Line > Parallel, Numerical (Draw Menu)

This command draws a line which runs parallel to a line of any type.

The suffix "Numerical" shows that the distance between the two lines is a specific, fixed distance entered via a dialog. If the numeric value of the distance is not known, and the distance is to be specified implicitly by using the mouse to enter the start point, then the command Line > Parallel should be used instead.

After choosing the command, a dialog appears into which the distance can be entered.

Any line in an existing object can be identified as a reference line, including a side of a rectangle or a circle segment leg.

After identification, a straight line which runs parallel to the identified line and moves when the mouse is moved close to the identified line. This line is referred to as the "Reference Straight Line".

The reference point can be entered by clicking the mouse anywhere in the drawing. It determines the position of a straight line on which the final line with lie. The reference straight line always snaps to the same side of the identified line as the crosshairs.

The start point of the line can be entered by clicking the mouse anywhere in the drawing.

The end point of the line can be entered by clicking the mouse anywhere in the drawing. A perpendicular is dropped from this position to the reference straight line to determine the end point of the new line.

The line is assigned to the current layer. In addition, it contains a reference to the current pen.