If you are a CAD user, you might have encountered the file extension .dxx in your work. But what is a DXX file, and how can you open it? In this blog post, we will explain what a DXX file is, how it is used, and what programs can open it.
What is a DXX file?
A DXX file is a data file created by AutoCAD, an application used for creating 3D design drawings. A DXX file may contain drawing block references, attributes, and end-of-sequence objects. A DXX file can only store a subset of information that can be saved in a .DXF file.
A DXX file is used for extracting smaller amounts of information from a drawing that can be used interchangeably with other CAD applications. For example, a DXX file can be used to store the attributes of a drawing block, such as its name, position, scale, rotation, and layer. A DXX file can also be used to store the end-of-sequence marker for a drawing block, which indicates the end of the block definition.
How is a DXX file used?
A DXX file is used for data exchange between different CAD applications. A DXX file can be imported or exported by AutoCAD or other compatible programs. A DXX file can also be attached or referenced by another drawing file as an external reference.
A DXX file can be useful for several purposes, such as:
- Reducing the size of a drawing file by storing only the necessary information in a separate DXX file.
- Sharing or transferring data between different CAD applications or platforms without losing any information or formatting.
- Updating or modifying data in a drawing block without affecting the original drawing file.
- Creating or editing custom attributes for a drawing block using a text editor or spreadsheet program.
What programs can open a DXX file?
A DXX file can be opened by various CAD applications that support the DXF format. Some of these programs are:
- AutoCAD: The original program that creates and uses DXX files. AutoCAD is a professional 3D design and drafting software that is widely used in various industries, such as architecture, engineering, construction, and manufacturing. AutoCAD can import and export DXX files as well as attach or reference them in other drawing files. You can download AutoCAD from its official website.
- DraftSight: A free and easy-to-use 2D and 3D CAD software that can open and edit DXX files as well as other DXF and DWG files. DraftSight is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. You can download DraftSight from its official website.
- LibreCAD: An open-source and cross-platform 2D CAD software that can open and view DXX files as well as other DXF and DWG files. LibreCAD is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. You can download LibreCAD from its official website.
Conclusion
A DXX file is a data file created by AutoCAD that contains drawing block reference, attribute, and end-of-sequence objects. A DXX file can only store a subset of information that can be saved in a DXF file. A DXX file is used for data exchange between different CAD applications. A DXX file can be opened by various CAD applications that support the DXF format, such as AutoCAD, DraftSight, and LibreCAD.