Same file, different size

Here we have two identical Solibri model files...

One model is almost double the size of the other... but what is the difference?

The only physical difference between the two files is the way Solibri is set to save data in the model. In the example shown above (Additional data ON), Solibri saves additional data to the model to decrease the speed of .SMC opening times.

However, this is a legacy setting and in these days of faster drives, better networks, and much, much larger models, the difference can be quite staggering.

On my six-month-old Macbook Pro (with SSD), opening both files takes a similar amount of time, the smaller one being slightly faster. Opening models across networks or accessing models on traditional mechanic drives does show a more noticeable difference, particularly on large models... but even then, the difference can only be measured in the 10 to 15-second range. How often do you open a model each day? Would you even notice the difference?

Our recommendation here is to always switch off the Save 3D Representations with Model option which can be found inside Solibri Office and Solibri Site by going to File > Settings > 3D > Performance as shown below:

Please note: this is a workstation setting and needs to be set on every workstation in your organisation!

All subsequent files (and their backups!) will be saved with the smallest possible file size once this option has been deactivated. This will save a large amount of hard drive space for little impact on day to day operation of the software.

If you have any #tips to share, please comment below.

#solibri #nemetschek #hints #tips