What happens to your U01 file
Every needle point lands in the same place in the EXP file as in the U01 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 | Neither file has any |
| Size and density | Unchanged |
Thread colours
Neither U01 nor EXP stores thread colours, so there is nothing to lose. The stops carry over as stops, and you choose threads at the machine. The colours you set in Hoopbench are for the preview and the run sheet only.
Long moves
Both formats move at most 12.7 mm per record, so nothing needs splitting.
Trims
EXP has a real trim command, so cuts carry across as cuts.
Before you stitch
- Open the .u01 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.
- Pick your thread colours under Colour stops, because U01 doesn't hold them.
- Download the .exp 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 U01
U01 is the Barudan format. It has a 256 byte header, then three bytes per record, and it selects needles by number rather than storing colours.
Thread colours and names. Which thread sits on which needle is set up at the machine.
About EXP
EXP is the expanded format from Melco, also widely used with Bernina. It has no header at all: the file is simply two bytes per stitch, with control codes for jumps, trims and colour changes.
The EXP file is for Melco machines and Bernina machines and software. Melco and Bernina users, and a simple exchange file where a header is not needed.
With no header, a damaged EXP can look valid. Hoopbench checks that the stitches make sense and tells you if they do not.