This can be accomplished with floppy disks using utilities such as PC Exchange. If you are using any of these programs you need only transfer the files from one platform to another either with a floppy disk by mail or on-line service via modem. Once the DXF file is transferred to your system as described above you can translate it from DXF to the format of your CAD program. If your CAD program does not support reading and writing DXF files you will need to acquire some additional software. Some CAD programs such as PowerCAD can acquire the ability to translate DXF files through the use of additional software called externals.
Some programs require the use of a separate software application to translate the files.
Translation software can usually be purchased directly from the publisher of your CAD software. Be sure to inquire whether your CAD program is supported. 1. Request a DXF file from the person you are collaborating with to test the transfer and translation process before you are up against a deadline. This will make sending and receiving files easier under short time constraints. Get a list of layers in the files that will be translated and determine which layers contain the information you need.