File Indexing: Always Up to Date Without Slowing You Down

DrawingManager is fast because it doesn’t search by scanning folders each time. Instead, it builds a local index of your Solid Edge library and keeps it current automatically—so searches run against the index, not against the file system.

Rapid initial indexing

When you first add folders, DrawingManager performs an initial scan and reads the key metadata needed for searching. The indexing process is designed to be efficient, so even large libraries can be indexed in a practical time on modern hardware.

Automatic re-scan every 15 minutes (default)

By default, DrawingManager runs a quick re-scan every 15 minutes to detect new or modified files. This keeps your index fresh without requiring manual actions or full rebuilds.

Incremental updates (only what changed)

After the initial index, DrawingManager updates entries incrementally. Instead of reprocessing the entire library, it focuses on the files that are new or have changed since the last scan—keeping overhead low and responsiveness high.

Background-friendly processing

Indexing is designed to run while you work. The engine aims to stay out of your way by using resources efficiently, so you can keep Solid Edge and other applications running without the system feeling sluggish.

Comprehensive property extraction

The index includes both file system metadata (such as modified date and file size) and Solid Edge properties, including custom properties. That’s what makes property-based filtering and combined searches possible without opening files.

Understands Solid Edge file types

DrawingManager recognizes the common Solid Edge formats—parts, assemblies, sheet metal, and drafts—so your index stays structured and your filters stay relevant.

Index multiple folders and locations

You can index multiple roots at once: local project folders, network shares, and synced folders. Everything ends up in a single searchable index, so you don’t have to remember where a file “should” be stored.

Resilient to real-world libraries

Engineering libraries aren’t perfect. If DrawingManager encounters files that are locked, corrupted, or inaccessible due to permissions, it continues indexing the rest and reports what needs attention—so one problematic file doesn’t block an entire update cycle.

Scales to large libraries

The indexing approach is designed for growth. Whether your library contains tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of files, the index keeps searches fast and keeps maintenance manageable.

Bottom line: DrawingManager turns a folder-based library into a searchable database—kept current by a scheduled re-scan (every 15 minutes by default) and efficient incremental updates.