Overview
Scan2CAD v10.6.1 is the world's leading software for automatic raster-to-vector (R2V) and PDF-to-CAD/CNC conversion. Developed by Avia Systems (UK) for over 20 years, it transforms scanned images (scans), PDFs, photographs, and image files into editable vector files: DXF, DWG, G-code, HPGL, SVG, CNC. It combines an advanced vectorization engine, technical OCR, batch processing, and raster image cleanup — all in an optimized workflow for engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and archive digitization.
Version 10.6.1 brings improved arc/circle vectorization precision, enhanced OCR for technical fonts, expanded support for mixed vector+raster PDFs, and compatibility with Windows 10/11 and macOS 14+ (Sonoma) with native Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) support. It is the standard tool for converting paper drawings, legacy plans, maps, logos, and technical documentation into CAD/CNC-ready files, eliminating hours of manual redrawing.
Core Capabilities
| Capability | Details |
|---|---|
| Raster→Vector Conversion | Scans, PDFs, images to DXF, DWG, G-code, HPGL, SVG, vector PDF, CNC |
| Intelligent Recognition (AI) | Lines, polylines, arcs, circles, ellipses, splines, hatches, texts, dimensions, arrows |
| PDF Import | Extracts both vector content (lines, text, fonts) and raster (embedded images) — preserves PDF layers |
| Technical OCR (Smart OCR) | Recognizes dimension text, annotations, tables, legends in engineering/arch drawings → editable vector text (MText) |
| CNC Export | Optimized G-code for milling, laser, plasma, waterjet — pocketing, profiling, drilling, lead-in/out, tabs |
| Batch Processing | Convert entire folders of images/PDFs with same parameters — multi-page PDF → multiple DXF/DWG/G-code |
| Raster Cleanup | Deskew, despeckle, threshold, thickening/thinning, hole fill, smooth — pre-processing for precise vectorization |
| Side-by-Side Preview | Raster/vector overlay with synchronized zoom, before/after comparison, real-time parameter adjustment |
| Shape Recognition | Detects arrows, symbols, blocks, table cells → converts to reusable CAD blocks/entities |
| Scale Correction | Calibration by known distance, DPI, drawing scale — ensures real-scale output (1:1, 1:50, 1:100, etc.) |
| Layer Support | Preserves PDF vector layers; creates layers by color/entity type in raster vectorization |
| Automation | Command line / API for headless automation and pipeline integration (ERP, PDM, MES) |
Why Professionals Choose Scan2CAD
Eliminates hours/days of manual redrawing of scanned plans — automatic conversion in minutes. Preserves original geometry with sub-pixel precision — true arcs, not approximated line segments. Output compatible with ALL CAD software: AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks, BricsCAD, ZWCAD, GstarCAD, Fusion 360, etc. CNC-ready: optimized G-code reduces material waste, machine time, and tool breakage. Batch processing scales to hundreds/thousands of files — entire archive digitization. Technical OCR reads dimensions and annotations — not just "text" but recoverable engineering information. Runs on modest hardware — no dedicated GPU needed, works on standard corporate laptops. Intuitive interface with step-by-step wizard — productive on first use, no formal training required.
CanalVIP: Organized Access & Support
CanalVIP organizes download links, technical information, and access guidance. Licenses, activations, plugins, and paid resources follow the terms of each vendor or distributor.
