PLN File Extension

What is PLN file?

PLN file extension is used by ArchiCAD, an architectural design software tool. PLN file contains an ArchiCAD project , which comprises such elements as 3D model, lines, objects, calculations, and other CAD elements.

Usage of PLN files

PLN files are used by designer for storing building structure models, interior and exterior designs, or construction plans.

PLN – a file format unique for ArchiCAD

PLN is a proprietary format used by ArchiCAD by default. The format was developed specifically for ArchiCAD to provide such functionalities as support for CineRender Engine visualization, advanced geometrical models, 2-point perspective, and many others.

Programs which support PLN file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support PLN files. Files with PLN extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 01/01/2022

How to open file with PLN extension?

Being unable to open files with PLN extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to ArchiCAD Project Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the ArchiCAD

Problems with opening and working with PLN files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PLN files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the ArchiCAD developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading ArchiCAD installed is by going to developer’s website (Graphisoft) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of ArchiCAD

You still cannot access PLN files although ArchiCAD is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of ArchiCAD installed, it may not support PLN format. The most recent version of ArchiCAD is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate ArchiCAD Project Format files with ArchiCAD

If you have the latest version of ArchiCAD installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PLN on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PLN file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ArchiCAD is installed, check the Always use this app to open PLN files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PLN file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select ArchiCAD and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PLN extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the PLN for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PLN file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the PLN in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PLN file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PLN file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with PLN extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the PLN file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the PLN file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the ArchiCAD Project Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open ArchiCAD

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with PLN extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with ArchiCAD Project Format files. It may be the case that the PLN files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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