Problem

This article goes over how to delete files that show as being in a "Private State" in the PDM vault. This can occur when users add a file to the PDM vault but do not check it in. Private state files have no associated workflow in the PDM vault. Only the PDM administrator would be able to see private state files or users who have the necessary permissions. 

Solution

Users who do not have administrator access to the PDM vault will not be able to view or delete private state files. The PDM administrator account should not be part of a user group. File operations such as Get, Check Out, and Open will not work on private state files; only the file name will be displayed. The PDM Preview tab will also not show any information regarding the file. The steps below go over how to delete the files using the PDM Administrator Account:

1. Select the vault login from the Windows system tray or the vault icon on the hard disk

2. Log into the PDM vault as the administrator

3. Locate the file in the PDM vault that is in a private state
4. Right-click the file and select "Delete"

5. Confirm the deletion of the file by clicking "Yes" on the prompt

Files deleted in the vault view are sent to the Recycle Bin. The files in the Recycle Bin for the user's vault view can still be recovered if deleted accidentally. Files that are destroyed from the Recycle Bin cannot be recovered. More information about the Recycle Bin can be found in the article SOLIDWORKS PDM Recycle Bin. 

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