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Managing your graphics card for SOLIDWORKS

Are you noticing any graphics problems with SOLIDWORKS? Perhaps the graphics card on your PC is not being used correctly.

Introduction

Some computers have several graphics cards. In general, SOLIDWORKS is configured to use the default graphics card, which is not necessarily the best performing! You can force the software to use the best graphics card to boost its performance.

Step 1: Impose the graphics card on Windows

To do this, go to the computer's "Graphics Settings".

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Add SOLIDWORKS (sldworks.exe) from the network path:
C:\Program Files\Dassault Systemes\SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE\SOLIDWORKS
In Options, set your graphics preference.

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Step 2: Impose an NVIDIA graphics card

If one of your graphics cards is of the NVIDIA type, you will also need to impose it in a menu dedicated to it.

On your desktop, right-click and go to the "NVIDIA Control Panel".

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Add SOLIDWORKS from the same network path as above, and check that the "CUDA" parameter is set to the correct graphics card.

Step 3: Impose an AMD graphics card

If one of your graphics cards is of the AMD type, you will also need to impose it in a menu dedicated to it.

On your desktop, right-click and go to "AMD Radeon Settings".

Go to the Systems > Switchable Graphics menu and add SOLIDWORKS using the same network path as above.

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Step 4: Restart the computer

Once you have set up the graphics card for SOLIDWORKS, restart the computer and then open the software.

Conclusion

From now on, SOLIDWORKS will make the most of your computer's graphics card!

Tip: follow the same steps for other applications: VISUALIZE,...

Do your graphics problems persist?

1. Upgrade your graphics card

Update the driver version of your graphics card (e.g. NVIDIA GeForce RTX) to the latest version available on the manufacturer's website.

2. Analyse your 3D files

Some bugs or latencies can be caused by designs that are too heavy or unsuitable. Learn how to avoid them in this article!

3. Choose certified equipment

If the previous solutions don't bring any improvement, you may need to change your hardware for an optimal user experience.

Find the list of our certified hardware for SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE here!