What it does
Protects your work if the program or the computer shuts down unexpectedly.
Auto-Recover (Assembly)
- A backup is saved every 10 minutes, only when there are unsaved changes and you have stopped working for at least 3 seconds. Nothing is saved while you are adding a mate, dragging, or importing a file.
- Backup files are in
%LOCALAPPDATA%\MECHCAD\AutoRecover. Your real working file is not touched. - The status bar shows Auto-Recover saved (…).
Recover a file
- Open the original assembly.
- If a newer backup exists, you are asked Open the recovered version? (No = open the saved file).
- Answer Yes to open the recovered version (Recovered version opened - Save to keep it), then Save.
- A normal Save deletes the backup file.
When the program crashes or freezes
| File | Contents |
|---|---|
%LOCALAPPDATA%\MECHCAD\logs\fault.log |
Fatal errors |
%LOCALAPPDATA%\MECHCAD\logs\freeze.log |
Where the program froze |
%LOCALAPPDATA%\MECHCAD\mechcad_crash.log |
Crash log |
The installed version automatically sends an error report (with no model data) to MET so the problem can be fixed.
Note: Auto-Recover works for assemblies. For parts, drawings and CAM, press Save (Ctrl+S) regularly.
Try it: A recovery drill with a two-tier desk shelf
Scenario: you are building a two-tier desk shelf assembly when the laptop battery dies. Practise the recovery now, so you know what to do when it really happens.
- In the Assembly tab, insert a few parts (a top board and two side panels, for example) and do not save.
- Keep working, then take your hands off the mouse. After about 10 minutes, the status bar shows Auto-Recover saved (…).
- Simulate the power cut: close MECHCAD from Task Manager › End task.
- Start MECHCAD and open the same assembly. Answer Yes to Open the recovered version?.
- You see Recovered version opened - Save to keep it. Click Save: the backup file is deleted, and your work is safe.
Challenge: Open %LOCALAPPDATA%\MECHCAD\AutoRecover in Explorer during step 2 to see the backup appear.