1.0 Introduction The maxim ‘sharing is caring’ features heavily in a collaborative work environment. That the DXF format exists is a true testament to the popular saying, which, though used in informal settings, bears much weight professionally. In the DXF files,…
AutoCAD is one of the most used CAD software around the globe. However, it is relatively expensive since it costs $1,575 a year. For interoperability purposes, Autodesk, the company behind AutoCAD and one of the largest names in the field of…
If you work with AutoCAD you have probably had a regular requirement to convert photos to CAD for you to use them in AutoCAD. The problem is that many conversion solutions will not give you the results you require. In this…
As you know may already know, each week Scan2CAD dishes out a new DXF pack for free download, with varying themes and designs culled from different ideas, seasons, trends, everyday situations, and other sources. Since we started releasing these free weekly…
Industries around the world make use of paper patterns to quickly prototype their cutting designs. From car seat manufacturers to shoe designers, paper patterns are vital to the design and manufacturing process. In some cases, industries—or individuals—will painstakingly create hard-copy paper…
If you work with any kind of images, you’re likely to have come across BMP files. They are the native image format for Windows, meaning a lot of computers will store images as BMP by default. This is not necessarily a…
To be able to edit your designs in CAD software, you’ll need to ensure that they’re saved as vector files. If you originally created the design in CAD software, then this won’t cause any issues. If your design started life on…
If you’re unfamiliar with CNC (Computer Numerical Control), it enables machines like laser cutters and water jets to transform computer-based designs into physical products. For example, fancy creating a new sign for your store? All you need is your chosen design…
GeoTIFF is a powerful file format, allowing users to attach georeferencing data to high-quality images. It’s possible to embed GeoTIFF files into GIS applications for illustrative purposes. However, to use them in CAD, or for broader purposes in GIS, you’ll need…
No matter what industry you work in or how familiar you are with file formats in general, you’ll undoubtedly have encountered PDFs at some point or another. One of the most popular file formats around, PDFs are the perfect way to…
Most images online, or on your PC, will be in a raster image format. However, raster images aren’t suitable for all purposes. If you need to edit an image using CAD software, for example, you’ll need to convert your image to…
PDF is one of the world’s most useful and versatile file formats. Unlike many of its competitors, it doesn’t require any specific software; users can open it using any standard web browser. Add in its ability to contain a variety of…
Though the medium of design has now shifted from the sketchpad to the screen, there are still those who prefer to sketch by hand. Nonetheless, it’s rare to find anyone within the design industry who produces a hard copy of a…
If you’re a regular reader of our blog, you’ll probably be well versed in raster files by now. You’ll also be aware that there is a way to turn them into vector files automatically, with the Scan2CAD software—and even that you…
One of the most common issues faced between client and professional is lack of file compatibility. Here we’re discussing all things conversion, focusing on the process of changing a PDF file into DXF format. We’ll be looking at its purpose, dangers…
Vectorization is the process by which raster files are converted to vector. It’s a common enough practice amongst designers and engineers, but there are some things even experienced CAD users may not know. We start with the basics, clarifying what raster…
At Scan2CAD, we love CAD facts. Not only are they handy for dropping into conversation, but they also help us develop our views, knowledge and application of different areas of design. To kick off our Need to Know series, we’re taking a look…
Sometimes, people have unrealistic expectations of what automatic file conversion software can achieve. Yes, this clever software can create a vector image within 5 seconds. However, it’s important to remember this raster-to-vector conversion mantra: garbage in, garbage out. If the main…
GIFs are a popular file format, commonly used to exchange simple web graphics—you’ve probably received or sent a funny GIF or two to people you know at some point or another. They’re easy to send and they come with wide support….
Whether you’re a CAD/CNC hobbyist or a professional, you’ll have undoubtedly worked with the DXF format at some point or another. It’s the gold-standard format of the CAD industry—it’s easy to share and it’s supported by practically every CAD program on…
