Page 43 - Mastering SolidWorks

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IdentIfYIng SolIdWorkS doCumentS 11

Table 1.1 document types (continued)
Design Documents Description
Symbol Files Description
gtol.sym a symbol file that enables you to create custom symbols

swlines.lin a line-style definition file that enables you to create new line styles
Others Description

.btl Sheet metal bend table
calloutformat.txt hole-callout format file
.sldclr Color palette file

.sldreg SolidWorks settings file
.sldmat material database

.sldstd drafting standard
.swb, .swp macros, macro features
.txt Custom property file, sheet-metal-bend-line note file

.xls Sheet metal gauge table

Unlike some other CAD programs, SolidWorks does not use separate file types for sheet metal
and weldment parts; they are all just *.sldprt. The features within the parts distinguish them as
either sheet metal or weldment parts.
Also unlike other CAD programs, SolidWorks’ templates have a special file type (for example,
part templates are *.prtdot) and are not just “start parts.”

Saving Your Setup
If you need to reinstall SolidWorks, move to another computer, or duplicate the setup for another
user, you need to copy the files you have used or customized. By default, all these files are
located in different folders within the SolidWorks installation directory. Chapter 2 deals with
interface settings and creating a Registry Settings file to copy to other computers or use
as a backup.

Best Practice
When you are performing complex implementations that include templates of various types of
tables or customized symbol files, it is especially important to have copies of any customized tem-
plates or library files in a location other than the default installation folder. uninstalling SolidWorks
or installing a new version could wipe out all your hard work. Choose tools ➢ options ➢ file location
to establish separate library folders on the local hard drive or on a network location.