ARTICLE BY Oun Chau, CSWE
Upgrading your PDM Professional or Standard server can be painful. Luckily, you can streamline your upgrade process and ensure a smooth transition to the latest release of SOLIDWORKS PDM by using our checklist:
Review Release Notes
- Check the latest release notes for new features, enhancements, and fixes: SW Admin Guide
- Identify any deprecated features that might affect your workflow.
System Requirements
- Verify that your hardware and software meet the new system requirements for the latest release: Reference the SOLIDWORKS System Requirements webpage here
Backup Data
- Perform a complete backup of your PDM vault: PDM Server Upgrade Instructions
- Backup of Archive Settings (.dat file)
- Backup of SQL database (.bak file)
- Ensure you have a recovery plan in case of issues during the upgrade.
Check Compatibility
- Confirm that your existing SOLIDWORKS 3D versions and other integrated tools are compatible with the new PDM release. Examples include any macros, add-ins, ERP integrations, etc.
- Verify with your SOLIDWORKS reseller that your PDM licenses are up-to-date and eligible for the new version.
Plan Downtime
- Schedule the upgrade during off-peak hours to minimize disruption.
- In case the upgrade is unsuccessful, make sure to leave enough time in the downtime window for undoing the upgrade and restoring backups.
Inform Users
- Communicate the upgrade schedule and any expected changes to all users.
- Provide training resources if there are significant interface changes.
Upgrade PDM Server
- Download the latest installer from the SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal.
- Follow the installation SW Admin Guide carefully to upgrade the server.
- Reference Converge Design Instructions as well HERE
Upgrade Database
- Use the PDM Database Upgrade Tool to update your database schema as necessary: Reference instructions HERE
- Validate that the upgrade process completes without errors.
Test the Environment
- Verify that the PDM system operates correctly after the upgrade.
- Check file vault access, search functions, and workflow automation.
Upgrade PDM Clients
- Download the latest installer from the SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal.
Follow the installation guide carefully to upgrade the client workstations.
Monitor Performance
- Keep an eye on system performance and user feedback for any issues post-upgrade.
Document Changes
- Update internal documentation to reflect any new features or workflows introduced in the upgrade.
Provide Ongoing Support
- Be available for user questions or issues as they adapt to the new version.
Make sure to reach out to your SOLIDWORKS reseller for support with any questions or issues.
By following this checklist, you can streamline your upgrade process and ensure a smooth transition to the latest release of SOLIDWORKS PDM. If you have any specific questions or need further details on any step, feel free to ask your SOLIDWORKS reseller!
