DXF files

Are DXF files for any version of S-W the same as for many versions of Autocad?

Having a few customers send to us via internet a few DXF files which originally the work had been done on some version of S-W. We can see them, but when it comes to conversion in to KCAM or any version of G-Code we use they can be seen in Autocad R-2008 but the conversion takes a second or two and then get zero cutting or parts to be cut up. When good one comes along, it usually takes about 1/2 minute for the conversion instead of two seconds. Essentially cannot do their work if they send us a DXF file which originated on S-W.

My thought is that the S-W version of DXF contains a Z factor, and I know on our software for equipment Z means nothing. It will skip over the file line and go to next one. If all file lines have a Z factor, it will skip over the lot of them then.

We can see the file, but the 1/2 minute conversion does not progress any further. Is the DXF files for S-W created only for work and viewing in some other version of S-W or can it be used universally?

Got loaded up and using Autocad R-2008, LT2006, LT-97, K-camm version 4.6, KCAM version 6.1, Designcad version 14, but no version of S-W.

Wm.

The only way(that i know of) for someone to save a SW file as a dxf is in the Drawing(2d) file so there would be no 3rd dim for you to have issues with. When saving as a dxf file there are versions and standards they can select. here is a screen shot of the export options. Ive also uploaded a dxf file i just made of a 20 pin connector to see if you have any troubles with it. It was saved using the options you see on the screen shot.

20pinconnector.DXF

Matt...

I thought so. I think the customer is a bit on the "lazy" side, or untrained. Never heard of it before. He suggested that I invest into late model S-W software in order that I could then take advantage of his full works and others then could too. I am not going to spend $1000 to make a $100 profit.

Think they are the ones who need to convert, not us.

Wm.

It seems a bit silly to me that they wouldnt help the conversion process along. Whenever I deal with outside agencies for things like 3d printing, injection molding quotes and so on, you always find out what their file type requirements are. Im running SW09. If you want to converse back and forth we can play with the options and get a file type that works for you guys, then you can just tell him what settings you need.

what is it that you need to do with these files again? what type of parts are we talking about?

Matt...

Some of the long time customers once on the telephone will appoligise and mention they did not realize the DXF file was in such a format, then re-convert and send us a new one within the hour.

It is the newbies who essentially refuse to convert, mentioning how it will louse up some of their operations. Am not that familiar with S-W to say what problem is, but too old and poor to try an learn a whole new system in order to please that ONE potential customer. Potential too, for they have sent out bids to other firms and if you have been in the business long enough you know what your competitors are doing.

Wm.

ive been dealing with external organizations for about 10 years now with drawing formats. I typically deal with 1 or 2 that i send my drawings to and ive done everything I can to make sure we have smooth data transfer. So far as getting some of their demo waterjet software to see what conversion process would work the best. A customer who will not help out in any way they can to not only make a better product in the end but reduce the cost of the product is not one I would want to deal with:)

but like i said i am more than happy to help you diagnose some of the formatting problems.