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How to Install SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard Server

This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough for installing SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard, covering essential components such as the Archive Server, Database Server, and SQL Express. Before proceeding, ensure you have your SOLIDWORKS PDM serial number and the latest installation media.

NOTE: This guide assumes that your SOLIDWORKS PDM licenses are already activated on your SolidNetWork License Manager Server. If your licenses are not yet activated, complete the activation process before proceeding.

TIP: Before proceeding, ensure your system meets the necessary hardware and software specifications for SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard.

Step 1: Launch the Installation Manager

  1. Run Setup: Download the installation manager of the desired version year and service pack from the SOLIDWORKS Downloads page. Execute the setup.exe file to start the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager.

  2. Select Installation Type: On the Welcome page, choose "Install server components" and select "Install SOLIDWORKS PDM Server components on this computer." If the SolidNetWork License Manager (SNL) is not already installed, select "Install SolidNetWork License Manager on this computer" as well.

  3. Enter Serial Number: If prompted, input your SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard serial number and click "Next."

Step 2: Configure PDM Server Installation

  1. Customize Installation: On the Summary page, click "Change" next to "SOLIDWORKS PDM Server."

  2. Select Server Product: Choose "SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard."

  3. Define Installation Location: Accept the default location or specify a preferred directory for the installation.

  4. Select Features: Ensure the following components are selected:

    • Archive Server

    • Database Server

    • Client (recommended for testing purposes)

    • If you don't have an existing SQL Express instance, opt to install a new one. Assign a name to the SQL instance and set a secure password for the sa user. Document this password for future reference.

  5. Proceed with Installation: Review the installation settings and click "Install Now" to begin the process.

Step 3: Configure the Archive Server

  1. Set Archive Storage Location: After installation, the Archive Server Configuration tool will launch automatically. Specify a directory with ample storage space for the archives, as this will house all versions of your files.

  2. Set Admin Password: Define a password for the PDM admin user.

  3. Enter SQL Credentials: Input the sa password established during the SQL installation.

  4. Adjust Permissions: Configure user and group permissions as necessary to align with your organization's requirements.

NOTE: The password set for the PDM admin user is specific to PDM and is not linked to Windows user accounts.

Step 4: Create a New Vault

  1. Launch Administration Tool: Open the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool.

  2. Initiate Vault Creation: Right-click on your server name and select "Create new vault."

  3. Define Vault Details: Assign a name to your vault (i.e. "Vault"). Confirm the archive folder path specified earlier.

  4. Configure Database Settings: Choose the SQL database instance and ensure the database name matches your vault name for consistency.

  5. Specify License Manager: Enter the location of your SolidNetWork License Manager, typically formatted as 25734@YourServerName.

  6. Select Vault Configuration: Select a default setup, import an existing configuration, or start with a blank setup based on your needs.

  7. Finalize Vault Creation: Review your settings and click "Finish" to create the vault.

Step 5: Establish a Local Vault View

  1. Create Local View: Right-click on the newly created vault in the PDM Administration application and select "Create local view."

  2. Choose Location: Specify a root directory on your local machine where the vault view will reside.

  3. Log In: Use the admin credentials set earlier to access the vault.

  4. Verify Vault Access: Navigate to the selected root directory and ensure that the vault opens correctly and that you can navigate its structure.

Step 6: Test Vault Functionality

  1. Add Test Data: Create a new folder or add a sample file to the vault.

  2. Check-In Files: Use the check-in feature to upload the file to the vault, confirming that the client-server interaction is functioning as expected.

  3. Troubleshoot Connectivity: If client machines encounter issues connecting to the vault, verify that necessary firewall ports are open and that network configurations are correct.

By following these steps, you will have a functional installation of SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard, ready for configuration and use within your organization.