Technology

EDRW File (What It Is And How To Open One)

Published: October 26, 2023

edrw-file-what-it-is-and-how-to-open-one

What is an EDRW File?

An EDRW file is a 3D file format that is primarily used by SolidWorks, a popular computer-aided design (CAD) software. EDRW stands for “eDrawings Readable File,” and it contains detailed information about a 3D model, such as its geometry, materials, textures, and assembly structure.

The purpose of an EDRW file is to allow engineers, designers, and other professionals to easily share and view 3D models without the need for specialized CAD software. It is particularly useful for collaborating on design projects, presenting concepts to clients or stakeholders, and getting feedback on design iterations.

EDRW files are typically compact and can be easily transmitted via email or shared through cloud storage services. They give recipients the ability to interact with the 3D model by rotating, zooming, and measuring various dimensions. This allows for a more immersive and accurate understanding of the design, which can help in making informed decisions and improving the overall design process.

It’s worth noting that EDRW files are not editable unless you have the appropriate software, such as SolidWorks, to open and modify them. They are primarily intended for viewing and analyzing purposes, making them a valuable tool for communication and collaboration within the design and engineering fields.

Overall, EDRW files are an essential component of the design workflow, enabling efficient communication and visualization of 3D models. Their compatibility with various software applications makes them widely accessible and empowers professionals to exchange ideas and feedback seamlessly.

What Programs Can Open EDRW Files?

Opening EDRW files can be done using various software applications, each designed to provide a seamless viewing and analysis experience. Here are some of the most popular programs that can open EDRW files:

  1. eDrawings Viewer: As the name suggests, eDrawings Viewer is a free software application specifically built to open and view EDRW files. It offers a user-friendly interface, allowing users to navigate the 3D model, explore its components, and take measurements. Additionally, eDrawings Viewer supports collaboration features, making it easy to share and communicate design ideas with others.
  2. SolidWorks: SolidWorks, the software that creates EDRW files, can also open them. SolidWorks offers advanced editing capabilities, allowing users to modify and manipulate the 3D model directly. This makes it a preferred choice for engineers and designers who not only want to view the EDRW file but also make changes to the design itself.
  3. DWG FastView: DWG FastView is a popular CAD viewer that supports multiple file formats, including EDRW. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for visualizing and analyzing 3D models, such as dynamic zooming, sectioning, and markup functionalities. DWG FastView is widely used in various industries, offering a reliable solution for opening and reviewing EDRW files.
  4. AutoCAD: AutoCAD, a widely used CAD software, can also open EDRW files with the help of compatible plugins. By installing the appropriate add-ons, users can access EDRW files within the AutoCAD interface and leverage AutoCAD’s extensive editing and drafting capabilities for further design modifications.
  5. FreeCAD: FreeCAD is an open-source CAD software that supports a range of file formats, including EDRW. It provides a robust set of tools for viewing and editing 3D models, making it a valuable option for users seeking an alternative to proprietary CAD software. FreeCAD offers cross-platform compatibility, making it accessible to users on different operating systems.

These are just a few examples of software programs that can open EDRW files. However, it’s important to note that compatibility may vary depending on the software version and any additional plugins or extensions installed. When working with EDRW files, it is recommended to use the specific software that created the file or popular viewers that support this format to ensure a smooth and accurate viewing experience.

Method 1: Using eDrawings Viewer

eDrawings Viewer is a dedicated software application designed to open and view EDRW files. It offers a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it easy to navigate and interact with 3D models. Here’s how you can open an EDRW file using eDrawings Viewer:

  1. First, download and install eDrawings Viewer from the official website. It is available for both Windows and macOS operating systems.
  2. Once installed, launch eDrawings Viewer on your computer.
  3. In the eDrawings Viewer interface, click on the “File” menu and select “Open”. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + O” (Windows) or “Command + O” (macOS).
  4. Navigate to the location where your EDRW file is stored and select it.
  5. Click on the “Open” button to open the EDRW file in eDrawings Viewer.
  6. Once the file is opened, you can explore the 3D model by using the mouse to rotate, zoom in, or pan. You can also take measurements and view different components of the model.
  7. eDrawings Viewer offers additional features such as sectioning, markups, and collaboration tools, which allow you to communicate and share design ideas with others.
  8. When you’re finished viewing the EDRW file, you can close eDrawings Viewer.

eDrawings Viewer provides a convenient and easy-to-use solution for opening and viewing EDRW files. It is particularly useful for collaborating on design projects, sharing ideas, and receiving feedback. With its intuitive interface and various features, eDrawings Viewer enhances the visualization and understanding of 3D models.

Method 2: Using SolidWorks

SolidWorks, the software that creates EDRW files, can also be used to open and view them. SolidWorks offers advanced editing capabilities, making it a preferred choice for engineers and designers who not only want to view the EDRW file but also make changes to the design itself. Here’s how you can open an EDRW file using SolidWorks:

  1. First, ensure that SolidWorks is installed on your computer. If you don’t have SolidWorks, you can download a trial version from the official website.
  2. Launch SolidWorks on your computer.
  3. In the SolidWorks interface, click on the “File” menu and select “Open”. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + O” (Windows) or “Command + O” (macOS).
  4. Navigate to the location where your EDRW file is stored and select it.
  5. Click on the “Open” button to open the EDRW file in SolidWorks.
  6. Once the file is opened, you can interact with the 3D model, view different components, and make changes using SolidWorks’ extensive editing tools.
  7. SolidWorks allows you to modify the design of the EDRW file, apply different materials, textures, or add additional features to the model.
  8. When you’re finished working with the EDRW file, you can save your changes or export it to a different file format if needed.
  9. Close SolidWorks when you’re done.

SolidWorks provides a comprehensive solution for opening, viewing, and editing EDRW files. Its powerful editing capabilities allow designers and engineers to fine-tune their designs and make precise modifications to the 3D models. With SolidWorks’ vast array of features and tools, you have the flexibility to not only visualize but also enhance your EDRW files with ease.

Method 3: Using DWG FastView

DWG FastView is a popular CAD viewer that supports multiple file formats, including EDRW. It provides a comprehensive set of tools for visualizing and analyzing 3D models, making it a reliable option for opening and reviewing EDRW files. Here’s how you can open an EDRW file using DWG FastView:

  1. Start by downloading and installing DWG FastView from the official website. It is available for both Windows and macOS.
  2. Launch DWG FastView on your computer.
  3. In the DWG FastView interface, click on the “Open” icon, usually located in the toolbar at the top of the window.
  4. Navigate to the location where your EDRW file is stored and select it.
  5. Click on the “Open” button to open the EDRW file in DWG FastView.
  6. Once the file is opened, you can explore the 3D model by using the mouse to rotate, zoom in, or pan. DWG FastView provides smooth and responsive navigation for a seamless viewing experience.
  7. In addition to basic viewing capabilities, DWG FastView offers measurement tools, sectioning options, and markup functionalities to help analyze and annotate the EDRW file.
  8. When you’re finished viewing and analyzing the EDRW file, you can close DWG FastView.

DWG FastView provides a user-friendly interface and a wide range of features that make opening and viewing EDRW files a breeze. Its compatibility with multiple file formats and its robust set of tools make it a reliable choice for professionals in various industries who need to review and collaborate on 3D models.

Method 4: Using AutoCAD

AutoCAD, a widely used CAD software, can also be used to open EDRW files with the help of compatible plugins. By installing the appropriate add-ons, users can access EDRW files within the AutoCAD interface and leverage AutoCAD’s extensive editing and drafting capabilities for further design modifications. Here’s how you can open an EDRW file using AutoCAD:

  1. Ensure that AutoCAD is installed on your computer. If you don’t have AutoCAD, you can download a trial version from the official website.
  2. Launch AutoCAD on your computer.
  3. In the AutoCAD interface, go to the “Insert” tab on the ribbon menu.
  4. Click on the “Attach” option and then select “Drawing”.
  5. Navigate to the location where your EDRW file is stored and select it.
  6. Click on the “Open” button to open the EDRW file in AutoCAD.
  7. Once the file is opened, you can interact with the 3D model and make changes using AutoCAD’s powerful editing tools. You can modify dimensions, add or remove elements, and apply different renderings to the EDRW file.
  8. AutoCAD allows you to work with the EDRW file as you would with any other AutoCAD drawing, giving you the flexibility to incorporate it into your design project.
  9. When you’re finished working with the EDRW file, you can save your changes or export it to a different file format if needed.
  10. Close AutoCAD when you’re done.

AutoCAD provides a comprehensive solution for opening and editing EDRW files. Its versatility and extensive feature set make it a popular choice among professionals in the design and engineering fields who require advanced editing capabilities for their 3D models.

Method 5: Using FreeCAD

FreeCAD is an open-source CAD software that supports a range of file formats, including EDRW. It provides a robust set of tools for viewing and editing 3D models, making it a valuable option for users seeking an alternative to proprietary CAD software. Here’s how you can open an EDRW file using FreeCAD:

  1. Start by downloading and installing FreeCAD from the official website. It is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
  2. Launch FreeCAD on your computer.
  3. In the FreeCAD interface, click on the “File” menu and select “Open”. Alternatively, you can use the keyboard shortcut “Ctrl + O” (Windows/Linux) or “Command + O” (macOS).
  4. Navigate to the location where your EDRW file is stored and select it.
  5. Click on the “Open” button to open the EDRW file in FreeCAD.
  6. Once the file is opened, you can explore the 3D model using FreeCAD’s navigation tools. FreeCAD allows you to rotate, zoom in, and pan the view, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the EDRW file.
  7. In addition to viewing capabilities, FreeCAD offers a wide range of editing tools that allow you to modify the EDRW file. You can make changes to the geometry, add or remove components, and apply materials and textures.
  8. FreeCAD supports parametric modeling, which means you can define relationships between elements and modify the design accordingly, making it a versatile option for designers and engineers.
  9. When you’re finished working with the EDRW file, you can save your changes or export it to a different file format if needed.
  10. Close FreeCAD when you’re done.

FreeCAD provides a powerful and accessible solution for opening and editing EDRW files. Its open-source nature and extensive feature set make it a valuable asset for individuals and organizations looking for an alternative CAD software that supports EDRW files and offers advanced editing capabilities.

Avatar
Written by Kevina Calvillo

Related Stories