GCarve

Open VCarve .crv files

Years of jobs live in .crv files. GCarve opens them directly, so moving off VCarve doesn't mean redrawing anything.

1. Open the file

In GCarve choose File ▸ Open, click Open a file from this computer, or just drop the .crv on the window. It works in the browser and in the free desktop apps for Mac, Windows and Linux. The .crv file itself is never changed.

2. What comes across

• Vectors on their layers, with lines, arcs and curves kept as curves.
• Sheets: every VCarve sheet becomes a GCarve sheet with its board size and thickness.
• Text, as letter outlines, grouped per text. Straight text lands exactly where VCarve has it.
• Bits: diameter, V angle, pass depth, stepover, feed, plunge rate and spindle speed.
• Toolpaths: profile (inside, outside, on), pocket (with a clearing bit), drill, V-carve (with flat depth) and chamfer, with depths, tabs, ramps, lead-ins and allowances.
• Organisation: toolpath folders and merged toolpaths become groups in the toolpath list, and array copies become GCarve's Array setting.

3. Check, simulate, cut

GCarve rebuilds each toolpath from its settings, so look over the list, then watch the cut in the 3D simulation. Export runs the same safety check as any other job and writes G-code for your machine, including the CAMaster / WinCNC and 60+ other post-processors.

What isn't read yet

3D models and 3D toolpaths, and toolpaths whose vectors were deleted in VCarve. Text on a curve can sit up to about 1/32 in from VCarve's position. GCarve says what was left out when the file opens.

See also opening .tap and G-code files, post-processors and GCarve as a VCarve alternative.