A Comprehensive Guide for SolidWorks Users

Kevin Jogin -

SolidWorks, a powerful computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software, is integral to the engineering and design industries. To maximize its potential, a thorough understanding of its administration, installation, licensing, settings, and templates is crucial. This guide, drawing extensively from the "SolidWorks Administration Bible" by Matt Lombard, provides a detailed overview to serve as a principle guide for SolidWorks users.

Preparing for SolidWorks

Introducing CAD Administration

CAD administration involves managing the software, hardware, and users to ensure optimal performance and productivity. It includes tasks such as software installation, licensing, user training, and system maintenance.

Defining CAD Administration

CAD administration encompasses a range of responsibilities:

  • Software Management: Installing, configuring, and maintaining CAD software.
  • Hardware Management: Ensuring that the hardware meets the software's requirements.
  • User Support: Training users and providing ongoing support.

Comparing SolidWorks Administration to AutoCAD Administration

While both involve managing CAD systems, SolidWorks administration is often more complex due to the software's advanced capabilities and integration with other systems.

Playing the Part: More CAD or Administration?

A CAD administrator must balance technical CAD tasks with administrative duties, ensuring efficient system performance and user productivity.

Preparing Information Technology

Selecting Hardware

Choosing the right hardware is crucial for SolidWorks performance:

  • Processors: High-speed multi-core processors are recommended.
  • Memory: A minimum of 16GB RAM is recommended, with higher capacities for more complex models.
  • Video Cards: Professional-grade graphics cards, such as those certified by SolidWorks, ensure optimal performance.
  • Hard Drives: Solid-state drives (SSDs) offer faster data access and retrieval times.

Network Requirements

A robust network is essential for managing file storage, backups, and collaboration among users. A combination of local and wide area networks (LAN/WAN) can balance load and capacity effectively.

Backup Plans

Regular backups are vital to prevent data loss. Both onsite and offsite backups should be considered, and tools like imaging drives can streamline the process.

Preparing Document Management

Naming Conventions

Consistent naming conventions for files and parts improve organization and retrieval. Intelligent part numbering (IPN) and sequential numbering are common methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Organizing Files

Proper file organization prevents data loss and enhances efficiency. Libraries and subassemblies should be well-structured, and tools like SolidWorks Explorer can aid in file management.

Controlling Revisions

Revision control is crucial for tracking changes and maintaining the integrity of models and documents. Configurations can store different versions of models, ensuring that all revisions are accessible.

Operating System Tools

Managing Your Computer

Utilizing tools like the Task Scheduler, Event Viewer, and Device Manager helps in maintaining system performance and reliability. Regular system maintenance, including driver updates and disk cleanup, is essential.

Backup and Recovery Tools

Windows Backup & Recovery tools provide options for backing up files and entire systems. System Restore and other recovery options can be crucial in the event of a system failure.

Installing SolidWorks

Selecting an Installation Method

The SolidWorks Installation Manager (SWIM) simplifies the installation process. Users can install SolidWorks from downloaded data, DVDs, or administrative images.

Installing from an Administrative Image

Administrative images allow for deploying SolidWorks across multiple machines efficiently. The Administrative Image Option Editor and Microsoft Active Directory can facilitate this process.

Licensing

Selecting the Version of SolidWorks

Different versions of SolidWorks cater to various needs. Understanding your CAD requirements is essential for selecting the appropriate version.

Activating and Transferring Licenses

License activation and management are streamlined through the Customer Portal. Floating licenses offer flexibility, allowing multiple users to share licenses.

Standardizing Settings

Standardizing System Options

Consistency in system options ensures a uniform user experience. Key areas for standardization include colors, sketch settings, performance settings, and external references.

Standardizing Modeling Practice

Establishing best practices for modeling enhances productivity and consistency. Recommendations include:

  • Relating the first feature to the part origin.
  • Creating symmetry in models.
  • Using stable references for relations.
  • Placing fillets at the bottom of the feature tree.
  • Using Verification on Rebuild to check model integrity.

Templates and Configuration

Maximizing Your Use of Templates

Creating Part Templates

Templates streamline the modeling process by pre-defining settings and properties. Important settings include:

  • Drafting Standard: Ensures consistency in drawings.
  • Units and Detailing Settings: Matches project requirements.
  • Custom Properties: Stores metadata for parts and assemblies.

Creating Assembly Templates

Similar to part templates, assembly templates include predefined settings that enhance consistency and efficiency in assembling parts.

Conclusion

The effective administration of SolidWorks involves careful planning, consistent practices, and ongoing maintenance. By adhering to the principles outlined in this guide, SolidWorks users can achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and productivity in their CAD tasks.

For further information and detailed instructions, refer to the "SolidWorks Administration Bible" by Matt Lombard.