Overview of Library Migration and Global Library Updates
Starting with Archicad 28, the transition from Monolith Libraries to the Global Library introduces significant changes aimed at simplifying library management and improving future version migrations. This shift represents a major step forward, offering expanded content, improved international collaboration, and a smoother migration path for future updates. Users starting new projects or creating templates are encouraged to use the new system to fully benefit from these improvements. However, for ongoing projects, it is recommended to continue using the Monolith Libraries to avoid compatibility issues.
Step 1: Select your Project Type
Project Files
Please follow the steps outlined in “Option 1: Migrating While Retaining Monolith Libraries.”
- IMPORTANT: Switching to the Global Library could introduce compatibility issues, so we recommend continuing with the Monolith Library for active projects.
Template Files
For a custom template, you have three options:
- Option 1: Migrating While Retaining Monolith Libraries - Continue using the Monolith Library system you are used to.
- Option 2: Migrating and Converting to Global Libraries - for compatibility with the new Global Library system.
- Alternate Option: Recreate your template from scratch using the default template available in your region.
- For regions where it’s available, we recommend starting with the Online Template, so that you can continue using the localized template specific to your region, as you are used to in previous versions of Archicad.
Step 2: Migration Paths For Archicad 28 and Later:
Option 1: Migrating While Retaining Monolith Libraries
- Archicad 29 and above: How to migrate Monolith Libraries when opening older projects in Archicad 29 or above
- Archicad 28: Migrate Archicad Libraries
Option 2: Migrating and Converting to Global Libraries
To start the conversion, open your project (versions 17-27) in Archicad 28 or above, click Migrate Archicad Libraries when prompted.
Once your file is migrated to version 28, follow the next steps to convert your existing Monolith Library-based template for compatibility with the new Global Library system.
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Replace the Monolith Library with the Library Packs
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From the Library Manager, remove the Monolith Libraries from your project and add the new Library Packages you need.
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Library Localization Preferences
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Use the Library Localization Preferences to set the default language for your library parts. This ensures that library objects display in the correct language and that the folder structure is organized as expected.
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Updating Favorites
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Favorites from the Monolith Library are not compatible with the new Global Library system. Therefore, you will need to either recreate your favorites from scratch using the new Global Library, or use the Favorite Converter tool to streamline the conversion process. This tool ensures your favorites are updated and compatible with the latest system.
- See: Favorite Converter
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Updating Tool Defaults
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Update the tool defaults by applying the relevant favorites within the different Tool Settings Dialogs. It's important to pay special attention to tools that include components, such as stair, railing, and curtain wall components, as these may require additional adjustments to ensure they work properly with the updated library parts.
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Model View Options (MVO)
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The Model View Options (MVO) settings have been updated with a new structure. Curtain Wall - Doors & Windows, Skylights, and Elevators now have their own dedicated sections, each with unique detail level and opening line settings. Additionally, enhancements have been made to the detail level controls for Doors & Windows and Miscellaneous Settings for Library Parts sections.
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Be sure to review these settings to ensure your project's visual representation aligns with your preferences.
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Replacing Zone Stamps
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In the Zone Category settings, replace your old zone stamps with updated versions from the new Library Packages.
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Replacing Placed Elements
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Make sure to replace any placed elements, such as elevation and section Markers on floor plans, revision history in master layouts, and any other pre-placed library parts.
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Grid System Settings Defaults
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To adjust the Grid System default settings, go to Design > Grid System..., make the necessary changes, and set the "Place at" option to Elements at Grid Line Intersections. After clicking OK, you’ll need to place the grid on the plan to save the default settings. Once the grid and columns are generated, you can delete them if needed, as the settings will remain stored.
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Additional Recommendations for a Smooth Migration:
- Migration Compatibility Chart: When migrating your Projects or Templates to a new version of Archicad, refer to the Migrating to Archicad compatibility chart. This chart highlights key changes based on the version you're migrating from. If you've been migrating for several years without addressing these items, consider reviewing them to ensure your template fully leverages the latest features.
- Troubleshooting Library Issues: If you encounter any library-related issues during the migration process, such as missing or duplicate parts, unsupported objects, or problems with linked libraries, please refer to the Troubleshooting Library Issues guide.
- Custom Components: Custom components from the Monolith Library need to be re-saved for compatibility with the Global Library.
