Latest News & Resources

This guide walks through the steps required to install SWOOD within SOLIDWORKS, including licence transfers, uninstalling previous versions and activating the add-ins. It also explains how to complete the initial setup by selecting the correct SWOODData directory to ensure your design and machining libraries are ready to use.

Outgrown SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional? Discover how Visiativ PLM and PDM Gateway enable seamless PDM to PLM integration without migrating your data or disrupting CAD users.

From Parts to Assemblies and everything in between, learn the latest SOLIDWORKS 2026 tips & tricks from the experts at Visiativ UK & Ireland...

This guide explains how to change the default ground texture in SOLIDWORKS Composer, as well as showing you how to adjust scaling options and set a default ground texture for all new Composer documents.

This guide walks through the process of creating a custom symbol in SOLIDWORKS Electrical, from defining circuits and terminals to drawing the symbol and adding attributes and connection points. It also covers testing and refining the symbol to ensure it works correctly within a project and aligns with manufacturer part data.

In this guide from Elite SOLIDWORKS Applications Engineer and PDM Specialist, David Durston, you'll find out how to save SOLIDWORKS PDM archive server and client log files. This will aid troubleshooting should you run into trouble - Here's how it's done...

Has your SOLIDWORKS install become unstable? There are many reasons why this can happen, but if you're seeing unusual behaviour or unexpected error messages, this tutorial shows you how to fix them...

This guide explains how to use the SOLIDWORKS Shell tool to hollow out solid models quickly and efficiently while maintaining precise control over wall thickness. It also shows how the multi-thickness option lets you apply different wall thicknesses within a single feature, simplifying modelling and keeping designs easy to update.

This deep dive takes a look at relation sets inside of 3DEXPERIENCE. It shows how they can speed up your workflow and help filter the data you really need to see.

Learn how PLM tools can be used to help increase the efficiency of managing R&D projects by incorporating project planning tools into the same system that manages the product data.

This Deep Dive introduces derived outputs in 3DEXPERIENCE and how we can use them in conjunction with our SOLIDWORKS workflow to create neutral files.

Find out how to create SOLIDWORKS drawing views of a single body within a multibody part, using tools like Select Bodies, Display States and Relative View to simplify detailing and improve clarity.

Did you know that SOLIDWORKS is used by 7.5 million engineers and designers worldwide? This means that with SOLIDWORKS you can have the confidence that you are not just buying a CAD system, you’re buying into the industry standard for Mechanical Design. Here's what you need to know...

This tutorial shows how you can utilise the myCADtools BatchConverter add-in to convert SOLIDWORKS files that are saved within a 3DEXPERIENCE Collaborative Space.

Explore how you can cross collaborate with external 3DEXPERIENCE users easily and efficiently to give them access to your data in a controlled way.

The 360° Capture feature in SOLIDWORKS Composer is a invaluable tool for creating a full rotational view of your model. This guide covers how to define the vertical axis, set the plane of rotation and export a series of images to produce a complete 360° visual.

If you’re a Machining or CAM user you may frequently find that models exported from SOLIDWORKS have an “Up” axis orientation that differs from most other packages. In this guide we will discover how to change to the Z Up axis from the default...

SOLIDWORKS Mold Tools support the creation, validation and optimisation of complex Mold assemblies within a single CAD environment. Features such as Join and Combine simplify the process of generating accurate, production-ready Mold components while improving design efficiency and reducing errors. Here's how and why to use them...

Struggling to keep track of design updates, approvals and documentation? Discover how effective Engineering Change Management (ECM) can bring control, visibility and collaboration to your product development process.

In this guest post and video guide from Cadasio CEO, Stephen Draper, we explore how static 2D documentation can be transformed into interactive and engaging 3D technical communications...

DriveWorks helps sales teams quote faster, reduce errors and deliver a better customer experience by automating product configuration, pricing and documentation. With web-based configurators, instant quotes and branded proposals, DriveWorks empowers your team to respond quickly, impress customers and stand out from the competition.

Discover all of the ways that you can use SOLIDWORKS Connected with no internet connection so that there are no disruptions to your workflow...

Join us on this deep dive into the 3DEXPERIENCE Compare app. See how easy it is to visualise and analyse changes to your SOLIDWORKS parts, assemblies and drawings.

The 3DEXPERIENCE Bookmark Editor has lots of capability. But how can it help you? Take a deep dive with us to learn how to organise your data in the most efficient way...

If you see the error message “The source folder is not versioned properly” when modifying your SOLIDWORKS installation, it usually means the swdata99.id file is missing or misplaced. This guide explains how to fix the issue either by restoring the original file or quickly creating a new one so you can continue with your installation.

The SOLIDWORKS Vent tool is a powerful and versatile function located within the Sheet Metal tab. Here's how to use it...

Version Free Variables in SOLIDWORKS PDM let you update information such as costs without creating a new file version. This guide walks you through how to set them up, adjust permissions and use them effectively to keep your data accurate and flexible.

This guide explains how to use Automatic Contact Sets in SOLIDWORKS Simulation to efficiently define bonded interactions between non-touching components. By automatically detecting and applying multiple contact sets at once, you can save time, avoid errors and ensure accurate, reliable simulation results.

Learn how to share a 3DEXPERIENCE dashboard with other members of your team so they can access to the same great Visiativ subscription benefits.

Learn how to add additional users to your 3DEXPERIENCE tenant and assign them the roles they need to access the Visiativ dashboard.

Learn how to access your SOLIDWORKS desktop serial number and download SOLIDWORKS desktop installation files from your Visiativ Dashboard.

Learn how to activate your 3DEXPERIENCE tenant and add your Visiativ Value Added Dashboard for access to useful SOLIDWORKS information.

Learn about different revision sequences that can be used for design files with Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform. In this blog you'll see what's available out of the box and how these can customised to suit your workflow.

You may already be creating and managing Bills of Materials. It could be with manual processes and with discrete disconnected tools, but if you design, make and sell a physical product, you can manage Bills of Materials in PLM more efficiently. Here's what you need to know...

SOLIDWORKS SimulationXpress is an introductory first pass finite element analysis (FEA) tool that allows you to perform basic linear static analyses on single-body parts. The best part is it's included with your licence - here's how to get started...

Do you need to change your SOLIDWORKS PDM Password? follow this simple step by step guide for details and get your user password updated now!

Discover how manufacturers are using digital tools to automate design, simplify quoting and speed up delivery. These digital transformation can help reduce manual tasks, boost accuracy and give engineering teams more time to innovate.

Windows 10 has reached it's end of life and will no longer be supported. Find out what this means for you as a SOLIDWORKS user. Whether you use SOLIDWORKS CAD or PDM products, there are a few things to consider to keep your systems optimal.

Green arrows in SOLIDWORKS indicate the 3D Interconnect feature, which lets you work with third-party CAD files while keeping a live link to the original data. This guide explains what 3D Interconnect does, how to recognise it and how to edit or convert imported files when you need full control.

Learn how to use the Shop Floor Programmer role included with Cloud Services to enhance your SOLIDWORKS workflow. The NSR role includes 3+2 axis milling and nesting capability.

Are you looking to create custom Sheet Metal Forming Tools in SOLIDWORKS? If so, then this guide is for you.

Follow the quick and easy steps in this blog to learn how to change the SOLIDWORKS Administrator (SA) password for the SQL database in SOLIDWORKS PDM.

When you buy SOLIDWORKS from Visiativ, you're not just buying the software and left to fend for yourself. You'll be able to rely on the back up of our team of experts as part of the included SOLIDWORKS Subscription service. But what precisely does an annual SOLIDWORKS subscription, complemented by 3DEXPERIENCE Cloud Services, offer you?

Saving a SOLIDWORKS sheet metal flat pattern as a DXF? SOLIDWORKS Applications Engineer, Sam Barlow, explains how to use a DXF mapping file to assign elements to different layers...

Discover how design automation can streamline workflows, reduce costs, and boost innovation in your business. Learn the key benefits and practical applications in our latest blog post

Read about my experience as a woman with an engineering-based career on International Women in Engineering Day 2025.

Learn how you can enhance data management, improve workflow efficiency and reduce operational risk through the implementation of a structured PLM solution.

SOLIDWORKS introduced a new feature called 'preview sketch dimensions' in SOLIDWORKS 2024, which aims to speed up the process for adding dimensions in the sketch environment. Have a read of this guide on how to turn this feature on and how to use it.

In this guide, you'll learn how to create and download derived outputs of SOLIDWORKS files automatically on release using 3DEXPERIENCE...

Learn the impact of updating your SOLIDWORKS data for 3DEXPERIENCE Compatibility with the new 3DEXPERIENCE Integration tools. In this blog we explain how your CAD structure interacts with 3DEXPERIENCE and how it can streamline your workflow, enhancing your overall experience.

The 3DEXPERIENCE server status provides a focused view of the 3DEXPERIENCE servers and their health - with live visibility into events and incidents affecting your 3DEXPERIENCE. Find out how you can find this information and what it means for you with this handy guide.

There are a range of common 3DEXPERIENCE connection challenges that show from time to time. What are the possible solutions and how can we resolve them?

Have you ever wondered how best to manage file versions when using Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS? In this guide, find out the best way to manage revisions and iterations with Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform.

In this blog, we'll explore the best feature improvements between DriveWorksXpress, which is included within your SOLIDWORKS install, and DriveWorks Solo. DriveWorksXpress is an entry-level automation tool, but after creating a few projects, you may start to notice its limitations. Let's dive into the reasons to upgrade SOLIDWORKS with DriveWorks Solo in order to unlock greater flexibility, automation and efficiency. It's a great way to supercharge your SOLIDWORKS license!

Visiativ's Alex Aprigliano explains how to fix the SolidNetwork License Manager 2025 SP2.0 activation and deactivation issue. Read on to find out more...

You may have seen the long standing Photoview 360 has been officially retired, learn how SOLIDWORKS Visualize can help moving forwards.

Did you know you're entitled to take free SOLIDWORKS certification exams with your subscription? SOLIDWORKS Applications Engineer, James Kingman, shows you how...

In a previous previous article, we gave a broad overview of the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) process. Specifically, how PLM affects R&D activities in the early part of the product lifecycle. A major activity in R&D is product design, from early concepts to detailed design...

DriveWorks Xpress is a powerful tool that allows you to create custom configurations of your models quickly and efficiently. Setting up a DriveWorks Xpress project is an exciting step towards automating your design processes in SOLIDWORKS.

Has your SOLIDWORKS Assembly opened the wrong components with error: 'Referenced document has non-matching internal ID'? Here's how to fix it...

Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS gives you the a vast range of capability to benefit your SOLIDWORKS workflow. Connect to the cloud, manage you data and collaborate with anyone easier than ever before. Find out more about Cloud Services can offer you at each stage of your lifecycle.

Learn how these crucial settings can optimise your workflow by freeing up space and ensuring you have the latest files. This tutorial is perfect for administrators managing project folders and user groups within the PDM vault...

Cloud Services is now included with your SOLIDWORKS subscription. It gives you the capability to connect to the cloud to store, manage and share your SOLIDWORKS CAD data easier than ever before. Find out more about what a Cloud Services Implementation could look like for you.

Installing & activating myCADtools is a straightforward process, once installed the application can significantly boost your productivity and efficiency in SOLIDWORKS. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to leveraging the full potential of this powerful suite of tools.

Have you ever wondered if it's possible to float 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS roles across users who aren't using it full time? Learn about the lock period of 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS roles and how to re-assign them in this quick tutorial...

Discover how DriveWorks CPQ enhances efficiency and accuracy in manufacturing processes. Learn how this powerful tool can streamline operations and boost productivity

Sometimes, you may need to export projects or large datasets from 3DEXPERIENCE. This could be to create a duplicate file set or to edit the properties of the files. Here's how we can use myCADtools 3DSpacExplorer to get the job done....

There are several reasons why you might need to change your SOLIDWORKS serial number. A good example of this would be wanting to upgrade from a SOLIDWORKS standard to a SOLIDWORKS Professional or Premium license. Here's how it's done...

In today’s fast-paced market, customers demand faster, cheaper, and higher-quality products. To meet these expectations, many businesses are turning to design automation. DriveWorks Solo offers a powerful solution to automate repetitive tasks in SOLIDWORKS - Here's how to get started...

If you're already using the SOLIDNETWORK License manager and purchase additional SNL seats of SOLIDWORKS products, you will need to modify your SOLIDNETWORK License manager server tool on your server to add the additional licenses. Here's how it's done...

DriveWorksXpress is a free design automation tool included with every license of SOLIDWORKS, designed to automate repetitive design tasks and creating variations of a model quickly and efficiently. It saves time by automating the creation of multiple design versions, allowing engineers to focus on more complex tasks. The tool is user-friendly, requiring no programming skills, and uses a rules-based approach with standard Excel functions.

How do you choose the right SOLIDWORKS Licence for your commercial business? Our buyer's guide tells you everything you need to know...

In today's competitive landscape, businesses face mounting pressure to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and stay ahead of the curve with continuous innovation. Design automation is emerging as a critical solution to meet these challenges, offering a transformative approach for the future of engineering.

Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is a comprehensive approach to managing a product's entire lifecycle, from inception through development, production, maintenance, and disposal. Many companies use multiple separate systems to manage their product lifecycle, leading to inefficiencies and communication issues.

Not sure how to move the SOLIDNETWORK License Manager to a new server? This handy guide will take you through it - read on!

Looking to speed up your SOLIDWORKS processes? These handy SOLIDWORKS keyboard shortcuts will help - read on to find out what they are!

Want to suggest a new feature for the next version of SOLIDWORKS? You can with a SOLIDWORKS Enhancement Request - Here's how to submit one...

Wondering how to install your SOLIDWORKS Service Pack? Read this handy, easy-to-use guide to find out more now!

Want to know how to understand the 3DEXPERIENCE Cache? This guide will take you through it - read on to find out more!

Want to know how to use the measure tool in SOLIDWORKS? This handy step-by-step guide will have you using it like a pro in no time - check it out!

Are you looking to understand Cold Storage in SOLIDWORKS PDM? This is the guide for you! Read one for this helpful breakdown from Visiativ.

Considering your next SOLIDWORKS training course? Here's why Visiativ are the best choice for you and your team...

Looking to fix the blank installation manager in SOLIDWORKS? Read this quick and easy guide from Visiativ to find out how!

Looking to save or restore user settings in SOLIDWORKS? Read this quick and easy guide from Visiativ and you'll be up and running in no time!

Upgrading your SOLIDWORKS software? Read this comprehensive checklist from Visiativ to keep yourself right for both upgading and installation!

Looking to access add materials to your favourites in SOLIDWORKS? This easy, quick step-by-step guide from Visiativ will show you how!

Looking to access SOLIDWORKS training for you or your colleagues? Read this article for many different resources and ways you can train up!

Looking for a quick step-by-step guide on how to access the SOLIDWORKS DSX Client Care & Order Portal? Look no further than this step-by-step guide.

Looking for a quick step-by-step guide on how to download SOLIDWORKS Training eBooks? Look no further than this guide from Visiativ!

Are you looking to download additional weldment profiles for SOLIDWORKS? Read this handy step-by-step guide here from Visiativ!

Learn how to access & download SOLIDWORKS Training Files with this easy, step-by-step guide. Be it a training course with us here at Visiativ or you just want to do some independent reading - get some tips now.

3DEXPERIENCE Share and Markup allows you to share your designs with others via a web link that they can view on any device with a web browser!

Looking to install Draftsight Enterprise? Read this handy step-by-step guide to get designing as soon as possible!

Looking to start file sharing on 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS? We've got the guide for you - read on for several ways on how-to do this step by step!

Have you ever thought about customising the Command Manager in SOLIDWORKS? It can save you time navigating through menus, looking for commands you are after.

Struggling with creating eDrawings files with 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS? Read our step-by-step tutorial to find out how it's done...

Activating and Deactivating SOLIDWORKS can be confusing for some - let Visiativ talk you through this process and get you innovating again!

Want to know your way round SOLIDWORKS Task Host Configuration? Read on for tips on setting this up to fully optimise your SOLIDWORKS PDM tool.

Visiativ UK have expanded their CAD offering with the acquisition of 3D CAD and data management specialists Solid Apps - click here for more information about what this means for our offering in the U.K.

Ease-of-use has been a cornerstone of the SOLIDWORKS experience from day one. SOLIDWORKS 2024 continues this tradition, incorporating user feedback into enhanced functionalities and time saving features. Applications Engineer, Sam Barlow, picks out ten of the best...

We've received reports of a SOLIDWORKS 2024 activation issue. It's an easy fix, so read on to find out how it's done...

Included with all new SOLIDWORKS licenses, Cloud Services seamlessly connects your CAD data to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, introducing a range of transformative cloud-capable capabilities.

It’s important to upgrade SOLIDWORKS using official service packs throughout the year. This ensures you’re always up-to-date with the latest performance improvements and bug fixes to the software. We’ve put together an easy-to-follow tutorial to show you how it’s done…

Thank you for choosing Visiativ as your 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS partner. Please follow along with these short instructional videos to help you get up and running with The 3DEXPERIENCE Platform and SOLIDWORKS Connected.

In this video, Elite Applications Engineer, Adam Rose, shows you what's new for Drawings in SOLIDWORKS 2023.

In this video, Elite Applications Engineer, Myles Bryning, shows you what's new for Assemblies in SOLIDWORKS 2023.

In this video, Applications Engineer, Mark Alexander, shows you what's new for Sheet metal & structures in SOLIDWORKS 2023.

In this video, Elite Applications Engineer and 3DEXPERIENCE expert, Lucy Davies, shows you what's new in 3D Sculptor on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Watch now...

In this video, Elite Applications Engineer and 3DEXPERIENCE expert, Lucy Davies, shows you what's new in 3D Sculptor on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Watch now...

In this video, Applications Engineer, Jak Szura, shows you what's new for Parts & Features in SOLIDWORKS 2023. Watch now...

In this video, Elite Applications Engineer, Alex Aprigliano, shows you what's new for User Experience in SOLIDWORKS 2023. Watch now...

Incontext Modelling is where you add one or more components into an assembly which could be considered the master or driving components. Read on to find out how it works...