If you are new to SolidWorks or have recently upgraded to a newer version, you may be wondering where the Graphics Preview option is located. In this tutorial, we will guide you through finding the Graphics Preview feature in SolidWorks and how to use it effectively.
What is Graphics Preview?
Graphics Preview is a powerful tool in SolidWorks that allows you to see a preview of your model or assembly before it is fully loaded. This feature can be especially helpful when working with large and complex models, as it provides a quick overview without the need to wait for the entire file to load.
Finding Graphics Preview
Finding the Graphics Preview option may vary depending on the version of SolidWorks you are using. Here are the steps for locating it in SolidWorks 2020:
Step 1:
Open SolidWorks and navigate to the “Options” menu. You can find it by clicking on “Tools” in the menu bar and selecting “Options” from the drop-down menu.
Step 2:
In the “System Options” dialog box that appears, click on the “Performance” category on the left-hand side.
Step 3:
Within the Performance category, you will find an option called “Use Software OpenGL.” Enable this option by checking its box.
Step 4:
Once enabled, click on the “OK” button to apply the changes and close the dialog box.
Using Graphics Preview
Now that you have found and enabled Graphics Preview, let’s explore how to use it effectively:
- 1. Opening Files:
- 2. Large Assembly Mode:
- 3. Performance Evaluation:
- 4. RealView Graphics:
When opening a model or assembly in SolidWorks, you will notice a checkbox labeled “Graphics-only mode” in the Open dialog box. By checking this box, SolidWorks will bypass the loading of features and only display the graphical representation of the file, providing a faster loading time.
If you frequently work with large assemblies, SolidWorks offers a dedicated mode called “Large Assembly Mode.” Enabling this mode will activate Graphics Preview by default, allowing you to navigate and manipulate large assemblies smoothly.
Graphics Preview is also useful for evaluating the performance of your model or assembly. By quickly previewing the graphics, you can identify any potential issues or areas that may require optimization.
Another powerful feature in SolidWorks is RealView Graphics, which provides realistic shading and reflections in your models. To enable RealView Graphics, go to “View” in the menu bar, select “Display” from the drop-down menu, and check the “RealView Graphics” option.
With these steps and tips in mind, you should now be able to locate and utilize the Graphics Preview feature in SolidWorks effectively. Whether you are working with large assemblies or simply want a quick preview before fully loading your model, Graphics Preview can significantly enhance your workflow.