A Virtual Component in SOLIDWORKS is a component that doesn't have its own file; typically a part that is created and saved within an assembly. In this video, TriMech Application Engineer, Patricia Bar, explains what a Virtual Component is, demonstrates how to create a new Virtual Component, how to take something that is not a virtual component and convert to one, and finally, how to save a virtual component as an external file.

A virtual part is basically a normal part only instead of being saved as an individual file that requires management; it is instead saved as a part of the assembly file. What’s great about a virtual part is that you don’t have to deal with having multiple files. It’s also handy for quickly modeling up a rough concept when in early stages in the design process. While a part is virtual you can rename it, delete it, and when the time is right, save it out as a part file. Make use of Virtual Components, and it will help you streamline your design process.

For more help, you can watch our newest TriMech Video Tech Tips here: http://bit.ly/2orcGRu