To Buffer a Topology

A buffer analysis identifies objects within a specified offset of elements in node, network, and polygon topologies.

To buffer a topology

1. In Map Explorer, under Current Drawing, right-click a topology AnalysisBuffer.
2. In the Topology Buffer - Set Buffer Distance dialog box, enter the buffer distance. Click Next. The buffer extends the specified distance from the objects.

   The buffer offset can be any of the following:

   • Numeric value. To decrease the size of existing polygons, enter a negative value.
   • An expression that evaluates to a numeric value.
   • A value in an object data table or a linked external database. Click (Expression Evaluator) to select the table and field or the link template and column from a list.
3. In the Topology Buffer - New Topology dialog box, select Highlight to highlight the resulting buffer topology onscreen. Specify a highlight color that is different from the color of the objects.
4. Enter a name and description for the new topology and specify the layer to place it on. Click Next.
5. In the Topology Buffer - Create New Centroids and Nodes dialog box, specify the blocks to use for centroids and node in the resulting buffer topology.
   • To use a point, select ACAD_POINT.
   • To select from a list of block definitions, click the down arrow.
   • To select a block saved as a DWG file, click Browse. Select the file.
6. Click Finish to create the buffer topology.