What is ʼSolidWorks PDMʼ (Product Data Management)?

ByCADbrief Staff

Short Answer

SolidWorks PDM is a file and revision control system for SolidWorks that stores CAD data in a secure vault and manages check-in, check-out, version history, and workflow approvals. The most common professional method is using the Check In command from Windows Explorer integration. It does not replace a full ERP or PLM system.

What You Need to Know Before

Warning: If users save files outside the PDM vault or bypass check-in/check-out, assemblies can lose references and teams may work on outdated revisions. A common failure is editing local cached files that never get committed to the vault.

How to Use SolidWorks PDM

  • Command: Check In

  • Shortcut: [No default keyboard shortcut]

  • Quick Steps:

    1. In Windows File Explorer, browse to the SolidWorks PDM vault view, then right-click the part, assembly, or drawing and choose Check Out.
    2. Open and edit the file in SolidWorks, save changes normally, then return to the vault folder in File Explorer.
    3. Right-click the file and choose Check In, then enable the real option Update all references if prompted and add a version comment before confirming.

Variables & Settings

  • Key Setting: Workflow state and revision scheme

  • Expert Setting: The file’s workflow state controls who can edit, approve, or release data. Revision settings affect whether a check-in creates only a version or also advances the controlled revision during a state change.

Why it Fails

  • Cause 1 (Geometry): Assemblies fail to resolve correctly when referenced parts were renamed, copied, or saved outside the vault, breaking expected file relationships.
  • Cause 2 (layers/Locks): Users lack permissions for the current workflow state, or the file is already checked out by another user, so edits or state changes are blocked.
  • Cause 3 (Command/Logic): The file is only saved locally in cache and not checked in, so the latest changes are invisible to other users and revision history stays incomplete.

Quick Fix & Best Practice

  • Quick Fix: Use Check In from the vault folder and verify the file state, version comment, and referenced files before closing the task.
  • Manager’s Verdict: Use SolidWorks PDM when multiple users share design files and revision control matters; avoid loose network-folder workflows for production data, but do not expect PDM alone to handle broader business processes like ERP-level change control.

FAQ

Is SolidWorks PDM included with SolidWorks?

No, it depends on your SolidWorks package and licensing level.

What is the difference between PDM Standard and PDM Professional?

PDM Professional adds more advanced workflow, replication, and administration features.

Can SolidWorks PDM manage non-CAD files?

Yes, it can manage Office files, PDFs, images, and other business documents in the vault.

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