--- title: Alignex Blog | Tech Tips description: Tech Tips | Get the latest SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD tutorials, best practices and engineering and manufacturing news from Alignex. --- [![EXBuild Logo](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/EXBuild-Logo-White-and-Orange-245x38.png "EXBuild Logo")](http://www.EXBuild.com) # Alignex Blog ### Subscribe to Email Updates ### Search the Blog ### Search the Blog ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [Tech Tips (109)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) - [3D CAD (66)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/3d-cad) - [Video Tutorials (29)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/video-tutorials) - [Simulation (27)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/simulation) - [Data Management (17)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/data-management) - [SOLIDWORKS News (13)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/solidworks-news) - [Technical Communication (12)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/technical-communication) - [Alignex Events (11)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/alignex-events) - [Alignex News (11)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/alignex-news) - [CAM (11)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/cam) - [SOLIDWORKS Training (10)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/solidworks-training) - [Manufacturing (9)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/manufacturing) - [Design Automation (8)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/design-automation) - [Electrical & PCB (8)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/electrical-pcb) - [Composer (6)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/composer) - [DriveWorks (5)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/driveworks) - [Hardware (5)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/hardware) - [Model-Based Definition (5)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/model-based-definition) - [Visualization (5)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/visualization) - [Case Study (4)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/case-study) - [Quality Management (3)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/quality-management) - [SOLIDWORKS Certification (3)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/solidworks-certification) - [solidThinking (3)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/solidthinking) - [2D CAD & Viewer (2)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/2d-cad-viewer) - [Alignex Solutions (2)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/alignex-solutions) - [Concept Design (2)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/concept-design) - [Plastics (2)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/plastics) - [Education & Research Solutions (1)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/education-research-solutions) - [ExBuild (1)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/exbuild) - [edrawings (1)](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/edrawings) [see all](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips#) ## [How Do I Find My SOLIDWORKS Version, Service Pack and Serial Number?](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-do-i-find-my-solidworks-version-service-pack-and-serial-number) [Eric Weber](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/eric-weber) on December 17, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![How Do I Find My SOLIDWORKS Version, Service Pack and Serial Number?](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/blog/How-Do-I-Find-My-Version-Service-Pack-and-Serial-Number-Image-2.png "How Do I Find My SOLIDWORKS Version, Service Pack and Serial Number?") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-do-i-find-my-solidworks-version-service-pack-and-serial-number) Every year, SOLIDWORKS offers a new major version release of the software. With that comes hundreds of updates and enhancements. Some updates are small and may go unnoticed by some users, but we also see very powerful enhancements such as new sketch, feature, drawing or assembly tools. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-do-i-find-my-solidworks-version-service-pack-and-serial-number) ## [Alignex Guide to SNL Options File](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/alignex-guide-to-snl-options-file) [The Alignex Team](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/the-alignex-team) on November 12, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Alignex Guide to SNL Options File](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-png-Nov-11-2020-02-08-15-37-PM.png "Alignex Guide to SNL Options File") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/alignex-guide-to-snl-options-file) This guide will take you step by step through the process of updating your SolidNetWork License Manager (SNL) on your server or host computer. The SNL is required to be upgraded to match the most recent version of the SolidWorks Client Installations. In this guide we will download the necessary files, deactivate/uninstall the old SNL, then reinstall/reactivate the new SNL. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/alignex-guide-to-snl-options-file) ## [Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Sculptor](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-sculptor) [Kris Lind](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/kris-lind) on October 1, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Sculptor](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-png-Oct-01-2020-12-44-10-13-PM.png "Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Sculptor") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-sculptor) Sometimes finding the right tool for the job makes all the difference. For those that have attempted making complex organic shapes in SOLIDWORKS, you know the process, although doable, can be a bit cumbersome. With big feature trees and many reference items the process can be quite the undertaking. Luckily Dassault Systems, has answered the call, and given us the right tool for the job. Lets take a look at how the 3D Sculptor Role in the 3D Experience platform can make quick work of theses tasks. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-sculptor) ## [Introduction to 3D Interconnect Part 2: Breaking the Links](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-interconnect-part-2-breaking-the-links) [Kris Lind](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/kris-lind) on September 17, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Introduction to 3D Interconnect Part 2: Breaking the Links](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-png-Sep-16-2020-08-06-43-76-PM.png "Introduction to 3D Interconnect Part 2: Breaking the Links") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-interconnect-part-2-breaking-the-links) By now, hopefully, we are all [familiar with the functionally of 3D Interconnect](https://blog.exbuild.com/introduction-to-solidworks-3d-interconnect). With the ability to import third party CAD files natively into SOLIDWORKS, 3D Interconnect is a must for multi CAD program environments. But what about our (STEP & IGES) files that don’t have a need to be linked to the original? [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-3d-interconnect-part-2-breaking-the-links) ## [Streamline your Drawings With Custom Templates](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/streamline-your-drawings-with-custom-templates) [Mike Dady](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/mike-dady) on September 3, 2020 at 11:30 AM 2 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Streamline your Drawings With Custom Templates](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/Image%204-1.jpg "Streamline your Drawings With Custom Templates") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/streamline-your-drawings-with-custom-templates) Hi, I’m Mike Dady, Application Engineer for Alignex. One frequently asked question we get at Alignex is how to customize SOLIDWORKS Drawing Templates and Sheet Formats. Customers want to be able to convey the needed information for manufacturing, yet not spend a tedious amount of time creating Drawings. Let’s take a closer look at that customization process and see how it can save you time and money. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/streamline-your-drawings-with-custom-templates) ## [Flexing Your Skills with Flexible Parts](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/flexing-your-skills-with-flexible-parts) [Jackie Yip](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/jackie-yip) on August 27, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Flexing Your Skills with Flexible Parts](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-png-Aug-20-2020-03-06-58-98-PM.png "Flexing Your Skills with Flexible Parts") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/flexing-your-skills-with-flexible-parts) Hello, this is Jackie Yip with Alignex. With the SOLIDWORKS 2020 release, making a part flexible is one of the amazing new features that allows your parts to modify in real-time with the motion of an assembly. And with it – the same part can be reused in other assemblies without the need of separate configurations. If you’re looking to optimize the flexibility of your parts with less rework required in the model, then this will be a great tool for you. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/flexing-your-skills-with-flexible-parts) ## [What's All Included in My SOLIDWORKS Subscription?](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/whats-all-included-in-my-solidworks-subscription) [Brad Hakeman](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/brad-hakeman) on August 13, 2020 at 11:30 AM 1 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![What's All Included in My SOLIDWORKS Subscription?](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/What-Happens-When-Your-SW-License-Expires-Image-3.jpg "What's All Included in My SOLIDWORKS Subscription?") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/whats-all-included-in-my-solidworks-subscription) When you purchase a license of SOLIDWORKS, whether it be a Standalone License or Network License, you have the option to purchase your license with Subscription Service.  But what comes with that Subscription? [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/whats-all-included-in-my-solidworks-subscription) ## [How to Bring Complex Designs to Life in SOLIDWORKS CAM](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-to-bring-complex-designs-to-life-in-solidworks-cam) [Mike Dady](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/mike-dady) on August 6, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [CAM](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/cam) [![How to Bring Complex Designs to Life in SOLIDWORKS CAM](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-Jul-09-2020-03-37-18-51-PM.png "How to Bring Complex Designs to Life in SOLIDWORKS CAM") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-to-bring-complex-designs-to-life-in-solidworks-cam) Hi. I’m Mike Dady, Application Engineer for Alignex. A few months ago, I was having dinner at a friends’ house when I was given a wine glass that piqued my SOLIDWORKS interest. The glass had a set of spiral grooves machined on it’s exterior. My engineering brain immediately began wondering how I would go about recreating this exact design within [SOLIDWORKS](https://www.alignex.com/solidworks-premium) & [SOLIDWORKS CAM](https://www.alignex.com/solidworks-cam-professional). Let’s take a look at how it works. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/how-to-bring-complex-designs-to-life-in-solidworks-cam) ## [Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Interconnect](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-solidworks-3d-interconnect) [Kris Lind](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/kris-lind) on July 30, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [3D CAD](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/3d-cad) [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Interconnect](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/Drag%20%26%20Drop.gif "Introduction to SOLIDWORKS 3D Interconnect") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-solidworks-3d-interconnect) Introduced in SOLIDWORKS 2017, 3D Interconnect is a great tool for working with non-SOLIDWORKS third-party CAD files* directly within the SOLIDWORKS program. Using 3D Interconnect, we are able to import proprietary CAD files directly into SOLIDWORKS without converting them to SOLIDWORKS files, while also maintaining a fully associative link to the original file. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/introduction-to-solidworks-3d-interconnect) ## [SOLIDWORKS 2020 User Interface Improvements](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/2020-user-interface-improvements-the-touch-of-the-settings) [Jackie Yip](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/author/jackie-yip) on July 23, 2020 at 11:30 AM 0 comments [Tech Tips](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips) [![SOLIDWORKS 2020 User Interface Improvements](https://www.alignex.com/hubfs/image-png.png "SOLIDWORKS 2020 User Interface Improvements") ](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/2020-user-interface-improvements-the-touch-of-the-settings) With the release of SOLIDWORKS 2020, it has brought some radical and exciting improvements to the user interface and as we learn in this blog, a few of these changes were brought in as a surprise. Let’s take a closer look at how these improvements to help you navigate through the interface to assist you in accomplishing your everyday tasks. [Read More...](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/2020-user-interface-improvements-the-touch-of-the-settings) [All posts](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/all) [Next](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips/page/2) ### 0 comments [Leave a comment](https://blog.exbuild.com/old_blog/topic/tech-tips#comment-form) © 2026 EXBuild. All Rights Reserved.