Page 38 - Mastering SolidWorks

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6 CHAPTER 1 IntroduCIng SolIdWorkS

Starting SolidWorks for the First Time
SolidWorks has many tools that are available for beginning users when the software is installed.
A default installation presents you with several options when the software is started the first
time. This section includes a description of these options and how you can most benefit from
them. If you plan to go to formal SolidWorks reseller-based training classes, be sure to go
through some of the tutorials mentioned in this section first, so you will be prepared to ask
educated questions and have a leg up on the rest of the class. You will get more out of the
training with the instructor if you have already seen the material.

Examining the SolidWorks License Agreement
Becoming familiar with the license agreement can be useful, but the agreement does not have
any bearing on learning how to use the software other than the fact that it allows you to reacti-
vate as needed. This ability enables you to use your license on different computers—for example,
at work and at home. To use your license at home, make sure the software is installed at both
locations and both locations are connected to the Internet, and then activate it at work. When you
are done at work, deactivate the license and reactivate it at home using the same serial number. It
would be a good idea to consult your CAD administrator before you do this. You can access the
Activation options in the Help menu, as shown in Figure 1.4. Network licenses may work
differently. When you are done at home, you can deactivate the license at home and reactivate at
work. It is like a floating license, where the server is at a SolidWorks facility. Again, contact your
support organization with questions about any specific details.

Figure 1.4
activation options on
the help menu

Using the Help Menu
You can access the Help menu in two ways. A question mark in the upper right has a drop-down
arrow next to it that enables you to access all the Help options. Help is also on the flyout menu
next to the SolidWorks logo in the upper left. You will find that SolidWorks offers multiple ways