How to convert CAD to PDF.

A woman sitting in a window seat using a laptop to convert CAD to PDF.

Learn how to quickly and easily convert a computer-aided design (CAD) file into a PDF so it can be shared and viewed on a computer or other devices.

In the design field, computer-aided design (CAD) files are what make everything possible. Widely used by many professionals, these unique files store 2D and 3D designs as well as additional processes and data.

While these files are integral to design work, not everyone in your digital workflow may be familiar with (or able to access) these types of files. In a few simple steps, though, you can create a PDF to make it easier for others to access and view the information. When composing any kind of document using a computer, you have to save it as a type of file. Within this file is the information necessary to document visualization and processing. CAD file formats are something important to consider for graphic design purposes as they are capable of improving the quality of a design.

What is a CAD file?

A CAD file or computer-aided design file has both 2D or 3D designs. CAD files are used mainly by engineers, designers, scientists, manufacturers, and graphic designers. This file type contains a technical drawing or blueprint and is most commonly used to make architecture plans or create models. CAD file formats help to optimize design layouts to help with designer productivity, improve the quality of the creation, and streamline communication.

CAD files can easily store and display geometric representations such as volume, center of mass, and surface area. They can also easily depict product structures, along with a variety of visual attributes.

How to convert CAD to PDF

With Adobe Acrobat, you can easily convert any CAD file into a PDF. While there are various CAD files, DWG and DXF are two of the most common types you may need to convert to PDF. Simply follow the steps below to get started:

  1. In Acrobat, select Tools, then Create PDF.
  2. Select Single File, then Select a File from the options menu
  3. Click or tap on Create. This converts your selected file to a PDF.
  4. Save your PDF to your desired location.

Use the best CAD to PDF converter

CAD files definitely have their design benefits, but sharing and collaboration can be more challenging with this file type. Converting your CAD file to a PDF can create an efficient, streamlined workflow in your workspace. Now that you’ve converted your CAD file to PDF, you can easily share it with others where it can be viewed on any computer and most mobile devices. Adobe Acrobat makes file conversion as seamless as possible to increase productivity wherever you are.

Take a moment to explore everything you can do with Acrobat to keep your file-sharing easy and your workflows moving, from editing PDF documents to converting file formats like PPT to PDF.