CAD Translator

CAD Translator instantly decodes standard CAD layer naming conventions into plain English — no internet required.

Built for engineers, project managers, contractors, and anyone who works with CAD drawings but doesn't have the NCS standard memorized.

WHAT IT DOES
- Type a layer code like V-PROP-LINE and instantly get "Property Lines / Lot Lines" in plain English
- Search by keyword — type "property line" and find the matching layer codes
- Covers 440+ entries across all major engineering disciplines

STANDARDS COVERED
- NCS v3.1 — National CAD Standard (all 14 disciplines: Architecture, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Structural, and more)
- IEC 81346 — Industrial equipment reference designations (BESS, solar, wind, generators, motors, transformers)
- NEC 2023 — Panel and circuit naming (Articles 690, 706, 712, 700, 701, 625)

FREE FEATURES
- Search and filter all 440+ entries by discipline and standard
- Full layer details — plain-English meaning, description, code breakdown and related layers
- Copy any code in one tap
- Recent searches and smart autocomplete suggestions
- Favorites — star up to 10 layers for instant access
- Haptic feedback
- Works offline — no account, no subscription, no server
- Optional iCloud Drive backup — your favorites and custom entries sync across your own devices via your personal iCloud (we never see your data)

FREE TO USE + OPTIONAL CAD TRANSLATOR PRO
CAD Translator is free to download and use. CAD Translator Pro is a one-time purchase — no subscription — that unlocks:
- Code Builder — step-by-step wizard that assembles valid NCS codes with a live plain-English preview
- Custom definitions & packs — add your own codes, override built-in definitions with your company's terminology, and import or export .cadpack.json packs to share with your team
- Unlimited favorites

Bought CAD Translator when it was a paid app? Pro is already included — no extra purchase.

PERFECT FOR
- Electrical engineers decoding panel schedules
- Civil engineers reading survey and site layers
- Architects reviewing consultant drawings
- Project managers translating drawing notes
- Energy engineers working with BESS, solar PV, and microgrid layers
- Anyone onboarding to a new project with unfamiliar CAD standards