continue modifying the shape of the room as required or right-click or press Esc to exit. The display of the room will update in accordance with the new boundary shape.

Notes

  • This command can be used regardless of whether or not the target room is locked.
  • The shape of a room can be quickly changed to wrap around its associated components. Wrapping commands can be found on the main Design » Rooms sub-menu or from the right-click Room Actions sub-menu (when the cursor is over the target room).


Applied Parameters: Object=Room_Vertices|ContextObject=Room

Summary

This command is used to modify the shape of the room object currently under the cursor in the current document.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by right-clicking over a room then choosing the Room Actions » Edit Polygonal Room Vertices command from the context menu.

Although the command name suggests it is for use with polygonal rooms only, it is in fact for use with all rooms since a rectangular room is a polygon.

Use

After launching the command, the outer shape of the room becomes defined by a series of edges where each edge is represented by an end vertex, shown as a solid white square, and a center vertex is shown as a hollow white square. Each end vertex represents the location where two edges meet.

  • Click and drag an end vertex to perform one of the following, depending on the current mode (use Shift+Spacebar to change modes):
    • Moving Vertex mode - freely move the end vertex maintaining it as an end vertex.
    • Miter to Segment mode - creates a new straight edge with the moving end vertex becoming the center vertex for that edge.
    • Miter to Arc mode - creates a new curved edge with the moving end vertex becoming the center vertex for that edge.
  • Click and drag a center vertex to perform one of the following, depending on the current mode (use Shift+Spacebar to change modes):
    • Move mode - freely move the entire edge including its end vertices. The moved center vertex remains the center vertex for that edge.
    • Break mode - move the center vertex turning it into a new end vertex and splitting the original edge into two. The end vertices remain fixed at their original locations.
    • Incurvate mode - add curvature to the edge with the end vertices fixed at their original locations. The moved center vertex remains the center vertex for that edge.
  • Click anywhere along an edge away from editing handles then drag to slide that edge - shrinking or growing the moving edge to maintain the position of adjoining edges.
  • Ctrl+click anywhere along an edge away from editing handles to insert a new end vertex.

Continue modifying the shape of the room as required or right-click or press Esc to exit. The display of the room will update in accordance with the new boundary shape.

Notes

  • This command can be used regardless of whether or not the room is locked.
  • The shape of a room can be quickly changed to wrap around its associated components. Wrapping commands can be found on the main Design » Rooms sub-menu or from the right-click Room Actions sub-menu (when the cursor is over the target room).


Applied Parameters: Object= TextureLocation

Summary

This command is used to modify the position of a texture object associated with a chosen extruded 3D Model. A texture file can be associated only with an extruded 3D model and allows an image to by displayed on that model's top surface - facilitating greater realism of your board when viewed in 3D.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor when configured in 3D Layout Mode by choosing the Tools » 3D Body Placement » Move Texture Location command from the main menus.

The current viewing mode for the PCB document can be changed using the corresponding commands from the main View menu. To switch to 3D Layout Mode, use the command of the same name or use the 3 keyboard shortcut.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to blue cones (signifying 3D selection mode) and you will be prompted to select an extruded 3D Body that has a texture associated. Position the cursor over the required 3D Body then click or press Enter. Click or press Enter a second time to 'pick up' the texture by its nearest corner. Move the texture to the required position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

Continue modifying the position of the texture further or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Additional actions that can be performed during movement while the texture is still floating on the cursor are:

  • Press the Spacebar to rotate the texture counterclockwise or Shift+Spacebar for clockwise rotation. Rotation is in accordance with the value for the Rotation Step defined on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • Press the X or Y keys to mirror the texture along the X-axis or Y-axis, respectively.
  • Nudge the texture by small amounts (according to the current snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys. Nudge by larger amounts (10 x snap grid value) by pressing the arrow keys while holding down the Shift key.

Notes

  • A texture file is associated to an extruded 3D Body through the Properties panel when browsing the properties of a selected 3D Body. Accepted file formats are *.bmp, *.dds, *.dib, *.hdr, *.jpg, *.pfm, *.png, *.ppm, and *.tga.
  • As you graphically modify the position of the texture, values for its rotation and center are updated and stored with the 3D Body accordingly. These can be edited non-graphically along with the size of the texture through the Properties panel.
  • Alternatively, you can move the texture in a selected extruded 3D Body using the mouse to click-and-drag.


Applied Parameters: Object=ReRoute

Summary

This command enables you to manually reroute existing track on the board.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor by:

  • Choosing the Edit » Move » Re-Route command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to choose a track. Position the cursor over the required track then click or press Enter. The functionality of this feature depends on whether or not the Preserve Angle When Dragging option is enabled on the PCB Editor - Interactive Routing page of the Preferences dialog:

  • Preserve Angle Dragging enabled - the track will be broken with a new segment added to maintain the orthogonal/diagonal connections. Move the cursor to slide this segment as required then click to effect placement. Right-click or press Esc at this point otherwise that new segment will be broken with a further segment. Use the Shift+R keyboard shortcut to cycle through options that control how obstacles should be handled during dragging (Ignore Obstacles, Avoid Obstacles, or Avoid Obstacles (Snap Grid)). If one of the Avoid Obstacles modes is enabled, the rules will be obeyed during dragging preventing you from dragging a segment into violation.
  • Preserve Angle Dragging disabled - both ends of the track segment will be anchored and you can now lay new segments of track between the two. Click or press Enter to place a new segment of track. Continue placing new track segments for the reroute or right-click or press Esc to stop.

Continue rerouting further tracks or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Notes

  • If Preserve Angle Dragging is enabled, you can effectively disable it temporarily by holding the Alt key before clicking on the target track segment. Continue to hold the Alt key while progressively clicking to reroute.
  • When rerouting track using this command and with Preserve Angle Dragging disabled, it is advisable to start the reroute from the left end of the chosen track segment and work towards the right end.
  • Similar re-routing functionality can be achieved by selecting a track segment then clicking-and-dragging its center vertex. Then subsequent clicking-and-dragging on resulting segment's center vertices along the original track from one end to the other.


Applied Parameters: Object=ReRoute

Summary

This command enables you to manually reroute existing track on the board.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Re-Route command on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to choose a track. Position the cursor over the required track then click or press Enter. The functionality of this feature depends on whether or not the Preserve Angle When Dragging option is enabled on the PCB Editor - Interactive Routing page of the Preferences dialog:

  • Preserve Angle Dragging enabled - the track will be broken with a new segment added to maintain the orthogonal/diagonal connections. Move the cursor to slide this segment as required then click to effect placement. Right-click or press Esc at this point, otherwise that new segment itself will be broken with a further segment. Use the Shift+R keyboard shortcut to cycle through options that control how obstacles should be handled during dragging (Ignore Obstacles, Avoid Obstacles, or Avoid Obstacles (Snap Grid)). If one of the Avoid Obstacles modes is enabled, the rules will be obeyed during dragging preventing you from dragging a segment into violation.
  • Preserve Angle Dragging disabled - both ends of the track segment will be anchored and you can now lay new segments of track between the two. Click or press Enter to place a new segment of track. Continue placing new track segments for the reroute or right-click or press Esc to stop.

Continue rerouting further tracks or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Notes

  • If Preserve Angle Dragging is enabled, you can effectively disable it temporarily by holding the Alt key before clicking on the target track segment. Continue to hold the Alt key while progressively clicking to reroute.
  • When rerouting track using this command and with Preserve Angle Dragging disabled, it is advisable to start the reroute from the left end of the chosen track segment and work towards the right end.
  • Similar re-routing functionality can be achieved by selecting a track segment then clicking-and-dragging its center vertex. Then, subsequent clicking-and-dragging on resulting segment's center vertices along the original track from one end to the other.


Applied Parameters: Object=TrackEnd

Summary

This command enables you to manually reposition or drag the end of a routed track segment.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by choosing the Edit » Move » Drag Track End command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select an object. Position the cursor over a track then click or press Enter. The cursor will jump to the end of the track segment that it is nearest to and the track end will be attached to the cursor. Move the end of the track to the desired position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

  • If the end of the chosen track segment is a vertex point to which no other track segments are connected, move the vertex to the required position.
  • If the end of the chosen track segment is a vertex point to which two track segments are connected, the attached track segments will rubber-band as the vertex is moved.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a component pad, moving the end will disassociate it from the pad. After the end is repositioned, a logical connection line will be shown from the track end to the pad provided the Smart Track Ends option is enabled on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a free pad, the pad will become attached to the cursor ready for repositioning. All track connected to the pad will rubber-band accordingly.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a via, the via will become attached to the cursor ready for repositioning. All track connected to the via will rubber-band accordingly.

Continue dragging further track ends or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Notes

  • This command is overridden if the Preserve Angle When Dragging option is enabled on the PCB Editor - Interactive Routing page of the Preferences dialog.
  • This feature also can be invoked by selecting the required track first then clicking and dragging the required end vertex.


Applied Parameters: Object=TrackEnd

Summary

This command enables you to manually reposition or drag the end of a routed track segment.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

  • Locating and using the Drag Track End command on the Active Bar.
Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping. If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. When other commands are available it is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button.

Use

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select an object. Position the cursor over a track then click or press Enter. The cursor will jump to the end of the track segment that it is nearest to and the track end will be attached to the cursor. Move the end of the track to the desired position then click or press Enter to effect placement.

  • If the end of the chosen track segment is a vertex point to which no other track segments are connected, move the vertex to the required position.
  • If the end of the chosen track segment is a vertex point to which two track segments are connected, the attached track segments will rubber-band as the vertex is moved.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a component pad, moving the end will disassociate it from the pad. After the end is repositioned, a logical connection line will be shown from the track end to the pad provided the Smart Track Ends option is enabled, on the PCB Editor – General page of the Preferences dialog.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a free pad, the pad will become attached to the cursor ready for repositioning. All track connected to the pad will rubber-band accordingly.
  • If the end of the track segment is connected to a via, the via will become attached to the cursor ready for repositioning. All track connected to the via will rubber-band accordingly.

Continue dragging further track ends or right-click or press Esc to exit.

Notes

  • This command is overridden if the Preserve Angle When Dragging option is enabled on the PCB Editor - Interactive Routing page of the Preferences dialog.
  • This feature also can be invoked by selecting the required track first then clicking and dragging the required end vertex.
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