Data interface standard - CATIA IGES Interface 1 (IG1) enables users to exchange data with non-homogeneous systems through a neutral format. The Initial Graphic Exchange Specification (IGES) format is the most used neutral format for transferring data between heterogeneous CAD systems.

Support of IGES 5.3 - The IGES Interface 1 product supports IGES Version 5.3. With this application, users can share data with other CAD/CAM systems, including AutoCAD, Pro/ENGINEER, and Unigraphics.

When creating a part, extended support of IGES entities supports offset curves and offset surfaces (STEP parts 140 & 130), IGES skins (143), IGES skin borders (141), and IGES Conics.

Color are now preserved, and both Show and No Show management is supported.

Extended data transfer reports can be created using a new HTML format. Enhanced naming management means that IGES and CATIA identifiers are now mapped.

Identical access to IGES data in the Windows NT® and UNIX environments - The access to IGES data is independent from the operating systems. Many CATIA customers work in heterogeneous environments and use outside vendors with dissimilar systems. CATIA strives to provide the tools necessary to perform the job despite the platform or data format.

Bi-directional exchange - With IGES Interface 1, users are able to read in an IGES-formatted file and reuse the geometrical information to create datum features such as wireframes, surfaces, and trim surfaces. Conversely, users can transform a CATIA V5 part into an IGES file for exchange with outside vendors.

Reliable data transfer - Users can efficiently transfer data between CATIA and IGES formats without fear of imposed errors. IGES Interface 1 exchanges drawing bundles, 3D wireframes, and surface elements with reduced transfer and cleanup time.

Direct access to the IGES format - To facilitate the access to data, CATIA Version 5 offers a homogeneous user interface for all specific supported formats. The user interface is presented with a Windows-compliant standard (File Open, File Save As) and an automatic recognition of file types (e.g. .igs for IGES Interface 1).

Additional interface formats - Along with lGES, additional CATIA Version 5 products support other popular data interface formats, including DXF, STL, VRML, and STEP AP203.