How To Recover Unsaved Work In AutoCAD?

Understanding AutoCAD Recovery Options

AutoCAD provides various tools and features to help users recover unsaved files. These methods can be especially useful in case of unexpected shutdowns or system crashes.

Location of Autosave Files

To retrieve your unsaved work, first familiarize yourself with where AutoCAD saves autosave files. On Windows, navigate to the “Files” tab through the Options dialog box. Check the path for the “Automatic Save File Location.” You can also use the SAVEFILEPATH variable for quick access. For Mac OS users, you’ll find this option under the Preferences in the Application menu.

Accessing Temporary Files

If you need to recover unsaved drawings, you can check for temporary files that AutoCAD may have generated:

1. Open the Run dialog: Press WIN + R.
2. Navigate to Temp Folder: Type %temp% and hit Enter. This will open your temporary files directory.
3. Search for AutoCAD Files: Look for files with extensions .BAK or .SV$, which indicate they are backup or autosave files.

Converting Autosave Files to DWG

If you locate a .SV$ file, you can convert it to a DWG file format:

1. Find the Autosave File: Locate the most recent .SV$ file that corresponds with your AutoCAD drawing.
2. Change File Extension: Rename the file, changing its extension from .SV$ to .DWG.
3. Save the File: Open the new DWG file in AutoCAD and save it in your desired location.

Setting Up Autosave in AutoCAD

To prevent future loss of work, it’s advisable to enable the Autosave feature:

1. Open Options Menu: Right-click in the drawing area and select “Options.”
2. Access Open and Save Tab: Go to the “Open and Save” tab.
3. Enable Autosave: Check the box labeled “Automatic Save.”
4. Set Time Interval: Specify the interval in minutes for Autosave to occur. For example, set it to 5 minutes for regular backups.

Utilizing AutoCAD Recovery Manager

AutoCAD includes a Recovery Manager which can be instrumental in recovering lost or unsaved files:

1. Open Recovery Manager: Hover over the downward arrow in the interface to access the Recovery Manager.
2. Preview Available Files: From the list, select the drawing or backup file you wish to recover.
3. Open and Save: Preview the file and choose the one you want to restore as your main DWG file.

Using the Recover Command

Sometimes, you might need to recover a corrupted DWG file:

1. Open AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD and navigate to your corrupted file.
2. Select Tools Menu: Click on the AutoCAD icon and select “Tools.”
3. Choose Drawing Utilities: From there, select “Recover.”
4. Inspect Repaired File: Wait for the process to complete, then check the newly recovered drawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my AutoCAD crashes?

If AutoCAD crashes, first reopen the application to check if it automatically prompts you to recover your last session. If not, follow the steps for locating temporary files as mentioned above.

How can I find missing drawings in AutoCAD?

To locate missing drawings, use the ZOOM command. Type E for Extents, which will bring all objects within the model space back into view.

Is there a way to change multiple DWG files at once?

Yes, you can use batch conversion tools or specific software designed for file conversion to change multiple DWG files into another format simultaneously. AutoCAD’s built-in features are generally tailored for one file at a time.