SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Chapter 18: Working with Library Features

Exploring other Design Library functions

The Design Library has other functions besides library features. For example, you can use it as a

repository for other items that you use frequently.

Annotations

You can store commonly used annotations in the Design Library. If you look at the Annotations

folder with the default sample annotations, you see a combination of symbols and blocks. You can

use symbols and notes in 3D models, but you can only use blocks in sketches or 2D drawings.

Keep in mind that not all annotation types can be used in all places.

Annotations can be stored in the library as favorites or blocks. Many file extensions are used

for different types of favorites, but they typically begin with *.sld and end with fvt, as in

*.sldweldfvt. Figure 18.5 shows the default location of the Design Library and the Thumbnail

view of the favorites and blocks in the Annotations folder.

FIGURE 18.5

The Annotations folder in Windows Explorer

Location of the Design Library folder

If you frequently work with different types of annotations, then you should organize the library

into subfolders to separate symbols, annotations, and blocks, and move these folders to a different

location. By default, the Design Library folders are found at C:\ProgramData\SolidWorks\

SolidWorks 2010\design library\. You should store them in another location, not in the

SolidWorks installation directory, but in an area that you have selected to maintain SolidWorks

data between releases. For example, I have a folder at D:\Library that contains folders for mac-

ros, templates, library features, library parts, favorites, and so on. You can easily back up or copy

these files from one computer to another, although you must quit SolidWorks before making these

changes. Keeping the data off the operating system drive is also a good idea because if you ever

have to reinstall the OS, you will not lose your SolidWorks library data.

After moving the library, you have to point SolidWorks to the new location. To do this, choose

Tools ➪ Options ➪ File Locations ➪ Design Library. Delete the old location and browse to the new

location. You should move other items in this list and redirect any items that you use, such as the

templates and any other items you use frequently. Once you have specified the settings, they

should be retained when you install service pack upgrades or future versions.