Migrating Custom Components for Compatibility with Library Packages

[Jan Millan]

When transitioning from the Monolith Library to the new Library Packages in Archicad 28, it's important to understand that custom components (e.g., door panels, handles, knobs) created using the Monolith Library are not directly compatible with the Library Packages. To ensure these components work seamlessly in the new system, you must re-save them using the updated Library Packages.

Best Practices

• Ensure compatibility: The conversion methods below will only work if your custom components do not contain placeable objects from the Monolith Library.
• Save components as new objects, rather than overriding existing ones, to avoid compatibility issues with ongoing or archived projects still using the Monolith Library.
• Always back up your file containing library parts or 3D geometry before starting.

Steps to Convert Your Custom Components:

If You Have the Original 3D Geometry of Your Custom Component:

1. Open the Archicad file: Use a copy of the file containing the original 3D geometry in Archicad 28. In the migration dialog window, select "Migrate Libraries."

2. Access the Library Manager: Navigate to File > Library Manager....

3. Update the libraries:

   1. Unload the Monolith Archicad Library.
   2. Load the new Library Packages.
   3. Click Reload & Apply, then press OK to close the Library Manager.

4. Re-save the custom component:
   Manually re-save the component from scratch by going to File > Libraries and Objects > Save Selection as....

 

If Your Custom Component is Saved in the Project’s Embedded Library:

1. Open the Archicad file containing the custom component in Archicad 28.

2. Access the Library Manager: Go to File > Library Manager....

3. Update the libraries:

   • Unload the Monolith Archicad Library.
   • Load the new Library Packages.
   • Click Reload & Apply, then press OK to close the Library Manager.

4. Open the custom component:
   Navigate to File > Libraries and Objects > Open Object.... Browse for your component in the Embedded Library to open the GDL dialog.

5. Update the subtype:

   • Go to the Details tab, where you will see "Unknown Subtype."
   • Click Select Subtype.

6. Choose the correct subtype:

   • In the Subtype Hierarchy window, select the appropriate subtype under:
     General GDL Object > Model Element > Custom Component Template.

   • Confirm by clicking Select.

7. Save the updated component:
   Close the object tab to invoke the Save changes dialog. This will save your custom component, making it compatible with the global library.

8. Export the new object:
   Open the Library Manager, browse for the newly created object, and export it to a safe location.