PAX files
PAX files (NX Palette files) are XML files that the structure and settings of the templates used for various documents in NX, such as part files, drawing files, and assembly files.
The PAX file format allows users to customize and manage templates in NX, providing a standardized and consistent starting point for new designs and drawings. By defining the default settings, units, styles, and other parameters in the PAX file, users can ensure that all new documents created based on these templates follow specific standards and guidelines.
When you create a new document (part, drawing, or assembly) in Siemens NX, the software loads the default template specified in the PAX file associated with that document type. This ensures that the new document starts with the predefined settings and properties, streamlining the design process and maintaining consistency across the organization.
PAX files can be edited using a text editor or XML editor, allowing users to customize templates to match their specific requirements and standards. For instance, you can set default dimension styles, layer configurations, units, title block information, and other properties according to your company’s or project’s standards.
The PAX files are installed in the UGII folder in your NX installation folder. There are different types differentiated by a prefix in the filename:
- nxdm – Used by managed NX (Teamcenter)
- ugs – Used by native NX
In a default installation, there are 20 different types. For making drawings, there are two different PAX files, on for creating drawings from scratch (ugs_drawing_template.pax) and another for making drawings by inserting a sheet (usg_sheet_template.pax). Note: There are different versions for stand-alone drawings and those that reference other models.