Artwork Conversion Software, Inc. is shipping a new translator, all2dxf, that reads Cadence Allegro's plot file and converts this data to AutoCAD's DXF file format. This translator makes it easy for PC board designers to move data from Allegro to any mechanical layout software that reads DXF. Since every Allegro module outputs the plot file designers can also use the translator to DXF files of schematics, highlighted nets and part placements as well as board outlines, traces and pads.
Existing solutions were either too expensive or worked poorly - for example it is possible to create an HPGL file and convert this to DXF but all information is lost - every string of text is converted into hundreds of tiny strokes making it impractical to load into AutoCAD.
All2dxf preserves the intelligence in the Allegro plot file - circuit traces retain their width, text retains all properties, layers and colors are preserved correctly. The DXF file is compact and easily edited.
After evaluating and installing all2dxf at his Beaverton facility Tom Witten had this to say:
"Thanks very much for developing the Allegro plot to DXF translator per our requirements. We've found the translator very useful for sending AutoCAD DXF files to both customers and vendors who need assembly drawings or board data in that format....
I am installing all2dxf at all Praegitzer facilities and would highly recommend it to any board design shop running Allegro."
ftp artwork.com > login: anonymous > password: your_email_address > cd pub/get_from_here/all2dxf > binary > get all2dxf.sunos.v101.zip > get all2dxf.manual.html > bye