Layers & Blocks
Reference for the AutoCAD layers and blocks that Branch creates and uses. You can customize layer names and use your own blocks.
Layers Created by Branch
Branch creates these layers automatically when you use its commands. You can change the layer names in BRANCHOPTIONS.
| Layer | Default Name | Contents |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Groups | PANEL GROUPS | Panel group outline polylines and header labels |
| Strings | STRINGS | String polylines and circuit designation tags |
| Homeruns | HOMERUNS | Homerun cable polylines from strings to inverters |
Layer properties
Branch creates layers if they don't exist, but doesn't modify existing layers. Set colors, linetypes, and other properties in AutoCAD's Layer Properties Manager.
Blocks Used by Branch
Branch uses these blocks for equipment placement. You can use your own blocks by specifying them in BRANCHOPTIONS.
Inverter Block
Used by ADDINVERTER and ADDALLINVERTERS.
Required attribute: The block should have a "Number" attribute to display the inverter number. If missing, Branch will still place the block but without a visible number.
Combiner Box Block
Used when "Use Combiner Boxes" is enabled in BRANCHOPTIONS.
This block is placed instead of inverters when combiner mode is active. Strings route to combiner boxes, which then route to the main inverter.
Panel Group Blocks
Branch creates anonymous blocks (*U*) to store panel group data.
These are internal blocks that contain the panel matrix and metadata. You shouldn't need to interact with them directly, but you may see them in the block list.
Using Your Own Blocks
To use your company's standard blocks for inverters or combiner boxes:
- Insert the block into your drawing (or have it in a template)
- Open BRANCHOPTIONS and find the block settings
- Enter the block name exactly as it appears in the drawing
- Adjust the block size if needed (scale factor)
Block names are case-sensitive
Enter the block name exactly as it appears in AutoCAD. "INVERTER" and "Inverter" are different blocks.
Data Stored on Entities
Branch stores metadata on drawing entities using AutoCAD's XData mechanism. This data is used for commands like CABLEEXPORT and for maintaining relationships between elements.
String Polylines
Store circuit designation, connected panel handles, inverter assignment, and tag text handle.
Homerun Polylines
Store cable type (start/end homerun), connected string, and inverter handle.
Circuit Tags (MText)
Store MPPT configuration, string number, inverter number, terminal designation, and color information.
Note: If you copy/paste or otherwise duplicate Branch entities, the XData may become invalid. Use STRINGREBUILD to repair corrupted relationships.
Drawing Properties Storage
Branch saves your settings per-drawing in an XRecord named LEAF-PROPERTIES. This means:
- • Settings persist — When you reopen a drawing, your Branch settings are restored
- • Settings are per-drawing — Different drawings can have different settings
- • Templates work — Save a drawing with configured settings as a template for new projects