.PCS embroidery files (Pfaff embroidery stitch file)
PCS is a Pfaff stitch format from before VP3. EduTechWiki lists it as stitch data in the same family as PCM and PCQ. Embrilliance Essentials and mySewnet read and write it, and Ink/Stitch can read it only.
| Extension | .PCS |
|---|---|
| Comes from | Pfaff |
| Native on | Pfaff |
| Stores thread colours? | Yes |
| Editable outlines? | No: it is a stitch file (resizing a lot can spoil it) |
| Machines in our guide that read it | 10 |
About .PCS files
PCS is a Pfaff embroidery format. mySewnet lists it for Pfaff, and Embroidery Legacy's brand list names PCS for Pfaff. Current Pfaff and Husqvarna Viking machines use VP3, so PCS is mostly for older Pfaff machines. Check your manual.
EduTechWiki lists the contents of PCS as stitch data and puts it in the same family as the PCM and PCQ files. The table does not spell out thread colors. Embroidery Legacy says machine-specific formats keep color information while DST and EXP do not, so colors should normally carry over. Check the preview on the machine.
mySewnet can load and export PCS, and Embrilliance Essentials can read and write it, along with PCM. Ink/Stitch can read PCS but not write it. PCS is a stitch file, so resizing it much is not a good idea. Work from the original design and export again.
How to convert .PCS files
- Ask for VP3 if your Pfaff is a current model. Use PCS only if your manual lists it.
- Embrilliance Essentials and mySewnet can write PCS. Ink/Stitch can open it but not save it.
- Export from your original editable file rather than converting another machine format.
- Test one design on the machine before you convert a whole library.
Machines that read .PCS files
Singer
- Singer Futura XL-400 (sewing and embroidery, 10 × 6 in field)
- Singer Futura XL-550 (sewing and embroidery, 10 × 6 in field)
- Singer Futura XL-580 (sewing and embroidery, 10 × 6 in field)
Bernina
- Bernina B 700 E (embroidery only, 15.7 × 8.3 in field)
- Bernina B 880 PLUS (sewing and embroidery, 15.7 × 10 in field)
Husqvarna Viking
- Husqvarna Viking Designer Epic 2 (sewing and embroidery, 17.7 × 17.7 in field)
- Husqvarna Viking Designer Ruby 90 (sewing and embroidery, 14 × 13.8 in field)
- Husqvarna Viking Designer EPIC 3 (sewing and embroidery, 18.1 × 17.7 in field)
Pfaff
- Pfaff Creative Sensation Pro (sewing and embroidery, 14 × 13.8 in field)
- Pfaff creative 3.0 (sewing and embroidery, 10 × 8 in field)
Frequently asked questions
What is a PCS file?
It is a Pfaff embroidery stitch file. EduTechWiki lists it as stitch data and puts it in the same family as PCM and PCQ.
Which machines use PCS files?
Pfaff machines, mostly older ones. Current Pfaff and Husqvarna Viking machines use VP3. The sources do not list models, so check your manual.
Which software can open PCS files?
mySewnet and Embrilliance Essentials can read and write PCS. Ink/Stitch can read it but not write it.
Does PCS keep thread colors?
Normally yes. Embroidery Legacy says machine-specific formats keep color information, unlike DST and EXP. Check the colors on the machine preview, because EduTechWiki does not spell them out for PCS.