FEMAP LIBRARY UPDATES

FEMAP 2019.1 introduced enhancements for library file management. FEMAP now provides the ability
to use Personal, Shared, and Femap Standard Libraries.

Previously, library names were initially defined in File, Preferences. Assuming they had no Path
associated, they were then located by searching the install directory and the PATH environment
variable. Because of increased Windows Security requirements, updating libraries in the installation
directory is often not possible. The new approach eliminates the need to search the PATH, and provides
access to three possible Library locations:

1. Personal
2. Shared
3. Femap Standard Libraries

1 Personal Libraries
User’s Personal library files are now written to and read from AppData:

C:\Users\[Username]\AppData\Local\Femap\2020.2

*Note: AppData is typically hidden. To locate in windows explorer:

• On Windows 7 hold the ‘ALT’ key then go to Tools, Folder Options… and go to the View
tab to turn on “Show hidden files, folders, or drives”
• On Windows 8-10 use the View tab and check on “Hidden Items”

When using “Save” while creating materials, views, charts, formats, etc. the respective (*.esp) files will
be saved to the above location in AppData.
2 Shared Libraries
Once the Shared Library Path is specified, exit FEMAP and then restart FEMAP. Now the Shared tab
will be available when loading a view, analysis manager, or material:
 Example: Model, Material, Load, Shared…

3 Femap Standard Libraries

Femap Standard library files are the default files installed with FEMAP. These are located in the
installation directory. These files are not intended to be modified (refer to Personal or Shared),
however, they can be manually edited with a text editor if desired.