Use Viewer to inspect a supported document, drawing, image, video, or 3D model while working with its platform context. This guide explains how to open content, choose the available viewing controls, and resolve common preview problems. The controls depend on the file format and the preview data available for the object.
Open content in Viewer
- Add a Viewer widget to your dashboard, or open an existing one. Expand the widget when you need more space.
- Drag a supported platform object into Viewer. A document needs an associated file, and a model needs compatible model or preview data.
- Wait for loading to finish. Check the object name and revision so you know which content you are reviewing.
- Use the controls provided by the current renderer. Open Preferences to review the display options available for this view.
You can also open supported local files. Opening a local file for inspection does not upload it or create a managed Document object. Use the platform’s document creation or file transfer process when the content must be stored and controlled.
Work with different file types
For a PDF, use the available page and zoom controls to inspect the document. For images and drawings, adjust the view to read the relevant area. Videos use playback controls; successful playback also depends on browser support for the file’s encoding.
For supported 3D content, use the model navigation controls to inspect geometry. Additional tools depend on the loaded model and renderer. A model preview and its original CAD file may use different formats, so the presence of a CAD attachment alone does not guarantee that every viewing tool is available.
Keep object context visible
Viewer is useful beside a Structure, Table, or Details widget. Where widget pairing is configured, selecting an object in the source widget can update the paired view. Confirm the loaded object after changing the source selection, especially when comparing revisions or drawings.
Troubleshooting
If the widget is empty, check that the selected object has an accessible file or preview. If an error offers Retry, use it after checking your connection. Try opening the attachment through the object’s file commands to distinguish a preview problem from a file access problem.
If a local file fails to display, check its format and browser support. If a platform model remains unavailable, ask your administrator to check its preview generation and file access. Use the format-specific guides below for upload steps.
