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How to Save an ArchiCAD File as PLA

Published in ArchiCAD File Format 3 mins read

Saving your ArchiCAD project as a .PLA file is a straightforward process that archives your project with all its associated library parts and textures.

To save an ArchiCAD file as a PLA, you need to use the "Save as" command and select the specific file type.

Steps to Save as ArchiCAD Archive (.PLA)

Here are the simple steps to save your current ArchiCAD project into the ARCHICAD Archive format (*.pla):

  1. Navigate to the File menu at the top of your ArchiCAD window.
  2. Select the Save as... command from the dropdown menu.
  3. In the appearing Save dialog box, choose the desired location on your computer where you want to save the file.
  4. Locate the Save as type (or Format on macOS) drop-down menu.
  5. From this list, select ARCHICAD Archive Project (*.pla).
  6. Give your file a name in the File name field.
  7. Click the Save button.

*(Based on reference: Use the File Save as command. 2. From the appearing Save dialog box, choose ARCHICAD Archive Project (*. pla) from the Save as type drop-down.)*

What is a PLA File?

A PLA file, or ARCHICAD Archive Project, is a special file format in ArchiCAD. Unlike a standard PLN file, which only contains the project data and links to external libraries, a PLA file includes the project data plus all the necessary library parts (objects, windows, doors, etc.), textures, and linked files directly within the single archive file.

Why Save as PLA?

Saving as a PLA is particularly useful for several reasons:

  • Sharing: It ensures that when you share the project with someone else, they will have all the required library parts and textures, preventing missing elements and display issues.
  • Archiving: It's an excellent way to archive a project at key milestones or completion, guaranteeing that you can open it in the future without needing access to external libraries that might change or become unavailable.
  • Portability: Makes the project highly portable as everything is contained in one file.

Choosing the PLA format is essential when you need to preserve the project's integrity and ensure it can be opened correctly on another computer or at a later date without dependency issues.

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