NET Core, but I haven't taken time to update myself to it's differences to the standard framework. For project type I just use Console App (.NET Framework) or Windows Forms App (.NET Framwork) I suggest taking time to do the 'Hello World' first steps. There are a lot of concepts in using that IDE, beyond the syntax (what you can play with at w3schools). Microsoft Visual Studio is what it's called, you'll just need the Community version as long as you're just making stuff for your own use. I really like that, You mentioned Arduino anyway, just like Arduino is/has an IDE (Integrated Development Platform) so does windows. I made my Arduino turn an LED bulb on and off along a Sine wave time frame.so that's something isn't it Got any suggestions for 'C' programming starter tutorials? I have some pretty basic experience with it.

Make it run fast (Does what it is supposed to, faster than the manual method) Make it run right (Does what it is supposed to)ģ. Make it run (Compiles without errors and does something)Ģ. What step, inside SOLIDWORKS, takes the most time? Attack that first and then move on from there. If you have a manual process, try automating one part of it rather than trying to bite off the whole thing. As your code gets more complex you can learn the more sophisticated stuff (inheritance, collections, generics, etc). What does a program look like, what are the basic data types, loops, if-then-else statements, flow control, etc. You don't need to learn all the fancy parts, just the beginning stuff.

If you don't have a programming background, go through a tutorial that covers the basics for the language you choose. If you are serious about creating a robust, usable, future proof tool, stay away from VBA and go with C# (or VB.NET if you must). The API docs are full of examples, some better than others. With that, you should be able to know if it is at least possible to do what you want. There are some exceptions, but for the most part, everything in SW is available via the API.

Typically, if it is something you can do manually in SW, it is something you can automate via the API.

Camworks tutorial