The different measurement systems

When modeling with SOLIDWORKS, the user must take note of the measurement system that is set in the document. A measurement system is a set of common agreed-upon units that facilitate how we communicate quantities in terms of length, mass, volume, and so on. Some examples of such units are meters and inches, which are measurements of length. These often correspond with internationally recognized systems such as the SI and imperial system. The SI system is also commonly known as the metric system. Currently, it is being used in most countries around the world. Another common system is the imperial system, which is mostly used in the United States.

The following table compares the major units that are used in the SI and imperial system:

Before we start modeling anything in SOLIDWORKS, we must decide on what system to use. Which unit system we use often depends on the standards that have been adopted by the organization we work for or by the requirements of our clients.