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What is CAD?

Before we understand CAD file, we need to know what CAD is. CAD is a tool that allows design and drawing on computers. The basic functions include drawing 2D graphics, creating 3D models, performing design analysis and simulation, etc. The more well-known CAD software are AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and CATIA. Its application range covers architectural design, mechanical engineering, electronic design, etc. It can help designers improve project accuracy, effectively reduce errors in the process, and speed up the design progress.

What is a CAD file?

The full name of CAD file is the abbreviation of “Computer-Aided Design file”. This file is used to store and exchange design and drawing data generated by CAD software. It can contain 2D and 3D design data, allowing dissemination, modification, optimization and sharing. CAD files are commonly used in design fields like engineering, architecture, and manufacturing to create, modify, analyze, and optimize design drawings and models.

Why JLCMC CAD File？

JLCMC CAD files, created by our Forface 3D team, cover over 25,000 products and serve 4,700,000+ users. Our files, compatible with major 2D and 3D modeling software, are available for free download. Users can easily select and download CAD files from our 3D model library and transition smoothly to purchasing the products, streamlining the entire selection, design, and procurement process.

CAD Operation

How to achieve data transmission between CAD file?

Data transfer techniques between CAD file are very common, such as transferring points from one CAD file to another CAD file, and the steps are as follows:

Export point data:

Open the source CAD file.

Use the "Export" or "Save As" function to save the point data in a common format, such as CSV, TXT, or other supported file formats.

Prepare the target file:

Open the target CAD file.

Ensure the target file's coordinate system matches the source file to avoid position deviations.

Import point data:

In the target CAD software, use the "Import" function to load the previously saved point data file.

Configure the import settings (such as coordinate system, data format, etc.) to ensure that the point data is imported correctly.

Check and adjust:

After importing, verify that the positions and data of the points are correct. Adjust the display or positioning of the point data as needed.

Convert PDF file to CAD

Converting PDF file to CAD is usually done when dealing with scanned or digital drawings that need to be edited. Many online converters on the public network can convert PDF to CAD file, such as DWG or DXF formats. It should be noted that most of them may require a fee.

CAD Recovery Files

The "CAD recovery files" function is built-in into the software and can mitigate the serious consequences of data loss in the event of file corruption or accidental deletion. The following are the main CAD recovery files function paths:

AutoCAD:

Open AutoCAD, click "Application Menu" > "Open" > "Recovery".

Or in the "Options" dialog box, find the "File" tab and view the "Autosave File Location" to access the recovery file.

SolidWorks:

Open SolidWorks, click "File" > "Open" > select the "Recovery" tab.

You can also set and access the recovery options through "Tools" > "Options" > "System Options" > "Backup/Restore".

CATIA:

Open CATIA, click "File" > "Open" > "Recovery".

You can also view the recovery settings through "Tools" > "Options" > "File" > "Backup".

Import and export CAD file

AutoCAD

Import: Click "Application Menu" > "Open".

Export: Click "Application Menu" > "Save As".

SolidWorks

Import: Click "File" > "Open".

Export: Click "File" > "Save As".

CATIA

Import: Click "File" > "Open".

Export: Click "File" > "Save As".

CAD File Types

CAD file types come in a variety of formats, including:

.dwg: The most commonly used AutoCAD file format, storing 2D and 3D data.

.dxf: A format used for data exchange, widely supported by different CAD programs.

.step or .stp: A standard exchange format for 3D models.

.iges: Another format for exchanging 3D models.

Free CAD File Access

We have currently released a series of free CAD files on the “Thingiverse” platform. You can download a CAD file for free and use it for personal or commercial projects. Visit our page to explore our complete CAD file library and get high-quality design resources to enhance your projects.