Hotfix - Revit Subscription Advantage Pack Structural Settings Dialog Missing

It’s been brought up by a few blogs, but in case you’ve missed it or don’t event care because you never access the Structural Settings…when you applied/installed the Subscription Advantage Pack the little arrow to get you into the Structural Settings went missing.  This hotfix will solve this problem.

You can get the hotfix HERE.  Make sure you download the correct hotfix as there is one for 32bit and 64bit.  And as always, be sure to read the Readme file and please make sure you have the Subscription Pack loaded before applying this hotfix…as it will do you no good if you don’t have the Subscription Pack installed.

Hotfix – Updated Modifying Walls May Crash Revit 2010

There has been an update to the Wall Crash Hotfix that was previously released, this time it’s been updated for users on Service Pack/Update 2 and users that have installed the Subscription Advantage Pack.

The Hotfix can be downloaded HERE.  Please make sure you download the appropriate version as there are separate downloads for Service Pack/Update 2 and the Subscription Advantage Pack.  If you aren’t sure what you have installed, check your build number.

Updates to SmartBIM Library and SmartBIM QTO

Full press release can be read HERE.

Reed Construction Data today announced updates for two of its leading BIM solutions, SmartBIM Library (SBL) and SmartBIM QTO, tools to help Autodesk® Revit® users increase efficiency and organization in the design phase.

The release of SmartBIM Library version 3.8 offers users improved thumbnail creation for all Revit families and adds support for publishing curtain wall panels in user-created catalogs.

SmartBIM QTO 1.3 has improved functionality for exporting a quantity takeoff to Microsoft® Excel.

More information on SmartBIM Library and SmartBIM QTO can be found at www.reedconstructiondata.com/bim/bim-library/ or www.reedconstructiondata.com/bim/qto.

2010 Advantage Pack – Keyboard Shortcuts

So I installed the Subscription Advantage Pack and the first thing I looked for was the Keyboard Shortcuts UI that was added.  It took me a second to find it…it’s under the View Tab and the User Interface button.

It’s pretty easy to use.  Select the command in the list, go down to the “Press new keys:” and enter the shortcut you wish to use.  If you’re wondering what existing commands already use, use the Filter drop-down list and choose All Defined. All Reserved will show you what the “Windows” shortcuts are tied to.  You can also use the drop-down to look at specific Tabs, Menus, etc.  Once you get your shortcuts defined, hit OK and your set to go!

2010 Advantage Pack Installation Clarification

I mentioned in my first post announcing that the Advantage Pack was coming out that this sounded like it was going to be a point release…kind of like a new program.  The Subscription Release Pack is only about 98MB (64bit version) and installed like the previous 2 service packs.  It does update the build number to 20090925_1815(x64), so it is an update to the program and it is not a separate install like I may have eluded to.  Sorry for any confusion that I may have caused.

Revit Architecture 2010 Advantage Pack Available

It figures, Autodesk releases the new update when I’ve been swamped…which I shouldn’t complain since I’ve been busy.  Anyway, I just wanted to do a quick post that the Advantage Pack is now available in the Subscription Center.  Click the Product Downloads in the upper left corner after you login do get to the actual download.  Once you get to the download page, you’ll have the ability to download what you want to.

Instead of going into a long post about each extension or new feature, I plan on making smaller posts highlighting some of the features.

New Revit Tools-Features Available Soon for 2010 Products

**Credit goes to David Light where he provided information about this subject on his blog…especially for those of us that couldn’t attend**

As you may have already seen out on the blog-o-sphere, some bloggers were invited to see a sneak peak at some new features the folks at Autodesk are getting ready to roll out for the Revit 2010 products…which is being called the Revit 2010 Subscription Advantage Pack.

Unlike previous extensions they’ve released to subscription customers, this is going to be very similar to a “point” release…kind of like they did in the Release 9 days (before they went to the year designation) where they introduced 9.1 around the same time of the year.  So this will be a whole new release from the sounds of it.

There is one small thing…

It’s only going to be available to subscription customers!!

Here is a list of improvements that will be included with this new release…

• Additional keyboard shortcut commands
• A UI to control keyboard shortcuts
• Conditional formatting in all products
• DWG export improvements
• Text formatting – from shortcuts
• Find and replace text
• Model lines to Detail lines and back
• Link file improvements
• API improvements
• Autodesk Revit Model Review
• Revit DBlink
• Image modeler will now be included so you can create point cloud data from images and export this to DWG and import this into Revit
• Wood Wall Framing tool

Also, many have been wanting/waiting to see some of the tools in Revit Structure to be available in Revit Arch…the wait is over!  These tools will now be included in Revit Architecture…

• Curved beams
• Beam copping
• Create Trusses
• Tag beam systems
• Slab directions and decking
• Slanted columns
• Split with Gap

One the new features/release is available for download (which sounds like possibly this week), I will throw out a post mentioning that they are available.  I’ll also post as I can about the new features.

Way Off Topic – Chicago Area Photo Book

Earlier this year, I picked up a new Canon DSLR camera and have been getting into photography even more as the year has gone on.  Which was perfect timing for a little “contest” that CBS2 Chicago put out there for Chicago area photographers to be featured in a new hard-bound, coffee-table book to be published and out for purchase in Dec. 2009.  So, I’ve submitted a few pictures that I’ve taken over the past few months and I’m looking for some help to possibly get published…so I need your help if you are will to help me out!  The voting will end around October 16, 2009.

Below is a portion of an email that will give you a link to the site to sign-up and vote, as well as a link to my picture page.  You do have to sign-up to vote, but you won’t receive emails or spam or anything from signing up unless you specify it in the Privacy settings.

__________________________________________________

Dwane Lindsey discovered a great website and wants you to be a part of it. cbs2chicago.com is looking for the best photos of the Greater Chicago area to be published in a unique hard-bound, coffee-table book.

Dwane submitted a photo or two and would really appreciate your vote. Everyone who submits a photo is eligible for some great prizes, and of course the opportunity to get their art published in this great local book. Photos that achieve a high score (by vote), and editors' selections will be published in the book, so the book is truly the best of the Greater Chicago area. Registration, voting and submission are all free (and a ton of fun), so join Dwane and help shape the Capture My Chicago book today!

What are you waiting for? Go vote for Dwane's photos now!

__________________________________________________

If anyone does signup and vote for my photo’s, THANK YOU very much in advance!!  And, if you’re into the Chicago scene…this might not be a bad little book to purchase.  (No, I don’t get anything if you buy a book or even vote for my photo’s…just a picture and recognition in the book.)  Oh, one other thing…if you don’t think my photo’s are worthy of being in the book, please don’t feel bad if you Nix the picture.  I don’t see whether or not it’s a good or bad vote.

Revit Architecture 2010 (RAC 2010) Service Pack-Web Update 2 Now Available

I’m somehow not surprised this came out today (9-30-09), the second Service Pack/Web Update for Revit Architecture 2010.  The download can be found HERE.  There are two separate downloads…one for 32bit and one for 64bit.  Make sure you download the correct version!

Revit Structure and Revit MEP Updates are also available!

As always, be sure to read the ReadMe File before starting the installation!!

And if you haven’t seen the Architecture update list, here it is below…

Improvements made in Update 2 build (20090917_1515):

Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010 Enhancements

• Annotation objects no longer disappear when panning a view that spans two monitors.
• Improves stability when switching between Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 software and Google Earth™ software.
• Improves the modification behavior of hosted sweeps (i.e. gutters) attached to joined roofs.
• Improves stability and performance when modifying walls.
• Improvements to shared nested families.
• Improves stability when modifying masses.
• Improves design option rules adherence for walls in different design options and worksets.
• Family and type information can now be read in Autodesk® 3ds Max® software from an FBX® file exported from a non-English version of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010.
• Improves stability when adding views to sheets.
• Improves stability when making a design option primary.
• Improves stability of printing views in wireframe mode.
• Shadows will no longer be cropped when a view is printed or exported to a DWF™ file.
• Subscription notifications are now available from InfoCenter.
• Improves stability when reading IFC files.
• Improves stability when opening a project with an inserted TIF image and when importing a TIF image.
• ViewCube® navigation tool and the navigation bar will now display correctly after unlocking the computer.
• Improves stability when removing panels from the ribbon.
• Improves stability when cancelling a move, delete or copy command.
• Improves performance of view renaming and the Workset dialog.
• Mass floor schedules will now update when a level is renamed.
• A form element that has a divided surface applied to it will now be correctly generated after a copy, paste, or move.
• Improves stability when exporting to DWG.
• Dimension and spot elevation values will now display correctly in a dependent view.

Autodesk® Revit® API 2010 Enhancements

• Improves stability when subscribed to a DocumentOpened event.

Note:

• The service pack contains changes from the previous service pack (Update 1 - June 2009).
• The service pack can be applied to both the standalone and suite versions of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010.

Run Revit on a Mac via Parallels Desktop

Hot off the press today (Sept. 24), Autodesk has announced that AutoCAD, AutoCAD LT, Autodesk Inventor Professional, 3ds Max and Revit Software will be able to run on a Mac via Parallels Desktop.

******SNIP******

"Autodesk customers are increasingly working with both Mac and Windows, and have asked us to support Mac virtualization," said Chris Bradshaw, Autodesk chief marketing officer. "Today we are pleased to welcome Parallels as a partner and Parallels Desktop as our preferred Mac virtualization software. This is the latest step in Autodesk's ongoing efforts to support our customers on the Mac, who will now be able to use some of our most popular 2D and 3D design, engineering and entertainment software alongside Mac OS X, in addition to the five native Mac applications we currently offer."

******SNIP******

The full press release can be read HERE.

Coalesse® Furnishings Now Provides Revit Families

Just saw this come through the good old Google Alert, Coalesse® Launches New Website.  Went out and took a look at the new site, looks nice but to find the Revit content means looking at each product.  You basically have to pick each item you think you want and then you’ll know if it has a Revit family or not.  I did find one and it looks like they are providing their Revit families via RevitCity.com.

When you get to a product, you can tell if it provides a Revit family by looking in the Resources area, as shown below…

So if you are looking for some furnishings, check out the new Coalesse site.

Revit Obtain Network License Issue

There is an issue that has been coming up where Revit is unable to obtain a network license on a specific workstation but other workstations can obtain a license.  This not only applies to Revit Architecture or even 2010…this one applies to all flavors of Revit (Arch, Structure and MEP) and versions 2008, 2009 and 2010.

Autodesk has posted a possible solution on their website HERE.

Hotfix – Modifying walls may crash your Revit 2010

There was a hotfix for Revit Architecture 2010 (Structure and MEP as well) released on Friday, August 21.  The hotfix isn’t very specific, but simple…This hotfix addresses issues related to deleting or modifying walls, a crash may occur.

Definitely make sure you read the Readme file as this hotfix requires you to rename a file, then copy a new one into it’s place.  You also have to have the latest build (service pack) installed.

The hotfix can be downloaded HERE.

Reed SmartBIM Library and QTO now available for Revit 2010

Just received word this morning that the SmartBIM Library v3.5 (SBL) and SmartBIM QTO v1.0 are now available and supporting Revit 2010!  SmartBIM Library v3.5 provides support for Revit 2010 and improves Family Publishing and Catalog update functionality. SmartBIM QTO v1.0 is now available for Revit 2010 as well as Revit 2009.

The information listed below will enable you to download and install these products.  If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact a representative from MasterGraphics.

SmartBIM library v3.5 and SmartBIM QTO v1.0 for Revit 2010 download and installation information. The installer is a combination installer for both SBL and QTO.  Also, there is a separate installer for Revit 2009 and Revit 2010. If you currently are NOT using SBL or QTO but would like to try it out, the download can be used as a trial for I believe 30 days.

Installer download links:

Revit 2009:  http://content.reedconstructiondata.com/smartbim/release/200908/SmartBIM_Installer_Revit2009.exe

Revit 2010:  http://content.reedconstructiondata.com/smartbim/release/200908/SmartBIM_Installer_Revit2010.exe

If you are currently using SBL on 2009 and want to update it to v3.5 for 2009, remember to uninstall the previous version before installing v3.5.

One thing to note…Vista users need to turn off the UAC in order for SBL and QTO to install correctly.

Revit Architecture 2010 Certification Exams are Ready

As I posted last week, the Revit Architecture Certification Exams should be available the week of July 13, 2009…and they are!  Visit http://www.autodesk.com/certification for the info on preparing for the exam.  To sign-up for an exam, visit http://autodesk.starttest.com/.

The Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 Exam Guide is intended as a resource in your preparation for the exams to become Autodesk certified. It will help you understand the structure and content of the exam, and to develop a personal strategy to successfully pass the Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 Certified Associate and Certified Professional exams, and includes information on re-certification from Autodesk Revit Architecture 2009 Certified User.

A little off-topic – New Navisworks Blog

Well, I broke down and I started a blog for Navisworks.  Not that I need more to do, but I figured I might as well capture some of the things I run across with Navisworks in one location.  It will include some tips/tricks and news (like updates) as well.

I just started it today, so I only have a welcome post.  In the next couple weeks, I’ll be posting a few things here and there to get started.  Hope you enjoy!

Revit Architecture 2010 Certification Exams

EDIT: Visit http://autodesk.starttest.com/ to take the 2010 Exams!

It’s time to start preparing for the Revit Architecture 2010 Certification exams as they are almost ready!  I received my results today as I participated in the beta testing for both the Associate and Professional exams a little while ago.  According to the folks over at Autodesk Certification, the Revit Architecture 2010 Associate and Professional exams should be available next week (week of July 13, 2009).  You can check the following website - http://www.autodesk.com/certification to check on information for the exams and preparation guides.  The 2010 information is not available quite yet (probably next week along with the tests), but you can get a pretty decent idea from the 2009 preparation information.

One thing to remember about the Professional Certification…you have to pass the Associate exam before you can receive your Certified Professional status.  You can however take the tests in any order if you wish. 

Good Luck!!

Oh, one more thing (a little work-place plug)…if you are located in the Northern Illinois area, Wisconsin or Minnesota, you can take the exam at any one of the MasterGraphics locations.

Revit Architecture 2010 (RAC 2010) Service Pack-Web Update 1 Available

It’s finally here, the first Service Pack/Web Update for Revit Architecture 2010.  There are two separate downloads…one for 32bit and one for 64bit.  Make sure you download the correct version!

As always, be sure to read the ReadMe File before starting the installation!!

And if you haven’t seen the Architecture update list, here it is below…

Improvements made in Update 1 build (20090612_2115):

Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010 Enhancements

Couple Font Issues with Revit

I ran across a couple issues with Revit and using Fonts, whether they are “custom” fonts or if they are out-of-the-box Windows fonts.

First off, when looking at the Windows Fonts folder, you’ll see TrueType fonts (TTF) and OpenType fonts (OTF) and you’ll see pretty much the same list when you look at the font list in Revit.  Well, not all OpenType fonts are created equal and it actually matters when it comes to Revit!  OpenType fonts come in two “flavors”…one being made with TrueType Outlines and the other is made with Postscript Outlines.  Windows doesn’t care which “type” they are, but Revit does.  It took me a second to adjust my eyes to notice that my font list in Revit wasn’t matching the font list in the Windows font folder. I verified this with Autodesk and Revit can only read OTF’s that are made with TrueType Outlines.  So if you are investigating (or investing) in a custom font, make sure it’s either a TrueType font or an OpenType font with TrueType outlines!

The other thing I’ve run into recently was with using either custom fonts or “hand-type” fonts from Windows.  Apparently, fonts when read in Revit do not keep their true size!  Take a look at the image below.  You can see that only ONE of the five are actually 1/4”!  So if you are going to use a non-blocky type font, be careful as the size you want might not actually be true!

I again threw this one to Autodesk and here’s what they had to say…

“This is a known issue with Revit and TrueType font types. Depending on the font type it may not always match the actual dimension it is displayed in Revit as.

I added your case onto the development team request, and notified the team. This is scheduled to be addressed in a future product release.”

Well, in order to get the text to actually to be 1/4” when plotted, you have to increase the size parameter up 1/32” or some other value.  It varies with different fonts, so there’s no rule or anything that I came across for getting the true size when plotted.  I know many might be thinking…it’s such small difference, just leave it alone…now one will notice!  Yes, you definitely can leave it alone and some may not notice.  But, I was surprised to see how much difference it can make when the text is used in Tags and referenced against what it looked like in the AutoCAD symbols.  Big difference in what we used (which was the Graphite font by the way).

Oh, and regarding this being addressed in a future product release…I’m guessing 2012, but hopefully in 2011.

BSD SpecLink-E and LinkMan-E Coming Soon

A while back I posted that BSD SpecLink was going to join the fun and come out with a new version of it’s specification software and allow it to link to Revit, just like e-Specs currently does.  Well, it’s almost here!  Here’s a snip of the press release.  You can read the full press release here…

---snip---

Atlanta, GA, June 15, 2009 — Building Systems Design, Inc. (BSD) today announced live demonstrations of the final beta release of its new BSD SpecLink-E (SLE) software at Construct2009, a national trade show for the commercial construction industry being held this week in Indianapolis. SpecLink-E is the successor to BSD’s award-winning BSD SpecLink+ specification-writing software currently being used by thousands of design professionals nationwide.

SpecLink-E will participate in the building information modeling (BIM) process through integration with CAD environments such as Revit Architecture 2009 via an integration manager called BSD LinkMan-E(TM) (LME), also in development at BSD with a patent pending. With LinkMan-E and SpecLink-E in place on the same computer or the same network, relevant project data can be transferred in both directions between the CAD environment and the specifications environment. Users will also be able to set SLE so that data from the drawings will inform the specifier about product choices, or the software can be set to automatically select appropriate sections and “pre-edit” the specifications, based on decisions made in the CAD environment. In addition to showing its current products, BSD will demonstrate linking between BSD SpecLink-E and Autodesk’s Revit at Construct2009 in Indianapolis, June 17-19, 2009.

---snip---

I took a look out on BSD’s website to see if there was a demo or anything on the upcoming products.  You can take a look at a power-point presentation on both products at the following link…

http://www.bsdsoftlink.com/speclink-e/speclink-e.htm

I know the press release indicates that LinkMan-E will work with Revit Arch 2009, but I would assume that they are working on it being compatible with Revit Arch 2010.  Well, I least I hope they are!

Save Reminder Notification Change in Revit 2010

Yet another slight change in 2010 that may be overlooked…the Save Reminder pop-up in Revit 2010.  If you haven’t loaded up 2010 yet, here’s what it looks like for a “single user” project and a workset enabled project…

Now, I know some of you are probably wondering why I would even post about this…so it’s looks different, big deal.  Well besides the looks, the functionality has changed with-in the pop-up.  Notice, no more drop-down to change the Reminder Interval.  All of the setting make sense, except for one thing…where is the “Do not save (or synchronize) and do not set reminder intervals”??  Well, they’ve cleverly hidden it with the Cancel button.  Yep, if you don’t want to save and don’t want to set the interval, just hit the cancel button.  In 2009, we could just hit the Dismiss button to close out without doing anything.  Not really sure why the whole design had to change or why they couldn’t keep the Dismiss button, but someone somewhere thought it needed to change…

New Text Cursor Icon and Start Point in 2010

Here’s something small that may be overlooked by a few people…the cursor that is now used in Revit 2010 for entering text.  Now you could be saying to yourself, why in the heck is he writing about the cursor being different from 2009 to 2010 when entering text…well, I didn’t think anything of it until today.

I was placing some notes in a sample file and I was placing a leader along with the text.  Well, this is where things started to seem a little weird.  Just so we’re all on the same page, here’s what the cursors look like for each version…

   

I know, big deal right.  Or, finally, the text cursor looks like a text editor cursor!  Well, the difference really comes in when you are using a leader before you place the text.  It took me a second to realize what was going on, but it’s definitely different in 2010 than in 2009.  Here’s what I mean…

In 2009, this is what the cursor looked like when placing a leader before entering text…

 

 

 

 

Ok, now here’s what the new cursor looks like when placing a leader before entering text…

 

 

 

 

As you can see, the new cursor is using a new point of reference for starting the leader and the text.  Otherwise, everything else is the same as it was in 2009.  Nothing major or mind blowing, but something to keep in mind when using the Text tool in 2010.

Sweeps using Pick Path Option Issue Update for 2010

Back in June 2008, I posted about an issue that came to light regarding the surface pattern not displaying in a Sweep when using the Pick Path option.  Happy to report that another bug that was in 2009 has been fixed!  (if you don’t know what the other bug was, check out this post.)

If you are upgrading a project from 2009 and you have some sweeps that used the pick option, they will not be updated automatically.  You’ll simply have to edit the family (in-place or component family) and either finish the in-place family or reload the component family and it will show the surface pattern from the material.  You really don’t have to do anything to the family…just open it up and reload/finish it.

Edit Witness Line Issue Update for 2010

Back in October 2008, I posted about an issue about dimensions and the text moving around when trying to edit the witness lines.  Well, I’m happy to report that after a little bit of testing in Revit Architecture 2010, this problem appears to be fixed!

Also, in the same post I reported that if you have added text (above, below, prefix or suffix) to a dimension within a dimension string and edit the witness lines, the text would disappear.  Again, I’m happy to report that this bug has also been fixed! 

One little thing…If you edit the witness line to change the dimension with text added to it though, the added text will disappear.  Which kind of makes sense, since you are basically “remaking” the dimension within the string and it would be almost impossible for Revit to figure out which “new” dimension it should apply the text to.

And who says all they did was change the interface and put in new conceptual tools… ;-)

Vote Now for AU 2009 Classes and…

Last year, for the first time, the AU (Autodesk University) Community was used to help select the best 600-plus sessions for AU 2008, and their doing it again this year for AU 2009!

If you are thinking about possibly attending AU 2009, please take a few minutes to vote for those sessions that you absolutely want (or are thinking about) to see. Your votes will help select the best sessions, but also give the selection committee some insight into the most popular sessions and help them schedule those sessions at the best times and locations.

Now that you have the juices flowing about AU 2009, I have a little shameless plug/self promotion to throw out there. ;-)  I’ve submitted a class for the first time this year and I’m hoping that YOU will help me get in the AU door!!  Here’s the session I submitted and hope to teach this year…

On Top of Roofs in Revit Architecture

In this session, we’ll take a look at how to utilize the different ways to create a roof. Before finishing off a roof though, we’ll dive into all the different parameters that make up a roof type and how they affect the end result. This class will also take a look at how to create dormer roofs, whether the dormer is setback or flush with the fascia of the roof. It doesn’t matter if you do residential or commercial projects, this class will give you the tools to create any number of roof shapes. 

How to Vote

To vote for sessions, go to the Autodesk University Session Selection page and log in using your AU Online username and password. If you do not have an AU Online account, it only takes only a few seconds to register as an AU Online member .

The voting deadline is Friday, May 8 at midnight PDT.

A very big THANK YOU in advance for all that vote for my submission!!

Revit Architecture 2010 Download Available

Its finally here…the (RAC) Revit Architecture 2010 download is available at the following link - http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/item?siteID=123112&id=12828862

Couple things to note from the Autodesk website…

• The executable file contains both 32 and 64-Bit versions of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010.
• The executable file can be applied to both the standalone and Suite versions of Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010.

With the download being combined with 32 and 64-bit versions, it will install the appropriate version of Revit based on the OS you are using.

And as always, please be sure to read the Read this first document before installing Revit.

Revit Architecture 2010 Download Available for Subscription Members Soon

For the first time this year, Subscription customers have been able to download their new software products from Subscription Center, in addition to receiving their DVD.

Now, the download isn’t going to be available for everyone on the subscription center at the same time.  Based on comments (on the AUGI forums) from Scott Latch, Product Manager for Revit Architecture, this is how the subscription download process will work…

“I just got off the phone with the manager of the Electronic Fulfillment group and we are going to make the downloads via Sub Center live right now. I'm told you will not be able to see it until your Auto-Fulfillment is processed and the notification email is sent. Operations is working to get through these as quickly as possible, so please be patient.

The download page on Autodesk.com will not be available until the First Customer Ship date. The Electronic Fulfillment download is a Subscription benefit.”

For those of you who currently have Revit (2009 or earlier WITH subscription), you can log-in to the subscription page and download the product when you get your Electronic Fulfillment notification.

Also, it doesn’t show in the location most people look at for downloads…meaning the Product Download link in the upper left corner. (This link actually brings you to the list of “Add-Ons” that Autodesk provides to subscription members.)  There should be a link on the main page under a Product Download header called - Download you product software (see image below).

If you don’t have the link shown (circled above) on your main page, then select the Product Download in the upper right.  This will bring you to the download page, which should then give you the same link as see above…

One thing to keep in mind with the Subscription Page…the content you see may be different than someone else.  The content is based on your individual company, the software your company has purchased, and the access you may have to the site.  Some “end users” may or may not have access to download the software.  If you are not the person who manages the software or at a minimum manages the subscription and you can’t see the download, check with the person in your office/company who does do this and see if they can download it.  If no-one in your company can see the download, check with your reseller about subscription access.

Portable License Utility No More for 2010

Another tool that is going away is the Portable License Utility for the 2010 products.  Taking its place will be an on-line system to transfer your license from one computer to another…which is being called License Transfer Utility.  This will transfer your license to an Autodesk server, which you must log-in to, then allow you to use the same tool to import the license on the other computer.  When you want to transfer it back, you do the same process.

This utility is product specific, so each product that you have installed will have it’s own utility.  You can access the utility via (Windows) Start->Programs->Autodesk, and then the product you would like to transfer.  In that product “folder”, you’ll see an option for License Transfer Utility.  This is only for the 2010 products, this will not transfer 2009 and older products…you still have to use the “old” Portable License Utility.

Network License Activation Utility No More for 2010

For the majority of the Autodesk 2010 products, the Network License Activation Utility has been removed and will no longer be used.  In order to get a new network license, you now have to either call Autodesk Activation – 1-800-551-1490, or it can be done via the following web site - https://registeronce.autodesk.com.

Revit Architecture (RAC) 2010 Release Date

**EDIT** Please see this post as the public download is now available! **EDIT**

I finally received the update from Autodesk I’ve (everyone’s) been waiting for…Revit Architecture 2010 will be released on April 16!!  Remember, this is the First Customer Ship date, so you should start to see media with-in a couple weeks or so after this date.  The web download has been pretty timely in recent years with the release date, but don’t be surprised or alarmed if it’s not up right away.  I’ll have an updated post when the download is available! 

And remember, subscription members can download the product via the subscription site as well.  It’s possible that the download will be available sooner than the 16th, but based on what happened on April 2, I’m guessing Autodesk is going to be very careful as to when they post the link on the subscription site.

Oh, one other thing…Revit 2010 will have the option to install as 32bit or 64bit!  You won’t have to download the 64bit version from the subscription site anymore!

Note: Please keep in mind that occasionally a FCS (First Customer Shipment) date may slip due to unforeseen events.

Autodesk® Revit® Architecture 2010	April 16
AutoCAD® Revit® Architecture Suite 2010	April 16
AutoCAD® Revit® Architecture Visualization Suite 2010	April 16
Autodesk® Revit® Structure 2010	April 16
AutoCAD® Revit ®Structure Suite 2010	April 16
AutoCAD® Revit® MEP Suite 2010	April 16

Revit Architecture 2010 is NOT AVAILABLE YET

**EDIT** Please see this post as the public download is now available! **EDIT**

Just want to give an update to something that happened today.  Autodesk posted a download link for Revit Architecture 2010 on the Subscription Site…by accident.  Some folks were able to download it but the link HAS BEEN REMOVED.  I verified everything with Autodesk and the link will be available soon.  The release date hasn’t been given to us yet, but we are hoping to find out very soon.  I will post an update when the release date is and when the download is available…for real this time.

Revit Architecture 2010 System Recommendations

**EDIT** Please see this post as the public download is now available! **EDIT**

Now that Autodesk has updated their website for 2010, below are the System Recommendations for Revit Architecture 2010 based on Autodesk’s website.  Even though the recommendations don’t specify Vista, it doesn’t mean it won’t work on Vista.  Notice in the recommendations for the video card…they are calling out DirectX and no longer calling out OpenGL support!  With the new DirectX support, make sure your video card driver is up to date!

System Recommendations for 32-bit Autodesk Revit Architecture

• Windows XP Professional (SP2 or later)
• Intel® Core™2 Duo 2.4 GHz or equivalent AMD processor
• 4 GB RAM
• 5 GB free disk space
• Dedicated video card with hardware support for Microsoft® DirectX® 9 (or later)
• Internet Explorer 6.0 (SP1 or later)
• Two-button mouse with scroll wheel

System Recommendations for 64-bit Autodesk Revit Architecture

• Windows XP Professional x64 edition (SP1 or later)
• Intel Core 2 Duo 2.40GHz or equivalent AMD processor
• 8 GB RAM
• 5 GB free disk space
• Dedicated video card with hardware support for DirectX 9 (or later)
• Internet Explorer 6.0 SP1 (or later)
• Two-button mouse with scroll wheel

If you are looking for (minimum) system requirements, you find those on the Autodesk Revit Arch website.

Autodesk Announces 2010 Products Available

**EDIT** Please see this post as the public download is now available! **EDIT**

Today, announced that their 2010 design and engineering software product line is now available…kind of.  They’ve basically have updated their website to now include 2010 features and functionality for their products and download some of the 2010 product trials (like AutoCAD 2010).  This doesn’t mean that ALL of the software is available for download…specifically Revit!  You can go to the Revit Architecture product page to see some of their new marketing material that has been updated to include some of the 2010 features.  They’ve also updated the system requirements and recommendations for the 2010 products.  The Revit Architecture recommendations can be viewed HERE.

Stay tuned…Revit Architecture 2010 is sure to be announced when it will be available any day now…

Reed SmartBIM Library 3.2 Launched

Press Release - http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/press-releases/press-release/reed-construction-data-releases-smartbim-library-v32/

-SNIP-

The release of SBL v3.2 offers new features and enhancements including the drag-and-drop family publisher, allowing users to automatically publish and load Revit families into SmartBIM Library from a user’s file system, Autodesk® Revit project files or Autodesk® Seek.

Additional functionality allows users to attach files, including text documents, spreadsheets and images, to SmartBIM Objects using the drag-and-drop feature, and to view them from the attachment pane.
SBL 3.2 is also now an e-SPECS® Compliant BIM Library to assist users in automating the specification process.

“This release gives Revit users a way to significantly reduce the time spent looking for or creating BIM objects,” said Candice Dobra, director of BIM solutions, Reed Construction Data.  “The high-quality SmartBIM objects delivered in SmartBIM Library combined with the ability to easily manage existing content, bring a new level of efficiency in the design process.”

Version 3.2 comes pre-loaded with over 21,000 high-quality Revit product types, including 200 new generic families.  The SmartBIM Library will also publish content on a continual basis from a growing list of manufacturers including: Kolbe, Karona Inc., Hager Companies, LinEL Signature Skylights, Oldcastle Glass, Armstrong, Da-Lite Screen Company, Draper Inc., NanaWall Systems, ZeroFlush, Figueras International Seating, Next Door Company, Laticrete International, Skyco Shading Systems, Beta-Calco, Cornell Iron Works, Sun-Dome, GAF Materials Corp., PPG Industries, Coronet Lighting and more.

-SNIP-

I've personally seen and played with SmartBIM v3.2 and it's a great improvement from the previously released versions of the program.  The new drag-n-drop functionality they've added to creating libraries is great and a much improved process than before.  One thing to remember with the SmartBIM Library...you are not really paying for the content, you are paying for the program to manage YOUR library.  The content is an extra little bonus, and you do get any updates to the SmartBIM Library they make or if they add extra content.

If you are located in WI, MN or IL and are interested purchasing the SmartBIM Library, please contact a MasterGraphics Account Manager (1-800-873-7238) for more info!

Off Topic – March Madness Bracket Group

I thought I would have a little fun and created an ESPN Tournament Challenge group for the upcoming NCAA Men’s B-Ball tourney for the “Reviteers” out there.  If you would like to join in the fun (and I guess a little friendly competition…not that I’m challenging anyone ;-)!) here are the details if you would like to join the group and create a bracket entry on espn.com…

• Go to http://games.espn.go.com/tcmen/frontpage
• If you are not an ESPN member, you’ll have to create a free log-in to create a bracket entry
• Create a bracket entry
• Once you have a bracket entry, you can add it to a group
• When getting the group list, search for Revit and select the Revit group to add your bracket to the group
• I’ve made it Private, so the password is RAC2010

And that’s it!  Make your picks once the brackets are set on Sunday, March 15.

Have fun and good luck!!

Are You Wasting Money Finding Revit Objects

If you've ever asked yourself this question or if you've never even thought about it, I suggest reading THIS ARTICLE from Dennis Neeley of Reed Construction Data titled "You are Wasting Your Money".  If this question seems like it's not for you, pass it on to your CAD/Revit/BIM Manager...or whoever you think would like to know the answer to this!

Reed has a survey out that has allowed them to get information about this very question. You can take the survey (Click here to start the survey) and help build the database.

Here is a very small snippet of the article, but you can see in the chart how quickly looking for and/or creating objects can add up!

The chart below translates the survey results into dollars, your wasted dollars. For these calculations, it is assumed the employee is costing you $40 and hour (fully loaded, salary, benefits, occupancy and taxes). Soon, Reed will have a tool on our Internet site where you can plug in your specific office numbers to see what objects and object management are costing your firm.

Now sure, Reed is going to use SmartBIM Library in this article because it's a product they sell and would help reduce some of these costs.  But the point (in my opinion) is that anyway you can decrease the time it takes to work with families (whether it's searching, creating or modifying) can save you money.  Maybe it's better organization using Windows Explorer?  Maybe it's an intranet site, or whatever you can use to share families with everyone in the office.  If a family is added to the library, why not send a notification to everyone so it doesn't get re-made?

Anyway you look at it, becoming more efficient and saving money now will not only keep costs low in the current economy, but will continue to save money for a long, long time...especially when the library get's larger and more and more users are in the mix!

http://www.reedconstructiondata.com/articles/read/you-are-wasting-your-money/

What's New in Revit Architecture 2010

**EDIT** Please see this post as the public download is now available! **EDIT**

I completely over-looked this info (somehow) in my zip file of goodies from the Autodesk Press release on Feb. 6.  This expands a little more on the new features from the previous post for the Press Release.

NOTE: This information was obtained through the Autodesk Press Release and cannot be discussed or explained in any further detail than the information I've already posted about.  As I've mentioned before, I will be posting an update once the confidentiality agreement has been lifted.

What’s New

Conceptual Design Enhancements

• New and innovative conceptual design features provide easier-to-use tools for freeform modeling and parametric design, and the ability to support the earliest design analyses.
• Sketch freely, create 3D forms more quickly and manipulate forms interactively.
• Prepare models for fabrication and construction with built-in tools for conception and clarification of complex forms. New tools to divide, pattern and panelize designs make forms more buildable.
• Autodesk Revit Architecture automatically builds a parametric framework around your most complex forms as you continue to design, offering you greater levels of creative control, accuracy and flexibility.
• Users can now take designs from concept model all the way to construction documents within one intuitive environment and user interface.

Improved User Interface

• New streamlined user interface helps users find favorite tools and commands faster, locate lesser-used tools more efficiently and discover new features more easily.
• Customizable Quick Access Toolbar allows one-click access to a user’s favorite and most frequently used tools.
• The ribbon feature is organized around the way designers work, enabling users to find the tools to accomplish tasks without searching all over the user interface.
• Consistent user interfaces between most Autodesk software applications allows users to move between programs more smoothly.

Performance and Interoperability

• New native 64-bit support enhances the software’s ability to handle large projects and improve performance and stability for memory-intensive tasks such as rendering, printing, model upgrading and file importing and exporting.
• Expanded API (application programming interface) support.
• Export to AutoCAD® Civil 3D® software and import from Autodesk® Inventor® , while preserving parametric data.
• gbXML (green building XML) improvements allow users to

Creating Revit Curtain Wall Mullion Profiles

Have you ever wondered how to get a Curtain Wall Mullion to display like the adjacent image?  I've had a few people ask how to accomplish this and it's really quite easy to do.

The first thing is selecting the correct family template for the profile that you want to make, which for Curtain Wall Mullions is Profile-Mullion.rft.  When you start with this template, it has some text that helps you figure out where to draw the profile.

 

As you can see in the image to the left, I've noted basically what the above mentioned template says...Curtain Panels are trimmed to where the profile sketch intersects the Center (Front/Back) Ref Plane.

 

 

 

So instead of placing the profile like the previous image, place the Panel portion of the mullion centered on the reference plane, it will break the panel at with that width instead of the overall width of the mullion.

Remember, the insertion point of the profile is where the two reference place intersect, so you'll have to utilize the Offset Parameter in the Type Properties to get the mullion in the correct location.  Also, don't forget to throw in some parameters of your own to the profile to create different types (sizes)...whether it's panel thickness, width, depth, etc.

Autodesk Press Release - Revit Architecture 2010

Autodesk conducted a virtual press conference on Friday, February 6, 2009 and announced new versions of its software products for the architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industries.  If you weren't able to attend the webcast, here's some info they shared on Revit Architecture 2010...

NOTE: Under the terms of the non-disclosure agreement, the features that are about to be shown cannot be explained or discussed any further.  As soon as the confidentially agreement is lifted, I will explain some of the new features further!

Availability
Product availability will vary by country.  Details and purchasing options will be accessible starting March 24, 2009.

Autodesk Revit Architecture 2010 Software (BIM for architects and designers) enables customers to more accurately capture early design concepts with improved design functionality via:

• An intuitive conceptual design workspace to create complex geometry more easily.
• A new user interface (UI) that works the way designers think, providing a smoother and more continuous design workflow.
• Improved interoperability with programs such as AutoCAD Civil 3D 2010 software, Autodesk 3ds Max Design 2010 software and Autodesk Inventor software.

The new version (actually the entire Revit platform) offers a streamlined new user interface that optimizes workflow and increases discover-ability of new tools.

 

 

New conceptual design features allow you to sketch freely, create 3D models quickly, and take your design from concept to construction documentation all in one environment.

 

 

 

 

The new conceptual design features also help you to prepare models for fabrication and construction with built-in tools for dividing, patterning and panelizing complex forms.

Sto Corp providing Revit Walls

Press release via - http://www.bdcnetwork.com/article/CA6633488.html

Sto Corp. has announced the development and release of an electronic Architectural Toolbox™, an EIFS  selector tool that allows users to build a variety of EIFS systems using easy pull down menus and a variety of options.

The Architectural Toolbox™ also allows users to instantly download Revit models, specifications for their system choices, and download sales sheets, technical bulletins, and sales materials. The Architectural Toolbox™ can be found at http://www.stocorp.com.

“Sto Corp. is the only manufacturer in the EIFS industry that allows its users to download Revit models for specific system configurations,” said John Edgar, Technical Manager - Building Science. “With the emergence of building information modeling (BIM), Sto recognizes the importance of providing this information in an easily downloadable and straight forward manner.”

I downloaded a wall family (project) and it appears that the families are built using metric units.  When using it in an Imperial units project, you'll have to do some updating to the components thickness as some of them have 64th's, 128th's and 256th's...unless you are okay with using those dimensions. :)   It looks like each system downloads its own project file, so combining them into one might be a good idea.

Stairs Without an Arrow Indicator

This is something I ran into the other day while teaching a class.  One of the exercises creates a couple of stairs...one using the Run tool and another using Boundary and Riser tools.  I've never really paid attention to the graphics on the resulting stairs, but a student asked why the "custom" (Boundary and Riser created) stair didn't have an Arrow Indicator shown.

From the looks of it, the Arrow Indicator is somewhat tied to the Run Line that is generated with the Run Tool.  So if you create a Stair with just using the Boundary and Riser tools, you will not get an Arrow Indicator.  And unfortunately, you can not draw a Run line once you create a complete Stair using just Boundary and Riser lines. 

But, there is a way to make a custom stair and still get the Arrow Indicator.  Start with the Run tool and pick the path that you want for your stairs.  Yes, it will place Boundary and Risers lines, but those can be deleted and/or changed and the Run line will stay.

 

There is a caution to this...I created a stair that I completely re-drew the Boundary and Risers lines and kept the Run line and the Arrow Indicator did not show up.  (Example shown below)

So you may not get an Arrow Indicator in EVERY instance...

Rafter or Truss Roof Property

Ever wonder what the difference was between selecting Rafter or Truss when doing a Roof by Footprint and utilizing Pick Walls? (Notice, I mentioned Roof by Footprint and Pick Walls...you have to use these tools/options to get the selection of Rafter or Truss.)  Well, the difference is quite simple but can be confusing to some when laying out the footprint lines.

  

When Selecting the Rafter Option, the slope starts at the INTERIOR face of the wall. If you use the Truss Option, the slope will start at the EXTERIOR face of the wall.  The confusing part for some is that the sketch line doesn't change when changing the Rafter or Truss parameter.  As you can see in the images, the overhang doesn't change but the "base point" of the wall does change height.  Notice how the dimension from the level to the top of the fascia line...the roof is moving vertically to adjust where the slope point starts.  So the sketch line doesn't change location to change where the slope starts, the Rafter or Truss option moves the roof up or down to change where the slope starts.

EDIT:  Forgot to mention one little thing...using Extend to Wall Core also works the same way.  The above images used the face of the wall for the overhang, not the face of the core.  If you check the box in the options bar to Extend to Wall Core, the slope point will be from the core face.  This would give a more realistic representation of the actual construction for most stud conditions, where the slope point would be in-line with the stud face and not a finish face.

Interference Reports and Selecting Elements by ID

If you happen to run an Interference Check with-in Revit, you have the option to Export a Report out to a HTML file.  The HTML file (example below) lists out each element and what the interfering element is based on the selections you made for the interference detection.

Since every single element in Revit gets a unique ID number, you can tell in the Report that there are 3 separate walls that conflict with 3 separate Columns.  Columns will also get a "Mark" identifying the Grid intersection as well.  Other than identifying that there are 3 separate walls, these ID numbers can be utilized when you go back into the project to find them.  Granted, you could open up the Interference Last Report, use the Show option...but it's not necessary.  Plus, if you are the one receiving the report via HTML, you probably don't have the Report inside the project anyway.

What you can do with the ID number is Copy it to the clipboard from the HTML Report, then go back into the Project.  Select Tools->Element Ids->Select by Id.

When the dialog comes up to Select Elements by ID, you can then Paste in the ID.  Once the number (or numbers) are Pasted in, either hit Show to get you to a View to see the element(s), or just hit OK to have the element(s) selected.  Now you can decide if the Interference is okay or if something needs to be fixed.

Show Materials in Existing Walls

This was a question that was asked of me the other day...how do you show the materials in a wall when it's an existing wall?  By default, the existing walls show just the outside lines of the wall when being viewed as an existing element, even if the wall type has any materials at all.

In order to make this happen, you need to modify the Phase Graphic Overrides.  Basically, you change the settings for the Existing Status to turn the Cut Pattern back on, and then set the Material to be No Material.  Since the Existing Material is setup to not show a pattern at all, just turning on the visibility of the Cut Pattern will not display the patterns.  Once you have the changes made, you will then see the materials inside the wall.

This is not a View specific change, this is a change that will effect the entire project.  So every cut of the walls (plan, section, etc.) will show materials when the walls are being displayed as existing.  If you don't want to show the materials in a certain View (for whatever reason), you can override the Cut Pattern visibility per Element.  I say per Element because if you do it by Category, it will turn off the patterns in all walls, not just the existing walls.  And unfortunately, you can not use a Filter by Phase.

Adding and Removing Curtain Grid Lines

Curtain Grids are one of those elements that folks have a love-hate relationship with.  Working with Curtain Grids can be difficult at times, especially for the novice user.  I've created a little video about what happens when you start to have smaller segments and the ability to actually see if a segment is visible or not.

When you use the Add/Remove Segment tool, grid segments that are visible should be solid and what is not currently visible should be dashed.  The problem comes in when you have a short segment...it typically shows up solid even if it's not visible.  What you can do is change the scale to be larger (1/4" instead of 1/8" for instance) for editing purposes, do what you need to do for adding and removing curtain grid segments, then change it back to the original scale.  Or, just create a temporary elevation to edit your curtain grid segments.

Adjusting Level or Grid Line Lengths

I've seen many people try to adjust their level or grid line lengths at the annotative ends when they are zoomed out and end up changing the text value or putting in an elbow instead.  If you need to be zoomed out so you can see all of your annotative ends, here's a little trick to help you avoid the mistaken elbow or text edit.  With a grid line or level line selected, uncheck the box next to or above/below the annotation...this will turn it off and only give you the option to adjust the end.  Drag the end where you need it, then re-check the box to turn the annotation back on.