Connection checks in AutoCAD MEP

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AutoCAD MEP includes tools to help you analyze and check your model,

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and to make sure that equipment is properly connected to ducts or pipes, for example.

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Begin by reviewing an HVAC system.

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Select an air terminal.

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The Equipment ribbon appears.

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In the Modify panel, click Show Connected Objects to see the options,

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The flex duct that is attached to the air terminal is highlighted,

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so you know this connection is valid.

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Press ENTER to exit the command.

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Next, while the air terminal is still connected,

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click the Show Connected Objects tool again, and then select Show Connected Run.

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The entire run is now highlighted.

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This indicates that the model was properly connected using AutoCAD MEP snaps.

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Pick a duct, and then click Show Connected Objects.

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Notice how both transitions are highlighted.

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You can select either equipment or the connecting geometry.

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As long as it is an object, you can use this tool to check the connection.

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The Solution Tips tool can show you where items have not been connected properly.

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From the ribbon, View tab, in the MEP View panel, make sure Solution Tips is enabled.

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Look at the riser duct in the center of the drawing.

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There is a yellow warning symbol on the end of the duct.

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Hover the cursor over the warning symbol.

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A solution tip appears and tells you the duct is not connected.

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The tip also offers possible solutions to fix the problem.

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Electrical devices may also show connecting information,

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but since you are not running conduit to the lights, check the circuiting instead.

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Switch to the electrical drawing.

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Select a light.

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The Device ribbon appears.

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From the Circuits panel, click Show Circuited Objects.

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All of the lights that are assigned to the same circuit are highlighted.