# Plott CAD & Estimating Software Integration Guide
> Technical specifications, data schemas, and export procedures for transferring PLOTT field measurements directly into CAD platforms, GIS tools, and estimating software.

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## 1. Overview
The Plott ecosystem eliminates manual data re-entry between the field and the office. Measurements captured with the Plott CARTA wheel or Cubit AR tool export directly into industry-standard open formats (.DXF, .CSV, .PDF, .PLT), enabling seamless integration with architectural drafting, Civil engineering, and contractor estimating platforms.

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## 2. 2D Vector CAD Integration (.DXF Export)

### Compatible CAD Platforms
* **Autodesk AutoCAD / AutoCAD LT** (2018 format and newer)
* **Autodesk Civil 3D** (Site layouts, boundary runs, civil grading)
* **Vectorworks Landmark & Architect**
* **Trimble SketchUp Pro** (Direct vector import)
* **Chief Architect & Rhino**

### Technical DXF File Structure
Plott CARTA exports native Drawing Exchange Format (.DXF) files containing true-scale vector geometry:
* **Coordinate System:** Planar 2D Cartesian coordinates (X, Y axis) mapped relative to project origin (0, 0).
* **Layer Organization:**
  * `LAYER_PERIMETER`: Closed polyline vectors of measured boundary paths.
  * `LAYER_DIMENSIONS`: Linear segment annotations with exact real-world dimensions.
  * `LAYER_WAYPOINTS`: Point entities marking field pins, utilities, and notes.
* **Unit Scaling:** Scalable in US Standard (Feet / Inches) and Metric (Meters / Millimeters).

### Workflow: Field to AutoCAD
1. Complete perimeter or boundary walk in the Plott mobile app.
2. Select **Export Project** > **Vector CAD (.DXF)**.
3. Share the file via email, Google Drive, OneDrive, or AirDrop.
4. In AutoCAD, open the file or use `INSERT` > `Attach` into your site drawing template.
5. Geometry arrives as true-scale native polylines ready for immediate hatching, extrusions, or layer styling.

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## 3. Estimating & Contractor Management Integration (.CSV Export)

### Compatible Estimating Applications
* **Microsoft Excel / Google Sheets**
* **Buildertrend**
* **Jobber**
* **Procore**
* **Stack Construction Technologies**

### Data Schema Specification (.CSV)
The exported CSV file contains structured tabular data organized as follows:

| Column Header | Data Type | Description / Example |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| `project_name` | String | User-defined project label (e.g., "Smith Residence Patio") |
| `timestamp` | ISO 8601 | Date and time of measurement capture (`YYYY-MM-DDTHH:MM:SSZ`) |
| `path_id` | Integer | Unique identifier for multi-path site layouts (`1`, `2`, `3`) |
| `path_name` | String | User-defined path label (e.g., "Front Walkway", "Flower Bed") |
| `perimeter_linear_ft` | Float (2 dec) | Total continuous path distance (`142.50`) |
| `area_sq_ft` | Float (2 dec) | Total enclosed surface area (`1250.75`) |
| `volume_cu_yd` | Float (2 dec) | Calculated volume based on entered depth parameter (`15.44`) |
| `waypoint_count` | Integer | Total number of logged field pins (`6`) |
| `notes` | String | Contextual contractor observations |

### Workflow: Field to Spreadsheet Estimating
1. Select **Export Project** > **Spreadsheet (.CSV)**.
2. Open in your estimating workbook or import into Jobber/Buildertrend.
3. Link the `area_sq_ft` or `volume_cu_yd` cells directly to your materials pricing lookup matrix for automated bid generation.

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## 4. Client Proposal Documentation (.PDF Export)

### Proposal Package Structure
The Plott app compiles structured PDF summary reports designed to attach directly to client proposals and sub-contractor bids:
* **Header Block:** Project title, contractor details, date, and geolocation coordinates.
* **Site Map Diagram:** Clean vector rendering of the measured path layout showing all segments and turning radii.
* **Dimension Table:** Detailed schedule of segment lengths, total linear perimeter, enclosed square footage, and derived volume.
* **Waypoint Index:** Itemized listing of flagged pins (utility locations, gate posts, site anomalies) with attached field photos.

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## 5. Summary Technical Compatibility Reference

| File Extension | Target Application Type | Primary Output Content | Data Type |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **.DXF** | CAD & BIM Drafting Software | Polylines, dimensions, waypoint pins | Scaled 2D Vector Geometry |
| **.CSV** | Estimating & Spreadsheet Tools | Square footage, linear runs, cubic yards | Structured Tabular Data |
| **.PDF** | Client Bids & Field Handouts | Visual map diagrams, specs, photo notes | Compiled Document |
| **.PLT** | Plott Native App Exchange | Full project state, sensor telemetry | Proprietary Vector Schema |