Locating AutoCAD Backup Files
Finding your AutoCAD backup files depends on the operating system you’re using.
For Windows Users:
- Open AutoCAD and navigate to the “Files” tab in the Options dialog.
- Look for the “Automatic Save File Location” path within the hierarchy. This will guide you to where your autosave files are stored.
- Alternatively, you can enter the
SAVEFILEPATH
variable in the command line to view this directory.
For Mac Users:
- Launch AutoCAD and go to the Application tab located in the Preferences.
- Here, you’ll be able to locate the autosave file path.
Accessing .BAK Files in AutoCAD
To open a .BAK file, which is AutoCAD’s backup format, follow these steps:
- Copy the .BAK file you want to work with and paste it onto your desktop.
- Rename the copied file, changing its extension from
.bak
to.dwg
. - When prompted for confirmation regarding the change of the file type, click “Yes.”
- Finally, open the renamed file in AutoCAD as you would with any standard drawing file.
Recovering AutoCAD Temporary Files
In case of unexpected shutdowns, recovering AutoCAD temporary files can be critical:
- Open AutoCAD and navigate to the Application Menu.
- Select “Drawing Utilities.”
- Click on “Open Recovery Manager.”
- This will display a list of temporary files that AutoCAD has saved during your session. You can then select the files you wish to recover.
Retrieving Unsaved CAD Files
If you need to recover files that weren’t saved:
- Open Microsoft Word and select “File,” then “Options.”
- In the Options dialog, navigate to the “Save” section on the left side.
- Make a note of the “AutoRecover files location” listed there.
- Use Windows Explorer to navigate to this location to find potential unsaved files.
Converting SVS to DWG Format
For converting SVS files to DWG format, follow these guidelines:
- Download and install a converter application like reaConverter.
- Load your SVS files into the application.
- Specify an output folder where the converted files will be stored.
- Choose DWG as the desired output format.
- Optionally, you can refer to video tutorials or a command-line interface for additional assistance.
Understanding Backup File Types in AutoCAD
AutoCAD primarily utilizes .dwg
for its design files, and it creates backups in the form of .BAK
files. The .BAK
format serves as an essential safety net, automatically generated whenever you make changes to your drawing.
Converting a BAK File
To convert a .BAK file back to a usable drawing, execute the following steps:
- Open Windows Explorer and click on the “Start” button.
- In Windows Explorer, select “Tools” and then click on “Folder Options.”
- Under the “View” tab, uncheck “Hide Extensions for Known File Types.”
- Locate your .BAK file, right-click it, and select “Rename.”
- Change its extension to
.dwg
and proceed to open it in AutoCAD.
Viewing TMP Files
To open temporary files with a .tmp extension:
- Launch VLC Media Player.
- Click on “Media” and select “Open File.”
- Set the file type to “All Files” and navigate to the location of the temporary file.
- Click “Open” to restore and view the contents of the .tmp file.
Recovering a BAK File
Should you need to access a .BAK file:
- Navigate to the folder containing the .BAK file using Windows Explorer or File Explorer.
- Right-click on the .BAK file and select “Rename.”
- Change the extension to
.dwg
. - Open the newly renamed file in AutoCAD as you would with standard files.
Restoring DWL Files
If you need to restore a DWL file, follow these steps:
- Start a new blank drawing in AutoCAD.
- Type
RECOVER
into the command line. - Browse to the DWL file and select it for recovery.
- You may also utilize a BAK file for restoration if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the function of a .BAK file?
A .BAK file is a backup created by AutoCAD to save your drawing progress automatically, ensuring you can recover your work in case of a crash or unexpected closure.
2. Can I open a .BAK file without renaming it?
No, .BAK files need to be renamed to .DWG format before they can be opened in AutoCAD.
3. How often does AutoCAD save backup files?
AutoCAD saves backup files based on the autosave settings configured in the Options menu, which can be adjusted according to user preferences.