KB: Convert P-CAD file to Altium
Created: July 29, 2022 | Updated: November 15, 2024
Altium Designer
Starting in version: 18
Up to Current
When trying to import a P-CAD PCB file using the Import Wizard, I get a "file not recognized" message.
Solution Details
When importing older P-Cad files into Altium, users might encounter this error message:
This can be due to the P-Cad file being exported/saved in an older version (before 2006.)
You can use a text editor to open the file to see version information:
There are two options available when encountering this error.
- If you still have access to P-CAD with a valid license for P-CAD 2006, you can open the file with that version, then use File ► Save as, and then import the newly saved file into Altium Designer.
(What a resaved P-CAD file will look like when opened in a text editor)
- If P-CAD software is not accessible, an alternate approach would be to contact the Altium Service Bureaus. Here's a link:
https://altium.secure.force.com/servicebureaus
You can use the search feature to find a service bureau that has P-CAD in their "Services provided" section.
You can use the search feature to find a service bureau that has P-CAD in their "Services provided" section.