LT offers several backup files for you to recover from should your DWG file become corrupt. Below is the list of these files and how you can use them to help:
- BAK files are backup files created on manual Saves, they reside in the same folder as your DWG file and all you have to do to recover one is to rename the file extension (if you have that feature turned on in Windows Explorer) from BAK to DWG.
Of course, you need to turn on BAK file creation first to get them: See screenshot below in OPTIONS command. Some I.T. personnel may not realize how important these files are so you need to push to have them if necessary for instant recovery as opposed to I.T.'s day-old recovery.
- SV$ files are automatic timed backups of drawings created by turning on AUTOSAVE in LT. This should never be considered a replacement for a manual save, this feature exists solely as a backup to the above in case of an LT or system crash only: this autosave file is always deleted on successful AutoCAD/LT exit. These files are stored in the temp files folder under
You need to turn on the Autosave feature first to get them: See screenshot below in OPTIONS command. Rename the file extension (if you have that feature turned on in Windows Explorer) from SV$ to DWG.
- AC$ files are temporary AutoCAD working files for various functions (undo, hidden lines...), ac$ files do not contain drawing data, you can't use them for anything or recover any data from them for your use.
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Recovering Backup files
