These are programs or utilities that convert the information in the data files for one program into the formats used by another. Since the data involved is may not be exactly the same, it will be necessary for the user to interactively modify or add information, especially when transferring data to a more complex program.

DRAINS allows for transfer of files from the following programs to its own format:

• spreadsheets such as Microsoft Excel,

• DXF files from CAD programs,

• GIS programs such as ArcView (ESRI) and MapInfo,

• the design programs, 12d, Civil Site Design and MX,

• the ILSAX program that was a precursor to DRAINS,

• a Merge format used to join together pipe systems modelled in DRAINS using a common x-y coordinate system.

The spreadsheet transfers are performed using the Edit menu and the others are carried out from options in the File menu.

DRAINS can export data from itself to all of the above except the DWG format. Its DXF outputs are in the form of a plan view of a drainage system and its components and long sections along pipes, and can be converted to DWG easily.