Introduction
No doubt, on the desktop ESRI ArcGIS is the top GIS software while AutoDesk AutoCAD is the top CAD software.
Both are capable of making maps and in this article, I will demo how to convert existing map in ArcGIS to AutoCAD. But before I go into that, lets get to know what GIS and CAD mean.
What is GIS and CAD?
GIS = Geographic Information System
CAD = Computer Aided Design
What is the Difference between GIS and CAD?
Both GIS and CAD can be used for making maps however, they are very different technologies with different applications.
GIS: analyzing/visualizing map data
CAD: creating/editing accurate map data
GIS allows data to be attached to the points, lines, and polygons used in the map. This makes GIS the best tool for analyzing and visualizing data through the use of a map.
CAD easily allows a user to create a very accurate drawing whether it is a map, site plan, profile etc. CAD allows the drawing of maps by the use of coordinates or through distances/bearings in different types of unit.
How to converting map data from GIS to CAD and vice versa
GIS to CAD:
In ArcGIS, you use the command at: ArcToolBox >> ConversionTools >> To CAD to concert map layer to CAD.
CAD to GIS:
In AutoCAD you simply save the map as .dxf or .dwg file to have it usable in GIS.
That is it!
No doubt, on the desktop ESRI ArcGIS is the top GIS software while AutoDesk AutoCAD is the top CAD software.
Both are capable of making maps and in this article, I will demo how to convert existing map in ArcGIS to AutoCAD. But before I go into that, lets get to know what GIS and CAD mean.
What is GIS and CAD?
GIS = Geographic Information System
CAD = Computer Aided Design
What is the Difference between GIS and CAD?
Both GIS and CAD can be used for making maps however, they are very different technologies with different applications.
GIS: analyzing/visualizing map data
CAD: creating/editing accurate map data
GIS allows data to be attached to the points, lines, and polygons used in the map. This makes GIS the best tool for analyzing and visualizing data through the use of a map.
CAD easily allows a user to create a very accurate drawing whether it is a map, site plan, profile etc. CAD allows the drawing of maps by the use of coordinates or through distances/bearings in different types of unit.
Map displayed in ArcGIS
Map displayed in AutoCAD
How to converting map data from GIS to CAD and vice versa
GIS to CAD:
In ArcGIS, you use the command at: ArcToolBox >> ConversionTools >> To CAD to concert map layer to CAD.
CAD to GIS:
In AutoCAD you simply save the map as .dxf or .dwg file to have it usable in GIS.
That is it!
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