Where Is AutoCAD Backup File Location?

Locating AutoCAD Backup Files

Understanding where AutoCAD stores its backup files is essential for efficient file management and data recovery. AutoCAD employs various backup methods, including backup files and autosave files, to prevent the loss of your valuable work. Depending on your settings, these files can be found in specific locations on your computer.

Types of AutoCAD Backup Files

1. BAK Files: These files are created when you save your drawing. When you save a file in AutoCAD, a backup file is automatically generated with a .bak extension. This file contains the last saved version of your drawing, providing a crucial safety net.

2. SV$ Files: Autosave files are generated at regular intervals while you are working on a drawing. These files have the .sv$ extension and are saved in the same directory as your original drawing or in a specific location set in AutoCAD’s options.

Finding BAK Files

To locate your .bak files, follow these steps:

1. Navigate to the Drawing Location: Start by going to the folder where you saved your original AutoCAD file, which typically has the .dwg extension.
2. Look for the BAK File: In the same directory, check for a file with the same name as your drawing but with a .bak extension.
3. Use Search Function: If you can’t find it manually, you can use the search function of your operating system. Type "*.bak" in the search bar of your file explorer to locate all BAK files on your computer.

Accessing SV$ Files

To recover an autosave (.sv$) file:

1. Find the Autosave Location: Open AutoCAD and type OPTIONS in the command line. Under the "Open and Save" tab, locate the "Autosave" settings to see where your autosave files are stored.

2. Browse to the Directory: Use a file explorer to navigate to the identified directory and look for files with the .sv$ extension.

3. Rename the File: Once you find the desired .sv$ file, right-click it, select "Rename," and change the extension from .sv$ to .dwg.

4. Open the File in AutoCAD: Launch AutoCAD, use the "Open" command, and browse to your newly renamed .dwg file to restore your drawing.

Autosave Settings in AutoCAD

Setting up autosave is vital to ensure regular backups. To configure your autosave settings:

1. Open Options Menu: Right-click on the drawing canvas and select "Options," or type OPTIONS in the command line.
2. Select the Open and Save Tab: Navigate to the "Open and Save" section.
3. Enable Autosave: Check the box labeled "Automatic Save" and input the desired interval in minutes. This setting dictates how frequently AutoCAD will save your work automatically.

Recovering Lost AutoCAD Drawings

If you ever find yourself with a lost drawing, you can attempt recovery by following these steps:

1. Start a New Drawing: Open AutoCAD and create a new drawing.
2. Access the Recovery Tool: Go to “File” > “Drawing Utilities” and select “Recover.”
3. Select the Drawing: Browse through your files to find the drawing you want to recover. Click “OK” to initiate the recovery process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I change the location of AutoCAD backup files?
To change where AutoCAD stores backup files, access the "Options" dialog, go to the "Open and Save" tab, and modify the "Automatic Save File Location." This lets you set a preferred directory for saving backup files.

2. What should I do if I can’t find my AutoCAD BAK or SV$ files?
If you cannot locate your backup files, ensure that your AutoCAD settings for autosaving and backups are correctly configured. Use the search function in Windows Explorer with ".bak" or ".sv$" to search for these files across your computer.

3. Is it possible to recover from a corrupted AutoCAD file?
Yes, AutoCAD has built-in tools to recover corrupted files. You can use the "Recover" or "AECTRAN" command to attempt recovery of damaged drawings, along with using any existing BAK or SV$ files for retrieval.