I cannot directly convert files, but here's your free, exclusive method to convert JPG to DWG without paid software:

Manual tracing workflow (recommended for accuracy)

  1. Import JPG into a CAD program supporting image underlays (AutoCAD, LibreCAD via plugins, QCAD).
  2. Lock the raster image layer and set it to a dim opacity.
  3. Create a new layer for traced geometry.
  4. Use polyline, line, arc, circle tools to manually trace over the image, snapping endpoints.
  5. Dimension and scale using a known reference length on the image.
  6. Clean up and organize layers, add hatches, annotations as required.

Summary Recommendation

  • If you need editable lines and have a complex drawing: Use Inkscape or the Scan2CAD trial.
  • If you just need the image inside a DWG file: Use an online converter like AnyPDFtoDwg.

Method 1: Inkscape (Best for accurate conversion)

  1. Download Inkscape (free)
  2. Import your JPG: File → Import
  3. Trace bitmap: Path → Trace Bitmap
  4. Adjust threshold → click UpdateOK
  5. Save as DXF: File → Save As → select Desktop Cutting Plotter (AutoCAD DXF R14)
  6. Use Free DXF to DWG Converter (online, free)

Recommended workflow (automated → refine)

  1. Prepare the JPG
    • Crop to relevant area.
    • Increase contrast and remove background noise (use free editors: GIMP, Paint.NET).
    • Resize to maintain detail (avoid heavy downscaling).
  2. Convert raster to vector (use Inkscape auto-trace or an online tracer)
    • Open Inkscape → File → Import → select JPG.
    • Select the image → Path → Trace Bitmap.
    • Choose "Brightness cutoff" (for solid lines) or "Edge detection" (for outlines); preview and adjust threshold.
    • Click OK → close dialog → move the traced vector aside and delete original bitmap.
    • Clean up vectors: remove stray nodes, simplify paths (Path → Simplify), join segments.
  3. Export to DXF
    • In Inkscape: File → Save As → choose "Desktop Cutting Plotter (AutoCAD DXF R14)".
    • In export dialog, set units and base scale (match intended CAD units), and enable "Use LWPOLYLINE" if available.
  4. Convert DXF → DWG (if DWG required)
    • Use ODA File Converter to convert DXF to desired DWG version, or use a free trial of a CAD app that exports DWG.
    • Alternatively, open DXF in LibreCAD/QCAD and save/export as DXF in appropriate version; to get DWG, use an online DXF→DWG converter (watch for privacy/watermarks).
  5. Import into CAD and refine
    • Open DWG/DXF in AutoCAD, BricsCAD, LibreCAD, or QCAD.
    • Snap/scale the drawing to correct dimensions (use a known dimension on the JPG to scale).
    • Convert curves to polylines, join segments, set layers, set line types.
    • Recreate or snap architectural/engineering entities as needed for precision.

Method 2: Free Desktop Software (More Control)