Problem

Manually printing a large batch of individual SOLIDWORKS files can be very time-consuming. The Print Files task in SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler can automate this process and complete it on a regular basis if needed. This article will show how to use the Print Files task in SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler.

For more information on other Task Scheduler Tasks, check out this article: Automating Tasks After Hours with SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler – Hawk Ridge Systems

Before initiating a print task with a large directory/file set, it is recommended to start with a smaller batch group of files/folders first. The duration for which the task runs on this test can assist in determining the overall length of a large-scale print operation.

Solution

The Print Files task will print individual files or all files in a designated folder of a specified file type. Multiple files or folders may be selected for a single print task, but you cannot specify both files and folders in the same task.

Follow the steps below to set up and use the Print Files task:

1. Open SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler and choose the Print Files task.

   

2. Create a Task title if needed.
3. Add the file or folder that contains the documents that need to be updated. Either files or Folders can be specified, and both cannot be used at the same time. If adding individual files from different folders, use the Add File button and browse to the file. If there are folders where all files within need to be updated, use the Add Folder button to browse to the folder and use the "include subfolders" option as needed.
4. The folder(s) or file(s) will display in the table. A specific File Name or Type can be chosen when selecting folders so only drawings, for example, will be printed from a folder.
5. Under Task schedule, the "Running mode" can be set to Once, Daily, Weekly, or Monthly. If the Start time is set in the past before clicking "Finish," the task will start immediately.
6. Under Task output folder, you can specify the task to output the designated files/folders to their source destination or another specified folder.
7. Click Options... to open the Print dialog box where you can specify the printer to use. Here you will be presented with additional options to modify how the document(s) will be printed. 
8. Select Advanced... to access the options for the Task Working Folder Location, Task Timeout, and set SOLIDWORKS to run in the background or not.

9. Click Finish to set the task in motion after all requirements have been set up.

   

10. SOLIDWORKS will launch itself, perform the actions according to the task, and close itself when the scheduled time is reached.

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