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Creating a Macro in SOLIDWORKS: Step-by-Step Guide

Writer's picture: AMP TeamAMP Team

Automating repetitive tasks in SOLIDWORKS can save you time and effort, allowing you to focus on more complex design work. One way to achieve this is by creating macros. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of building a macro from scratch using simple VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) code. By following along with the steps below, you'll learn how to automate processes, such as generating multiple points in a 3D sketch from a text file.

Watch the video below for a detailed walkthrough!



Why Create a Macro in SOLIDWORKS?

Macros in SOLIDWORKS are a powerful tool for automating repetitive tasks or performing functions that would otherwise take multiple steps. Whether you’re dealing with part creation, assemblies, or drawings, a macro can handle everything from generating geometry to modifying features. In this guide, we’ll focus on how to create a basic macro that reads a text file and places points in a 3D sketch based on given coordinates.


Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Macro in SOLIDWORKS

1. Plan Your User Interface Actions

Before you start recording a macro, plan out your steps. SOLIDWORKS records each click you make during the macro recording process, so it’s helpful to keep your actions as minimal and concise as possible. This will save time when you go back to edit the macro.


2. Record the Macro

You can generate part of the macro by recording your actions in SOLIDWORKS. To do this:

  • Start by selecting Tools > Macro > Record.

  • Perform the actions you want to automate, such as creating a 3D sketch or placing points.

  • Once finished, stop the recording by selecting Tools > Macro > Stop Recording.


3. Edit the Macro in VBA Editor

Once the macro is recorded, you’ll likely need to edit it. Open the VBA Editor (accessible via Tools > Macro > Edit) to clean up any unnecessary lines and add specific commands or values that weren’t captured during the recording. In the example discussed in the video, the macro reads a text file with X, Y, and Z coordinates and places points based on these values.


For this, you need to:

  • Specify the file name and location of the text file.

  • Ensure the correct code is in place to read and process the data.


4. Run and Test the Macro

After editing, run the macro by going to Tools > Macro > Run. This will execute your macro, and you’ll be able to see the results of the automation. If the macro encounters any errors, use the debugging tools in the VBA Editor to identify and fix the issue.


5. Save the Macro for Future Use

Once the macro runs successfully, save it for future use. You can access saved macros anytime, making them a reusable solution for repetitive tasks.


6. Creating a Macro from Scratch

In some cases, you might want to create a macro from scratch rather than recording one. This is possible by directly writing the VBA code in the editor. For example, in the video, the code is used to create points in a 3D sketch based on coordinates from a text file. Simply input the code into the VBA Editor, and follow the same steps to run and test it.


Key Benefits of Using Macros in SOLIDWORKS

  • Time Efficiency: Automating repetitive tasks saves you valuable time during the design process.

  • Customisation: Macros can be tailored to your specific workflow, handling unique tasks that aren’t covered by default SOLIDWORKS features.

  • Reusability: Once created, macros can be reused anytime, offering a consistent way to perform complex tasks.


Watch the full video above to learn how to create a macro in SOLIDWORKS, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more SOLIDWORKS tutorials!

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