PlanDeskHow to measure a PDF drawing on iPad
Measuring a PDF on iPad takes two things: the sheet's scale, and a tool that traces what you want to measure. In PlanDesk you set the scale once per sheet (or once for the whole set), then every line and area you trace reads in real feet and inches.
Set the scale
Tap the ruler button at the bottom of the screen (it says No scale) and pick the scale printed on the sheet, like 1/4" = 1'-0". Check Apply to all sheets if the whole set is at the same scale.
Measure a length
Pick the Length tool and drag from one end to the other. The length shows as you go. For a run with turns, use Polylength and tap each point.
Measure an area
Pick the Area tool, tap each corner of the room or unit, then tap the first corner again (or tap Finish) to close it. The area and perimeter appear on the sheet.
See the totals
Open the Measure tab on the right. Every quantity is listed with its totals, ready to export to Excel.
Tips
- If the set was printed half size or scanned, calibrate instead of picking a scale (see setting the scale below).
- Snap holds to line ends and corners on the drawing, and Ortho keeps lines straight up and down or across. Both are at the bottom of the screen.
- Other measure tools: Perimeter, Angle, Radius, Diameter, Volume, Wall area and Count.