Setting Up Your Survey Database in Civil 3D A Survey Database in Civil 3D helps manage survey data, including points, figures, and linework. Here’s how to set it up:
1. Open the Survey Tab Go to the Toolspace palette. Click the Survey tab. If you don’t see the Toolspace, type TOOLSPACE in the command line. 2. Create a New Survey Database Right-click Survey Databases → New Local Survey Database. Enter a name for the database. Choose a location to store the database files. 3. Set Up Database Settings Right-click your new survey database → Edit Survey Database Settings. Configure: Units & Zone: Select the appropriate coordinate system. Figures: Set rules for automatic linework. Points: Define default styles and numbering. Equipment & Tolerances: Adjust based on survey accuracy. 4. Create a Survey Network (Optional) Right-click Networks → New. Enter a name and settings for your network. This helps if you are working with total station or GPS data. 5. Import Survey Data Right-click Survey Database → Import Survey Data. Choose the survey format (CSV, TXT, FBK, etc.). Assign a network if needed. Click Finish to process the data. 6. Process Linework (Optional) If your survey file includes linework commands, Civil 3D can automatically connect survey points. Right-click Survey Database → Process Linework. 7. View and Use Survey Data Expand the Survey Database in Toolspace. Use: Survey Points: Insert into your drawing. Survey Figures: View and modify linework. Point Groups: Organize data. Tips: ✔ Always back up your survey database before making major changes. ✔ Use a central database location if working in a team. ✔ Set default survey styles in the drawing template for consistency.
