Over time files can change and it becomes increasingly likely that you will need to rename or move SOLIDWORKS files. When moving SOLIDWORKS files it is important to do so without breaking any links or references to external parts and assemblies. If you were to rename a file in Windows File Explorer, file references can break and will cause errors later down the line. Luckily SOLIDWORKS designed functionality to let you rename and move files while maintaining references without having to open SOLIDWORKS.
Accessing the SOLIDWORKS Menu in File Explorer
In Windows File Explorer, you can right-click on the file name and see the SOLIDWORKS menu in the list. If you do not see a SOLIDWORKS menu in the list, you may need to click “Show More Options”. Inside the SOLIDWORKS menu are six additional choices: Open, Pack and Go, Rename, Replace, Move, and File Locations.
SOLIDWORKS menu in File Explorer
How to Rename SOLIDWORKS Files
For this example, we will focus on Rename and Move. If you are not finding file references that you would expect during these functions, you can use the “File Locations” option to add additional folders to be included in SOLIDWORKS’ search. Launching the Rename and Move function will show the current path to the file and its name. Checking the option for “Update where used” will ensure the references for each component will stay intact. The list of those locations will be seen in the bottom half of the menu.
Rename Document dialog box
How to Move SOLIDWORKS Files
The Move function works similarly but instead of updating the file name, it updates the file path. Once you click the “OK” button the changes will immediately take effect. The assemblies pictured above could be opened with the part file reference intact after it had been both renamed and moved with these functions. These are great tools for anyone using parts in multiple locations or on frequently moving projects.
Move Document dialog box
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