Preparing a CAD Request
A clear CAD request helps define what needs to be prepared, what information is available, and what output you expect.
Whether you are starting from a drawing, sketch, image, existing CAD file, or a combination of references, providing the right information can make the scope easier to review.
SYNCCAD reviews CAD requests before work begins to determine whether the requested task can be handled as an eligible Simple CAD Job.
A useful CAD request should clearly explain:
- What you need prepared
- What reference files you have
- Important dimensions
- Required output format
- Intended use, when relevant
- Specific modifications or features
- Any important constraints or requirements
The goal is not to provide a complicated technical specification. The goal is to give enough information for the requested CAD work to be understood accurately.
1. Describe What You Need
Start with a short description of the requested work.
For example:
- Create a 2D CAD drawing from a dimensioned sketch
- Prepare a simple 3D model from a technical drawing
- Modify an existing CAD file
- Prepare a DXF profile from a supplied drawing
- Convert an existing CAD file to an agreed format
Be specific about what should be created or changed.
2. Provide Your References
Upload the references that contain the information needed to define the CAD work.
These may include:
- Technical drawings
- Dimensioned sketches
- Images
- Existing CAD files
- PDFs
- Multiple reference views
- Revision notes
If several files belong to the same request, clearly indicate which files should be considered together.
3. Include Important Dimensions
Dimensions are especially important when the source is an image or sketch.
Depending on the part, useful dimensions may include:
- Overall width
- Overall height
- Overall length
- Thickness
- Hole diameter
- Hole spacing
- Feature locations
- Angles
- Radii
- Slot dimensions
- Internal dimensions
If a dimension is important to the final geometry, make sure it is clearly identified.
4. Specify Units
Always identify the measurement units when they are not obvious.
Common examples include:
- Millimeters
- Inches
Do not assume that the units can be determined reliably from an image alone.
5. Specify the Desired Output
Tell SYNCCAD which output format you need when you know it.
Depending on the requested workflow, this may include:
- STEP
- STL
- DXF
- DWG
- Another agreed CAD format
The appropriate output depends on the actual scope and intended use. If you are unsure, explain how you plan to use the file so the required format can be reviewed.
6. Explain Any Required Modifications
If you are providing an existing CAD file, clearly describe what needs to change.
For example:
- Change a hole diameter
- Add or remove a hole
- Change an overall dimension
- Modify a profile
- Update a mounting pattern
- Change a simple feature
- Prepare a revised version
A marked-up drawing or revision note can make the requested changes easier to understand.
7. Identify the Correct Revision
If you have multiple versions of the same CAD file or drawing, identify which one should be used.
For example:
Source file: Bracket_Rev_B
Required change: Move two mounting holes according to the attached marked-up drawing.
This helps avoid working from an outdated reference.
A request is easier to scope when:
- The requested result is clearly described
- Reference files are readable
- Important dimensions are available
- Units are specified
- The required output is known
- Revision instructions are clear
- There are no major unresolved design decisions
A request may require clarification if important information is missing or conflicting.
A single image without dimensions or instructions may not provide enough information to define the requested geometry.
Missing Output Format
The request may describe the part clearly but not explain whether the required result is a 2D drawing, 3D model, or another format.
Conflicting Dimensions
Different references may show different dimensions. These conflicts should be resolved before the scope is confirmed.
Unclear Revision
When modifying an existing file, it may be unclear which version is the current source.
Missing Important Views
A single view may not show the complete geometry.
A useful request could look like this:
Request:
“Create a 3D CAD model of the attached mounting plate.”
References:
“See attached dimensioned PDF and front-view image.”
Units:
“Millimeters.”
Important requirements:
“Include all six mounting holes and the center cutout shown in the drawing.”
Output:
“STEP.”
This provides a clear starting point for scope review.
1. Submit Your Request
Provide your description and reference files.
2. Review the Available Information
SYNCCAD checks whether the requested CAD work can be clearly understood from the supplied information.
3. Confirm Scope and Price
If the request qualifies as an eligible Simple CAD Job, the $48 price and scope are confirmed before payment.
More complex or unclear requests may require a separate review and custom quote.
4. Complete Payment and References
Production starts only after payment is received and all required references and information are complete.
5. Prepare and Deliver the CAD File
For eligible Simple CAD Jobs, the target delivery time is 48 hours after payment and receipt of all required information.
Preparing a clear CAD request does not mean that every request will qualify as a Simple CAD Job.
SYNCCAD may require additional information when:
- Dimensions are missing
- References conflict
- Geometry is unclear
- The requested output is not defined
- The scope is more complex than a simple CAD task
SYNCCAD provides CAD file preparation and does not provide engineering validation, structural calculations, safety certification, or guaranteed manufacturability.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some common questions about our company.
No. You can start with sketches, images, existing CAD files, or other useful references. However, sufficient information must be available to define the requested work.
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. Multiple files can be useful when different views or dimensions are needed.
Yes, when you know which format you need. If you are unsure, explain the intended use so the appropriate output can be reviewed.
Submit the available information. SYNCCAD can review whether the request can be clearly scoped or whether additional information is needed.
Yes. Provide the original CAD file together with clear instructions describing the required changes
No. The $48 price applies only to eligible, clearly defined Simple CAD Jobs after scope review.
For an eligible Simple CAD Job, the 48-hour period begins after payment is received and all required references and information are complete.
Related Resources
- CAD File Requirements
- How to Choose a CAD Format
- CAD Revision Checklist
- CAD Service FAQs
- Simple CAD Job Scope
- CAD File Modification
Need Help Preparing a CAD Request?
Provide your CAD references and describe what you need prepared for scope review. For eligible, clearly defined jobs. The 48-hour delivery period starts after payment and all required references are received.