Start with a clear image
Upload a JPG or PNG. High-contrast logos, line drawings, and monochrome designs usually produce cleaner contours.
FROM PIXELS TO PATHS
JPG / PNG to PLT
Give your ideas a line to follow.
Trace images into HP‑GL contours, right in your browser. Adjust, preview, and download in one place.
◉ Your images stay on your deviceFree to use · No account
01 / ADD AN IMAGE
Drop your image hereJPG, PNG · Up to 20 MB · 40 megapixels
02 / MAKE IT YOURS
Converting opens a partner page. We may earn a commission; your conversion and price are unaffected.
Explore our partner ↗03 / PATH PREVIEW
Your next creation starts here
Add line art, a logo, or a black-and-white design to preview its contours.
— paths / — nodes— × — mm
All set. Choose an image to begin.
Download PLT again ↓Contour tracing · Not centerlines · Test before plotting
01
Local by design
Images never leave your browser.
02
Real vector paths
HP‑GL instructions, not a renamed image.
03
Made to measure
40 plotter units per millimeter.
THE PROCESS
From image to PLT in three steps
Adjust and inspect
Set the threshold, resolution, and physical width. Check outer contours, holes, and small details in the PLT preview.
Download and test
Convert to download a .plt file and open our partner page. Check the size in your machine software, then make a small test plot.
What is a PLT file?
This tool exports text-based HP‑GL PLT using IN, PA, SP, PU, and PD commands for pen movement. It traces the boundaries of a binary image, including holes. It does not trace centerlines or preserve colors and photographic gradients.
HP‑GL/2 reference (HP) ↗GOOD TO KNOW
A few things before you plot
Can JPG and PNG be converted to PLT?+
Yes. Raster images first need to become paths. This tool thresholds the image, traces its contours, and exports an HP‑GL .plt file.
Does it work for photos or laser cutting?+
Photos may produce many fragmented paths; high-contrast line art works better. PLT describes paths, not laser power, blade pressure, speed, or material settings. Inspect the file in your device software and test first.
Will every machine read the file?+
Compatibility is not guaranteed. PLT has different dialects. This tool uses basic HP‑GL commands. Confirm HP‑GL support and keep the output inside your machine’s working area.
Are my images uploaded?+
No. Decoding, tracing, and file generation happen in your browser. The partner website has its own privacy policy.
Why do lines appear doubled?+
The tool traces the boundaries of black regions. A thick stroke has two boundaries; this is not centerline tracing.
Why does conversion open a new tab?+
The disclosed affiliate link supports this free tool. We may earn a commission from a later purchase. Conversion is free. Your browser may block the tab; the PLT download still works.
Privacy & affiliate disclosure
This tool does not store your images, create user accounts, or use analytics or advertising cookies. The hosting provider may process necessary connection logs. Converting opens the disclosed partner link; third parties may use tracking or cookies under their own policies.