Introduction:  The instructions and video below show how existing SignCAD SGN files are automatically upgraded in OpenRoads SignCAD.

When an existing SignCAD SGN file is opened or imported into OpenRoads SignCAD 2023, 2024 or 2025, a backup of the original SGN file is saved in that same folder location and the SGN file is automatically upgraded. To use the original backup file in the SignCAD version it was created in, rename the file and remove the .bak extension.

IMPORTANT: Once upgraded, SGN files can no longer be opened in previous versions.

Step 1: In OpenRoad SignCAD, open an existing SGN file. A SGN File Upgrade message will display. Press OK.

Step 2: The upgraded SGN file will display in OpenRoads SignCAD 2023 and the Message Center field in the Status Bar will show Old SGN file backup created. 

Step 3: Click on the Message Center field to open the Message Center window and review it. Close the Message Center.

IMPORTANT: To prevent your older sign files from automatically upgrading, launch the SignCAD version you want to use and open your sign files from within that program version instead of using File Explorer. If you use File Explorer, then it will automatically open and upgrade the sign files to the newest SignCAD version installed. It is also recommended to have separate folders for sign files created in different SignCAD versions if multiple SignCAD versions are installed side-by-side on the same computer.