What is the ADD file format?
The .add file is a proprietary CAD/CAM drawing format used by Alphacam, a CNC machining software package for routing, cutting, and die-cutting of wood, composites, stone, and sheet materials. An .add file stores 2D die-cut geometry, toolpath definitions, and machining parameters specific to Alphacam's die-cutting module.
Alphacam was originally developed by Planit Software, acquired by Vero Software in 2014, and then by Hexagon AB in 2018 - it is now marketed as ALPHACAM by Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. The .add format is one of several drawing types within Alphacam's ecosystem, alongside .apd (drawing), .ard (router drawing), and .atd (turning drawing), all of which are proprietary binary formats.
Because no public specification exists, .add files can only be created and opened within Alphacam itself. The format is used across woodworking, sign-making, packaging, and metal fabrication industries. Exporting to neutral exchange formats such as DXF or DWG requires Alphacam's own export functionality. The software runs exclusively on Windows.
Security & safety
RISK: LOWProprietary CAD/CAM data file - no executable code or macros. Safe to handle.
Format details
in a nutshell- Various plugin/add-on file - Some software systems use .add as a generic extension for plugin or add-on modules - unrelated to Alphacam.
Programs that open ADD files
Windows1 app
Technical details
deep spec| File encoding | Binary (proprietary Alphacam format) |
| Platform | Windows only (Alphacam is Windows-only software) |
| Content | 2D die-cut geometry, toolpaths, and CNC machining parameters for die-cutting operations |
| Industry sectors | Woodworking, sign-making, packaging, metal fabrication, die-cutting |
| Related Alphacam formats | `.apd` (drawing), `.ard` (router drawing), `.atd` (turning drawing), `.adb` (VB macro) |
| Developer history | Planit Software → Vero Software (acquired 2014) → Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence (acquired 2018) |
| Typical file size | 10 KB - 10 MB |
| MIME type | application/octet-stream (no dedicated MIME registered) |
| Magic bytes | None publicly documented; proprietary binary format |
| Interoperability | Export to DXF or DWG requires Alphacam; no known third-party readers |
| CNC output | Toolpaths post-processed to G-code or machine-specific NC programs via Alphacam post-processors |
| Specification | Closed/proprietary; no public format documentation exists |
| Current developer | Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence (as of 2026) |
| Released | early 2000s (Alphacam for woodworking/die-cutting) |
| Latest version | Alphacam 2024/2025 (current as of 2026) |
ADD conversions
Community Q&A
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