How it works
CadMeta SQL Export reads metadata from your DWG and DXF files — title blocks, layouts, block attributes, text, and xrefs — and writes it to your SQL Server database. Everything runs locally on the workstation or batch server; your drawings never leave your network.
- Install the plugin — ApplicationPlugins bundle for AutoCAD 2024+. See documentation.
- Configure SQL — connection string, schema, and title block frames via JSON config.
- Activate license — trial or paid plan via
CADMETA_LICENSE_SET; 7-day offline grace. - Export — active drawing, single file, folder, or sheet set via AutoCAD or Core Console.
Screenshot: AutoCAD ribbon with CadMeta tab (placeholder)
Commands
All CadMeta modules use the CADMETA_ prefix. SQL Export supports:
| Command | Function |
|---|---|
CADMETA_EXPORT_ACTIVE |
Export the active drawing to SQL |
CADMETA_EXPORT_FILE |
Export a single DWG/DXF file |
CADMETA_EXPORT_FOLDER |
Batch export an entire folder |
CADMETA_SQL_SET |
Configure SQL server and database (admin) |
CADMETA_SQL_INIT |
Initialize database tables (cadmeta.*) |
CADMETA_LICENSE_SET |
Activate trial or paid license key |
CADMETA_HELP |
Show help and license status |
What gets exported?
- Folders — path, scan timestamps
- Files — DWG/DXF, hash, modified date, read-only status
- Layouts — layout names, paper size
- Drawings — title block fields (drawing no., revision, rules)
- Blocks & Text — block attributes and extractions
- Xrefs — external references
Screenshot: SQL Server — cadmeta tables (placeholder)
Core Console batch
Run headless exports via AutoCAD Core Console for nightly or scheduled jobs. Ideal for drawing offices that sync hundreds of files with their register every night.
Frequently asked questions
Does SQL Export upload my DWG files?
No. The plugin reads files locally and writes metadata to your SQL Server. Only license validation (key, machine ID, version) uses HTTPS to our API.
Which AutoCAD versions are supported?
AutoCAD 2024 and newer (64-bit). Core Console batch uses the same bundle with
accoreconsole.exe.Can I customize the SQL schema?
Yes. The default
cadmeta schema is generic. Title block frames and field mapping are configured via JSON — no code changes required.How do I activate after download?
Install the bundle, open AutoCAD, run
CADMETA_LICENSE_SET, and paste your trial key from the welcome email. The key is cached locally; paid upgrades use the same key.What happens when my trial expires?
Exports are blocked. AutoCAD opens the pricing page once per session. Upgrade via Stripe keeps the same license key — no re-activation on the same machine.