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Vector Versus Raster Format

Owned by dani.simmonds
Aug 22, 2024
2 min read

Vector Versus Raster Format

Vector Versus Raster Format

  • Vector Graphics use geometrical elements such as points, lines, curves, and shapes, which are all based on mathematical equations, to represent images in computer graphics.

A Vector is a graphic drawing in Trace that contains Paths, which are defined by a Start and End point and may contain other Points, Curves, and Angles.

The Vector Paths are independent of resolution, which means they can be resized without losing detail.

A Path is also a file format of Trace which saves all of the Vector elements of the design as you work, whether it is Traced or not. 

When the design is completed, save it as a CutArt to load into Designer.

Vector Design in Trace

See: Raster Definition

See: Vector Definition

See: Raster to Vector Definition

See: Vectorize in Designer Function

See: Vectorize in Trace Function

  • Raster Graphic images or bitmaps are a data structure representing a generally rectangular grid of pixels, or points of color, such as a photo, viewable via a monitor, paper, or other display medium.

A Raster is a Bitmap image (JPEG, PNG, GIF, etc.) that is made up of a grid of Pixels, such as a photograph, which can be loaded in Trace, Designer and Visualize.

A Raster Image

See: Vector Definition

See: Raster to Vector Definition

See: Vectorize in Designer Function

See: Vectorize in Trace Function

  • So as an example, Illustrator is a Vector-Based Program, and Photoshop is a Raster-Based Program. 

  • Most Vector programs can export their designs as a SVG/DXF file which can then be opened in Trace.