Exporting Files

The Export command exports VectorWorks files into several different file formats, including previous versions of VectorWorks. The exported files can then be imported into another software program. VectorWorks exports to a new file, leaving the original file intact.

To export a file:

1.	Select File > Export.

2.	Select the export file format.

Specify the export options, along with the file name and destination.

3.	Click Save.

Special considerations apply for exports to DXF/DWG format. See DXF/DWG File Export.

 

Export Format	Description
DXF/DWG	DWG and DXF files can be read by other CAD programs (such as AutoCAD). In addition, they can be printed by service bureaus and opened in rendering programs. The VectorWorks translator exports DWG/DXF files for AutoCAD versions 2007/2008, 2004/2005/2006, 14/LT98/LT97, and 13/ LT95. Exporting to version 12 and above is recommended to preserve the maximum file integrity (use the latest version possible for best results). See DXF/DWG File Export for more information.
Database	Saves all records of a particular format as a file that can be used in a database program, such as FileMaker Pro and Microsoft Access. VectorWorks provides a variety of formats to select from when exporting records as a database, including comma-delimited, tab-delimited, merge, DIF, and SYLK.
EPix/Piranesi (RenderWorks required)	Creates an ePix (Extended Pixel) file; see EPix Export for more information
EPSF	EPSF (Encapsulated PostScript Format) files can be read by many graphics and desktop-publishing programs. The VectorWorks translator exports EPSF files in Illustrator 88 format. EPSFs contain all drawing elements except color bitmaps. VectorWorks exports these files with high resolution and full accuracy. Specify the EPS Preview Options for the TIFF preview when saving the file.
Image File	Exports the file as an image file in formats like JPG, Photoshop, BMP, and others. The image can then be imported into other applications or used in web pages. See Exporting an Image File.
Export PDF (Quartz Only)	This command is available on the Macintosh when Quartz Imaging is enabled (see Display Preferences). It exports the current file to a PDF document in the specified location. Design Series users on both Macintosh and Windows have additional PDF options. See PDF Interoperability.
Export PICT	This command is available on the Macintosh when Quartz Imaging is disabled (see Display Preferences). It exports a vector image of the current file in the specified location.
Metafile	Exports graphics files in Metafile format for inclusion in virtually any Windows program, including AutoCAD and word processing programs. There are two versions of Metafiles: standard (pre-Windows 95) and enhanced. VectorWorks supports the enhanced version.
QuickTime VR Object (RenderWorks required)	Creates a QuickTime Virtual Reality object file; see QuickTime VR Object Export for more information
QuickTime VR Panorama (RenderWorks required)	Creates a QuickTime Virtual Reality panorama file; see QuickTime VR Panorama Export for more information
VectorScript	Writes out the current file as a series of VectorScript commands. These commands can then be used as part of a VectorScript script or as a guide for learning.
Worksheet	Worksheet files can be read by spreadsheet programs, such as Microsoft Excel, as well as by some word processing programs. Export all rows or only selected rows of a worksheet. Because many of these programs have different format requirements, VectorWorks provides a variety of formats to select from when exporting files as a worksheet, including comma-delimited, tab-delimited, merge, DIF, and SYLK. Using the tab-delimited format, for example, creates a file that can be opened as a table in Microsoft Word.
IGES (3D only)	This command exports 3D curves, surfaces, and solids to IGES format (see Exporting in IGES Format (3D only))
SAT (3D only)	Creates an SAT file for exporting ACIS 3D solids. The Export Solids as Trimmed Surfaces option exports a solid as several different ACIS “bodies” (for example, a cube exports as six ACIS bodies). If this option is deselected, a solid is exported as a single body.
Export Simple VectorScript (3D Only)	Creates an exported VectorScript designed to be easy to import into programs like Strata Software products
Export Stereo Lithography (3D Only)	Exports all visible 3D surfaces and solids in the current layer into an STL-formatted file (see Exporting in Stereo Lithography Format)
VectorWorks 9, 10, and 11	Saves a copy of the file in a format that can be opened and manipulated in an older version of VectorWorks. See Exporting to Previous VectorWorks Versions.