What happens to your XXX file
Every needle point lands in the same place in the VP3 file as in the XXX file, and Hoopbench reads the new file back to prove it before you save it. The details below are what actually changes between these two formats.
| Stitch positions | Identical, to 0.1 mm |
|---|---|
| Colour stops | Same number, same order |
| Thread colours | Carried exactly |
| Size and density | Unchanged |
Thread colours
XXX and VP3 both store real colour values, so colours carry across exactly.
Long moves
VP3 can move 12.7 mm in one record and XXX only 12.3 mm, so everything fits. Chains of jumps from the XXX file stay as jumps.
Trims
VP3 has a real trim command, so cuts carry across as cuts.
Before you stitch
- Open the .xxx file above and watch it sew, so you know the file is sound and in the order you expect.
- Choose your hoop under Hoop fit. The check uses the design's real size, not the file's header.
- Download the .vp3 file, and stitch a test piece on matching fabric and stabiliser.
Converting doesn't resize a design or change its density. If a design needs to be much bigger or smaller, use digitising software, as stretching stitches without recalculating them can leave gaps or heavy spots.
About XXX
XXX is the Singer format. It has a 256 byte header, then stitch records, then a table of real colours after the end marker.
Thread names and catalogue numbers. Only the colour value is stored.
About VP3
VP3 is the shared format for current Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines. Each colour block stores its own start point and a full thread record, including the colour, catalogue number and description.
The VP3 file is for current Husqvarna Viking and Pfaff machines and their software. Viking and Pfaff machines that read VP3.
It keeps the most thread detail of the common formats, so it is a good one to convert from when you want the colours to survive.