Creating ordinate dimensions

Command: DIMORDINATE

An ordinate dimension annotates the perpendicular distance from an origin or base point (the origin of the current user coordinate system [UCS]). Ordinate dimensions consist of an x- or y-coordinate and a leader. An x-ordinate dimension measures distances along the x-axis, while a y-ordinate dimension measures distances along the y-axis.

As you select ordinate points, the program automatically determines whether the point is an x- or y-ordinate based on which direction you drag the second point. You can also specify whether the ordinate represents an x- or y-ordinate. Ordinate dimension text is always aligned with the ordinate leader lines, regardless of the text orientation specified by the current dimension style.

To create an ordinate dimension

1. Do one of the following:

2. Click the Ordinate tool button () on the Dimensions toolbar.

3. Choose Ordinate in the Dimensions menu.

4. Type dimordinate in the command bar, then press Enter.

The command bar reads: Select point for ordinate dimension:

2. Specify the origin point for the ordinate dimension.
   The ordinate dimension displays dynamically.

3. Position the ordinate dimension.