Downconvert Sketchup files from recent versions to older ones

To downconvert a SketchUp file (SKP) from a newer version to an older version, you can use the Save As or Export feature in SketchUp. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Using SketchUp Pro (Preferred Method)

If you have access to the newer version of SketchUp in which the file was created, follow these steps:

1. Open the File:
   • Open the .skp file in the newer version of SketchUp.
2. Save As an Older Version:
   • Go to File > Save As.
   • In the Save As dialog box, find the Save as Type dropdown (at the bottom).
   • Select the desired older SketchUp version (e.g., SketchUp 2017, 2015, etc.).
   • Save the file, and it will be compatible with the selected older version.

2. Using the Free Version of SketchUp (SketchUp Web)

If you don’t have access to SketchUp Pro:

1. Upload to SketchUp Web:
   • Go to SketchUp Web.
   • Log in with your Trimble account and upload the .skp file.
2. Download in an Older Version:
   • Once the file is uploaded, use the Download option.
   • Choose the desired older version format from the dropdown.

3. Using the SketchUp Viewer for Version Compatibility

If you’re unsure about the version of a file:

1. Download and install the SketchUp Viewer (free from the SketchUp website).
2. Open the .skp file to check its compatibility.
3. Use the Viewer to confirm the file’s version or access additional features.

4. Using Online Tools or Plugins

Some online tools allow you to convert SketchUp files without needing the software:

• ConDoc Tools Converter (requires an account).
• Other third-party services that might handle .skp conversion.

5. Contacting Someone with the Newer Version

If you cannot access the newer version of SketchUp:

• Ask someone with the latest version to downconvert the file for you.
• They can follow the Save As method mentioned earlier.

Important Notes:

• Feature Loss: Some advanced features or tools available in newer versions may not work correctly in older versions, and you might experience loss of certain data.
• Version Limits: SketchUp can save as far back as SketchUp 3, but the interface and capabilities might differ significantly.

By following these steps, you can ensure compatibility with older versions of SketchUp.