How to Get Backup Files in AutoCAD?

Accessing Backup Files in AutoCAD

Retrieving backup files in AutoCAD can save you from losing significant work due to unexpected shutdowns or file corruption. Here’s how to access those essential backup files step by step.

Step 1: Locate the Backup Files

1. Open File Explorer on your computer.
2. Navigate to the folder where your AutoCAD projects are saved.
3. Look for files with the extension .bak. These are your AutoCAD backup files.

Step 2: Rename the Backup File

1. Right-click on the desired .bak file.
2. Select Rename from the context menu.
3. Change the file extension from .bak to .dwg by typing the new name followed by .dwg.

Step 3: Open the Renamed File in AutoCAD

1. Launch AutoCAD on your system.
2. Use the Open command, or simply drag the renamed file into the AutoCAD interface.
3. The file will open as a standard drawing file, ready for editing.

Understanding AutoCAD Recovery Files

Recovery files in AutoCAD can assist in retrieving corrupted drawings. Here’s how to find them:

1. Launch AutoCAD and click on the AutoCAD icon in the toolbox.
2. Navigate to Drawing Utilities, and then select Recover from the dropdown menu.
3. Choose the corrupted DWG file you wish to recover. AutoCAD will automatically start repairing the file.

Steps to Recover Autosave Files in AutoCAD

AutoCAD has an autosave feature that can help you restore your work. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Access the Temporary Files

1. Open the Start menu, and type %tmp% to access the Temp folder.
2. Press Enter. This will open the directory where auto-saved files are stored.

Step 2: Identify and Rename the Autosave File

1. Look for a file that matches the name of your original drawing, including a timestamp and the .sv$ extension.
2. Right-click the file, select Rename, and change .sv$ to .dwg.

Step 3: Open the File in AutoCAD

1. Return to AutoCAD.
2. Use the Open command to locate and open the newly renamed file.

Finding Lost Drawings in AutoCAD

If you cannot locate your drawings, AutoCAD has features that can assist in their recovery.

Step 1: Use the Task Command

1. Type TASKBAR into the command line.
2. Change the value to 1 to enable a separate taskbar for each open drawing. Setting it to 0 will only display the current drawing.

Searching for Specific Drawings

To find specific text within your drawings:

Step 1: Open the Find Tool

1. Go to the navigation bar and click the Find button.
2. Alternatively, you can navigate to Tools > Find.

Step 2: Enter Your Search Criteria

1. Input the text or phrase you’re looking for.
2. Click OK to execute the search. Results will be shown based on the current space (either model or layout).

Changing File Types in AutoCAD

If you need to convert file types, follow these steps:

1. Click on Save As… to open the Save dialog.
2. In the name field, modify the extension to your desired file format (e.g., from .jpg to .png).
3. Click Save to create a new file in the chosen format.

FAQ

1. What should I do if my backup file doesn’t open?

If the renamed backup file fails to open, it may be corrupted. Attempt to use the Recover functionality in AutoCAD to attempt repair.

2. Where does AutoCAD store the autosave files?

Autosave files are typically stored in your system’s Temp folder, which can be accessed by typing %tmp% into the Start menu.

3. Can I customize the autosave settings?

Yes, you can adjust the autosave intervals and settings in the Options menu under the Open and Save tab in AutoCAD’s settings.