Convert SDG to ODC

Understanding SDG and ODC file formats

SDG files are diagram files created by StarOffice Draw, a discontinued vector graphics editor that was part of the StarOffice suite. These files store vector-based drawings, diagrams, and illustrations. ODC files, on the other hand, are OpenDocument Chart files, part of the OpenDocument standard used by applications like LibreOffice and Apache OpenOffice. ODC files are designed to store chart data and visualizations, making them suitable for sharing and editing charts across different office suites.

Why convert SDG to ODC?

Converting SDG to ODC allows users to migrate legacy diagrams from StarOffice Draw into a modern, open, and widely supported format. This ensures better compatibility with current office software and easier sharing or editing of chart data.

How to convert SDG to ODC

Direct conversion from SDG to ODC is not natively supported by most modern software, as SDG is an obsolete format. However, you can use a two-step process:

1. Open the SDG file in an older version of OpenOffice.org Draw or LibreOffice Draw (if supported).
2. Export or save the diagram in a more current format, such as ODG (OpenDocument Drawing).
3. Open the ODG file in LibreOffice or Apache OpenOffice.
4. Insert the drawing into a chart or recreate the chart using the data, then File → Save As and choose ODC as the file type.

This process may require manual recreation of chart elements, as SDG and ODC serve different purposes (vector drawing vs. chart data).

Best software for SDG to ODC conversion

• LibreOffice Draw: Offers the best compatibility with legacy StarOffice formats and supports ODC export.
• Apache OpenOffice Draw: Also supports SDG and ODC formats, though with similar limitations.

For best results, use the latest version of LibreOffice. If you encounter issues opening SDG files, try using an older version of OpenOffice.org or seek out online file conversion services that support legacy formats, though these are rare.

Summary

While direct SDG to ODC conversion is not straightforward due to format differences, using LibreOffice or Apache OpenOffice to first convert SDG to ODG, then recreate the chart and save as ODC, is the most reliable method. Always back up your original files before conversion.