Datasheet

12
Part I: Introducing SolidWorks Basics
Best Practice
It is especially important to have copies of these files in a location other than the default installation folder when
you are doing complex implementations that include templates of various types of tables or customized symbol
files. Uninstalling SolidWorks or installing a new version will wipe out all your hard work. Choose Tools
➪
Options ➪ File Location to save these files in separate library folders on the local hard drive or on a network
location.
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Using templates
I have included some of my part and assembly templates on this book’s DVD for you. Copy these files
to the folder specified at Tools ➪ Options ➪ File Locations ➪ Document Templates.
When you begin to create a new document, and the New SolidWorks Document dialog box gives you
the option to select one of several files to start from, those files are templates. Think of templates as
“start parts” that contain all the document-specific settings for a part (Tools ➪ Options ➪ Document
Properties). The same concept applies to assemblies and drawings. Templates generally do not have
any geometry in them (although it is possible).
Tip
The Novice interface for the New SolidWorks Document dialog box (File ➪ New SolidWorks Document) only
enables you to select default templates. The Advanced interface enables you to select any available template.
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As shown in Figure 1.9, several tabs can be displayed on the advanced interface. Each of these tabs
is created by creating a folder in the template directory specified in the Options dialog box (Tool ➪
Options). To remove any confusion, I want to note that in Figure 1.9, the Advanced interface shows
the button labeled Novice, and the Novice interface shows the button labeled Advanced.
Having multiple document templates available
Having multiple templates available gives you many options when starting a new document. This
offers an advantage in many situations, including the following:
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Standardization for a large number of users
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Working in various units
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Preset materials
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Preset custom properties
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Parts with special requirements, such as sheet metal or weldments
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Parts and assemblies with standardized background colors
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Drawings of various sizes with formats (borders) already applied
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Drawings with special notes already on the sheet
Cross-Reference
Drawing templates and formats are complex enough that I cover them in a separate chapter. Chapter 14 discusses
the differences between templates and formats and how to use them to your advantage. This chapter addresses
part and assembly templates.
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