Converting PDF files to CAD

There are two types of PDF file, raster and vector. Raster PDF files are normally created by scanning a paper drawing and saving it as PDF. Vector PDF files are normally created by saving PDF from a CAD program.

Scan2CAD Pro converts raster PDF files to DXF. It does not convert vector PDF files.

If you have a vector PDF file, you have two options for converting it to CAD:

  • Use a vector PDF converter such as PDF2CAD to convert the vectors in the PDF file direct to CAD vectors (DXF, DWG, DGN etc.).

    Click here to visit PDF2CAD's web site, where you can find out more and download a fully working trial.

    Get the ability to convert both raster and vector PDF files to CAD by buying Scan2CAD Pro and PDF2CAD together at a special bundle price of US $499 - click here to order.

  • Convert the PDF file containing vector drawings to TIFF or BMP. Once the PDF file is in TIFF or BMP format you can use Scan2CAD to convert it to vectors in the normal way.

    There are a number of programs available that can convert PDF files to TIFF or BMP. For more information, click here.

Click here to find out how to tell if your PDF file is raster or vector.

Further reading: Scan-to-PDF: Benefits and Considerations.

How to tell whether your PDF file is raster or vector

There are various ways of determining whether a PDF file is raster or vector. Here are two.

Load your PDF file into Scan2CAD or the Scan2CAD Trial version

If Scan2CAD loads it in and the drawing is displayed, it is raster.

If Scan2CAD displays the message "Scan2CAD found no raster images", it is vector.

Note that there are also PDF files that are vector but that contain raster images within them. In this case, Scan2CAD will load the raster images.

Load your PDF file into Adobe Reader 8, then click on it

If nothing happens, the PDF file is vector.
If the drawing is highlighted in blue, it is raster.

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