How to open old ArchiCAD project files

Recently we get more and more questions about how to open old ArchiCAD files in the current version. Below we try to summarize what to do in such cases.

Converting 3.4.x ArchiCAD plan files to current solo project files 
ArchiCAD versions 5.0 to 7.0 can read version 4.1 files. If you use such a version, use the ArchiCAD File Converter application to save your old (v 3.4.x to v 4.0.x plan files) in v4.1 format. The files saved in ArchiCAD 4.1 format can be opened with ArchiCADs 5.0 to 7.0 on the same platform. In case of ArchiCAD 8.0 and later, the oldest file version they can open is version 5.0. You need to open the version 4.1 file in ArchiCAD 5.0 to 7.0, save it, then open that file in your current ArchiCAD version.
ArchiCAD File Converter application works both on 68k and PPC Macs.It runs under MacOSX, too, as a 'Classic' application.
Download ArchiCAD File Converter (292 kB)

Converting v 4.1-4.55 Mac format to v 4.1-4.55 PC format 
There is an ArchiCAD File Exchange application included in these ArchiCAD packages which converts the Mac files to PC format. This becomes obsolete when using ArchiCAD 5.0 or later because these versions are able to save archive files (PLA) in multiplatform format.
ArchiCAD File Exchange works both on 68k and PPC Macs. It runs under MacOSX, too, as a 'Classic' application.
Download ArchiCAD File Exchange 2.11 Int'l (600 kB)

Converting old library parts to the current format 
Please use the Update Library Parts command in the Special Menu of ArchiCAD 4.55 or later. Holding down the CMD-OPT key combination (CTRL-ALT on Windows can enable the Special Menu) while the program is being started.
Note: Features of the Special menu are not supported!

Page last updated: Friday, September 17, 2004