To convert a bitmap image to vectors

If you have a bitmap image and want to use it to generate machining toolpaths, you must convert the bitmap to vectors.

To convert a bitmap to vectors:

1. Select the 2D View tab to display the bitmap in the 2D view.
2. Select Vector > Bitmap to Vector or click the Bitmap to Vector button. The Bitmap to Vector panel is displayed.
3. Reduce the number of colours in the bitmap:
   1. Click Reduce Colours. The Reduce Number of Colours in Image dialog is displayed.
   2. Click and drag the slider to reduce the New maximum number of colours for image.
   3. Click OK to close the dialog.
4. To create vectors along the boundary of the selected colour, select the Create boundary check box.
5. To create vectors along the centreline of the selected colour:
   1. Select the Create centreline check box.
   2. Enter a Tolerance value, in pixels, to specify how closely vectors follow the bitmap's pixelated outline.
   3. Choose if you want the centreline vectors to be open or closed. Select:

      Disconnected open vectors to create open vectors.

      Closed vector loops to create closed vectors.

6. Enter a Speckle size value, in pixels, to specify how close the vectors follow the bitmap.
7. Enter a Smoothness value, in per cent. The higher the percentage, the smoother the spans within vectors.
8. In the Colour list, select the colour from which ArtCAM creates the vectors.
9. Click Create Vectors. The vectors are displayed in the 2D view.
10. Close the panel.
11. To improve the view of the vectors, click and drag the Contrast slider on the 2D View toolbar to increase the transparency of the image.

Tip: Select Vector > Vector Doctor or click the Vector Doctor button to find and fix common problems with vectors. For more information about this feature, see the Reference Help.