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About Brian Mazejka
Expertise
I can answer most questions dealing with SolidWorks 3D CAD/D Modeling Software. I can also answer questions dealing with the Documentation aspect of the Engineering and R&D area's. In addition to my knowledge of Solidworks, I can also answer questions regarding PDMWorks (Product Data Management).

Experience
I have been using SolidWorks 3D software for more than 10 years. I have been instrumental and successful in establishing a SolidWorks Users Group in practically every company I've worked at. Prior to using SolidWorks I used ComputerVision's Personal Designer for 7 years.

Education/Credentials
I am a Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP). I have over 20 years experience in the Engineering, and Documentation Control field. I have an ASME from Central New England College, I've also taken additional courses towards completing my BSME. I've attended numerous clinics, seminars, and conferences with regards to SolidWorks.

You are here: Experts > Computing/Technology > Computer-Aided Design > CAD > dwg vs STEP

CAD - dwg vs STEP

Expert: Brian Mazejka - 11/3/2009

Question
QUESTION: Can I open a dwg file in STEP or IGS format?

ANSWER: Hi Ed,

Can you open a *.dwg file in STEP or IGS format ... well the short answer is: It depends

It all depends on the CAD tool you're using. My guess is that what ever CAD package you're using you will be able to convert or open almost any file format.

A DWG file is typically an AutoCAD drawing and an IGS/IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) is a file format that is used primarily to share a file(s) between various CAD/CAM softwares.

A STEP file is virtually the same thing.

I hope this answers your question ?

Cheers,
Brian

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Well,I built a 3 model in Autocad (dwg) and would like to open it in STEP or IGS. what I understood from your answer, is that STEP or IGS will act like a viewer or reader of the DWG file. was that what you meant?

Thanks

Ed

Answer
Hi Ed,

No ... what I meant was that if you're working on a design in AutoCAD and you want to send your file to another person using a different kind of CAD tool (i.e. SolidWorks) you could save your AutoCAD file as an IGES or STEP file and then send it off to the other person.

IGES or STEP is an intermediary file between one CAD software and another CAD software.

I'm not sure why you want to open a 3D file you created in AutoCAD as a STEP or IGES ... you certainly can, but you'll need to save your file in that file format first.

If you're trying to share your file with other people, then you could look into getting a Viewer ... I believe AutoCAD does have something like this on the market (and is probably free) as well as a tool called 'eDrawings' (I believe it will work with AutoCAD files).

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