Cover Page

TechDB Settings
Guide
Disclaimer
Geometric Americas, Inc. makes no warranties, either express or implied with respect
to this manual. Geometric Americas, Inc. reserves the right to revise and improve
products as it sees fit, and to revise the specifications and information contained
herein without prior notice. Due to continuing product development, specifications
and capabilities described in this manual are subject to change without notice.

Trademarks
The following and other product names and corporate references herein are registered
or proprietary trademarks of their respective owners.
CAMWorks® is a registered trademark of Geometric Americas, Inc.
SOLIDWORKS® is a registered trademark of Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS
Corp.
FeatureManager™ is a trademark owned jointly by DS SOLIDWORKS and Bentley
Systems, Inc.
All other brands and names are property of their respective owners.

Copyright ©2017-2020 Geometric Americas, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Product Version: CAMWorks 2021 SP0

Technology Database Setting Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Technology Database Basics ............................................................... 5
What is Technology Database (TechDB)? .........................................................5
Why are TechDB Settings important? ................................................................5
Database formats in which TechDB is supported ..............................................6
Advantages of using SQLite based TechDB compared to TechDB supported in
other database formats ........................................................................................... 6
Default Folder Location of the TechDB Source Files .............................................. 7
TechDB App: User Interface File for accessing TechDB ...................................8
Supported Languages for TechDB UI (viz. TechDB App) ....................................... 8
Common TechDB Source file for all supported languages ..................................... 9
Launching the Technology Database .............................................................. 10
Default Language in which TechDB User Interface will be displayed ................... 10
Viewing the TechDB User interface in a specific Supported Language ................ 10
Subjective Pre-requisite for TechDB: MS Access ........................................... 12
Supported Versions of MS Access Full/Runtime .................................................. 12
64-bit Microsoft Access® Database Engine ........................................................... 12
Linking an MS Access based or SQL-Server based TechDB with CAMWorks12
Importing Customized TechDB Data on Upgrading CAMWorks ..................... 13
Migrating Customized Data from one Database format to another ................. 13
Customizing Information saved within the TechDB ......................................... 15
Flowchart illustrating TechDB Settings when for first-time CAMWorks
installation ....................................................................................................... 16
Flowchart illustrating TechDB Settings on upgrading existing CAMWorks
Installation ....................................................................................................... 17
2. TechDB Settings For a Single User License ..................................... 18
Default location of TechDB when single user license of CAMWorks is installed18
Functioning of TechDB for a single user license of CAMWorks...................... 18
Relocating the TechDB Repository to another location (Single User
Installation) ...................................................................................................... 18
Steps to relocate the TechDB Repository to another location .............................. 19
Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks (Single user) . 20
Steps to Import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks installation for
a single-user license: ............................................................................................ 20

3. TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License ............................. 24

Default nature of the TechDB installation when Floating Network license
of CAMWorks is active .................................................................................... 24

Table of Contents i
 Technology Database Setting Guide

Need for creating a common TechDB repository for Floating network license
of CAMWorks .................................................................................................. 25
Pre-requisite for creating a centralized TechDB repository for Floating network
license of CAMWorks ........................................................................................... 25
When should one ideally create a centralized TechDB repository on a network
drive? .................................................................................................................... 25
Creating a centralized TechDB Repository for a floating network installation
of CAMWorks .................................................................................................. 26
Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks (Floating
Network) .......................................................................................................... 27
Steps to Import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks installation on
a floating network.................................................................................................. 27

4. Using an SQL-Server based TechDB ................................................. 30

Supported versions of SQL Server.................................................................. 30
Steps to create an SQL Server based TechDB .............................................. 31
Steps to link TechDB App to the SQL Server based TechDB......................... 31
Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks (SQL Server
based TechDB) ............................................................................................... 34
Steps to import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks when TechDB
supported on SQL Server is used ......................................................................... 34

5. Importing Feed Speed Data in Feed & Speed Library ...................... 36

Steps to Import Customized Feed & Speed Data in 64-bit CAMWorks Feed &
Speed Library ....................................................................................................... 36

Appendix A: Migrating Data from MS Access based TechDB to SQLite

Based TechDB ............................................................................................ 40
Pre-requisites for migrating customized data from an MS Access based TechDB 40
Steps to import customized data from MS Access based TechDB into SQLite
based TechDB ...................................................................................................... 40

Appendix B: Migrating Data from SQL Server based TechDB to SQLite

based TechDB ............................................................................................ 42
Steps to migrate customized data in SQL Server based TechDB to SQLite based
TechDB................................................................................................................. 42

Appendix C: Linking TechDB App to an MS Access based TechDB ...... 44

Steps to link CAMWorks with MS Access based TechDB .................................... 44

Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files ............ 46

Example illustrating when to use automatically or manually created Backed Up
copies of TechDB ................................................................................................. 46

ii Table of Contents
Technology Database Setting Guide

1. TECHNOLOGY DATABASE BASICS

What is Technology Database (TechDB)?
The TechDBTM is the intelligence behind the machining automation in
CAMWorks. The knowledge-based machining technology, tooling details,
cutting conditions and operation defaults saved in the Technology Database are
used to generate operations automatically.
The default TechDB shipped along with CAMWorks contains data that is
considered generally applicable to most machining environments. In order to
gain full advantage of CAMWorks, you need to customize this data as per your
best practices and machine tool infrastructure available at your end. This
information can then be used to generate toolpaths on various types of
features. Such a repository ensures uniformity and quality in the generated
toolpaths. The machining information in the database is divided into these
categories:
• Machine: All the CNC machines in your facility and the associated
controller and tool crib.
• Tools: The tool library can contain all the tools in your facility.
• Cutting Parameters: Information for calculating feed rates and spindle
speeds, stock materials and tool materials.
• Feature and Operations: The machining sequence for different types of
features.

Why are TechDB Settings important?

To make the best use of the TechDB, you might have to change from default
settings of TechDB to suit your requirements such as:
• Creating centralized TechDB repository on a Floating Network (Multi-user license)
• Setting up an SQL Server-based Technology Database (Applicable only if you wish
to link CAMWorks to an SQL Server based-TechDB)
• Importing customized TechDB data after upgrading your existing CAMWorks
installation
• Customizing the information stored within the TechDB

Technology Database Basics 5

 Technology Database Setting Guide

• Link CAMWorks with the TechDB supported in a Database format other than the
default SQLite format (Applicable only if you wish to link CAMWorks to TechDB
supported in MS Access or SQL Server format)

Database formats in which TechDB is supported

The Technology Database associated with CAMWorks is supported in the
following three database formats:
1. SQLite
The SQLite-based TechDB was introduced with CAMWorks 2018 SP0
version. Its associated Technology Database data source file name is
TechDB.cwdb. The SQLite based TechDB is the default TechDB linked to
the CAMWorks application at the time of installation/upgradation.
2. Microsoft Access
Associated Technology Database data source file name is TechDB.mdb.

Note: For MS Access database type, the Technology Database is supported

on both 32-bit and 64-bit modes of MS Access.

3. SQL Server

Database Formats

Microsoft Access SQLite SQL Server

Database Formats in which TechDB is supported

Advantages of using SQLite based TechDB compared to TechDB

supported in other database formats
The advantage of using the default SQLite-based TechDB compared to the MS
Access based TechDB and SQL Server based TechDB is that it is not dependent
on any third-party application.

6 Technology Database Basics

Technology Database Setting Guide

Default Folder Location of the TechDB Source Files

When you install CAMWorks, the files associated with its Technology Database
too will be installed simultaneously.
The default location of the TechDB source files depends on the database format.

Default location of SQLite based TechDB at time of installation

For SQLite based TechDB, a common TechDB source file (TechDB.cwdb)
exists for all the languages in which the TechDB user interface is supported. This
TechDB source file (repository) will be installed at the following location:
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB\TechDB.cwdb

SQLite based TechDB file in the \CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB folder

Default location of MS Access based TechDB at time of installation

For the MS Access based TechDB, a common TechDB repository
(TechDB.mdb) exists for all the languages in which the TechDB user interface is
supported. This TechDB repository will be installed at the following location:
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\Lang\English

MS Access based TechDB files in the \CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\Lang\English

folder

Technology Database Basics 7

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Given below is a tabular comparison of the TechDB source files supported in

these Database formats.

Associated
Is Database Type
TechDB Data Default Location of the TechDB
Database dependent on any
Source Data source file (TechDB
Format Third-part
File/TechDB repository) at time of installation
application?
Repository
Yes.
A supported version of 32-
bit or 64-bit MS Access
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\ application or 64-bit MS
MS Access TechDB.mdb Access Database Engine
Lang\English
must be installed on the
machine of which the
TechDB.mdb file will
reside.
No. The SQLite based
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\ TechDB.cwdb is not
SQLite TechDB.cwdb
TechDB\TechDB.cwdb dependent on any third-
party application.
Yes. The Microsoft product
User needs to ‘SQL Server’ (SQL Server
configure the 2005 or any other higher
SQL Server Not applicable as it is user configured.
server and add version) must be installed
the database. in order to use the SQL
Server based TechDB.

TechDB App: User Interface File for accessing TechDB

A user interface (UI) file is required to view/access/edit information within the
Technology Database data source (repository) file. The UI file provided for this
purpose is the TechDB App user interface file. This file is part of the installed
CAMWorks files. It is used to view/access/edit information within the TechDB
for all supported database types. It has a very simplified and user-friendly
interface.

When you click on the Technology Database command button on the

CAMWorks Command Manager, the TechDB App user interface file will be
displayed.

Supported Languages for TechDB UI (viz. TechDB App)

The user interface for CAMWorks and its Technology Database (viz. TechDB
App) are available in the following languages:

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Technology Database Setting Guide

• Chinese Simplified • Japanese

• Chinese Traditional • Korean
• Czech • Polish
• English • Portuguese-Brazilian
• French • Russian
• German • Spanish
• Italian • Turkish

Note: These language- specific versions of the Technology Database user interface
(viz. TechDB App) will be installed only if the options to install CAMWorks in
those specific language versions are exercised at the time of CAMWorks
installation.

Common TechDB Source file for all supported languages

The TechDB source file (repository) is supported in 3 database formats. To
view/access/edit information within a Technology Database data source
(repository) file, it needs to be linked to the TechDB App user interface file. By
default, the SQLite based TechDB.cwdb source file is linked to the TechDB App.
You can change the default settings to link the MS-Access based or SQL-Server
based TechDB source file. Once your TechDB source file is linked to the TechDB
App, it will serve as a common TechDB for all the languages in which CAMWorks
is installed.
This means that if any customized data is saved to the TechDB source file
when running CAMWorks/ TechDB in a specific language, then that customized
data will also become available in all other language versions. This happens
because the TechDB source file remains common across all the installed
languages. However, this common source file is limited to the specific database
format. For example, if you have saved customized data in SQLite based
TechDB, then this customized data will be visible in the CAMWorks or TechDB
App user interface only when the TechDB source file linked to TechDB App is the
SQLite based TechDB file. The customized data won’t be available in MS-Access
based TechDB or SQL Server based TechDB. To make customized data available in
one TechDB database format available in another database format, you need
to import TechDB data from the format containing the customized data to
another format. For details, refer the section: Migrating Customized Data from one
Database format to another in this chapter.

Technology Database Basics 9

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Launching the Technology Database

Use any one of the following two methods to launch the Technology Database
after launching the CAMWorks application:

• Click on the Technology Database command button on the CAMWorks

Command Manager.
• Click on the Tools menu of CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS and select
CAMWorks>>Technology Database from the cascading menu.
Executing any of the above-mentioned commands will launch the User
Interface of the Technology Database (viz. the TechDB App).

Default Language in which TechDB User Interface will be displayed

Under default settings, whenever the TechDB user interface is launched, it will
always be displayed in the same language in which the CAMWorks user
interface is currently displayed.

Viewing the TechDB User interface in a specific Supported Language

The TechDB App is the user interface file used for accessing the Technology
Database. Under default settings, this user interface will be displayed in the
same language in which the CAMWorks user interface is currently displayed. If
required, the default language settings the TechDB user interface can be
overridden in order to view it in a specific supported language of choice
(provided that the desired language option was selected for installation in the
CAMWorks Installation Wizard at the time of installing/upgrading the CAMWorks
application).
Following are the steps to change the language settings of the TechDB user
interface:
1. After launching CAMWorks as an Add-In with CAMWorks
Solids/SOLIDWORKS, open a part or assembly file.
2. The CAMWorks Command Manager will be displayed. Click on the Technology
Database command button on the CAMWorks Command Manager.

3. Click on the Settings menu option in the Technology Database graphical

menu. The Settings user interface will be displayed.
4. Ensure that the second group box from the top viz. the Language group box
is in an expanded state.

10 Technology Database Basics

Technology Database Setting Guide

5. Uncheck the checkbox labeled Automatic. (This is the setting that maps the
language of the TechDB user interface to the language of the CAMWorks
user interface.)
6. Unchecking the checkbox labeled Automatic activates the Language
dropdown list. All supported languages that have been installed will be
displayed in this list.
7. Select the language in which you wish to view the TechDB user interface.
8. The TechDB user interface will immediately reload and be displayed in the
selected language.

Note: If you wish to revert to linking the language of the TechDB user interface
to that of the CAMWorks user interface, then place a check in the
checkbox labeled Automatic option under the Language group box of
Settings menu.

Selecting preferred language using ‘Language’ dropdown list of Settings

Technology Database Basics 11

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Subjective Pre-requisite for TechDB: MS Access

The Technology Database is supported on three database formats viz. SQLite,
Microsoft Access and SQL Server.
A 64-bit Microsoft Access Database Engine or a Full or Runtime version of MS
Access application is required for the following:
i. For linking and using the Microsoft Access based TechDB instead of the
default SQLite based TechDB
ii. For importing customized data from an MS Access based database into
an SQLite based/ MS Access based/SQL Server based TechDB

Supported Versions of MS Access Full/Runtime

Though both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Microsoft Access are supported, the
64-bit version of MS Access is recommended. All versions of MS Access
application from MS Access 2010 SP2 (Full/Runtime) to the latest version (both
32-bit and 64-bit) are supported. The Runtime version can be downloaded for free
from the Microsoft website.

64-bit Microsoft Access® Database Engine

Under conditions when an MS Access installation is a subjective pre-requisite for
TechDB, you don’t need to compulsorily install a Full or Runtime version of MS
Access. You can alternatively install a compatible 64-bit version of the Microsoft
Access Database Engine. This engine can be downloaded for free from the Microsoft
website and then installed. All 64-bit MS Access Database Engines from MS
Access Database Engine 2010 to the latest version are supported.

Linking an MS Access based or SQL-Server based

TechDB with CAMWorks
The SQLite based TechDB was introduced with the CAMWorks 2018 SP0 version.
Whenever you install/upgrade CAMWorks, the default TechDB repository (data
source file) linked to the TechDB App (and hence the CAMWorks application) will
be TechDB.cwdb (SQLite Database format). In CAMWorks versions previous to
this version, the MS Access based TechDB was the default format linked to the
CAMWorks application.
If you wish to use the TechDB supported in another database format (viz. MS
Access or SQL Server), then use the Link Database functionality to select the
database format of your choice and link it to TechDB App.

12 Technology Database Basics

Technology Database Setting Guide

• To change default settings and link the CAMWorks application with MS-
access based TechDB, refer Appendix C: Linking TechDB App to an MS Access
based TechDB.
• To change default settings and link the CAMWorks application with SQL
Server based TechDB, refer the section Steps to link TechDB App to the SQL
Server based TechDB in Chapter 4 of this document.

Importing Customized TechDB Data on Upgrading

CAMWorks
Every time the CAMWorks installation is upgraded to a newer version, the data
structures and data associated with its Technology Database too undergo
upgrades. If you have customized data within the Technology Database
associated with your existing CAMWorks installation, it is imperative that you
create it back up copy and then import the customized TechDB data from the
backed-up copy into the newly installed Technology Database.
• If you use an MS Access based TechDB or SQLite based TechDB and have a
single user (standalone/node-locked) license, then refer: Importing customized
TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks (Single user) in Chapter 2 of this document.
• If you use an MS Access based TechDB or SQLite based TechDB and have a
floating network (multi-user) license, then refer: Importing customized TechDB
data on upgrading CAMWorks (Floating Network) in Chapter 3 of this document.
• If you use an SQL Server based TechDB, then refer: Importing customized
TechDB data (SQL Server based TechDB) in Chapter 4 of this document.

Pre-requisite for importing customized data from an MS Access based TechDB

If the database from which the customized data is to be imported is an MS
Access based database, then ensure that either a supported version of MS Access
(Full or Runtime) or 64-bit version of MS Access Database Engine is installed on the
Windows system PC on which customized data from this database will be
imported. An error message will be displayed if a supported version of MS
Access in not found installed when you attempt to import the customized data.

Migrating Customized Data from one Database format to

another
The SQLite based TechDB has been introduced with the CAMWorks 2018 SP0
version. From this version onwards, the default TechDB format linked to the
CAMWorks application at the time of installation/upgradation is the SQLite-
based TechDB.

Technology Database Basics 13

 Technology Database Setting Guide

In CAMWorks versions previous to this version, the MS Access based TechDB

was the default format linked to the CAMWorks application. If you are an
existing user of CAMWorks who uses an MS Access based TechDB or SQL Server
based TechDB containing customized data and wishes to switch to SQLite based
TechDB, you can do so at any point of time by importing your customized data
from MS Access based TechDB into the SQLite based TechDB. (However, the
vice versa process of importing data from SQLite TechDB into MS Access based
is not supported.)
Similarly, customized TechDB data present in your SQL Server based TechDB
can be imported into the SQLite based TechDB and MS Access based TechDB.

Note: The importing of customized data present in your MS Access based or SQL
Server based TechDB data source file into the SQLite based TechDB
repository (TechDB.cwdb) is supported.

For detailed steps on how to import customized data from one format to
another, refer the following topics in the Appendix section of this document:
• Appendix A: Migrating Data from MS Access based TechDB to SQLite based TechDB
• Appendix B: Migrating Data from SQL Server based TechDB to SQLite based TechDB

Mapping among Database formats of TechDB that allow importing of customized

Data
Given in the below table is mapping of the Database File Formats for TechDB
indicating customized data can be imported and corresponding database
formats from which the data can be exported.

TechDB Database Format into Corresponding TechDB Database

Sr.
which customized data is to be Format from which customized data
No.
imported can be exported
i. SQLite based TechDB
(TechDB.cwdb)
1. SQLite based TechDB ii. MS Access based TechDB
(TechDB.mdb)
iii. SQL Server based TechDB
i. MS Access based TechDB
2. MS Access based TechDB (TechDB.mdb)
ii. SQL Server based TechDB
3. SQL Server based TechDB i. SQL Server based TechDB

14 Technology Database Basics

Technology Database Setting Guide

Customizing Information saved within the TechDB

After opening TechDB, you can view/edit/customize it to suit your facility’s
requirements. To learn how to customize the Technology Database to suit your
facility’s requirements, we recommend that you read the Manual Technology
Database Tutorial. This manual can be accessed from the Windows Start menu by
selecting All Programs>>CAMWorks2021x64>>Manuals>>Technology Database Tutorial.

Please refer the flowcharts given on the next two pages to gain an understanding of
the various Technology Database (TechDB) settings.

Technology Database Basics 15

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Flowchart illustrating TechDB Settings when for first-time CAMWorks installation

Download and install the Activate the
CAMWorks Installer CAMWorks License Have you
Package installed a
Refer License
Refer Installation Activation Guide Standalone
Guide License or
Floating Network
Floating network License?
License

Do you Single User

want to use an License
SQLite based TechDB
or MS-Access based
TechDB or SQLite- Do you
SQL-based based want to use an
TechDB? TechDB SQLite based TechDB
MS-Access or MS-Access based
Based Create a centralized TechDB or
TechDB TechDB repository on SQL-based SQL
the Floating Network MS-Access Server-
Based TechDB?
Create a centralized based
TechDB repository on SQL Server- TechDB TechDB
the Floating Network based
TechDB Link CAMWorks Create an SQL
installation to MS Server-based
Create an SQL Server- Access based TechDB TechDB
SQLite-
based TechDB
based
TechDB
Link CAMWorks
Link CAMWorks Link CAMWorks to
installation on each
installation on each the SQL Server
machine on the floating
machine on the floating based TechDB
network to the
network to the
centralized TechDB
centralized TechDB
Do you
want share the
Link CAMWorks TechDB on the
installation on each Network?
machine on the floating (ideal in situation where
network to the SQL multiple single user
Server based TechDB licenses are No
present)

Relocate the TechDB on a

network drive
Yes

TechDB ready for use.

Customize info within the
TechDB to suit your
requirements

16 Technology Database Basics

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Flowchart illustrating TechDB Settings on upgrading existing CAMWorks Installation

Download new
CAMWorks Version
Do you
Have a
Floating Network Standalone Standalone License
License or
Floating Network
License? Upgrade existing
Upgrade the CAMWorks CAMWorks Installation
installation on all systems of Refer Installation
the floating network Guide
Refer Installation
Guide

Do you
have an SQLite
Do you based or MS-Access
have an SQLite SQL Server based or
SQLite SQL Server-based
based or MS-Access based license Based TechDB?
based or
SQL Server-based TechDB
TechDB?
MS-
SQLite Access SQL
Link CAMWorks to
Based MS-Access based Server
the MS Access
TechDB Based TechDB based TechDB based
TechDB
Create a centralized Create an SQL Server Create SQL-based
TechDB repository on based TechDB using TechDB using TechDB
the Floating Network TechDB files provided Import customized data files provided
from previous TechDB
version into new
TechDB
Link CAMWorks Link CAMWorks Link CAMWorks to the
installation on each installation on each SQL Server based
machine on the floating machine on the floating TechDB
network to the network to the SQL Do
centralized TechDB Server based TechDB you wish to
relocate the
TechDB Import customized data
location? from existing SQL-
Import customized data Import customized data based TechDB into
from existing SQL No newly created SQL-
from existing TechDB
repository into new Server-based TechDB based TechDB
Yes
TechDB into newly created SQL-
based TechDB Relocate updated TechDB
to another location and
link to CAMWorks

TechDB is ready for

use with upgraded
version of CAMWorks

Technology Database Basics 17

 Technology Database Setting Guide

2. TECHDB SETTINGS FOR A SINGLE USER

LICENSE
This chapter deals with the various Technology Database settings you might
have to change from time to time depending on your requirements when you
have a single-user (Standalone) license of CAMWorks.
The following topics with respect to TechDB settings are covered in this
chapter:
• Default location of TechDB when single user license of CAMWorks is installed
• Functioning of TechDB for a single user license of CAMWorks
• Relocating the TechDB Repository to another location
• Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks

Default location of TechDB when single user license

of CAMWorks is installed
On every Windows system on which the CAMWorks application is installed, the
default Technology Database shipped along with CAMWorks too will be installed
on the same machine at the following location:
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB\TechDB.cwdb
For more details, refer: Default location of TechDB Source Files.

Functioning of TechDB for a single user license

of CAMWorks
If you have purchased a single-user license of CAMWorks, then by default, the
Technology Database will reside on the same machine on which the CAMWorks
application is installed. You can customize the data within the TechDB to
represent your facility’s capabilities.

Relocating the TechDB Repository to another location

(Single User Installation)
If you customize the data within the Technology database repository and wish
to safeguard your customized TechDB repository by moving it from its default
location to a secure location on the network, you can choose to do so.

18 TechDB Settings For a Single User License

Technology Database Setting Guide

The steps to relocate the TechDB repository depend on whether you have a
standalone (single-user) license or floating network license of CAMWorks
application.
• If you have a floating network (multi-user) license, then refer: Creating a
centralized TechDB repository on a floating network installation of CAMWorks.
• If you use an SQL Server based TechDB, then refer: Creating and Linking an
SQL-based TechDB.
• If you have a standalone (single-user/node-locked) license of CAMWorks
and use an SQLite based TechDB or MS Access based TechDB, then the steps
for this process are given below.

Steps to relocate the TechDB Repository to another location

1. On the Windows system on which CAMWorks has been installed, browse to
the default location where the TechDB file (TechDB.cwdb/TechDB.mdb) is
installed within the CAMWorks data folder.
2. From this default folder location, move the TechDB data source file
(TechDB.cwdb/TechDB.mdb) to a shared folder location on the network or any
other desired location. (Ensure that the folder in which the file is relocated
has read-write permissions.)
3. Launch CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS.
4. On the CAMWorks Command Manager, click on the Technology Database
button .
5. The user interface for accessing the Technology Database will be displayed
in a separate window. Close the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.
6. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

7. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Click on the Browse button.
8. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to browse to
the shared folder on the network where the TechDB.cwdb file resides. Select
this file and click the Open button. The File Open dialog box will close and
the user interface will revert to the Link Database tab.
9. Close the Technology Database main window.
10. Launch CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS again. On the CAMWorks Command

Manager, click on the CAMWorks Options button . The Options dialog box
will be displayed.
11. The File Locations tab of this dialog box indicates the new location of the
TechDB. Verify that this path is correct and close the dialog box.

TechDB Settings For a Single User License 19

 Technology Database Setting Guide

If the folder path displayed to the shared folder is correct, then it indicates
successful relocation of the centralized Technology Database source file to a
shared folder on the network.

Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading

CAMWorks (Single user)
Every time the CAMWorks installation is upgraded to a newer version, the data
structures and data associated with its Technology Database too undergo
upgrades. If you have customized data within the Technology Database
associated with your existing CAMWorks installation, it is imperative that you
create its backup copy and then import the customized TechDB data from the
backed-up copy into the newly installed Technology Database.
• If you use an SQL Server based TechDB, then refer: Importing customized
TechDB data (SQL Server based TechDB).
• If you use an MS Access based TechDB or SQLite based TechDB, the steps
to import customized TechDB data for a CAMWorks single user
installation are given below.

Steps to Import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks

installation for a single-user license:
1. If the database from which customized data is to be imported is an MS
Access based TechDB source file (*.mdb), then ensure that the pre-requisite for
importing from an MS Access based TechDB source file is met (viz. supported
version of MS Access or 64-bit version of MS Access Database Engine must be
installed on the system on which this data will be imported).
2. Before you upgrade your existing CAMWorks installation on your Windows
system, browse to the folder location where the Technology Database data
source file (TechDB.cwdb/TechDB.mdb) containing customized data is
located. If you had relocated the TechDB data source file from its default location
to another location, then browse to that folder location.
3. Create a backup copy in the same folder or another folder.
4. Upgrade your existing CAMWorks installation to a newer version.
5. Launch CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS.
6. On the CAMWorks Command Manager, click on the Technology Database

button .
7. The main window of the Technology Database will be displayed. Close
the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.

20 TechDB Settings For a Single User License

Technology Database Setting Guide

8. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

9. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Select the Database type by
clicking on the respective tab (SQLite/MS-Access) to activate it.
10. The default path to the TechDB repository associated with the newly
installed/upgraded CAMWorks will be displayed next to the Browse button.
Make a note of this folder location.

Path to TechDB file displayed adjacent to ‘Browse’ button under ‘Link Database’ tab of
Settings user interface

11. Click on the Import Database tab.

12. Click on the Browse button within this tab.
13. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to browse to
the folder location containing the backup copy of the TechDB repository (as
was indicated in step number 3). Select this backed up TechDB repository file

TechDB Settings For a Single User License 21

 Technology Database Setting Guide

and click on the Open button in the File Open dialog box. The File Open
dialog box will close and the user interface will revert to the Import Database
tab.
14. In the Import Database tab, the folder path to the backed up TechDB
repository file containing customized data will be displayed adjacent to the
Browse button.

Path to TechDB Backup file displayed adjacent to ‘Browse’ button under ‘Import
Database’ tab of Settings user interface

15. Select the data to be imported. By default, the checkboxes for all the data
import options will be checked. In case, your customized data pertains to
only to specific data sets, you can uncheck the other data import options.
16. The Create Backup Copy checkbox option in the Import Database tab will be
checked by default. It is recommended that you retain the tick in this
checkbox option before importing. This ensures that a backup copy of the

22 TechDB Settings For a Single User License

Technology Database Setting Guide

newly installed TechDB containing the imported customized data is created

in the same folder. (The name of the backed-up copy will be "Backup of
TechDB".) This backed up copy can be used the next time you need to
import customized TechDB data after upgrading your CAMWorks
installation.
For details on the nomenclature of backed up TechDB source files, refer
Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files.

Note: If you add additional customized data to your Technology Database after
the backup copy has been created, you will need to create and use a
separate backup copy of your TechDB for importing customized data
when you upgrade your CAMWorks installation the next time to a newer
version.

17. Click on the Import button. The importing process will begin.

Note: The process of importing data takes a few minutes to complete. Do not
close the Technology Database main window while the importing
process is in progress.

18. Once the importing process is completed, a pop-up message indicating

successful completion of data migration will be displayed. Close the TechDB
main window.
19. If your previous TechDB containing customized data was placed in a secure
location on the network, then relocate the newly installed TechDB
containing the imported customized data to the same location. [For steps to
complete this procedure, refer: Relocating the TechDB Repository to another
location.]
Your upgraded CAMWorks installation is now ready for use.

TechDB Settings For a Single User License 23

 Technology Database Setting Guide

3. TECHDB SETTINGS FOR A FLOATING

NETWORK LICENSE
This chapter deals with the various Technology Database settings you might
have to change from time to time depending on your requirements when you
have a Floating Network License (multi-user license) of CAMWorks.
The following topics with respect to TechDB Settings are covered in this
chapter:
• Default nature of the TechDB installation when Floating Network (multi-user) license
of CAMWorks is active
• Need for creating a common TechDB repository for Floating license
• Creating a centralized TechDB repository for Floating License Network installation
• Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks

Default nature of the TechDB installation when Floating

Network license of CAMWorks is active
On every Windows system on which the CAMWorks application is installed, the
default Technology Database shipped along with CAMWorks too will be installed
on the same machine at the following locations depending on their database
format.

Default location of SQLite based TechDB at time of installation

For SQLite based TechDB, the associated repository (TechDB.cwdb) will be
installed at the following location:
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB\TechDB.cwdb

Default location of MS Access based TechDB at time of installation

For MS Access based TechDB, the associated TechDB repository
(TechDB.mdb) will be installed at the following location:
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\Lang\English

If you have purchased a Floating network license of the CAMWorks application,

then by default, a copy of the Technology Database repository (both SQLite
based TechDB.cwdb and MS Access based TechDB.mdb) will reside on every
Windows machine on which the CAMWorks application is installed. Post

24 TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License

Technology Database Setting Guide

installation and license activation, every user will have access to the TechDB
repository installed on their individual machines. Any customization saved into
one instance the TechDB residing on a specific Windows machine will therefore
not be saved in the copies of the TechDB residing on other machines.

Need for creating a common TechDB repository for

Floating network license of CAMWorks
If you have purchased a Floating network license of CAMWorks, then having
individual instances of the Technology Database on each Windows machine on
which CAMWorks application is installed is not ideal as it prevents the users
from accessing a common and shared TechDB repository which contains
customized data that represents your facility’s machining capabilities. This
situation can be easily overcome by sharing the Technology Database file on a
network and then changing the folder path to the source database on
individual machines on which CAMWorks application is installed.

Pre-requisite for creating a centralized TechDB repository for Floating

network license of CAMWorks
Ensure that every Windows system on which the CAMWorks application is
installed has read-write access to the shared folder on the network drive where
the centralized Technology Database repository will be relocated.
If MS Access based TechDB (TechDB.mdb) is your database type of choice, then
ensure that a supported version of MS Access or 64-bit version of MS Access Database
Engine is installed on the machine on which the TechDB.mdb will be relocated.

When should one ideally create a centralized TechDB repository on a

network drive?
If you have purchased a Floating Network (multi-user) license of CAMWorks
and have installed CAMWorks on multiple Windows systems connected to a
network, you need to move the TechDB to a shared folder. Such a common
and shared TechDB repository can then be accessed by all the Windows
machines (on which CAMWorks application is installed) via the network.

TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License 25

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Creating a centralized TechDB Repository for a floating

network installation of CAMWorks
If you use an SQL Server based TechDB, then refer: Creating and Linking an SQL-
based TechDB.
If you use an MS Access based TechDB or SQLite based TechDB, the steps to
relocate the TechDB to a shared location on a network drive and create a
common and shared TechDB repository accessible to multiple users
of CAMWorks on the network are given below:
Following are the steps:
1. Ensure that the pre-requisites for creating a centralized TechDB repository are met.
2. Identify the Windows system that has the TechDB source file containing
customized TechDB data. In case no customized TechDB data has yet been
generated, then select any Windows machine on which the CAMWorks
application has been installed.
3. On the selected Windows machine, use the Windows explorer to browse to
the default location where the TechDB source file (TechDB.cwdb/ TechDB.mdb)
is located.
4. From this folder location, move the file TechDB.cwdb to a shared folder
location on the network.
5. After completing the above step, the following steps need to be performed
on every individual Windows machine on which CAMWorks in installed so
that it can successfully access the centralized and shared Technology
Database repository on the network:
i. Launch CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS.
ii. On the CAMWorks Command Manager, click on the Technology Database

button .
iii. The User Interface for accessing the Technology Database will be
displayed in a separate window. Close the CAMWorks
Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.
iv. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

v. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Click on the Browse
button.
vi. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to
browse to the shared folder on the network where the TechDB.cwdb
file resides. Select this file and click the Open button. Your CAMWorks

26 TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License

Technology Database Setting Guide

application is now linked to the TechDB repository shared on the

network.
vii. Close the TechDB.
viii. Launch CAMWorks Solids/ SOLIDWORKS once again. On the CAMWorks

Command Manager, click on the CAMWorks Options button . The

Options dialog box will be displayed.
ix. The File Locations tab of this dialog box indicates the new location of
the TechDB. Verify that this path is correct.
If the folder path displayed to the shared folder is correct, then it
indicates successful relocation of the centralized Technology Database
repository to a shared folder on the network.

Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading

CAMWorks (Floating Network)
Every time the CAMWorks application installed on a Windows machine is
upgraded to a newer version, the data structures and data associated with its
Technology Database too will be upgraded. If you have a Floating network
installation of CAMWorks with a centralized TechDB repository containing customized
data shared over a network, then it is imperative that you create its back up copy
and then import the customized TechDB data from the backed up copy into the
newly installed Technology Database.
• If you use an SQL Server based TechDB, then refer: Importing customized
TechDB data (SQL Server based TechDB).
• If you use an MS Access based TechDB or SQLite based TechDB, the steps
to import customized TechDB data for a CAMWorks floating network
installation are given below.

Steps to Import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks

installation on a floating network
1. If the database from which customized data is to be imported is an MS
Access based TechDB source file (*.mdb), then ensure that the pre-requisite for
importing from an MS Access based TechDB source file is met (viz. supported
version of MS Access or 64-bit version of MS Access Database Engine must be
installed on the system on which this data will be imported).
2. Before you upgrade your existing CAMWorks installation on your Windows
system, browse to the folder where the Technology Database source file
(TechDB.cwdb/TechDB.mdb) containing customized data is located. For a

TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License 27

 Technology Database Setting Guide

floating network license, then the folder path will be to the shared folder on the
network where the centralized TechDB source file is located.
3. Create a backup copy of the TechDB repository file in the same or another
folder.
4. Upgrade all the Windows machines on which the CAMWorks application is
installed.
5. Relocate the newly installed TechDB to a shared location on a network drive
in order to create a common and shared TechDB repository accessible to
multiple users of CAMWorks on the network. [For steps to complete this
procedure, refer: Creating a centralized TechDB Repository for a floating network
installation of CAMWorks.]
6. Launch CAMWorks on any one of the Windows machines on the floating
network installation.
7. On the CAMWorks Command Manager, click on the Technology Database

button .
8. The main window of the Technology Database will be displayed. Close
the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.
9. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

10. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Select the Database type by
clicking on the respective tab (SQLite/MS-Access/SQL Server) to activate it.
11. The default path to the TechDB repository associated with the newly
installed/upgraded CAMWorks will be displayed next to the Browse button.
Make a note of this folder location.
12. Click on the Import Database tab.
13. Click on the Browse button within this tab.
14. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to browse to
the folder location containing the backup copy of the TechDB source file (as
was indicated in step number 3). Select the source file and click the Open
button. The File Open dialog box will close and the user interface will revert
to the Import Database tab.
15. In the Import Database tab, the folder path to the backed up TechDB
repository file containing customized data will be displayed adjacent to the
Browse button.
16. Select the data to be imported. By default, the checkboxes for all the data
import options will be checked. In case, your customized data pertains to
only to specific data sets, you can uncheck the other data import options.

28 TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License

Technology Database Setting Guide

17. The Create Backup Copy checkbox option in the Import Database tab will be
checked by default. It is recommended that you retain the tick in this
checkbox option before importing. This ensures that a backup copy of the
newly installed TechDB containing the imported customized data is created
in the same folder. (The name of the backed-up copy will be "Backup of
TechDB".) This backed up copy can be used the next time you need to
import customized TechDB data after upgrading your CAMWorks
installation.
For details on the nomenclature of backed up TechDB source files, refer
Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files.

Note: If you add additional customized data to your Technology Database after
the backup copy has been created, you will need to create and use a
separate backup copy of your TechDB for importing customized data
when you upgrade your CAMWorks installation the next time to a newer
version.

18. Click on the Import button. The importing process will begin.

Note: The process of importing data takes some time to complete. Do not close
the Technology Database main window while the importing process is in
progress.

19. Once the importing process is completed, a pop-up message indicating

successful completion of data migration will be displayed. Close the TechDB
main window.
Your upgraded CAMWorks installation is now ready for use on all Windows
machines on which it is installed.

TechDB Settings for a Floating Network License 29

 Technology Database Setting Guide

4. USING AN SQL-SERVER BASED TECHDB

The Technology Database associated with CAMWorks is supported on three
database types. By default, when you install the CAMWorks application, the
Technology Database supported on SQLite database type (i.e. TechDB.cwdb) is
linked to the application. The other two database types on which TechDB is
supported are MS Access and SQL Server. If desired, you can create and link an
SQL-based TechDB to the CAMWorks application.
How to create and link an SQL-based TechDB is discussed in this chapter.

The following topics are covered in this chapter:

• Supported versions of SQL Server
• User Interface Files for viewing/accessing/editing information in an SQL Server
based TechDB
• Steps to create an SQL Server based TechDB
• Steps to link the CAMWorks application to the SQL Server based Technology
Database
• Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks (SQL Server based
TechDB)

Supported versions of SQL Server

• SQL Server 2005 / 2008/ 2012
• SQL Server 2005 / 2008/ 2012 Express
• SQL Server 2008 R2
• SQL Server 2019
• All higher versions of SQL Server are also supported.

Note: ‘SQL Server’ is a Microsoft product. The purchase and installation of

this software is separate from CAMWorks. Geometric Americas, Inc.
does not provide support for installation, setup and database creation
for SQL Server.

30 Using an SQL-Server based TechDB

Technology Database Setting Guide

Steps to create an SQL Server based TechDB

1. On a Windows machine on which the CAMWorks application is installed,
browse to the following folder within the CAMWorks data folder.
Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\Lang\English
2. Locate the TechDB.bak file in this folder.
3. Use the Restore Database functionality in SQL Server Management Studio or
SQL Server Management Studio Express to create the SQL Server based
Technology Database from the TechDB.bak file.

Note: The TechDB.bak file is needed for the creation of an SQL Server based
TechDB. This file located in the \CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\
Lang\English folder is common for all the languages in which TechDB
App is supported. Once the SQL Server based TechDB is created using
this file, it will serve as a common SQL Server based TechDB repository
for all the languages in which CAMWorks is installed.
This means that if any customized data is saved to this TechDB when
running CAMWorks/ TechDB in a specific language, then that customized
data will also be available when CAMWorks/ TechDB is run in other
language versions.

4. The database you create may be assigned any name. However, for easy
identification, it is recommended that you follow a syntax that suffixes the
CAMWorks version to the database name.
For example, if you have installed CAMWorks 2021 SP0 version and have
used the TechDB.bak for English language, the name of the database can be
assigned as TechDB_2021SP0_English.
5. Provide the necessary access rights for the users.

Steps to link TechDB App to the SQL Server based

TechDB
Following are the steps:
1. Launch the Technology Database on the Windows machine on which CAMWorks
is installed.
The TechDB user interface will be displayed.
2. Close the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.

Using an SQL-Server based TechDB 31

 Technology Database Setting Guide

3. Click on the Settings menu option in the Technology Database graphical

menu. The Settings user interface will be displayed.
4. Ensure that Link Database tab is active.
5. At the time of installation, the TechDB supported on SQLite database format
will be linked to the CAMWorks application by default. This is indicated by
the SQLite tab being in active mode within the Link Database tab. To link the
TechDB supported in SQL Server database format to the CAMWorks
application, perform the following steps within the Link Database tab:
i. Click on the SQL Server tab. Parameters associated with connecting to
an SQL Server based database will be displayed.
ii. In the Server Name field, type in the Server Name.
iii. Select the Authentication mode from the dropdown list. Select
Windows Authentication to authenticate based on the default user ID
you use to log in to Windows or SQL Authentication to authenticate a
specific SQL user.
iv. If you select SQL Authentication, then enter the User Name and
Password in the respective fields.
v. In the Database name dropdown list, select the SQL Server based
TechDB you created and click on the Get Database button.
vi. Once the database is located, click on the Connect button.

32 Using an SQL-Server based TechDB

Technology Database Setting Guide

SQL Server tab under the Links Database tab

6. If you have a floating network license, then the above steps need to be
repeated on every Windows machine on which CAMWorks is installed.
7. If you have upgraded your CAMWorks installation, then import customized
TechDB data from your previous CAMWorks version.
The SQL Server based TechDB is now ready to be used with the CAMWorks
application.

Note: You can link only one SQL Server based TechDB to the CAMWorks
application at a time. If you have created SQL Server based TechDB for more
than one language, you need to repeat the above steps for that specific
language based TechDB in order to link it to the CAMWorks application.

Using an SQL-Server based TechDB 33

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Importing customized TechDB data on upgrading

CAMWorks (SQL Server based TechDB)
Every time the CAMWorks installation is upgraded to a newer version, the data
structures and data associated with its Technology Database too undergo
upgrades. If you have customized data within the Technology Database
associated with your existing CAMWorks installation, it is imperative that you
import the customized TechDB data into the newly installed Technology
Database.
The steps to import customized data from an existing SQL Server based
TechDB into the SQL Server based TechDB associated with the upgraded
version of CAMWorks are given below:

Steps to import customized TechDB data on upgrading CAMWorks

when TechDB supported on SQL Server is used
1. Upgrade all the Windows machines on which the CAMWorks application is
installed.
2. Use the TechDB.bak file available within the CAMWorks data folder to create
an SQL Server based TechDB. [For details, refer: Steps to create an SQL
Server based TechDB.]
3. Launch the Technology Database.

4. Using the Link Database tab in the Settings interface of the TechDB,
link the CAMWorks application to the SQL Server based Technology
Database created in Step number 2. [For details, refer: Steps to link TechDB
App to the SQL Server based Technology Database.]

5. Click on the Import Database tab within the Settings interface of TechDB.
6. Click on the SQL Server tab within this tab. Parameters associated with
connecting to an SQL Server based database will be displayed. Assign the
following:
i. In the Server Name field, type in the Server Name.
ii. Select the Authentication mode from the dropdown list. Select
Windows Authentication to authenticate based on the default user ID
you use to log in to Windows or SQL Authentication to authenticate a
specific SQL user.
iii. If you select SQL Authentication, then enter the User Name and
Password in the respective fields.

34 Using an SQL-Server based TechDB

Technology Database Setting Guide

iv. In the Database name dropdown list, select the SQL Server based
TechDB containing the customized data and click on the Get Database
button.
7. Once the database is located, the next step is to select the data to be
imported. By default, the checkboxes for all the data import options will be
checked. In case, your customized data pertains to only to specific data
sets, you can uncheck the data import options that do not contain
customized data.
8. The Create Backup Copy checkbox option in the Import Database tab will be
checked by default. It is recommended that you retain the tick in this
checkbox option before importing. This ensures that a backup copy of the
TechDB repository containing the imported customized data is created. (The
name of the backed-up copy will be "Backup of TechDB".) This backed up
copy can be used the next time you need to import customized TechDB data
after upgrading your CAMWorks installation.
9. Click on the Import button. The importing process will begin.

Note: The process of importing data takes a few minutes to complete. Do not
close the Technology Database main window while the importing process
is in progress.

10. Once the importing process is completed, a pop-up message indicating

successful completion of data migration will be displayed.
11. If you have a floating network installation, then repeat Step 4 above on all
machines on which the CAMWorks application is installed.
12. Your CAMWorks installation is now linked to the SQL Server based TechDB
containing the imported customized data.

Using an SQL-Server based TechDB 35

 Technology Database Setting Guide

5. IMPORTING FEED SPEED DATA IN FEED &

SPEED LIBRARY
From CAMWorks 2021x64 SP0 version onwards, the 64-bit CAMWorks Feed and
Speed Library with a SQL based database engine will be installed. This
application replaces the 32-bit Feed and Speed Library with a MS Access based
engine that was shipped with previous versions on CAMWorks. In the
Technology Database, feed and speed data will be picked from the 64-bit
CAMWorks Feed and Speed Library now shipped with CAMWorks. If you had
customized feed and speed data in the 32-bit Feed and Speed Library, then
you will need to import it into the 64-bit Feed and Speed Library.
Given in this chapter are the steps for importing customized data from the 32-
bit present in the 32-bit CAMWorks Feed and Speed Library to 64-bit CAMWorks
Feed and Speed Library.

Steps to Import Customized Feed & Speed Data in 64-bit CAMWorks

Feed & Speed Library
1. Launch the CAMWorks Technology Database.

2. Click on the Feed/ Speed menu

on thse left-hand side of the

displayed user interface.

3. The Feed/Speed menu options will

be displayed. Click on the first
option labelled
.

4. This action will launch the

CAMWorks Feed and Speed Library.
Click on the
command on its ribbon bar.

Feed/Speed Editor Option in Feed/Speed Menu

36 Importing Feed Speed Data in Feed & Speed Library

Technology Database Setting Guide

‘Import Feeds and Speeds’ Command in Feed & Speed Library User Interface

5. A warning message will inform you that all existing data within the Feed and
Speed Library (including customized data, if any) will be replaced on going
ahead with the import process. Click Yes within the warning message to
confirm.

Warning Message prompting you to Confirm the Import Process

6. As your previous Feed and Speed Library version was a 32-bit application with
a MS Access based database engine, the current 64-bit Feed and Speed Library
application (with a SQL database engine) will fail to find the database. A
warning message will be displayed stating that no data was found and that
you manually need to enter the path to the database of the previous
version. Click OK within this message box.

Message Box Prompting you to manually input the File Path to Database

7. The Windows File Explorer will be launched. Use it to navigate to the *.mdb file
(MS Access database) of the previous Feed and Speed Library application. The
default path to the 32-bit CAMWorks Feed and Speed Library application is:
C:\CAMWorksData\MATLIB\MATERIAL.MDB

Importing Feed Speed Data in Feed & Speed Library 37

 Technology Database Setting Guide

8. Select the Material.MDB file and execute the Open command.

Select the ‘Material.mdb’ file and click on the ‘Open’ Button Command

9. The File Explorer will close and the Feeds Speeds Import window will be
displayed. This window indicates the path to the database file from which
Feed & Speed data will be imported. Click on the Import button within this
window to commence importing.

Feeds Speeds Import Window

10. A warning message will prompt you

confirm whether you are sure about
importing all data from the selected
database. Click Yes within this
message box.

Warning Message Prompting you to Confirm

Import

38 Importing Feed Speed Data in Feed & Speed Library

Technology Database Setting Guide

11. The import process will commence. The user interface will revert to the Feed
and Speed Library application. Observe that in the ribbon bar, the
button command has been temporarily replaced with the
command (in disabled state). Depending on the volume of
the data present, this process will take several minutes.

12. Once the import is complete, a message indicating successful import of the
data will be displayed in the status bar of the user interface. The
button will be replaced with the button.

Status of Import Process indicated in Status bar

13. Your 64-bit SQL based database engine Feed and Speed Library now contains
all your customized data. The next time you use TechDB or retrieve
information from the TechDB while using the CAMWorks application, the
Feed/ Speed values applied will be based on the customized data you
imported in to the 64-bit SQL based database engine Feed and Speed Library
application.

Importing Feed Speed Data in Feed & Speed Library 39

 Technology Database Setting Guide

APPENDIX A: MIGRATING DATA FROM MS ACCESS

BASED TECHDB TO SQLITE BASED TECHDB
If you are an existing user of CAMWorks who uses an MS Access based TechDB
containing customized data and wish to switch to SQLite based TechDB, you
can do so at any point of time. Importing of customized data from MS Access
based TechDB repository (TechDB.mdb) into the SQLite based TechDB
repository (TechDB.cwdb) is supported.

Pre-requisites for migrating customized data from an MS Access based

TechDB
On the Windows system PC on which the SQLite Technology Database is
located, ensure that you have a supported MS Access (Full or Runtime) version or
64-bit version of MS Access Database Engine installed. An error message will be
displayed if a supported version of MS Access in not found installed when you
attempt to import the customized data from the MS Access based TechDB into
the SQLite based TechDB.

Steps to import customized data from MS Access based TechDB into

SQLite based TechDB
1. On the Windows system PC on which the SQLite Technology Database is
located, launch the Technology Database.
2. The main window of the Technology Database will be displayed. Close
the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.
3. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

4. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Click on the SQLite tab to link
the SQLite based TechDB to the CAMWorks application.
5. The default path to the SQLite based TechDB repository will be displayed
next to the Browse button.
(Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB\TechDB.cwdb)

6. Click on the Import Database tab. Click on the MS Access tab.

7. Click on the Browse button within this tab.
8. The File Open dialog box will be displayed. Use this dialog box to browse to
the folder location containing the MS Access based TechDB repository

40 Appendix A: Migrating Data from MS Access based TechDB to SQLite Based TechDB
Technology Database Setting Guide

(TechDB.mdb) containing customized data. Select this file and click on the
Open button in the File Open dialog box. The File Open dialog box will close
and the user interface will revert to the Import Database tab.
9. In the Import Database tab, the folder path to the selected TechDB.mdb file
that contains customized data will be displayed adjacent to the Browse
button.
10. Select the data to be imported. By default, the checkboxes for all the data
import options will be checked. In case, your customized data pertains to
only to specific data sets, you can uncheck the data import options that do
not contain customized data.
11. The Create Backup Copy checkbox option in the Import Database tab will be
checked by default. It is recommended that you retain the tick in this
checkbox option before importing. This ensures that a backup copy of the
TechDB.cwdb file containing the imported customized data is created in the
same folder. (The name of the backed-up copy will be "Backup of TechDB".)
This backed up copy can be used the next time you need to import
customized TechDB data after upgrading your CAMWorks installation.
12. Click on the Import button. The importing process will begin.

Note: The process of importing data takes a few minutes to complete. Do not
close the Technology Database main window while the importing
process is in progress.

13. Once the importing process is completed, a pop-up message indicating

successful completion of data migration will be displayed.
14. Your CAMWorks installation is now linked to the SQLite based TechDB. You
can optionally perform the following steps:
i. If you wish to relocate the SQLite based TechDB.cwdb file containing
customized data to a secure location on the network, then refer:
Relocating the TechDB Repository to another location.]
ii. If you have a floating network license and need to share the SQLite
based TechDB.cwdb file on the network to create a centralized TechDB
source, refer: Creating a centralized TechDB Repository for a floating network
installation of CAMWorks.

Appendix A: Migrating Data from MS Access based TechDB to SQLite Based TechDB 41
 Technology Database Setting Guide

APPENDIX B: MIGRATING DATA FROM SQL SERVER

BASED TECHDB TO SQLITE BASED TECHDB
If you are an existing user of CAMWorks who uses an SQL Server based TechDB
containing customized data and wishes to migrate to SQLite based TechDB,
you can do so at any point of time. Migration of customized data from SQL
Server based TechDB repository into the SQLite based TechDB repository
(TechDB.cwdb) is supported.

Steps to migrate customized data in SQL Server based TechDB to

SQLite based TechDB
1. Launch the Technology Database.
2. The main window of the Technology Database will be displayed. Close
the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.
3. In the Technology Database window, click on the Settings menu option

on the left-hand side.

4. Ensure that the Link Database tab is active. Click on the SQLite tab to link
the SQLite based TechDB to the CAMWorks application.
5. The default path to the SQLite based TechDB repository will be displayed
next to the Browse button.
(Drive:\CAMWorksData\CAMWorks2021x64\TechDB\TechDB.cwdb)

6. Click on the Import Database tab. Click on the SQL Server tab within this tab.
Parameters associated with connecting to an SQL Server based database
will be displayed. Assign the following:
i. In the Server Name field, type in the Server Name.
ii. Select the Authentication mode from the dropdown list. Select
Windows Authentication to authenticate based on the default user ID
you use to log in to Windows or SQL Authentication to authenticate a
specific SQL user.
iii. If you select SQL Authentication, then enter the User Name and
Password in the respective fields.
iv. In the Database name dropdown list, select the SQL Server based
TechDB containing the customized data and click on the Get Database
button.

42 Appendix B: Migrating Data from SQL Server based TechDB to SQLite based TechDB
Technology Database Setting Guide

7. Once the database is located, the next step is to select the data to be
imported. By default, the checkboxes for all the data import options will be
checked. In case, your customized data pertains to only to specific data
sets, you can uncheck the data import options that do not contain
customized data.
8. The Create Backup Copy checkbox option in the Import Database tab will be
checked by default. It is recommended that you retain the tick in this
checkbox option before importing. This ensures that a backup copy of the
TechDB.cwdb file containing the imported customized data is created in the
same folder. (The name of the backed-up copy will be "Backup of TechDB".)
This backed up copy can be used the next time you need to import
customized TechDB data after upgrading your CAMWorks installation.
9. Click on the Import button. The importing process will begin.

Note: The process of importing data takes a few minutes to complete. Do not
close the Technology Database main window while the importing
process is in progress.

10. Once the importing process is completed, a pop-up message indicating

successful completion of data migration will be displayed.
11. Your CAMWorks installation is now linked to the SQLite based TechDB. You
can optionally perform the following steps:
i. If you wish to relocate the SQLite based TechDB.cwdb file containing
customized data to a secure location on the network, then refer:
Relocating the TechDB Repository to another location.]
ii. If you have a floating network license and need to share the SQLite
based TechDB.cwdb file on the network to create a centralized TechDB
source, refer: Creating a centralized TechDB Repository for a floating network
installation of CAMWorks.

Appendix B: Migrating Data from SQL Server based TechDB to SQLite based TechDB 43
 Technology Database Setting Guide

APPENDIX C: LINKING TECHDB APP TO AN MS

ACCESS BASED TECHDB
When you install CAMWorks for the first time or whenever you upgrade your
existing CAMWorks installation, the default TechDB repository (data source file)
linked to the CAMWorks application will be TechDB.cwdb (SQLite Database
format).
If you wish to use the TechDB supported in the MS Access database format,
then use the Link Database functionality to select this database format and link
it to the CAMWorks application.

Steps to link CAMWorks with MS Access based TechDB

1. Within the CAMWorks application, click on the Technology Database

command button on the CAMWorks Command Manager.

The TechDB App user interface will be displayed.
2. Close the CAMWorks Solids/SOLIDWORKS application.

3. Go to Settings menu on the left-hand side of the TechDB App user

interface.
4. Ensure that Link Database tab is active.
5. At the time of installation, the TechDB supported on SQLite database type
will be the default one linked to the CAMWorks application. This is indicated
by the SQLite tab being in active mode within the Link Database tab.
6. To select an MS Access based TechDB, perform the following steps within
the Link Database tab:
i. Click on the MS Access tab within the Link Database tab.
ii. The default folder path the TechDB.mdb file will be displayed next to
the Browse button. The TechDB.mdb file is now linked to the CAMWorks
application.
The default folder path the TechDB.cwdb file will be displayed next to the
Browse button.
7. a. If you have upgraded your CAMWorks installation for a single-user
(Node-Locked) license, then import customized TechDB data from the
previous CAMWorks version.

44 Appendix C: Linking TechDB App to an MS Access based TechDB

Technology Database Setting Guide

b. If you have installed CAMWorks for the first time and have a floating
network license, then create a centralized TechDB repository for a floating
network installation of CAMWorks.
c. If you have upgraded your CAMWorks installation for a floating
network license, then create a centralized TechDB repository and then import
customized TechDB data from your previous CAMWorks version.

MS-Access tab under the ‘Links Database’ tab

Appendix C: Linking TechDB App to an MS Access based TechDB 45

 Technology Database Setting Guide

APPENDIX D: NOMENCLATURE OF BACKED UP

TECHDB SOURCE FILES
Every time the Create Backup Copy option is exercised in the Import Database
tab of Settings user interface while importing customized TechDB data, a
backup copy of the updated TechDB will be created within the same folder
where the TechDB source file resides. The first time a backup copy is created,
it will be assigned the name “Backup of TechDB”. For all successive backup
copies that are created, the names assigned to the backup copies will have the
following syntax:
“Backup of TechDB” + <space> + <n+1>
Where n+1 is the number indicating the number of times the customized TechDB data was
imported into the current TechDB with the Create Backup Copy option exercised.

Multiple Backup copies of the TechDB Source file created every time the ‘Create Backup
Copy’ option is exercised

Example illustrating when to use automatically or manually created

Backed Up copies of TechDB
The following example illustrates whether automatically or manually created
Backup copies of the TechDB source file are to be used for importing
customized TechDB data when the installed CAMWorks version is upgraded
from SP0 through SP4 version.

Upgrading from SP0 version to SP1 version

Scenario:
After installing the SP0 version of CAMWorks, customized data has been added
to its associated TechDB.cwdb. This SP0 version is now to be updated to the
SP1 version.

46 Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files

Technology Database Setting Guide

How to use Backup copy in this case:

Before upgrading, a backup copy of the original TechDB.cwdb that contains the
customized data needs to be manually created. On upgrading, the original
TechDB.cwdb of SP0 version will get replaced with the new TechDB.cwdb of SP1
version. Using the Import Database functionality, use the backed-up copy of the
SP0 version to import the customized data into the newly installed
TechDB.cwdb. While importing, the Create Backup Copy option must be
exercised. Exercising this option creates a backup copy named "Backup of
TechDB.cwdb" which will be placed in the same folder as the newly updated
TechDB.cwdb.

Upgrading from SP1 version to SP2 version

Scenario:
The SP1 version is now to be updated to the SP2 version. In the interim period
between the upgrade from SP0 to SP1, no customized data was added to the
TechDB.
How to use Backup copy in this case:
On upgrading CAMWorks, the TechDB.cwdb of SP1 version will be replaced with
the new TechDB.cwdb of SP2 version. Using the Import Database functionality,
the back copy named "Backup of TechDB.cwdb" already residing in the same
folder as the TechDB.cwdb should be used to import the customized data into
the new TechDB.cwdb. While importing, the Create Backup Copy option must be
exercised. Exercising this option creates a backup copy named "Backup of
TechDB 1.cwdb" which will be placed in the same folder as the newly updated
TechDB.cwdb.

Upgrading from SP2 version to SP3 version

Scenario:
The SP2 version was then updated to SP3 version. In the interim period
between the upgrade, no customized data was added to the TechDB.
How to use Backup copy in this case:
On upgrading CAMWorks, the TechDB.cwdb of SP2 version will be replaced
with the new TechDB.cwdb of SP3 version. Using the Import Database
functionality, the back copy named "Backup of TechDB 1.cwdb" already residing
in the same folder as the TechDB.cwdb will be used to import the customized
data into the new TechDB.cwdb. While importing, the Create Backup Copy
option must be exercised. Exercising this option creates a backup copy named
"Backup of TechDB 2.cwdb" which will be placed in the same folder as the newly
updated TechDB.cwdb.

Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files 47

 Technology Database Setting Guide

Upgrading from SP3 version to SP4 version

Scenario:
The SP3 version was then updated to SP4 version. In the interim period
between the upgrade, additional customized data was added to the TechDB.
How to use Backup copy in this case:
Since additional customized data was added, the previous backed up copy (viz.
"Backup of TechDB 2.cwdb") doesn't cover the entire scope of customized data.
Hence, before upgrading, a new backup copy of the TechDB.cwdb must be
manually created. On upgrading CAMWorks, the TechDB.cwdb of SP3 version
will be replaced with the new TechDB.cwdb of SP4 version. Using the Import
Database functionality, the manually created backed copy should be used to
import the customized data into the newly installed TechDB.cwdb. While
importing, the Create Backup Copy option must be exercised. Exercising this
option creates a backup copy named "Backup of TechDB 3.cwdb" which will be
placed in the same folder as the newly updated TechDB.cwdb.

Upgrading from SP4 version to SP5 version

Scenario:
The SP4 version was then updated to SP5 version. In the interim period
between the upgrade, additional customized data was added to the TechDB.
How to use Backup copy in this case:
Since additional customized data was added, the previous backed up copy (viz.
"Backup of TechDB 3.cwdb") doesn't cover the entire scope of customized data.
Hence, before upgrading, a new backup copy of the TechDB.cwdb must be
manually created. On upgrading CAMWorks, the TechDB.cwdb of SP4 version
will be replaced with the new TechDB.cwdb of SP5 version. Using the Import
Database functionality, the manually created backed copy should be used to
import the customized data into the newly installed TechDB.cwdb. While
importing, the Create Backup Copy option must be exercised. Exercising this
option creates a backup copy named "Backup of TechDB 4.cwdb" which will be
placed in the same folder as the newly updated TechDB.cwdb.

48 Appendix D: Nomenclature of Backed up TechDB Source Files