3DDrive is a storage application inside of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It allows you to store, share, and manage documents using any device. By default, each user with access to the platform will be given 5GB of storage space within 3DDrive.
3DSpace vs 3DDrive
Before we take a look at the 3DDrive application and how it works, let’s clear up the differences between 3DSpace and 3DDrive. Both are used to store files which is where the confusion arises. 3DSpace stores a company’s data in collaborative spaces where different members within the company can be a part of. Think of this as your vault which enables the lifecycle management of your files. On the other hand, 3DDrive is more akin to other online storage solutions such as OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive, except that the files are stored in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
Creating Folders and Uploading Files
The 3DDrive app can be added to your Dashboard via the Compass. This provides a look into your 3DDrive. On the left, you will see the three main folders of your 3DDrive: My Files, Shared with me and Trash. If another user shares a folder or a file with you, you will be able to find it inside of the Shared with me folder. The Trash folder acts as your Recycle Bin for any files and folders that you delete.
To create folders, or upload files, click on the “+ New” button in the My Files folder at the top-right of your screen. Remember that this is a basic file storage structure so any type of file can be uploaded and stored here. You can also drag and drop files from your machine onto the 3DDrive app to upload them. Entire folders can also be uploaded by going to “New” and “Upload folder.”
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Sharing Folders and Files
3DDrive lets you share its contents with users within and outside your organization. Sharing folders and files work the same way. First, select the folder or file that you want to share.
Next, click the information icon. Go to the second tab “Accesses” and click “Add Members”. You can grant members within your organization with view or edit rights to the file or folder that you are sharing with them.
To share a folder or file with an individual outside of your organization, go to the third tab “Access by link” and activate the external sharing link option. You can now copy the link and send it to anybody. The person who you share this link with doesn’t need to already have access to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform; the link will prompt them to create a free account so that they can access the data that you have shared with them.
Integrating 3DDrive Into Your Windows Machine
Another great feature of 3DDrive is the ability to install a desktop version of 3DDrive that will stay synchronized with your 3DDrive on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. To install it, there will be a button to “Install 3DEXPERIENCE Drive for Windows” inside of the 3DDrive app in the lower left corner.
If this is your first time installing a platform app to your machine, you will need to download and install the 3DEXPERIENCE launcher, which it will prompt you to do. The launcher allows you to install and run NativeApps which are applications that are run from the client machine instead of the web browser.
Once you have the 3DEXPERIENCE launcher installed, click on “Install 3DEXPERIENCE Drive for Windows” one more time to install 3DDrive onto your Windows machine. You should now see your 3DDrive inside of your Windows File Explorer. With this, documents can be accessed from the desktop and added to your 3DDrive without the need of opening up the platform on your web browser.
3DDrive brings added functionality to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for storing and sharing any type of files, as well as a great way of synchronizing your desktop machine to the platform. Keep in mind that 3DDrive is not truly revision managed but great for temporary storage or for general business documents. CAD data and documents requiring revision control should still be permanently stored within 3DSpace.
