The Base Line Dimension option allows you to measure the total distance from a starting point in a chain to the end point. The sub-total of each point picked in the chain is displayed.
To create a linear base line:
Click the Create
Dimensions icon 
on the Symbols toolbar
or choose the Symbols / Dimensions
from the main menu.
Place the cursor over the first point to be picked which is automatically marked with a green square.
When the cursor changes to the dimension symbol, pick the point.
Pick the second point then pick outside the figure to create the dimension.
Place the cursor over the dimension and right-click to access the Interaction Dialog.
Click Chain Dimension (the cursor changes to the Base Line Dimension
pointer 
) then pick consecutive points in the chain while
exiting between each picked point.
The total length from the base point to the picked point is displayed. The distance between the individual length parameters is defined in preferences yet they can be moved manually to a new location in the graphic area. This is done by double-clicking the parameter and dragging it.
Edit its parameters with the help of the hot spots
and tips either directly in the graphic area or on the popup menu. Change font style 
and character size also, if required.
Press exit when finished.