How to configure Microsoft SQL Server for AutoCAD Plant 3D projects

Autodesk Support

Dec 6, 2024

Products and versions covered

Issue:

How to set up a new project for AutoCAD Plant 3D or AutoCAD P&ID and use Microsoft SQL Server to host the project database.

Causes:

  • The default database for AutoCAD Plant 3D and AutoCAD P&ID is SQLite.
  • This is a file-based database and is not recommended for use with projects on a network with multiple users on the same time.
  • For more information about SQLite, visit this website: Appropriate Uses For SQLite.
  • Microsoft SQL Server is a fully functional relational database server that supports multiple, concurrent usage across a network.
  • AutoCAD Plant 3D and AutoCAD P&ID both support Microsoft SQL Server as a host for the project databases.

Solution:

Follow these steps:

  1. From Project Manager select "New project...".
  2. Enter a project name and select a path. Click Next.
  3. Select the base unit. Click Next until you get to the wizard dialog "Specify Database Settings".
  4. Select "multi-user - SQL Server Database (Recommended)".
  5. Enter the server and instance name of the SQL Server in this format: <SQL Server name>\<Instance name>.
    • If an instance name has not been created yet in SQL Server, then <Server name> is enough.
  6. Click "Test Connection".
    • Depending on the success of the test you will get an appropriate message.
    • If the test fails, prove <Server name>\<Instance name>.
      • Try to use IP-address instead of <Server name>.
      • If the test still fails, please, ask your IT administrator.
  7. Enter a database prefix which should be normally the project name.
  8. Depending on preference, select Windows Authentication or SQL Server Authentication for the authentication process.
    • If SQL Server Authentication is used, enter username and password.
  9. Click Next and afterward Finish.
Note:
  • The same procedure is applicable in setting up Microsoft SQL Server for AutoCAD Plant 3D projects on a virtual server. 
  • Also, to change login authentication from Windows Authentication to SQL Server Authentication. Enable and specify password for "sa" username and restart the server for SQL Server Authentication to work.

Products:

AutoCAD P&ID; AutoCAD Plant 3D;

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