SOLIDWORKS CAM is an add-on to SOLIDWORKS CAD that is packed with a variety of features from 2.5 axis milling to 2 axis turning. A frequent question I receive from CAM users is “how do I create a toolpath for a threaded hole in SOLIDWORKS CAM?” There are two methods to accomplish the programming of a threaded hole in SOLIDWORKS CAM: starting with the hold wizard or starting with a simple extrude cut. In this blog, I’ll cover both of […]
The Difference Between Auto-Recover and Backup Functions in SOLIDWORKS
A good practice when working in SOLIDWORKS is to save your work regularly and to save it often. SOLIDWORKS provides two functions to help prevent data loss in case the software unexpectedly terminates: auto-recover and backup. See side-by-side comparisons and the difference between the auto-recover function and backup function here.
How to Change Default Options in Insight Software
Insight software is Stratasys’ Advanced Slicer for Fortus and F123 Series FDM printers, allowing unparalleled customization of settings on a layer-by-layer basis. We hold a class every month to teach everything this tool has to offer, but even a little Insight can go a long way. So it’s worth becoming at least familiar with the tool. Today I’ll cover a simple foundational workflow that will make you a more effective Insight user, no matter your skill level. Read on to […]
10 New Features in SOLIDWORKS 2020 CAD
SOLIDWORKS 2020 introduces a portfolio jam-packed with new enhancements and capabilities to improve collaboration, productivity, and user experience when performing daily design work. Here are ten new SOLIDWORKS 2020 CAD upgrades to enjoy in the latest software release.
Upgrading to a New Version of SOLIDWORKS | How-To Guide
The release of a new version of SOLIDWORKS is always exciting, but making the upgrade on your own can seem like a daunting task. To make sure you have a successful upgrade, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to get you up and running and back to designing in no time.
Changing Material Colors for FDM 3D Printers | A Tip from a Tech
Stratasys FDM 3D Printers like the F900 and those in the F123 Series can print a variety of colors in ABS and ASA. Swapping between colors of the same material is a fairly simple process since the printer doesn’t require a tip change or recalibration – just unload the old material and reload the new one. However, depending on what color is being swapped out, it may be necessary to perform an extra purge from the tip in order to […]
School Spotlight: The University of Michigan and 3D Printing
At the end of 2018, DELOITTE Global predicted that “sales related to 3D printing (also known as additive manufacturing) by large public companies—including enterprise 3D printers, materials, and services—will surpass US$2.7 billion in 2019 and top US$3 billion in 2020.” With the industry accelerating so rapidly, it’s important for universities to develop higher education programs that meet the demands of the future workforce and train students in CAD programs, additive manufacturing, and other 3D printing technologies. As a company headquartered […]
SOLIDWORKS Simulation Hardware Requirements: The Best Processor, Memory, and Hard Drive
SOLIDWORKS Simulation is an FEA (Finite Element Analysis) product that allows users to validate and test designs quickly and efficiently. With SOLIDWORKS Simulation, users can make changes to a geometry and retest designs to see how changes will affect the results. However, one of the most important factors that a user must be aware of is Simulation hardware requirements. This blog provides optimum hardware specifications for SOLIDWORKS Simulation to ensure that FEA problems are solved efficiently.
Everything New in SOLIDWORKS CAM 2020
SOLIDWORKS CAM introduced as an add-in to SOLIDWORKS CAD in 2018, is a powerful tool that helps prepare designs for manufacturability early in the development cycle. SOLIDWORKS CAM 2020 comes equipped with even smarter features and functionality to complete your products faster than ever.
How to Upgrade Your SOLIDWORKS PDM Server
If it’s time to upgrade your SOLIDWORKS PDM servers, the task may seem a bit daunting. This guide will help you with everything you need to know and walk you through the process step-by-step to make sure you perform a successful PDM upgrade. Let’s get started.