Brief 'how to' gsd to SCAL using pdf file and Inkscape

[susibi]

This is for those members who have access to gsd templates and want to turn them into cutting files for SCAL.
Remember that you have to eliminate any fold or detail lines first as SCAL will cut everything it finds!
This mini tut assumes that you have a basic working knowledge of Robomaster, Inkscape and SCAL.
HTH Susibi
Edited to change the title of the post - I started with a gsd because I'd been asked for instructions, but the basic pdf line drawing to SCAL is the same.
Please note that gsd files can only be opened by ROBOmaster, Silhouette and Wishblade software. Some gsds can be opened in the KNK software .
They will not open in any other program.

[susibi]

next bit:
It really is this easy.
I use pdf factory as my pdf program but pdf creator is a free downloadable program which will do just as well.
Susibi

[ms linda]

What if you don't have Robomaster? Is there still a way to convert the gsd files? I have Adobe, SCAL, Inkscape.

[kkrewtea]

I don't have robomaster either. Would PSE5 open them???

[susibi]

GSD is a CAD type file format may only be opened by Graphtec software ie in our case ROBOmaster, Wishblade, Silhouette software. If you have a jpeg of the file then you can try opening it in your graphics program and filling it with solid colour then tracing in Inkscape or making a pdf file of it then going through Inkscape to change it to .svg. Line drawings do not trace well in Inkscape so just tracing your image would give you the dreaded double lines.
HTH
Susibi

[ms linda]

So much terminology and so little time.

[susibi]

slowly does it - you have to learn a little about the different file formats if you want to use your pc to the max with programs like SCAL and Inkscape.
The most commonly used file formats are .jpeg, png, pdf etc and those of us who have electronic cutters are familiar with gsd and dxf file formats which are file formats proprietary to CAD or Computer Assisted Drawing software.
svg format is a vector format .
HTH
Susibi

[melchache]

i have a copy of the graphtec software if anyone would like it.

[kkrewtea]

I found a free robomaster download at this place http://www.graphtecgb.com/index.php?opt ... &Itemid=45 Thatnks to some people on the SCAL yahoo group! Now I need to find robomaster tuts! Anyone know where I can find those? At least I can SEE gsd files now!

[Renee]

Thanks again Susibi! I tried this today and it is so easy. I used CS2 Illustrator to open the pdf files and save them as SVG files. I would love to share them but I did not design them so I am afraid to post. It is so awesome to be able to use my wishblade files.