Archicad files opening slowly

Issue description

You experience significantly slow performance when opening files in Archicad. The file opening process takes an unusually long time to complete, ranging from several minutes to over 20 minutes. 

The startup screen might also get stuck on Loading library parts or Updating library data, or the application becomes unresponsive during file opening. 

Solution

Slow file opening in Archicad can be caused by file content issues, library management problems, or system configuration conflicts. Default settings and accumulated data over time can significantly impact opening performance.

Here are some things to look out for:

Test with a new file

1. Open Archicad and navigate to File > New > New.
2. Create a new file from one of the default templates.
3. Add a few basic elements and test opening performance.
4. If the new file opens quickly, the issue is specific to your project file.

Test your file locally

If your file is a Teamwork project:

1. Save a copy via File > Save as... and choose Archicad solo project (.pln) as the file type.
2. Open the .pln copy in a separate Archicad instance and compare performance.

If the file performs better as a solo project, there could be issues with your network connection, the BIMcloud server. Alternatively, you can try repairing the file and resharing it as a Teamwork project.

Clear recent files list

Large recent files lists can slow down startup significantly. 

1. Check this article on deleting recent files in Archicad and improve performance.
2. Restart Archicad after clearing the recent files, to test for improvements.

Clear preferences folder.

In rare cases, the preferences folder can get corrupted causing performance issues, crashes, or even prevent Archicad from starting.

1. Check this guide on removing the preferences cache.
2. Restart Archicad after the preference clearing to test for improvements.

Optimize the project's embedded library

Bloated embedded libraries significantly slow file opening:

1. Go to File > Libraries and Objects > Library Manager.
2. Select the Embedded Library tab.
3. Check individual object sizes - objects over several MB should be optimized.
4. Create a Library Container File (LCF) from large, embedded libraries.
5. Remove objects from embedded library and add the LCF as a linked library instead.

To create a Library Container File (LCF), follow the steps below:

1. Go to File > Libraries and Objects > Create Container.
2. Select folders or objects to include.
3. Click Create and specify the LCF name.
4. Check Compress file in Options.
5. Click Save to create the container.

If you need more help…

Check out more content on the Support Site, Graphisoft Community, or the Graphisoft Learn Portal. You can also contact Technical Support for further assistance.