Overview

This article outlines best practices for configuring HyDraw CAD and MDTools in a multi-user or multi-region environment. It covers database selection, file storage strategies, and authentication setup to ensure optimal performance and maintainability.

1. Database Configuration

Use SQL Server (Recommended)

We strongly recommend using Microsoft SQL Server over MS Access, especially in multi-user or distributed environments.

Benefits:

• Fast and responsive query performance

• Reliable multi-user access

• Scalable across regions

Note:
Any latency experienced is typically due to the physical location of external symbol files, not the database itself.

2. File Storage for HyDraw CAD

Store the following files outside the database:

• Symbols (DWG + GIF)

• Sub-systems

• Datasheets

• CAD files

Storage Options

Option 1: Network Share

• Simple and commonly available

• May be slow when accessed over VPN

Option 2: Cloud Sync (Recommended)

• Platforms: Microsoft SharePoint / Microsoft OneDrive

• Files are locally available via sync

• Fast access and near real-time updates

• New symbols are available to all users within seconds

• Typically included with Microsoft 365 subscriptions

Option 3: PDM Systems

• Example: Autodesk Vault

• Technically supported but not recommended for symbols

Limitations:

• Requires check-in/check-out workflow

• Each symbol consists of multiple files (DWG + GIF)

• Slows down daily operations

• Many customers move away from this approach

Important Configuration Requirement

All file storage locations must be:

• Mapped as a network drive

• Using the same path on every workstation

Example:

Y:\HyDraw Library\

Why this matters:

• Ensures database file paths resolve consistently across all users

• Prevents broken references

3. Datasheets and CAD Files

Datasheets

• Can be linked via:

  • URL

  • File path

• Recommended approach: store in the same SharePoint location as symbols for consistency

CAD Files

• If using PDM (e.g., Autodesk Vault):

  • Files must be physically present on each client machine

  • Requires “GET” operation

• If not using PDM:

  • SharePoint/OneDrive works effectively

Note:
HyDraw CAD currently does not support native PDM integration. This is planned for a future release.

4. MDTools Library Configuration

The MDTools library is:

• Fully database-driven

• Does not rely on external files

Multi-Location Setup Recommendation

For organizations with multiple machine shops or subsidiaries:

• Create separate databases for each group

• Host all databases within the same SQL Server instance

Benefits:

• Clean separation of tools, materials, and standards

• Simplified management

• Centralized infrastructure

5. SQL Authentication Setup

HyDraw currently supports SQL Authentication only
(Windows Authentication is planned for a future release).

Recommended User Model

1. Standard User

• Read-only access

• Used for day-to-day operations

2. Admin User

• Full create/edit permissions

• Requires:

  • db_owner role on the SQL database

Why This Model Works

• Simple to manage

• Avoids dependency on changing Windows credentials

• Provides clear separation of responsibilities

Summary of Recommendations

• Use SQL Server for all databases

• Store files using SharePoint/OneDrive (preferred)

• Ensure consistent mapped drive paths across all users

• Avoid PDM for symbol management where possible

• Use separate databases for different operational groups

• Implement a two-tier SQL authentication model