Expert: Amy - 6/29/2006

Question
Amy,

I have 98,000 CorelDraw (9,10 and 11) files that must be converted for use in Illustrator CS within the next 60 days!  Any suggestions?

Answer
Yes Chris.

Create an Action that Saves as AI, then run it on a batch of files by highlighting your action and choosing the Batch command found in the top tight flyout menu of the Actions palette.

When you run the batch job, you can either set it to save over the original files (great if you're already working with copies) or to save to a new subdirectory.

Hints: Turn off all color management or set it to auto convert (in Color Settings) before starting the batch or it will pause with each new file to wait for your color management decisions. Also, when recording the Save As AI action, make sure you select not to embed fonts/color profiles if you want a nice small file and if these files will only be used in-house.

Let me know if you run into problems. The best way to do it is just to dig in and start recording your action. It's very simple and you'll figure it out quickly.

For example, I set up a test action to write this answer in the following way: I opened the Actions palette, I opened a blank document, I started recording a new Action, I went throught the Save As motions, choosing the options I wanted including format (AI), and I stopped recording. Action recorded. Then I ran it as a batch job on a folder containing a dozen Corel files. It took about 1 minute.

Good luck. Enjoy your weekend.