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ArchiCAD version converter

Can it be saved down?

Partly. ArchiCAD can save a project for the immediately previous version via Save As. Going further back means repeating that step in each intermediate release, or using IFC.

ArchiCAD opens older projects and converts them on open; the reverse needs a deliberate save-down. Graphisoft supports one step back from inside the application, which covers the most common case — a consultant one release behind.

The procedure that works

  1. 1File → Save As and choose the previous ArchiCAD version in the file type list. Save under a new name.
  2. 2Need two or more versions back: open the saved-down file in that previous release and repeat Save As there — each release only steps back one.
  3. 3Libraries: save with the embedded library, or send the project as a PLA archive, so objects do not go missing.
  4. 4No intermediate release available: export IFC with the project's translator and link it into the older version.
  5. 5Open the result in the target release and check one plan, one section and the schedules before issuing.

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What the file loses

  • • Elements, settings or tools introduced in the newer version are converted to their nearest older equivalent or dropped.
  • • Library parts made in the newer release may not load and appear as dots until replaced.
  • • Through IFC: geometry and classification survive, but views, layouts and ArchiCAD-specific parameters do not.

Questions

Can ArchiCAD save to an older version?

Yes, one version back via Save As. For more than one version back you step through each intermediate release.

Should I send a PLN or a PLA?

A PLA archive includes the library parts the project uses, so it is the safer choice when the receiver's library differs.

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