CAD File Requirements
The quality and completeness of your reference files can affect how easily a CAD request can be reviewed and prepared.
A CAD request does not always require an existing CAD file. Depending on the task, you may provide a technical drawing, sketch, image, PDF, or combination of references.
SYNCCAD reviews the available information before confirming the scope of an eligible Simple CAD Job.
Depending on the requested CAD work, useful references may include:
- Existing CAD files
- Technical drawings
- Dimensioned sketches
- PDF drawings
- Clear images
- Marked-up drawings
- Multiple reference views
- Revision information
The required reference depends on what you want SYNCCAD to prepare.
Existing CAD Files
If you are requesting a modification or conversion, provide the original CAD file whenever possible.
Also include:
- What needs to change
- Which features need modification
- Required dimensions
- Desired output format
- Current revision, if applicable
For example, an existing mounting plate can be accompanied by a marked-up drawing showing which holes need to be moved.
Technical Drawings
A technical drawing can provide important information such as:
- Overall dimensions
- Feature dimensions
- Hole sizes
- Hole locations
- Angles
- Radii
- Sections
- Multiple views
- Notes
Make sure the drawing is readable and that the relevant dimensions are visible.
Sketches
A hand-drawn or digital sketch can be used as a CAD reference when it clearly communicates the required geometry.
A useful sketch should identify:
- Main dimensions
- Important features
- Hole locations
- Thicknesses
- Angles
- Units
- Relevant views
A rough sketch without dimensions may not contain enough information to accurately define the CAD geometry.
Images and Photos
Images can help communicate the general shape of an existing part.
For best results, provide:
- Clear images
- Straight-on views where possible
- Multiple views when needed
- Known dimensions
- Reference measurements
- Additional sketches or drawings
An image alone may not establish the exact size or hidden geometry of a part.
PDF References
PDFs can be useful when they contain technical drawings or clearly defined dimensions.
When submitting a PDF, check that:
- The drawing is readable
- Dimensions are visible
- Units are identifiable
- Relevant views are included
- The intended revision is clear
A scanned PDF may require additional information if dimensions or geometry are difficult to interpret.
Dimensions and Units
Dimensions should be clearly associated with the geometry they describe.
Important information may include:
- Overall dimensions
- Thickness
- Hole diameter
- Hole spacing
- Feature location
- Angles
- Radii
- Internal dimensions
Always specify the units when they are not clearly stated.
Common units include millimeters and inches.
File Revision Requirements
When multiple versions exist, identify the correct source file or drawing.
Useful revision information includes:
- File name
- Revision number
- Revision date
- Marked-up changes
- Description of the requested update
This is especially important when modifying an existing CAD file.
Output Format Requirements
Tell SYNCCAD what format you need when possible.
Depending on the request, this may include:
- STEP
- STL
- DXF
- DWG
- Another agreed format
The appropriate output depends on the requested workflow. If you are unsure, explain what you intend to do with the file.
A useful reference should be:
Clear
The geometry and important information can be understood without excessive interpretation.
Complete
The necessary dimensions, views, and features are included.
Consistent
Different references do not contradict each other.
Identifiable
The correct revision or source file is clear.
Relevant
The supplied information directly relates to the requested CAD work.
Common File Problems
Low-Quality Images
Blurry or heavily compressed images can make dimensions and geometry difficult to interpret.
Missing Dimensions
A drawing may show the shape but not provide enough measurements to define it.
Conflicting References
Two files may contain different dimensions or geometry.
Missing Units
Without units, dimensions may be ambiguous.
Outdated Revision
An old CAD file may be submitted when a newer version exists.
Incomplete Views
A single view may not show important geometry.
If the supplied information is insufficient to clearly define the requested work, the request may require clarification before the scope can be confirmed.
For an eligible Simple CAD Job:
- Submit the available references.
- SYNCCAD reviews the information.
- The scope and price are confirmed.
- Payment is completed.
- Any required missing information must be provided.
- CAD preparation begins once payment and complete references are received.
- The agreed CAD output is delivered.
The target delivery time for an eligible Simple CAD Job is 48 hours after payment is received and all required references and information are complete.
Providing complete CAD references does not guarantee that the resulting file is suitable for every manufacturing or engineering application.
SYNCCAD does not provide:
- Engineering validation
- Structural calculations
- Safety certification
- Guaranteed manufacturability
- Guaranteed fit
- Material validation
- Manufacturing process certification
The customer and selected manufacturer remain responsible for final engineering and manufacturing decisions.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about our company.
No. You can provide drawings, sketches, images, PDFs, or other suitable references depending on the requested task.
Can a DWG file be converted to DXF?
This may be possible depending on the source file, required output, and supported workflow. Some drawing information or application-specific features may not transfer exactly.
Yes. A photo can be useful as a reference, but dimensions and additional views may be required.
Submit the available information. SYNCCAD can review whether the request can be scoped or whether additional information is required.
Yes, when available. The original file is generally the most useful reference for a CAD modification request.
It is recommended. If you are unsure, explain the intended use of the CAD file.
The request may require clarification before the scope can be confirmed. Identify the intended revision whenever possible.
No. The $48 price applies only to eligible, clearly defined Simple CAD Jobs after scope review.
The 48-hour delivery period starts after payment is received and all required references and information are complete.
Related Resources
- Preparing a CAD Request
- How to Choose a CAD Format
- CAD Revision Checklist
- CAD Service FAQs
- Simple CAD Job Scope
- CAD File Modification
Ready to Submit Your CAD References?
Provide your files, drawings, sketches, dimensions, and instructions for CAD scope review. For eligible, clearly defined jobs. The 48-hour delivery period starts after payment and all required references are received.