You can open a SOLIDWORKS file without having SOLIDWORKS installed primarily by using the free eDrawings Viewer, or by leveraging online CAD viewers, converting to neutral file formats, or importing into other CAD software.
Opening SOLIDWORKS files (SLDPRT, SLDASM, SLDDRW) without the full SOLIDWORKS application is a common need for stakeholders who only require viewing, reviewing, or basic measurement capabilities. Fortunately, several effective methods exist to access these designs.
1. Utilize the Free eDrawings Viewer
The most recommended and straightforward method for viewing SOLIDWORKS files is by using the official eDrawings Viewer.
What is eDrawings Viewer?
eDrawings Viewer is a powerful, yet lightweight, collaboration tool designed specifically for viewing and printing SOLIDWORKS files and other CAD formats. It is completely free to download and use, offering a convenient way to share and review designs without requiring a SOLIDWORKS license. This viewer is highly versatile, available across multiple platforms including Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, making it accessible on nearly any device.
How to Use eDrawings Viewer
- Download: Obtain the eDrawings Viewer from the official SOLIDWORKS website. Ensure you download the version compatible with your operating system.
- Install: Follow the installation prompts. The process is typically quick and simple.
- Open File: Once installed, you can simply double-click on a SOLIDWORKS file (e.g., .SLDPRT, .SLDASM, .SLDDRW) or open the eDrawings application and use the "Open" command to navigate to your file.
- View and Interact: Within eDrawings, you can rotate, pan, zoom, view configurations, animate assemblies, and often take measurements or add markups for collaboration.
2. Explore Online CAD Viewers
Numerous web-based tools allow you to upload and view SOLIDWORKS files directly in your browser, often without any software installation required.
Popular Online Viewer Types:
- Cloud-based CAD Platforms: Services like Autodesk Viewer (formerly A360 Viewer), Onshape, or Fusion 360’s online viewers often support direct uploads of SOLIDWORKS files for viewing.
- Dedicated Online Viewers: Websites specifically designed to be universal CAD viewers, such as GrabCAD Workbench (for projects), or other general-purpose CAD file viewers.
- Developer APIs: Some companies offer viewer components that can be integrated into web applications, providing robust viewing capabilities.
Advantages of Online Viewers:
- No Installation: Access files from any device with an internet connection.
- Collaboration Features: Many offer sharing, commenting, and markup tools.
- Version Control: Some platforms integrate with cloud storage for design management.
Considerations:
- Internet Connection: Required for access.
- File Security: Be mindful of uploading sensitive proprietary designs to third-party services.
- Feature Limitations: May not offer the full range of viewing and analysis tools found in desktop applications like eDrawings.
3. Convert to Neutral File Formats
If the original designer has access to SOLIDWORKS, they can save the file into a neutral format that can be opened by a wider range of software, including many free viewers or general-purpose CAD applications.
Common Neutral Formats:
- STEP (.step, .stp): Widely used for exchanging 3D models between different CAD systems. It retains solid model data effectively.
- IGES (.iges, .igs): An older but still common format for transferring 3D geometry.
- STL (.stl): Primarily used for 3D printing and rapid prototyping. It represents models as a mesh of triangles.
- Parasolid (.x_t, .x_b): A robust kernel used by many CAD systems, including SOLIDWORKS, for geometry representation.
- PDF 3D (.pdf): Some CAD applications can export 3D models embedded within a PDF, which can be viewed with Adobe Acrobat Reader or other PDF viewers.
How this Helps:
While you still need SOLIDWORKS (or another CAD program) to create these neutral files from the original SOLIDWORKS file, once created, these files can be opened by almost any 3D viewer or CAD software without needing SOLIDWORKS specifically.
4. Use Other CAD Software
Many other CAD programs have built-in capabilities to import SOLIDWORKS files, though often with limitations.
Examples of Compatible Software:
- Autodesk Products: AutoCAD, Inventor, Fusion 360 can often import SLDPRT and SLDASM files, though sometimes requiring an add-on or a specific import function.
- Dassault Systèmes Products: CATIA, DraftSight (for 2D drawings) may offer compatibility.
- Other 3D Modeling Software: Programs like Siemens NX, PTC Creo, or even some advanced rendering software might have import options.
Important Considerations:
- Direct Import vs. Conversion: Some software can directly open SOLIDWORKS files, while others require converting them during the import process.
- Data Fidelity: Importing into other CAD software can sometimes lead to loss of feature history, design intent, or minor geometric inaccuracies. It's best for viewing or basic modification, not for deep collaborative design.
- Software Cost: These are typically commercial software solutions, making them less ideal if you only need a viewer.
Comparative Overview of Methods
| Method | Installation Required | Internet Required | Cost | Key Advantage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eDrawings Viewer | Yes (Desktop) | No | Free | Official, robust viewing, markups | Frequent viewing, basic collaboration |
| Online CAD Viewers | No | Yes | Free/Paid | Accessibility from any device | Quick viewing, sharing, light review |
| Neutral File Formats | No (for viewing) | No | N/A | Universal compatibility | Sharing models with varied software users |
| Other CAD Software Import | Yes | No | Paid | Full CAD capabilities | Users already possessing other CAD software |
Tips for Opening SOLIDWORKS Files Without the Software
- Determine Your Goal: Are you just viewing, measuring, printing, or do you need to modify the design? Your need will dictate the best method.
- Version Compatibility: Ensure the viewer or importer supports the version of SOLIDWORKS the file was created in. Newer SOLIDWORKS files might not open in older viewers.
- Check for View-Only Rights: If you receive a file, ensure it's not restricted by Digital Rights Management (DRM) if you intend to use third-party viewers.
- Ask for Neutral Files: If you frequently receive SOLIDWORKS files and don't need the full software, request the sender to provide them in neutral formats like STEP or IGES for easier access.
By understanding these options, you can effectively open and interact with SOLIDWORKS files even without a SOLIDWORKS license.
