

Almost all plans are created by the designer as a vector file. Vector files provide increased speed, accuracy and ease of use. Additionally, the objects in vector images are taken off by snapping to the entity point or selecting the entire entity/object with a single click to obtain exact measurements. When working with vector graphic images with layers, the higher-end quantity takeoff programs will isolate the design layer and hide all irrelevant information.
RASTER AND VECTOR PDF
When the PDF file is created from the CAD, vector file, this PDF file is deemed a vector type PDF file. Vector files are computer aided design files with the following extensions: AutoCAD DWG, DWF, DXF, DGN and others. These geometric objects are typically organized in layers. A vector file contains geometric objects at certain locations. A vector graphic uses geometric objects such as points, lines, curves and polygons that are based on mathematical expressions.

Vector files contain much more information than the color coded pixels found in a raster file. Vector File ImagesĪ vector graphic image is very different than a raster image.
RASTER AND VECTOR SOFTWARE
Vertigraph’s quantity takeoff software works with all raster type files and does not require PDF file conversions. Some applications struggle will certain PDF files however and may require the user to convert the PDF file to a different type raster file such as a TIFF file. All takeoff programs available today read most raster file formats. The amount of error depends on the drawing resolution and scale. The measurement value generated from raster files is rarely 100% accurate. When digitizing lines, points and areas from raster files, the user clicks on the tiny pixel cells on the screen to measure the desired item. Raster images are files with the following file extensions: TIFF, JPEG, CMP, BMP and some PDFs. The smaller and closer the pixel cells, the better the quality of the image (i.e. The drawing is built up from these pixel cells. Raster File ImagesĪ raster graphic image displays the grading plan as a rectangular grid of very small rectangular cells called pixels, or points of color. How the takeoff is accomplished, and the options available when performing the takeoff, are governed by the file type. Although somewhat technical, understanding these file types is important. This paper will define and explain the differences between raster and vector files. A construction plan file will be either a raster file or a vector type file. There are many files created by the construction industry.
