Back to top

Fastener Database

Fastener Database: A Comprehensive Resource for Your Projects

With the introduction of the new Fastener Database, managing and selecting the right fasteners for your project has never been easier. This database comes prefilled with a broad selection of fasteners from industry-leading manufacturers, making it a valuable tool for designers and builders alike. Here’s an overview of the database and how you can make the most of it.

Key Features of the Fastener Database

The Fastener Database includes a carefully curated collection of fasteners from reputable brands like:

  • Simpson Strongtie
  • Heco
  • Klimas
  • Würth
  • Rothoblaas

This extensive list provides you with a variety of options, saving you time by eliminating the need to search for common fasteners. If you don’t find the exact screws or fasteners you need, you can add them manually or upload a formatted Excel sheet to expand the database to suit your requirements.

Location and Setup

The database is located at:C:\Program Files\hsbcad\hsbDesign27\Content\General\Hardware\Fastener.db

You’ll find this file pre-installed with your software, making it ready for use right out of the box. It’s a single, centralized database file that contains all available fasteners and their respective data.

Adding Custom Fasteners

For those times when a unique or specialized fastener is needed, the Fastener Database offers flexibility. You can:

1. Upload a Custom Excel Sheet: Follow the format guidelines for the Excel sheet to ensure smooth uploading and compatibility.

Add fasteners by uploading an Excel sheet

2. Manual Input: Enter fasteners directly into the database, ensuring all relevant details like size, material, and strength are specified.

Manually add fasteners

This functionality allows you to tailor the database to meet the specific demands of your project without limitations.

ScrewSelector: Simplifying Fastener Selection

The ScrewSelector is a specialized dialog designed to help users efficiently browse through defined fasteners (specifically screws) in the Fastener Database. This tool allows you to select from pre-defined screws and retrieve data based on your selections, making the process of choosing the right fastener faster and easier.

ScrewSelector dialog

Best Practices for Drawing Performance

To maintain optimal performance, especially in larger projects, it’s recommended to load only the fastener styles you plan to use in your drawings. Each fastener style is stored in the AEC Style Manager and includes its representation, ensuring you have the necessary details while keeping your workspace efficient.

Accessing and Managing Fasteners in the AEC Style Manager

The AEC Style Manager is where each fastener style is saved. Here, you can:

  • View and manage individual fastener styles to keep your project organized.
  • Filter fasteners to locate specific styles quickly based on the needs of your drawing.

This organized structure makes it easy to retrieve and apply fastener data without cluttering your workspace.

Need Support?

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Don’t worry we’re here to help!

Contact support