SolidWorks Performance Optimization Guide
This guide summarizes recommended Windows and SolidWorks configuration settings to
maximize performance on Dell Precision laptops equipped with Quadro A2000 or T2000
GPUs and 32 GB RAM.
1. Windows System Settings
• Power Plan: Use “Ultimate Performance” (enable via Command Prompt: powercfg duplicatescheme e9a42b02-d5df-448d-aa00-03f14749eb61)
• Disable CPU throttling in BIOS (Intel SpeedStep / C-states) if thermals permit.
• Virtual Memory: Custom size = 1.5× installed RAM (e.g., 32 GB RAM → 48 GB page file) on
fastest SSD.
• Disable unnecessary Startup Apps; keep only GPU driver and essential utilities.
• Exclude CAD directories from Windows Defender real-time protection.
• Use NVMe SSD for OS and active project files; archive older jobs on HDD or NAS.
2. GPU & Display Configuration
NVIDIA Control Panel → Manage 3D Settings → Program Settings → sldworks.exe:
• Power Management Mode → Prefer Maximum Performance
• Texture Filtering Quality → High Performance
• Threaded Optimization → On
• Vertical Sync → Off
Display Recommendations:
• Use one high-quality monitor (QHD or 4K). Avoid mixing resolutions.
• Scaling: Keep at 100% or 125% (avoid 150%+).
• Disable G-Sync or variable refresh if not needed.
3. SolidWorks Settings
Performance Options:
• Disable “Use software OpenGL” (only enable for troubleshooting).
• Enhanced graphics performance → ON (recommended for Quadro GPUs).
• Level of Detail → Medium to Low.
• Verification on rebuild → OFF.
• Enable Large Assembly Mode.
• Automatically load components lightweight → ON.
• Use Large Design Review for quick previews.
Assemblies:
• Load sub-assemblies as Lightweight or SpeedPak.
• Suppress unnecessary features/mates.
• Use Display States instead of multiple configurations.
• Turn OFF RealView, Shadows, and Reflections during modeling.
Drawings:
• Avoid High Quality shaded views except for final issue.
• Disable “Automatic view update” until finalization.
• Use Draft quality for intermediate stages.
4. File Management & Cache
• Store working files on local NVMe SSD; sync to NAS or network drives only after closing
SolidWorks.
• Disable Windows Search indexing for SolidWorks project directories.
• Auto-recover save interval: 15–20 minutes.
• Regularly clean SolidWorks temporary folders (%temp%).
5. Hardware Utilization
• Use Dell Precision Optimizer or Dell Command | Power Manager → set to “Ultra
Performance” mode.
• Keep laptops plugged in during CAD sessions.
• Use Quadro Studio Drivers (not Game Ready).
• Keep system drivers and BIOS updated via Dell Command | Update.
• Ensure SSD TRIM is enabled (fsutil behavior query DisableDeleteNotify → should return 0).
• Clean fans and vents periodically; overheating triggers throttling.
6. Maintenance Practices
• Restart SolidWorks daily to prevent memory leaks.
• Close Chrome/Teams/Outlook when handling large assemblies.
• Keep assembly structure organized (sub-assemblies, naming, SpeedPak use).
• Perform weekly disk cleanup and defragmentation (for HDDs only).
7. Advanced Tweaks (Optional)
• Use Process Lasso or Windows Task Manager to set sldworks.exe to High Priority.
• Disable Windows animations and transparency (Settings → Accessibility → Visual effects).
• Add Defender exclusions for .SLDASM, .SLDPRT, .SLDDRW file types.
• Use SolidWorks RX → Diagnostics to verify certified GPU and driver versions.
Following these guidelines will ensure the best possible SolidWorks experience on Dell
Precision systems, balancing graphics quality with stability and responsiveness.