Export is the final stage, where a finished design becomes files the laser software can run. Exporting happens from the Bed Editor, because the bed determines how plates are arranged on the material.
Three ways to export
The Export menu groups them under Bed Exports and Individual Plates.
Option | Produces | Use when |
SVG Beds (ZIP) | All beds in a single ZIP archive, one SVG per bed | The laser software takes SVG, which is the common case |
One multi-page PDF covering every bed | Universal compatibility, or a proof is needed | |
SVG Plates (ZIP) | Each plate as a separate SVG file | Items are cut individually, or plates are nested elsewhere |
Choosing between them
Both bed exports preserve the arrangement built in the Bed Editor, and a job spanning three sheets produces three beds either way. Exporting individual plates discards that arrangement deliberately, which suits shops that nest plates in their own software.
File naming
Exported files are named after the design, with the internal reference ID appended where one is set. Setting a reference ID on the design is worthwhile for shops that match files to work orders.
Exporting part of a job
A filtered export is possible, covering only selected rows rather than the whole data table. This suits reprints and corrections, where a handful of plates need running again.