How to Clear Out Stuck Tasks in SOLIDWORKS PDM: A Step-by-Step Guide

SolidWorks PDM (Product Data Management) is a powerful tool for engineering teams to manage file versions, workflows, and collaboration. However, stuck tasks—such as incomplete automated jobs or unresponsive background processes—can slow productivity and frustrate users. Here we outlines a clear, effective procedure to diagnose and resolve stuck tasks in SolidWorks PDM.

Tools You’ll Need

To complete these steps, ensure you have:

• Admin access to the PDM Administration Tool
• SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) access.

Step 1: Identify the Status of the Stuck Task

1. Open the PDM Administration Tool.
2. Navigate to Tasks > Task List.
3. Look for the hung-up task(s) and note its current Status.

Step 2: Run a SQL Query to Change the Status of the Stuck Task

• Open SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS).
• Backup your SQL database before executing the SQL query.
• Select your PDM database and start a New Query.
• Copy and paste the below query into the Query Window

UPDATE TaskInstances

SET TaskStatus = 8  

WHERE TaskStatus = 6  

and TaskInstanceID > 1

• Update the number code in the line “SET TaskStatus = ” with the Status you would like to change the task to.
• Update the number code in the line “WHERE TaskStatus = ” with the current Status the task is stuck in.
• Below are all the number codes and which Task Status they correspond to:

1 [Waiting for host]

2 [Starting up]

3 [In process]

4 [Retrying]

5 [Suspended]

6 [Cancelling]

7 [OK]

8 [Cancelled]

9 [Failed]

10 [Suspending]

11 [Resuming]

• Finally, click the “Execute” button to run the SQL query and change the Status of the stuck Task.

Step 5: Validate with Affected Users

• Confirm with users that the task no longer shows as stuck.
• Ensure files are accessible and in a usable state.

Best Practices to Prevent Stuck Tasks

• Avoid forcing system shutdowns during task execution.
• Ensure the machine designated as the task host is on and running.
• Regularly clean up old or failed tasks from the task list.
• Monitor any scripts or custom add-ins for error handling.

When to Escalate

If the above steps don’t resolve the issue, contact your PDM administrator or VAR (Value Added Reseller). Be ready to share:

• Task logs
• Error messages
• SQL timestamps (if needed)
• Affected file references

While stuck tasks in SolidWorks PDM can be disruptive, a systematic approach to identifying and resolving the root cause helps minimize downtime. With the right tools, permissions, and steps, admins can keep the system running smoothly.