opening future files in older solidworks

question

5 Answers

convert future solidworks file in step/IGES format and open it in older version.
Save as .step formet. .step and IGES file are supported in any software any versions.
.step extension is better than .iges .

If you do not have access to the newer version, you will not be able to open the file. It will have to be converted to another file type (.step/.iges) in order for you to be able to open. If the file is from GrabCAD ask the author to convert it and upload a universal file type.

I've always found the parasolid (X_T) to be the best method of converting SOLIDWORKS files for backwards compatibility.
Step would be my second choice.

Also, if you have the last service pack of say SW 2016, it will open (in a limited fashion) files made in SW 2017.

yes why not?

By using "neautral cad format"
Or use "backwork software" to make backwork compatible but for this software you must have latest version.