How Do I Open an Autosave File in AutoCAD?

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Have you ever lost your progress while working on a project in AutoCAD? Don’t panic!

AutoCAD has an autosave feature that can help you recover your work. In this tutorial, we will show you how to open an autosave file in AutoCAD.

Step 1: Locate the Autosave Files

AutoCAD automatically creates backup files at regular intervals to prevent data loss. These files are stored in a designated folder on your computer.

To find the autosave folder location, follow these steps:

  • Option 1: Click on the “File” menu in AutoCAD and select “Options.”
  • Option 2: Type “OPTIONS” and press Enter in the command line.

A new window will appear. In this window, click on the “Files” tab.

Autosave File Options

In the Files tab, look for the “Automatic Save File Location” field. This field displays the path where autosave files are stored.

Step 2: Open Autosave Files

Now that you know where autosave files are located, it’s time to open them in AutoCAD.

To open an autosave file, follow these steps:

  1. Navigate to the Autosave Folder:
    • In Windows Explorer or File Explorer, go to the location mentioned in the “Automatic Save File Location” field.
  2. Identify and Select the Relevant Autosave File:
    • Look for the autosave file with a .sv$ extension. The file names usually contain the word “autosave” and the date/time of the last autosave.
    • Select the most recent autosave file that corresponds to your lost work.
  3. Change File Extension:
    • Rename the autosave file by removing the .sv$ extension and replacing it with .dwg.
  4. Open the Autosave File in AutoCAD:
    • Double-click on the renamed autosave file, or right-click and select “Open” from the context menu.
    • The autosave file will open in AutoCAD, allowing you to continue working from where you left off.

Tips for Preventing Data Loss

Data loss can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to minimize its impact:

  • Frequent Save: Save your work regularly to avoid losing progress in case of unexpected events like power outages or software crashes.
  • AutoCAD Options: Explore AutoCAD options and customize them according to your preferences. You can adjust autosave intervals, backup file locations, and more.
  • Backup Files: In addition to autosave files, create regular backups of your CAD files to an external drive or cloud storage service. This provides an extra layer of protection against data loss.

In conclusion, opening an autosave file in AutoCAD is a simple process that can save you from the frustration of losing your work. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial and implementing preventive measures, you can ensure a smoother CAD experience.