How to Synchronize Projects with the Desktop App

How to Synchronize Projects with the Desktop App

How to Synchronize Projects with the Desktop App

💡
The CAD ROOMS Desktop App keeps your local project folder synchronized with your cloud workspace.
It allows engineers to work in native CAD software while maintaining version control and collaboration in the browser.
This guide explains:
  • How project synchronization works
  • How to access your local project folder
  • What happens during updates and logout

Before You Begin

To synchronize projects, you must:
  • Be signed in to the Desktop App
  • Have access to at least one project
  • Have Windows Projected File System enabled
Windows Projected File System is required for project synchronization.
If it is disabled, projects will not synchronize correctly.

How Project Synchronization Works

Once you sign in, the Desktop App:
  • Creates a local project folder on your computer
  • Keeps that folder synchronized with the cloud workspace
  • Detects file changes automatically
  • Tracks versions when you contribute changes
There is no need for manual upload or download.
The Desktop App maintains synchronization in the background.

Accessing Your Local Project Folder

There are two ways to open a synchronized project on your device.

Option 1 — Open from the Project Page on Desktop App

  1. Open the project and go to the Files page.
  1. Click Open (top-right).
  1. Select Reveal Folder to open the synced local folder directly in your file system.
      2. notion image

Option 2 — Open from the System Tray

  1. In your Windows system tray (bottom-right), click the CAD ROOMS icon (make sure the Desktop App is running).
  1. Browse Workspaces → Projects and find the project you want.
  1. Click Open — this opens the project’s local synced folder on your computer.
      2. notion image
 
This opens the project’s local folder directly.

Working with Synchronized Files

Once the folder is open:
  • Double-click a file to open it in your native CAD software.
  • Make changes locally.
  • Save your work.
  • Contribute changes through the Desktop App to create a new version.
    • During contribution, the Check-in option is enabled by default (unless you uncheck it to keep the file checked out).
All changes are tracked through version control.

What Happens During Updates

When changes occur:
  • Local edits are detected automatically.
  • Cloud updates from teammates are pulled down automatically.
  • You do not need to manually refresh or download files.
The Desktop App ensures consistency between your device and the cloud workspace.

Logging Out of the Desktop App

For security reasons:
  • When you log out, all locally synchronized project data is removed from your device.
  • When you log back in, projects are re-synchronized from the cloud.
This prevents unauthorized local access to engineering data.

Troubleshooting: Project Does Not Synchronize

If projects do not appear or synchronization fails:
  1. Check your internet connection.
  1. Ensure you are signed in.
  1. Confirm that Windows Projected File System is enabled:
      • Open Turn Windows features on or off
      • Enable Windows Projected File System
      • Restart your computer if prompted

Updating the App

When a new version of the Desktop App is available, you’ll receive an in-app notification. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest version and enjoy new features and improvements.
 

Related Articles