How to Insert the SOLIDWORKS Diameter Symbol

The diameter symbol is used in SOLIDWORKS dimensions, notes, and drawings to show that a value refers to a circular feature. It is commonly used for holes, shafts, bosses, cylinders, round cutouts, and any feature where the full width across a circle needs to be communicated clearly.

Use diameter dimensions when possible

For circles and cylindrical features, SOLIDWORKS often adds the diameter symbol automatically when you place a diameter dimension. In a drawing, choose Smart Dimension, select the circular edge, and place the dimension. SOLIDWORKS normally recognizes the circular geometry and formats the value with the diameter symbol.

When the feature is a hole, Hole Callout may be a better tool than a simple dimension. A hole callout can include the diameter symbol along with depth, thread, counterbore, countersink, or quantity information.

Add the symbol in notes

When writing a note, use the symbol tools in the note editor or the SOLIDWORKS symbol library. This is usually better than copying a symbol from another program because it keeps the note more consistent with SOLIDWORKS drafting tools and font handling.

Click inside the note, open the symbol library, and choose the diameter symbol from the available drafting symbols. Place it before the value when the note is calling out a diameter, such as a shaft size or circular opening.

Insert the symbol from the dimension text box

You can also edit dimension text and insert the diameter symbol around the dimension value. This is useful when a dimension needs extra text, such as a prefix, suffix, or inspection note. Be careful not to replace the actual dimension value unless you intentionally want overridden text.

Avoid copied symbols when possible

Copying the diameter symbol from a website, PDF, email, or another document may look fine on your computer but display differently for another user. It can also fail in exports if the font or character encoding changes. Native SOLIDWORKS symbols are more reliable for drawings that will be shared, printed, or converted to PDF.

Check the symbol in the drawing

After inserting the symbol, zoom in on the note or dimension and confirm that it appears correctly. Then export or print a test PDF if the drawing will be sent outside your company. A quick PDF check can catch font, scaling, or symbol display problems before the drawing is released.

Use clear drafting language

The diameter symbol should make the callout clearer, not replace good drafting practice. Use it with an appropriate value, tolerance, and feature reference. For holes, include depth or through information when needed. For shafts or round bosses, make sure the selected view actually shows the circular feature clearly enough for the callout.

Troubleshooting

If the diameter symbol does not appear, try inserting it again through the SOLIDWORKS symbol library instead of pasted text. If a diameter dimension appears as a radius or linear dimension, check what geometry was selected. Selecting an arc, partial circular edge, or projected line can produce a different dimension type than selecting the full circular edge.

If the symbol looks correct in SOLIDWORKS but not in a PDF, test a different PDF export setting or font setting. Also check whether the drawing template uses a standard drafting font that supports the needed symbol.