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If I understand well, (thatSW 2007 tell you that can not open SW 2009 files) that is the true. Older versions of SW can not open the newer versions files. Newer versions of SWcan open the older versions files but if you modify this files youcan save this filesONLY in the newer version.
More other programs, like MS WORD or MS EXCEL, can not open newer versions files but,if youopen anolder version file (or create a new file)you can save this file in actual version orin anolder version format.
SW can not doing that. I am sure that is a marketing way: all users must buy all new versions.
Sorry for my english, but I hope you understand what I wish to say.
You can saveas igs or parasolid file. You can probably import thesefiles into an earlier SW depending on condition/version of the save-as file formats. I don't think igs files formats have continued to to deveolve as much?This will get you a part with no history. You should be able to add it to an assembly or make adimensionsed drawing from it.
I have not tried saving as a CAD i.e. Pro-E or Catia file and then opening it in a earlier version of SW.
My suggestion is to save the file from SW 2009 as a STEP, or Parasolids file, and import it into SW 2007.
If you need to know the dimensions, have an eDrawing and/or PDF file created from the SW 2009 drawing. Unfortunately, as mentioned above, the files are not backward compatible.
Pro/Engineer has an option to read later version (starting with Pro-E WF 2.0 I believe), but those features cannot be modified. This could be an enhancement request for SW.
Native Solidworks (or Solid Edge, Pro-E, Inventor, AutoCAD, ... U pick one) files made from a newer version cannot be opened by an earlier version of the software. It is a standard practice, and NOT for marketing reasons. It all has to do with the underlying kernal that the software (bells and wistles) has been built on. All 3D modelers use one of a few different kernals, be it ACIS, Parasolid, Hoops, or whatever.The kernals are always being updated in parallel to the modelers. It is Ford vs. Chevy... The kernals are usually updated at each software modeler's major releases.
Matt
P.S. I am an unemployed ME with 14 years design experience. My position was "eliminated" in January. Does anyone know of anybody hiring? Please e-mail me offlist @ [email protected]
I was at Solidwork's World this past week and have some input for several of the entries in this thread:
Each year SW has a top 10 list that asks users what they want SW to put into the product. This year one of the top 10 was "backwards compatibility". In the future this should 'solve' the issue you are asking about.
As to the person who lost their job, SW also announced that anyone who has legitimately lost their job can request a free copy of SW.
It is SW way of trying to help those who have lost their jobs.
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