Are you looking for instructions on how to install the Workgroup PDM Admin Tool? This blog will give you the tools to install the updated 2016 WPDM Admin Tool regardless if it is a client SOLIDWORKS machine or a Server machine. The installation process and instructions given below are the same in both scenarios.  

Note: These instructions are if you are installing only the Workgroup PDM Admin Tool on a client or server machine. If you are installing SOLIDWORKS along with the WPDM Admin Tool then refer to Step 4. Lastly, if SolidWorks is already installed you can also follow this guide by simply modifying the install from Control Panel -> Programs and Features -> SOLIDWORKS 2016 SPX.X and then RMB and click on “Change.”

Step 1: Launch the SOLIDWORKS Installation Manager:

Step 2: Enter your Professional or Premium SOLIDWORKS serial number because the WPDM Admin Tool is part of the WPDM installation which is a professional or a premium add-in.

Note: Does not necessarily need to be a Professional or a Premium Serial Number (just recommended).

Step 3: Under the Summary Page, go to “Products” at the top and click on “Change” to change the products that you are going to install because the WPDM Admin Tool is not checked to install by DEFAULT.

Step 4: Go to “Select Different packages or products” and make sure that you have selected either the Premium or the Professional version and that it reads SolidWorks Premium or Professional once selected at the top of the page.

Note: If you are installing SolidWorks along with the Admin Tool please make sure those necessary boxes are also checked from the list.

Now you are ready to click back to “Summary”, which brings you back to the Summary Page and then make sure you accept the terms at the bottom and then click on “Download and Install” if you that is what you are doing.

Note: If you have the media (DVD) then it will just simply say “Download” under Download Options.

Once this is done, the Vault is now accessible through the WPDM Admin Tool.

Note: You want to make sure that you install the WPDM Admin Tool on the CAD Admin’s computer so that he is able to manage the vault creating the necessary backups and also change any settings. Also you want to install on the server machine as well that way you can easily access the vault on the machine it is installed on.

For more SOLIDWORKS tips or answers to frequently asked questions, check out therest of the TriMech blog.