Re-indexing the server extracts the properties from all the files in the vault. Typically, this indexing process occurs when a file is first added to the vault or when an updated version is checked in.
The Autodesk Vault server utilizes a technology created by Microsoft called iFilters. iFilters are small applications that exist on the server containing a set of instructions on how to open and extract property data from files. A few iFilters are installed with Autodesk Vault server by default and other exist with the operating system. There are also many third-party iFilters available for other file formats. An Internet search for iFilter returns some of the filters that other software developers have published.