Seamless Transition to PDM: A Comprehensive Guide on Using SOLIDWORKS Pack and Go to Migrate Files Effectively

The Pack and Go functionality in SOLIDWORKS is a useful tool for organizing and moving files to a new location, such as a PDM (Product Data Management) environment. This method ensures that all referenced files, including parts, assemblies, and drawings, are collected and copied to a specified folder. Here's a step-by-step guide on using the Pack and Go method to move SOLIDWORKS files to a PDM environment:

1. Open SOLIDWORKS:

Launch SOLIDWORKS and open the assembly, part, or drawing file that you want to move to the PDM environment.

2. Go to File > Pack and Go:

In the SOLIDWORKS menu, navigate to "File" and then select "Pack and Go."

3. Choose the Files:

- In the Pack and Go dialog box, browse to the location where you want to save the new set of files.

- Specify a new name for the project or keep the existing name.

4. Choose Destination:

- Choose the destination folder where you want to move the files, such as the local folder for your PDM workspace.

5. Advanced Options:

- Click on the "Advanced Options" button to access additional settings.

- Ensure that the "Include Drawings" and "Include Simulation Results" options are checked if applicable.

6. References:

- In the "References" tab, verify that all necessary files (parts, assemblies, drawings, etc.) are included.

- SOLIDWORKS will automatically detect and add referenced files.

7. File Version:

- In the "File Version" tab, select the appropriate version of SOLIDWORKS that you want to save the files in.

8. Save to Folder:

- Click "Save to Folder" to save the files in the specified location.

9. Verify Files:

- Navigate to the folder where you saved the files and verify that all required files are present.

10. Check Files into PDM:

- If you are using a PDM system, check out the files from the PDM vault, copy the Pack and Go files into the local vault view, and then check the files back into the PDM vault.

By following these steps, you ensure that all the necessary files are collected, organized, and moved to the designated location, facilitating a smooth transition into a PDM environment. This method helps maintain file references and dependencies, reducing the risk of broken links or missing files.