Upgrading a SOLIDWORKS PDM (Product Data Management) server to a new major version, such as 2024, involves several steps to ensure a smooth transition and minimize disruptions. Here's our best practices procedure you can follow:
1. Planning and Preparation
Verify License Eligibility:
- Contact your SOLIDWORKS reseller and ensure that your SOLDIWORKS PDM licenses are eligible to be upgraded to the new major version.
Backup:
- Database Backup: Create a backup (.bak) of all PDM SQL databases.
- Archives Folder Backup: Backup the existing PDM Archives folder. Default location is \Program files\SOLIDWORKS PDM\Data.
- Archive Configuration Backup: Use the Archive Configuration tool to back up the Archive Configuration settings.
Compatibility Check:
- Verify that all hardware and software prerequisites for the 2024 version are met.
- Check for compatibility of third-party add-ons or integrations.
Collect Necessary Information for the Upgrade
- PDM Admin password
- SQL Server name
- SQL SA password
2. Upgrade
Prepare the Server:
- Ensure that the server meets the new version's requirements (e.g., operating system, hardware specifications). You can find more information on that here: https://www.solidworks.com/support/system-requirements
- Apply any necessary patches or updates to the server operating system and other related software.
- Deactivate all licenses on SolidNetwork License server.
Install the New Version:
- Download the Installer: Obtain the installer for the PDM 2024 version from the SOLIDWORKS website or your SOLIDWORKS reseller.
- Run the Installer: Extract the installer on the server and click "setup.exe" to launch the install wizard. Follow the installation wizard instructions, which typically include:
- On the first page, select "Install Server Components" and click "Next".
- On the Summary page, click "Change" next to "SOLIDWORKS PDM Server" to configure the PDM options:
- Make sure the correct edition, Standard or Professional, is selected
- Ensure that "Archive Server" and "Database Server" are selected.
- Enter the SQL server name, SA user, and SA password.
- Finally, check the box to accept the license agreement and click "Install".
- After the installation process is complete, reboot the server.
- Reactivate the licenses on the SolidNetwork License server.
3. Database Upgrade:
- Run the PDM Database Upgrade Wizard: In File Explorer, browse to the directory \Documents\SOLIDWORKS Downloads\SOLIDWORKS [Version Year]\SWPDMServer\Upgrade, and launch the program "Upgrade.exe".
- Enter the SQL server name and click "Next".
- Enter SQL SA user credentials.
- Select all file vaults listed and click "Next".
- Click "Next" again to start the upgrade process.
- When completed, click "Finish" to exit the wizard.
-
- Final Testing:
- Test Functionality: Conduct thorough testing to ensure that all features are working as expected. This includes testing workflows, permissions, integrations, and performance.
4. Post-Upgrade Tasks
Documentation and Training:
- Update any internal documentation to reflect changes in the new version.
- Provide training or updates to users if there are significant changes in functionality or workflow.
Monitor System Performance:
- Monitor the system for any performance issues or errors in the days following the upgrade. Ensure that any problems are addressed promptly.
User Feedback:
- Collect feedback from users to identify any issues or areas for improvement. Address any concerns or bugs that are reported.
Final Backup:
- Once you are confident that the upgrade is successful and everything is functioning properly, create a new backup of the upgraded system.
5. Rollback Plan (If Needed)
- Rollback Plan: Have a rollback plan ready in case you encounter critical issues that cannot be resolved quickly. This plan should include steps to restore the system from backups and revert to the previous version.
By following these steps, you can systematically upgrade your SOLIDWORKS PDM server to the 2024 version while minimizing risks and ensuring a smooth transition. Always refer to specific documentation and guidelines provided by your SOLIDWORKS reseller for any particular requirements or additional steps.
