Import/Export File Formats in Archicad

[Zsolt Oncsak]

File Format Categories

Archicad Formats
Archicad	BIMx	Teamwork	Library	PlotMaker	Diagnostics
Other Formats
CAD	3D/BIM	Vector Graphics	Image	Point Cloud	Video	Documentation

Archicad Formats

Archicad Project Formats

import / export

.PLN	Archicad Solo Project File
Contains information about the project, associated files, metadescriptions, and other important content. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details in this link. You can check Archicad file format compatiblity between different licence variations in this link.
.PLA	Archicad Solo Project Archive File
Includes all library parts, linked images and textures. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details in this link. You can check Archicad file format compatiblity between different licence variations in this link.
.BPN	Archicad Solo Backup Project File
Allows to recover the latest saved version of a damaged file. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: It is created automatically More details about damaged files in this link.
.TPL	Archicad Project Template File
Contains all project preferences settings, placed elements and tool default settings of the project. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about template files in this link.
.MOD	Archicad Module File
Allows to insert the contents of external Archicad files into another project. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about Hotlink Modules in this link.
.2DL	Archicad 2D Line File
Allows to insert the contents of external Archicad files into another project. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... This option is only available in the 3D Window with the Vectorial 3D Engine - not available in OpenGL mode.
.MDE	Archicad Education Module File
Legacy This file format is no longer supported.
.PNE	Archicad Solo Education File
Legacy This file format was used in versions before Archicad 10. This file format is no longer supported.

BIMx Formats

import / export

.BIMX	BIMx Format
The BIMx model is known as a “Hyper-model”. The BIMx model can contain the full documentation of your Archicad project: the 3D model, plus any views, layouts and camera path. Export: File > Publish BIMx Hyper-Model... Can be opened by BIMx professional BIM project viewer. More details about BIMx in this link. In Archicad 20 or later the File > Save as command cannot be used for exporting BIMx Hyper-models any more.

Teamwork Formats

import / export

.BIMPROJECT	BIMcloud (and former BIM Server) Import/Export Format
BIMPROJECT is the server data of one project. After importing this to the server you can work with the Archicad project in Teamwork. Archicad 14 and higher versions. Import: in BIMcloud Manager, more details here. Export: in BIMcloud Manager, more details here.
.TWTRAVEL	Teamwork Travel Package
The Travel Pack function creates a portable copy of your local data from the current Teamwork project. You can transfer project data and/or libraries in Archicad to a remote computer and continue working there. Import: Teamwork > Project > Traveling > Import Travel Pack Export: Teamwork > Project > Traveling > Create Travel Pack
.BIMLIBRARY	BIMcloud (and former BIM Server) Library Import/Export Format
BIMLIBRARY contains all the Library related data within a BIMProject Archicad 14 and higher versions. Import: in BIMcloud Manager, more details here. Export: in BIMcloud Manager, more details here.
.BCMB	BIMcloud Manager Backup Format
The BIMcloud Manager Backup format creates backup from all the information contained by the BIMcloud Manager application in its current state Import/export: More details about BIMcloud Manager Backup in this link.
.BCSB	BIMcloud Server Backup
BIMcloud Server Backups include all Teamwork data: Projects, Libraries, and their snapshots; Activity Log, mail and Server configuration information. Import/export: More details about BIMcloud Server Backup in this link.
.ARCHIVE	BIM Server Backup Format
Legacy Teamwork Backup format for Archicad 18-22
.BACKUP	BIM Server Backup Format
Legacy Teamwork Backup format for Archicad 13-17
.TWPACKAGE	BIM Server Import/Export Format
Archicad 13 BIM Server import/export format
.PLP	Archicad Teamwork Format
Archicad 12 and earlier version Teamwork format
.PLC	Archicad Teamwork Format
Archicad 12 and earlier version Teamwork format
.PCA	Archicad Teamwork Format
Archicad 12 and earlier version Teamwork format
.BPC	Archicad Teamwork Format
Archicad 12 and earlier version Teamwork format

Library Formats

import / export

.LCF	Archicad Library Container File
LFC is a single file, that keeps all the objects used in your projects in one place, while keeping hierarchies intact within the LCF. Import/export: More details in this link.
.GSM	Archicad Library Object
GDL are usually created and used as binary objects with GSM extension. Import/export: More details in this link.
.GDL	Archicad Library Object
GDL file can be used to load attribute definitions, define line types, and materials etc. Import/export: More details in this link.
.DOR	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.WIN	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.LMP	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.RSM	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.LSM	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.ISM	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.ESM	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object
.GPS	Archicad Library Object
Archicad 8 and earlier version Library Object

PlotMaker Formats

import / export

.PMK	PlotMaker Drawing
In Archicad 9 and earlier versions the layouts were saved into a single PMK files that PlotMaker layouting program handled. More details about PlotMaker in this link.
.LBK	PlotMaker Layout Book
The Layout Book was introduced in PlotMaker 9, which had the LBK files. Since Archicad 10 it is intergrated into Archicad. More details about PlotMaker in this link.
.STB	Plot Style Table File
This file format is no longer supported.

Diagnostics

import / export

.RPT	Crash Report File
Contains report about bugs, errors, crashes or other incorrect functionality of GRAPHISOFT products. More details about Bug Reporter in this link.
.REP	Bug Reporter Format
Contains report about bugs, errors, crashes or other incorrect functionality of GRAPHISOFT products. More details about Bug Reporter in this link.
.SUPPORT	Solo Project Support Package
The package captures the current state of your project and includes other data that will help the GRAPHISOFT team to efficiently investigate troubleshoot the problem. Export: Help/Create Support Package... More details about Support Package in this link.
.TWSUPPORT	Teamwork Project Support Package
The package captures the current state of your Teamwork project and includes other data that will help the GRAPHISOFT team to efficiently investigate troubleshoot the problem. Export: Help/Create Support Package... More details about Support Package in this link.

Other Formats

CAD Formats

import / export

.DWG*	Drawing Database File
DWG is used for storing 2D and 3D design data and metadata. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about DXF/DWG Translation Setup in this link.
.DXF	Drawing Exchange Format
Enables data interoperability between AutoCAD and other programs. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about DXF/DWG Translation Setup in this link.
.DGN*	MicroStation Design File
MicroStation is a CAD software product for 2D and 3D design and drafting, developed and sold by Bentley Systems. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as...

3D / BIM Collaboration Formats

import / export

.IFC	Industry Foundation Classes File
IFC is neutral file format that makes it possible to exchange information between different CAD systems and other systems in the building and facility management sectors. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about IFC in this link.
.IFC (structural)	Industry Foundation Classes File (for Structural Analysis Model exchange)
Exchanging Structural Anlysis Model via IFC 2x3 format is supported. Currently, this functionality is an experimental feature within Archicad. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about IFC Structural Anlysis Model export/import in this link.
.IFCXML	Industry Foundation Classes XML
IFCXML is recommended for architects whose partners’ applications cannot read the original .IFC format, but can manage .XML databases. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about differences in IFC formats in this link.
.IFCZIP	Industry Foundation Classes ZIP
IFCZIP is the compressed version of both the normal and the XML-type formats, resulting in file size that is, on average, one-quarter of the original (file size varies depending on model size). Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about differences in IFC formats in this link.
.BCF	BIM Collaboration Format
IFC-based data exchange can be enhanced by using the BIM Collaboration Format BCF-based communication. Import: More details in this link. Export: More details in this link.
.SAF (.xlsx)	Structural Analysis Format
This file format enables collaboration with Structural Analysis Software. This open format was developed by multiple Nemetschek brands in order to enhance integrated practices. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... More details about SAF on this link.
.NWC	Navisworks Model File
Exports whole-project models for simulation and analysis in Navisworks. Export: Download Autodesk add-on (up until Archicad 19) using this link. Download Navisworks Connection Add-on for Archicad 21 and newer in this link.
.SMC	Solibri Model Checker File
Exports whole-project models to Solibri Model Checker. More details about Archicad and Solibri Model Checker in this link.
.C4D	Cinema 4D File
Cinema 4D Exchange is Maxon’s high‐end 3D modeling, rendering and animation solution, which is tightly integrated with Archicad. The connection between the two applications, using the C4D format, offers a streamlined 3D design workflow. Import: More details on loading Cinema 4D material in this link. Export: Document > Creative Imaging > PhotoRendeting Settings > Export to Cinema 4D. More details in this link.
.3DM	Rhinoceros 3D File
Archicad is able to read and write native Rhino 5 3DM file format, enabling a “reference model” workflow between the two applications. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... More details about working with Rhino 3D Models in this link.
.3DS	3D Studio Scene File
3DS files are created with 3ds MAX 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software. With Archicad it is possible to import and export 3DS files. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... More details about 3D Studio Files in Archicad in this link.
.ATL	Artlantis Render Studio 6.5, 7 Files
Artlantis is the fastest, stand-alone rendering application developed especially for architects and designers. Archicad exports the model in the Artlantis file format through its dedicated plug-ins. More details about Artlantis in this link.
.KML	Keyhole Markup Language File
KML is an XML notation for expressing geographic annotation and visualization within Internet based, 2D maps and 3D Earth browsers. KML was developed for use with Google Earth. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as...
.KMZ	Zipped Keyhole Markup Language File
KML files are very often distributed in KMZ files, which are zipped KML files with a KMZ extension. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... More details in this link.
.SKP	SketchUp File
SketchUp is a 3D modeling computer program. It is useful from the earliest stages of design to the end of construction. Import: More details about SketchUp import on this link. Export: More details about saving a SketchUp 3D Model File on this link.
.DAE	COLLADA File
COLLADA (Collaborative Design Activity) is an interchange file format for interactive 3D applications. COLLADA documents that describe digital assets are XML files, usually identified with a DAE (Digital Asset Exchange) extension. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as...
.EPX	Piranesi File
Piranesi is an interactive paint system that enables the user to create artistic images from 3D scenes created using conventional modeling applications. Piranesi uses the proprietary EPX file format. Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as...
.FACT	Electric Image File
The Electric Image Animation System (EIAS) is an eminent 3D animation and rendering package. FACT files can be created with this program. Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... In Archicad Fly-Through and Sun Study can be saved into this format. More details about Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.OBJ	Wavefront File
OBJ is a geometry definition file format first developed by Wavefront Technologies. The file format is open and has been adopted by other 3D graphics application vendors. The OBJ file format is a simple data-format that represents 3D geometry alone. Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as...
.STL	StereoLithography File
Stereolithography (SL) is one of several methods used to create 3D-printed objects. STL (Standard Tessellation Language) is one such file type and is the language most commonly used for stereolithography. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... More details about Archicad and StereoLithography collaboration in this link.
.U3D	Universal 3D File
U3D (Universal 3D) is a file format for 3D data. It is a standardized 3D data format with the purpose of facilitating 3D data exchange among programs of various kinds. Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... More details about U3D in this link.
.FBX	Filmbox File
Within Archicad, The Twinmotion add-on for Archicad allows you to export your Archicad 3D model to FBX. The add-on is installed by default. The main purpose of FBX format is to provide interoperability between digital content creation applications. The .fbx files allow computer- based creations to be opened, edited, and modified across many applications and systems. More details about Twinmotion in this link.
.TMA	Twinmotion File
Legacy file format that was used by the Twinmotion Add-on until Archicad 20. From Archicad 21 interoperability is provided using FBX format. More details about Twinmotion in this link.
.WRL	VRML File
VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) is a standard file format for representing 3D interactive vector graphics. VRML files are in plain text and have the WRL extension. Export: Available only in 3D Window: File > Save as... In Archicad Fly-Through and Sun Study can be saved into this format. More details about Fly-Through and Sun Study.

Vector Graphic Formats

import / export

.PDF	Portable Document Format File
PDF is a file format designed to present documents consistently across multiple devices and platforms. It was developed by Adobe 1992 and has since become one of the most widely used formats for saving and exchanging documents. A PDF file can store a wide variety of data, including formatted text, vector graphics, and raster images. Import/Export: More details in this link. Photo Rendering can be also saved to this format.
.DWF	Drawing Web Format File
DWF is a secure file format developed by Autodesk for the efficient distribution and communication of rich design data to anyone who needs to view, review, or print design files. Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as... DWF 6.xx versions are currently not supported.
.EPS	Post Script File
This file format is no longer supperted since Archicad 10.

Image Formats

import / export

.BMP	Bitmap Image Format
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as... Photo Rendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study can be also saved to this format. More details about PhotoRendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.DIB	Device Independent Bitmap File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.RLE	Run Length Encoded Bitmap File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.JPEG	Joint Photographic Experts Group File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as... Photo Rendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study can be also saved to this format. More details about PhotoRendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.JPG	Joint Photographic Experts Group File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.JPE	Joint Photographic Experts Group File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.JFIF	JPEG File Interchange Format
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.JP2	JPEG 2000 Image
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.GIF	Graphics Interchange Format
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as... Photo Rendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study can be also saved to this format. More details about PhotoRendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.TIFF	Tagged Image File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as... Photo Rendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study can be also saved to this format. More details about PhotoRendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.TIF	Tagged Image File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as...
.PNG	Portable Network Graphics Format
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing Export: File > Save as... Photo Rendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study can be also saved to this format. More details about PhotoRendering, Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.PCT	Macintosh Picture Image File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.ICO	Windows Icon File
Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.HDR	High Dynamic Range Image File
In HDR image format raster images or digital photos can be saved. Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.EXIF	Exchangeable Image File Format
EXIF is based on JPEG, stores the image information, but additional metadata as well, such as date, time, camera settings etc. Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.LWI	Lightworks Image File
LWI is an image file format developed by Lightworks Design Ltd. Import: Can be linked into Archicad as Drawing
.WMF	Windows Metafile
Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as...
.EMF	Enhanced Windows Metafile
Import: File > Open > Open... Export: File > Save as...

PointCloud

import / export

.XYZ	Point Cloud File
The Point Cloud XYZ file format have 6 data (3 coordinates and 3 RGB data). Import: File > Interoperability > Import Point Clouds More details in this link.
.E57	Point Cloud File
E57 files can be imported into Archicad to display Point Clouds in floor plan, section, elevations or 3D. Import: File > Interoperability > Import Point Clouds More details in this link.

Video Formats

import / export

.MP4	MP4 Movie File
Export: Document > Creative Imaging > Create Fly-Through.../Create Sun Study... More details about Fly-Through and Sun Study.
.MOV	Apple QuickTime Movie File
Export: Document > Creative Imaging > Create Fly-Through.../Create Sun Study... More details about Fly-Through and Sun Study.

Documentation Formats

import / export

.DOC	Microsoft Word Document Format
Export: Available only in Schedule Window: File > Save as... Interactive Schedules can be saved to this file format.
.XLS	Microsoft Excel Worksheet Format
Import/Export: More details in this link. Interactive Schedules, Energy Performance Reports can be saved to this file format.‘Mass property value import’ functionality is a semi-automated way to import data from an Excel worksheet into Interactive Schedules. More details on property value import in this link.
.XLSX	Microsoft Excel Worksheet Format
Import/Export: More details on this link. Interactive Schedules, Energy Performance Reports can be saved to this file format.‘Mass property value import’ functionality is a semi-automated way to import data from an Excel worksheet into Interactive Schedules. More details on property value import in this link.
.TXT	Text File
Interactive Schedules, Lists, Energy Performance Reports can be saved to this file format.
.PLT	HPGL Plot File
Plotter drivers shipped with Archicad all use the HPGL vector-graphic language. Export: File > Interoperability > Merge... More details about Plot in this link.
.LIC	Binary List Criteria File
Import: Can be added to Archicad as a library part in Library Manager.
.LIS	List Setup File
Import: Can be added to Archicad as a library part in Library Manager.
.PHPP	Passive House Planning Package
PHPP is the official Excel Workbook created by the Darmstadt Passivhaus Institute, to calculate the energy demands of Passivhouse projects. Export: More details in this link.
.GBXML	Green Building XML File
The industry standard Green Building XML format (gbXML) is recognized by several energy analysis applications such as Green Building Studio, Ecotect or IES. Export: More details on this link.

 NOTES

DWG*: Archicad might not be able to read some elements that are part of a DWG file but are created with native tools of a specific software. For example: Walls created with AutoCAD Architecture won't transfer to Archicad via DWG export-import.

DGN*: Currently, it is only possible to import MicroStation files up to v7 DGN version.

[Nader]

Hi,

I would like to draw your attention, that there are missing links in:

• Archicad Solo Project File.
• Archicad Solo Project Archive File
• Portable Document Format File

[POTS]

FBX is not available anymore