guide · 5 min read
Getting Started — Open Your First CAD Drawing
Upload DWG/DXF, navigate layers, search labels, and share with clients in under 5 minutes.
Guide sections
1. Upload your drawing
Open the CAD Viewer or any tool page and drag a DWG or DXF file into the upload zone. Files parse locally in your browser by default nothing is uploaded until you click Share.
Architectural, MEP, and shop drawings are all supported (DWG R12 through 2024).
2. Explore layers and text
Use the layer tree sidebar to toggle disciplines on/off. Enable the key layer filter to focus on MEP, fire, or security layers.
Switch to the Text panel to search labels (device tags, room names) and export to Excel on paid plans.
3. Measure and share
Activate the measure tool to verify spacing or runs on live CAD geometry — more accurate than scaled PDF prints.
When ready, click Share to generate a 90-day view-only link for owners, inspectors, or overseas partners.
Ready to try it? Open a drawing in our free viewer.
Open CAD ViewerGuide FAQ
Do I need an account to follow this guide?
- No. Open /viewer and upload a file immediately. Register later for shares and larger file limits.
What if my DWG will not open?
- Try DXF export from the sender, or use File Inspector to confirm the file is not corrupt or password-protected.
How do I find key layers quickly?
- Enable the key layer filter in the sidebar — it highlights common MEP, fire, and discipline-prefixed layers.
Can I use this on a tablet at the jobsite?
- Yes. Modern iPad and Android browsers run the viewer useful for field verification with the measure tool.
Where is the text search panel?
- Open the sidebar Text tab after upload. All TEXT/MTEXT labels appear with search and optional Excel export on paid plans.