What Is SolidWorks PDM Database Server?
If you are using SolidWorks PDM (Product Data Management) to manage your design and engineering data, you may have come across the term PDM Database Server. In this article, we will explore what the PDM Database Server is and its role in the SolidWorks PDM system.
Understanding the SolidWorks PDM System
SolidWorks PDM is a powerful data management solution that helps organizations efficiently organize, track, and collaborate on their design files. It provides a secure environment for storing and accessing CAD files, drawings, documents, and other related data.
At the core of the SolidWorks PDM system is the PDM Database Server. This server acts as a central repository for all the metadata associated with your design files. It stores information about file versions, revision history, file properties, workflows, user permissions, and more.
The Role of the PDM Database Server
The main role of the PDM Database Server is to manage and control access to your design data. It ensures that multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously without conflicts or data loss. The server handles all file check-in/check-out operations, maintains version control, and enforces security settings.
When a user checks out a file from SolidWorks PDM for editing or viewing purposes, a local copy of the file is created on their computer. Any changes made to this local copy are tracked by the server. When the user checks in their changes, they are merged with any other changes made by other users before being stored back in the database.
Benefits of Using a Dedicated Database Server
- Data Integrity: The PDM Database Server ensures the integrity of your design data by managing all file versions and revisions. It prevents data loss, accidental overwrites, and conflicting changes.
- Improved Collaboration: Multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously, accessing files from a central server.
This promotes collaboration and eliminates the need for manual file sharing.
- Efficient Search and Retrieval: The PDM Database Server enables quick search and retrieval of design files based on various criteria such as file name, properties, or metadata. This saves time and improves productivity.
- Enhanced Security: The server allows administrators to set access permissions for different users or groups. This ensures that only authorized individuals can view, edit, or delete specific files or folders.
PDM Database Server Configuration
The PDM Database Server can be installed on a dedicated server machine or co-located with other services depending on your organization’s requirements. It requires a supported Microsoft SQL Server database management system for storing the metadata.
The server configuration involves setting up user accounts and permissions, defining workflows, customizing file properties and data cards, and establishing backup strategies to ensure data safety.
In conclusion, the SolidWorks PDM Database Server is an essential component of the SolidWorks PDM system. It manages the metadata associated with your design files and enables efficient collaboration, version control, security enforcement, and data integrity. By utilizing this dedicated server, you can streamline your design processes and enhance productivity within your organization.