File Extension Database

Open CAD File

In the world of computer-aided design (CAD), there are many file formats that serve as the backbone of various design projects. These formats store crucial data and enable engineers, architects, and graphical designers to create, view, and edit their files. In this article, we will discuss some of the most popular CAD file formats as well as the best methods to open and use these files in CAD applications.

Industry Standard CAD Formats

The following are a few commonly used CAD file formats that have gained popularity and are widely recognized and accepted within the industry:

AutoCAD DWG

AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, is one of the most well-known CAD applications that utilize the DWG format. This format is primarily designed to store 2D and 3D design data, including vector graphics and metadata. Those who wish to open DWG files can use Autodesk's AutoCAD or other compatible CAD software. Alternatively, you can use free software like Autodesk's DWG TrueView or open source alternatives like LibreCAD to view DWG files.

DXF

Standing for Drawing Interchange Format, DXF is another popular CAD file format created by Autodesk. DXF acts as a universal format and can be used in a variety of CAD applications on various platforms. Similar to DWG, AutoCAD can be used to open DXF files, but you can also use other software like Inkscape or QCAD.

IGES

Apache Internet Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) is a vendor-neutral CAD file format used primarily for data exchange. It supports 2D and 3D drawings and is generally used as an intermediary format between different CAD systems. Specialized CAD applications like PTC Creo and Siemens NX support IGES files, but free and open-source alternatives like FreeCAD can be used as well.

Specialized CAD Formats and Applications

Beyond the industry-standard formats, there are many specialized CAD file formats that cater to different industries and applications. Some of these formats and their accompanying software include:

CATIA

CATIA is a proprietary CAD program developed by Dassault Syst�mes that uses the CATPart and CATProduct formats. Aimed at the engineering and design industries, CATIA is widely used in automotive, aerospace, and other manufacturing sectors. To open or use CATIA files, you will require Dassault Syst�mes' CATIA software.

SolidWorks

Developed by Dassault Syst�mes, SolidWorks is another popular CAD software widely used in mechanical engineering, aerospace, and other industries. SolidWorks uses SLDPRT and SLDASM file formats, which can be opened only using SolidWorks software.

Pro/ENGINEER and PTC Creo

Pro/ENGINEER, now known as PTC Creo, is a CAD application developed by PTC, which uses the PRT and ASM file formats. These files are primary to mechanical engineering, automotive, and related industries, and can be opened using PTC Creo.

CAD File Conversion

In some cases, it might be necessary to convert a CAD file from one format to another to enable compatibility between different CAD software. Various online and offline tools are available for this purpose, including AnyConv, CloudConvert, and Autodesk Fusion 360.

CAD File Important Information

In conclusion, it's essential to understand the various CAD file formats and the best way to open and use them according to their specific applications. With knowledge of various industry-standard and specialized formats, as well as available conversion tools, designers and engineers can work efficiently across different CAD software and platforms. Always remember to use the appropriate format for your work and keep your data and project information secure.

How Can I Open CAD File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open CAD file is to find a CAD file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a CAD file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open CAD file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as CAD file opener then try to search online for "CAD viewer", "application to open CAD file" or "open CAD file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open CAD file

How Can I Open CAD File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a CAD file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a CAD file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with CAD file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as CAD file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open CAD file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open CAD file then try to search for "CAD viewer", "application to open CAD file" or "read CAD file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read CAD file

How Can I Open CAD File on Android

If you downloaded a CAD file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded CAD file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "CAD".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "CAD viewer", "CAD file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open CAD File on iPhone or iPad

To open CAD File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the CAD file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "CAD". This way you can find apps which can open CAD files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "CAD viewer" or "CAD file" online in your favorite search engine.

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