Opening a file from a previously used folder

[prephil]

I'd like to find out is there a setting that enables SW to open the last folder openeded when opening a file. For example, if the folder structure is as follows: Main folder> Drawings (A568 - 001), Assemblies (A568 - 001), Parts (A568 - 001)>, i.e. he drawing, assembly and part folders are contained within the main folder.

If I want to open a file in Assemblies but when I click Open it comes up in the Parts folder all the time instead. I don't want this. It's just a bit of a nuisance. Is there any way around this?

 

[Theophilus]

I used to format my files like that a long time ago. I'd strongly recommend allowing the part, assembly, and drawing files to mix within a single directory (folder), since they have associative links to one another. If you want to see only what you need, simply select the File Type header to sort by file type in Explorer and you'll quickly find what you need.

My method is to sort files by Client, Project, and Revision as a good hierarchy. That way I have a record of changes I make to a given project along the way. Your optimal format will probably vary from mine, but this format works great for making sure I only work on the current revision. To update a new revision I use the File > Find References command to copy all used parts and subassemblies into a new directory. (Directory names would be like 070131 for today's date followed {if necessary} by a descriptive word such as Render or Production.)

Hope that's helpful. Good luck on the learning!



Jeff Mowry

http://www.industrialdesignhaus.com

Reason trumps all. And awe transcends reason.

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

I agree with Theo' ... all types in one folder (no sub-folders) is best way to go.

But to answer your question, there is no option or setting to restrict SW to use a specific folder. By default the last used folder will remain 'active'.

 

[fcsuper]

prephil,

I agree with Theo and CBL. Having all of your related files in one directory improves your own human performance because it makes everything easy to find.

Have you ever gotten one of the notices that SolidWorks cannot file the file in an expected location? Well, it is my perception is that having all of your related parts and assemblies in one directory also marginally improves SolidWorks performance, as SolidWorks also can easily find everything.

Matt
CAD Engineer/ECN Analyst
Silicon Valley, CA

http://sw.fcsuper.com/index.php