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Introduction
**DXF **(Drawing Exchange Format) is a CAD data exchange file format developed by Autodesk, mainly used in AutoCAD software. DXF saves graphic data in text format to facilitate data exchange between different CAD software. Its file extension is “.dxf”, which can store graphic information (lines, circles, polylines, etc.), layer information, coordinates, text, and annotations in CAD drawings.

File Structure
DXF files are made up of multiple parts, each of which stores specific information. The main parts include:
- HEADER:
Stores basic information such as file version, creation date, and creation software.
- TABLES:
Stores information such as layers, line types, text styles, etc.
- BLOCKS:
Stores reusable objects or grouped graphic information.
- ENTITIES:
Stores actual graphic data, including lines, circles, polylines, and dimension symbols.
- EOF:
Marks the end of the file.
Pros
- **High compatibility: **DXF is an open format that can be used not only in AutoCAD, but also read and edited in many CAD software and GIS tools. This makes it smoother to exchange graphic data between different software.
- Easy to read text format: DXF is saved in text format, and coordinates and graphic information can be directly read by the human eye. This makes it more convenient to modify file contents manually or batch edit using scripts.
- **Support for 2D and 3D data: **DXF files can store 2D and 3D graphic data, so they can be used in a variety of scenarios such as design, simulation, and 3D modeling.
- **Support for custom attributes: **Custom information (such as part numbers or notes) can be embedded in DXF files, which is very useful in drawing management in the manufacturing and construction industries.
Cons
- Large file size: Since DXF uses text format to record detailed coordinate information, the file size is often large. Especially for complex drawings, DXF files with the same content are larger than DWG files.
- Data accuracy may decrease: Although DXF and DWG files are interoperable, some attributes may be lost or detail settings may not be retained during the conversion process. Special attention should be paid especially when high-precision 3D models or complex attributes are included.
- Limited support for 3D data: Although DXF can store 3D data, it does not provide sufficient support for the structure and material information of complex 3D models. Therefore, it is not suitable for high-precision 3D design.
Application Scenario
DXF files are widely used in cross-software exchange of CAD drawings such as architectural drawings, structural drawings, and wiring diagrams. DXF is an indispensable format, especially when transferring data between different design software. In the manufacturing industry, DXF files are used to share part drawings and production drawings. In addition, DXF is also used for map data exchange in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). In 3D modeling and BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, the DXF format is also used for data exchange.
Example
- Example of a DXF file.

- Example of a DXF file.

File Opening Mode
- DXF file open in Autodesk AutoCAD 2023

MID
IMDF
STYLX
E00
References
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoCAD_DXF
- https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/file-types/image/vector/dxf-file.html
- https://docs.fileformat.com/cad/dxf/