AutoTrace

AutoTrace is an application developed a while back with the purpose of providing a more accessible alternative to converting bitmap images to vector graphics. It was aimed to replace in some manner the available Corel Auto Trace and Adobe Streamline tools.

The application features color reduction and despeckling, outline and midline tracing and supports multiple types of input and output formats. It can work with BMP, TGA, PNM, PPM, PGM, PBM and is capable of exporting to Postscript, SVG, XFIG, SWF, PStoedit, EMF, DXF, MIF, SK, CGM and P2E formats.

AutoTrace can be used as a command line tool as it initially doesn’t provide a usable GUI. The application comes in a package that contains two parts, a command and a library. The CLI is fitted with a variety of commands which you can use to perform the conversion.

It’s possible to name the source file, choose the background color for the vector file, trace a character’s central line, choose the number of colors to which the bitmap is reduced to, as well as set the pixel angle.

AutoTrace also allows you to set the number of pixels that reside on all sides of a point in order to calculate if it is a corner or not. The despeckle feature offers you the possibility to set its level and tightness. Moreover you are given the option to subdivide fitted curves as well as smooth them.

In addition to the previously mentioned, AutoTrace is delivered with additional features and since it is an open-source piece of software, you are free to alter its functions so that they perfectly fit your needs.