Working with VCL Design Files

Siteworks supports viewing and working with VCL design files, but it does not create, modify, or export VCL files directly from within the software.

Understanding VCL File Support

Siteworks can use VCL designs for field operations, but:

• Siteworks does not write data to VCL files.
• There is no direct export to VCL format from Siteworks.
• Changes made in Siteworks are saved in supported design file formats such as TTM, DXF, and PRO files rather than modifying the original VCL design.

Exporting VCL Designs to Earthworks

When using the Export to Machine workflow, Siteworks exports a copy of the currently loaded VCL design to the appropriate Trimble Earthworks Project Library.

Important: The original VCL file remains unchanged. Siteworks creates a copy for use within the Earthworks system.

Design Data Formats Used by Siteworks

When design information is exported or saved, Siteworks uses the following file formats:

This allows design information to be transferred while maintaining compatibility with supported Trimble applications.

Key-In Road Files (PRO)

Windows Devices

Key-in road functionality is supported and road definitions can be saved as PRO files.

Android Devices

• Key-in road functionality is not available.
• PRO files cannot be created from Siteworks on Android.

Starting with Siteworks v1.72, Android devices can read and use existing PRO files.

Saving a Measured Surface as a New Design

If you are working with a VCL design and choose to save a measured surface as a design, Siteworks provides additional options.

Merge with the Active Design Surface

You can merge the measured surface with the active VCL design surface.

The resulting merged surface is saved as:

• A new TTM surface
• In a newly created design folder

The original VCL file is not modified.

Include VCL Linework

When creating a new design from a measured surface, you can choose to include linework from the active VCL design.

If selected:

• The VCL linework is exported as a DXF file.
• The DXF is saved in the new design folder alongside the newly created surface files.

What Happens to the Original VCL File?

The original VCL design always remains unchanged.

Siteworks works with copies and exports design components into supported formats such as:

• TTM (surfaces)
• DXF (linework)
• PRO (roads, Windows only)

This ensures design integrity while allowing measured data and design updates to be shared with other Trimble solutions.

Best Practices

✅ Keep the original VCL file as the master design.
✅ Use Export to Machine when transferring designs to Trimble Earthworks.
✅ Save measured surfaces as TTM files for future design updates.
✅ Include VCL linework when you need design linework available in DXF format.
✅ Verify exported files in the new design folder before distributing them to machines or project teams.