Creating a Component Library

You can create a library by adding values for the attributes associated with the library.

  1. Double-click the empty cell under Name or right-click the leftmost column and click Insert.
    A row appears with default values for each attribute.
  2. Double-click each cell in the first row, and insert values for the attributes. When you select Connectors Library, you can insert data for the Component List columns only through the Pin List table. This includes the columns Pins List, Terminals, Pins_Seals, Pins_Plugs and Pins_Miscellaneous.
  3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for additional rows.
  4. Click Save and, in the Save As dialog box, browse to a location and enter a name for the library.
  5. Click Save.
  6. Click OK when the Save successful message appears.
    The library location and name appears next to Save.
  7. Click Finish.

Adding Components to the Library

You can import many 3D components into SOLIDWORKS, or you can create them. When you have the component you need, add connection and route points to it, and add the part to the Component library.

Most suppliers can supply either 3D models or dimensioned drawings of components. In many cases you can import the 3D models directly into SOLIDWORKS. If not, you may need to model them. Once you have the model, add CPoints or RPoints as needed.