To open a SOLIDWORKS assembly file, you primarily use the "Open" command available through multiple convenient methods within the SOLIDWORKS interface.
How to Open a SOLIDWORKS Assembly File
Opening an existing SOLIDWORKS assembly file is a straightforward process that can be initiated in a few ways. Whether you prefer using the graphical user interface or keyboard shortcuts, SOLIDWORKS provides direct paths to access your .SLDASM
files.
The core process involves:
- Initiating the "Open" command.
- Navigating to the file's location.
- Selecting the assembly file.
- Confirming the selection to open it.
Methods to Access the "Open" Command
There are three primary ways to bring up the "Open" dialog box in SOLIDWORKS, allowing you to select your assembly file:
-
Using the Standard Toolbar:
- Look for the Open icon (often represented by a folder with an arrow) on the Standard toolbar, typically located at the top of the SOLIDWORKS window.
- Click on this icon.
-
Through the File Menu:
- Go to the File menu in the top-left corner of the SOLIDWORKS application window.
- From the dropdown menu, select Open.
-
Using a Keyboard Shortcut:
- The quickest method for many users is to press the keyboard shortcut: Ctrl + O.
All these actions will bring up the same "Open" dialog box, which is your gateway to locating and opening your assembly files.
Navigating the Open Dialog Box
Once the "Open" dialog box appears, follow these steps to locate and open your .SLDASM
file:
- Browse to the File Location: Use the navigation pane on the left or the "Look in" dropdown at the top to browse to the folder where your SOLIDWORKS assembly file is saved.
- Select File Type (Optional, but Recommended):
- In the Files of type dropdown menu, you can explicitly select *SOLIDWORKS Assemblies (.sldasm)**. This will filter the view to show only assembly files, making it easier to find your desired file if the folder contains many different file types.
- Alternatively, you can use the quick filter options located above the file list to view commonly used SOLIDWORKS file types in any combination (e.g., quickly toggle to show only assemblies, parts, or drawings).
- Select Your Assembly File: Click on the specific
.SLDASM
file you wish to open from the list of files. - Click "Open": Once the file is selected, click the Open button in the dialog box.
Your SOLIDWORKS assembly file will now load into the SOLIDWORKS environment, ready for viewing or editing.
Quick Reference: Opening Methods
For a quick overview of the methods discussed:
Method | Action | Description |
---|---|---|
Standard Toolbar | Click the "Open" icon | The most common visual method, usually an icon resembling an open folder. |
File Menu | Go to File > Open |
Access through the main menu bar, ideal if toolbar icons are not preferred. |
Keyboard Shortcut | Press Ctrl + O |
The fastest way to bring up the "Open" dialog box without using the mouse. |
Additional Tips for Opening Files
- Recent Documents: SOLIDWORKS often provides a list of recently opened documents directly from the
File
menu or the Welcome dialog, allowing you to quickly re-open files you've worked on recently without navigating through folders. - Opening Read-Only: In the "Open" dialog box, there's an arrow next to the "Open" button. Clicking this arrow often reveals an option to "Open Read-Only," which is useful if you just want to view the assembly without accidentally making changes.
- Preview: The "Open" dialog box typically includes a preview pane on the right side. When you click on a SOLIDWORKS file, a preview of its contents will appear, helping you confirm you're opening the correct file before committing.