Setting multiple scale references in a single PDF drawing file

Construction drawings often include multiple scale settings to better present visual details across different areas of the plan. PlanForm supports this need by allowing users to define and manage more than one scale within a single drawing file.

Step-by-step guide:

1) Ensure you’re using PlanForm v4.5.4.60 or later.

2) Open your drawing in PlanForm.

3) Click the ‘Scale’ tool in the toolbar.

4) From the dropdown, select ‘Set Scale by Length’.

5) Click two points that represent a known actual dimension.

6) In the pop-up window, if the Original Length is incorrect, enter the true length manually.

7) Choose the desired unit and precision level:

• Metric options include millimeters (mm), meters (m), kilometers (km).

8) Click ‘Apply Scale’ to finalize the first scale and begin your takeoff.

9) Navigate to the ‘Scale’ tool again.

10) Select ‘Preset Scale’ from the dropdown menu.

11) Choose the scale stated on the drawing (e.g. 1:100 or ¼” = 1’0”).

12) Select the appropriate unit system (imperial or metric).

13)Set your preferred precision level:

• Lower values yield higher precision.
• Higher values provide faster results with less accuracy.

14) Click ‘Apply Scale’ to confirm the second scale.

15) Begin extracting measurements using the new scale.

16) Repeat steps 9–15 for any additional scales required.

17) If prompted by the ‘Updating Existing Measurement’ pop-up:

• Click ‘Continue’ to retain existing measurements.
• Click ‘Update’ to apply the new scale to existing data.

Animated Demonstration: