> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.besmart.software/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.besmart.software/3d-modeling-and-design/metal-framing/faq/service-hole-automation/how-to-insert-service-holes-in-horizontal-tracks-using-smart-connections.md).

# How to insert service holes in horizontal tracks using Smart Connections?

{% hint style="warning" %}
Before following this guide, make sure that your service hole families for studs are prepared for the CNC export. [**Learn more**](/3d-modeling-and-design/metal-framing/faq/family-libraries/service-holes/how-to-create-service-holes-in-horizontal-tracks.md)
{% endhint %}

## 1. Open Smart Connections and create new configuration

1. Open **Smart Connections** (**T4R Create/Modify** > **Smart Connections**):

<figure><img src="/files/RzzXRXIYiQkOk3hEg4Ec" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

2. At the top left, choose **Category** > **Structural Framing**
3. Choose **Group > Structural Framing**
4. **Duplicate** the configuration and **rename** it:

<figure><img src="/files/EsOgzmSxFzSbsHGZv3kL" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 2. Choose the service hole family

1. Click on **Active** to turn on the configuration
2. **Select Category** > **Structural Connections**
3. Select the **Family and Type** > **I\_SC Service Hole** (Imperial) or **M\_SC Service Hole** (Metric):

<figure><img src="/files/y2DescbOPnhLTJi4N7gE" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 3. Filter the host (plate) and set the hole placement face

1. Click on Host Filter
2. Search for **Framing Member Mark: Instance Shared** parameter (recommended) and set to **Equals**
3. Enter the value, e.g.&#x20;

* Top plate = **TP**&#x20;
* Bottom Plate = **BP**
* Blocking/Nogging = **SBP**&#x20;
* Header = **HP**&#x20;
* Sill = **SP**

<figure><img src="/files/BpapnMYFR1wy998VrUXW" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

4. Set the **Face** to **Left:**

<figure><img src="/files/HdqyGXqLr1RG12rIQ8vS" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 4. Set the Element Position

### 4.1 Place 1 hole on the plate center

<figure><img src="/files/uDAJX1pvumzDvG49qDt7" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 4.2 Place multiple holes on the plate center

Increase the **Fixed Number**

<figure><img src="/files/1PLLfuNCKTYwiCE2MDyF" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 4.3 Place holes on the plate ends

1. Change the **Direction** to **Start End**
2. Change the **Rule** to **Fixed Number & Fixed Spacing**
3. Adjust the **Layout Start** and **Layout End** to the desired offset

<figure><img src="/files/lBoTqXsa1WkdLeIrbtiQ" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### 4.4 Place holes with an offset from the plate's centerline

1. Change the **Direction** to **Start End**
2. Change the **Rule** to **Fixed Number & Fixed Spacing**
3. Adjust the **Layout Start** and **Layout End** to the desired offset
4. Adjust the **Layout Side** for the desired offset from the plate's **centerline**

<figure><img src="/files/0p89MRSQ49elaLlsGRlA" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## 5. Save the configuration and place holes

1. Click **Save**
2. Select the frame
3. Click **Insert Elements**
4. Make sure to use the same **Configuration** that you just created
5. Click **Insert Details**:

<figure><img src="/files/ojX0YWEJX8nqwwbYHaam" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

{% hint style="info" %}
If you can't find the answers you're looking for, please [contact our support team](https://helpdesk.besmart.software/support/tickets/new).
{% endhint %}


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