Problem

After launching the SOLIDWORKS application successfully, the SOLIDWORKS window does not appear on the active monitor. This generally occurs when the last monitor that SOLIDWORKS was opened on is disconnected, and it commonly occurs with laptops using external monitors or docking stations.

We can verify that SOLIDWORKS launches correctly but is not visible on the active monitor by checking the Task Manager or looking for the SOLIDWORKS icon in the taskbar. SOLIDWORKS will show as an active process in the Task Manager.

Hovering over SOLIDWORKS in the taskbar shows a preview of the SOLIDWORKS window, but clicking on SOLIDWORKS has no visible effect.

Solution 1: Return the SOLIDWORKS window to an active monitor

1. Click the running instance of SOLIDWORKS in the taskbar (this will ensure the window is selected)
2. Press Alt+Space+R (This will restore the window if it is maximized.  If the window is maximized, step 3 will not work)
3. Hold the Windows key and press the left or right arrow key repeatedly to move the window until the window appears on the active monitor
4. Alternatively, we can press Alt+Spacebar+M and then use the arrow keys or mouse drag to move the SOLIDWORKS window to the active monitor

Solution 2: Check Windows Settings and Reboot

If Solution 1 does not return SOLIDWORKS to the visible monitor, right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings".  Check that only the active monitors are shown as identified. Then restart the computer, and SOLIDWORKS should display properly on the active monitor.   

If the issue persists after following these instructions, a more invasive registry reset will restore the last known window position for SOLIDWORKS. We recommend consulting with IT prior to performing registry edits.

Clearing your User Registry Settings – Hawk Ridge Systems

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.