SAVEAS

Comprehensive DWG Compatibility and Management with SAVEAS

SAVEAS is an efficient utility designed to streamline the process of converting and managing DWG files across different AutoCAD releases. Its main purpose is to facilitate the creation of scripts for easy conversion between DWG file formats from Release 12 up to AutoCAD 2000, and all releases in between. It's a must-have arsenal for a broad range of professionals, including architects, engineers, and designers who depend on the smooth transition of their AutoCAD documents through various iterations of the software.

User-Friendly Interface Simplifies Conversion

One of the most commendable features of SAVEAS is its Windows Explorer-type dialog box, which makes finding and selecting the folders you need for your DWG files straightforward and intuitive. This choice of design means that users can effortlessly paste paths to the relevant fields in the script creation dialog, ensuring a more fluid and error-free process.

Moreover, the program provides support for long filenames, a critical feature as earlier AutoCAD releases do not support spaces in file names. SAVEAS cleverly circumvents this limitation by automatically replacing spaces with underscores, maintaining the integrity of the original file names while ensuring compatibility with AutoCAD's naming constraints.

Purge and Optimize with Ease

SAVEAS does more than just convert files; it is equipped with robust tools for purging unnecessary or redundant entities from your DWG files. These scripts not only facilitate general cleanup but also allow for the removal of specific entities such as blocks, layers, or styles. The usefulness of this cannot be overstated, as it allows professionals to keep their files clean and optimized, reducing file sizes significantly, which in turn can enhance performance and save valuable storage space.

Enhanced File Management

The program's Copy-Paste function should be highlighted for special attention. It empowers users to copy all entities from a drawing into a new file with great ease. After pasting, the program will zoom to fit all entities, save in the chosen AutoCAD release format, and place the resulting smaller file into a designated folder. The optimization achieved here means that the new files are up to half the size of the original, without compromising any data – a significant benefit when dealing with complex drawings.

Viewing and Compatibility

Another plus is the inclusion of a viewer that allows for the examination of the files within SAVEAS. The saved files are compatible with a variety of DWG viewers, ensuring that there are no disruptions to your workflow if you need to share files with colleagues or clients who may use different viewing tools.

Pros

• User-friendly interface facilitates smooth navigation and operation.
• Automatic conversion of long filenames to eliminate spaces ensures compatibility.
• Diverse purging capabilities enable efficient file optimization.
• Copy-Paste function reduces file size significantly without data loss.
• Created files are compatible with other DWG viewers for easy sharing.

Cons

• Limited to Windows 95 and later versions, not available for Mac or Linux users.
• May not support the very latest AutoCAD release formats post 2000.

In summary, SAVEAS is a practical and valuable tool for any professional dealing with multiple versions of DWG files. Its thoughtful features and straightforward interface make it a reliable aid in ensuring seamless compatibility and file management across different AutoCAD releases.