Convert anything to Vector graphics

[Revtech]

What is best and easiest to use .jpg, .bmp etc.... to vector graphics software. I would like to take a line drawing in picture format and convert it to vector graphics for use on my router.
I can get them to vector but they look like crap!!!!! Full of jagged lines and dots and even lines that did not exist.
I'm wondering if there is a godsend of a program that does a really good job that I don't need to take a class at the local tech school to run.

Thanks for your help in advance. Revtech

[imserv]

Try a solid fill inside the lines before you trace. Make sure your image is at least 300 dpi at full scale.

RasterFratz will convert this type of image to DXF or directly to G-code.

Fred Smith - IMService
http://www.imsrv.com

[Jason Marsha]

Check out Inkscape, the best free program I have ever used.

Jason

[ger21]

Imo, i've never seen a "good" raster to vector converter. I much prefer to trace the image in a CAD program. It takes a little longer, but you end up with a much smoother cleaner part and much more efficient g-code.

[Revtech]

Originally Posted by ger21 Imo, i've never seen a "good" raster to vector converter. I much prefer to trace the image in a CAD program. It takes a little longer, but you end up with a much smoother cleaner part and much more efficient g-code.

Can I ask what program your using to trace? Also maybe a nickles worth of quick instructions on how?
Thanks for all the replys!
Rev

[ger21]

I use AutoCAD and just draw over the image with splines, which I can go back and edit. You could also use the vector tools in Inkscape to do the same thing, and it's free. This only works for line drawings, and logo type things, however. It won't work for photo type images.

[Revtech]

Thank you! I will try this week. Rev.

[automizer]

I have used AutoCAD for years to do the same thing. Now I am looking at the photo type images how can you convert those? I have looked a little bit at the Vcarve program but I would like more the use of a ball mill for smooth works, any suggestions?
and if you can get a hold of a program called CASMate it has a great trace function for line drawings