Sending CAD files via email can be tricky due to their large size and complex data structures. CAD files often contain detailed 3D models and technical drawings that can reach sizes of hundreds of megabytes. This guide will show you several effective methods to share your CAD files, with a focus on using Papermark for efficient and secure file sharing.
Quick recap of methods
Papermark: Convert CAD files to shareable links or create a data room for multiple files.
Direct email attachment: Attach small CAD files directly to your email.
Cloud storage services: Upload to services like Google Drive or OneDrive and share the link.
Compress the CAD file: Reduce file size using compression tools.
File transfer services: Use platforms like WeTransfer or SendAnywhere.
Method 1: Turn CAD files into shareable links
Papermark offers powerful solutions for sending CAD files: creating shareable links for individual files and setting up data rooms for multiple documents.
A. Turn CAD files into shareable links
Log in to Papermark: Access your Papermark account or sign up if you don't have one.
Upload your CAD file: Click on the "Upload" button and select your CAD file.
Generate link: Once uploaded, Papermark will automatically generate a shareable link.
Customize settings (Optional): Set access permissions, add password protection, or customize the viewing experience.
Copy and share: Copy the generated link and paste it into your email.
Analyze file views: Track engagement with your CAD file using Papermark's analytics dashboard.
B. Create a data room for multiple files
For sharing multiple CAD files or creating a professional presentation:
Create a data room: In your Papermark dashboard, create a new data room.
Upload CAD files: Add all your CAD files to the data room.
Customize branding: Add your logo and customize the appearance.
Set access permissions: Control who can view or download the files.
Share one link: Send a single link that provides access to all your CAD files.
Using Papermark offers several advantages:
Share multiple files with one link
Track engagement and views
Maintain a professional, branded appearance
Ensure security with access controls
Method 2: Direct email attachment
For small CAD files:
Open your email client and compose a new message.
Click on the attachment icon or "Attach file" option.
Navigate to your CAD file and select it.
Add your message and send the email.
Note: Most email services have a 25MB limit for attachments, which is often too small for complex CAD files.
Method 3: Use cloud storage services
Upload to cloud storage: Use services like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox.
Generate a shareable link: Create a link to your uploaded file.
Send the link: Include the link in your email instead of attaching the file.
Method 4: Compress the CAD file
Use compression tools: Use built-in Windows compression or specialized tools like 7-Zip or WinRAR.
Check file integrity: Ensure the compression doesn't affect the CAD file's functionality.
Attach compressed file: If small enough, attach directly to your email.
Method 5: Use file transfer services
Choose a service: WeTransfer, SendAnywhere, or similar platforms.
Upload your file: Follow the service's instructions to upload.
Share the download link: Send the provided link via email.
Conclusion
While there are several methods to send CAD files via email, using Papermark provides a comprehensive solution, especially when dealing with multiple files or requiring a professional presentation. It combines ease of use with powerful tracking and security features, making it an ideal choice for engineers, architects, and design professionals.