Duct Duct Pipe

Multi Tag Devices Circuited on Same Panel

2011-12-05T13:33:00.006-05:00

I had a request from a client on the following. Devices on same floor need to be tagged differently. One tag indicates device is circuited to panel on same floor and other device would have a different tag being circuited to same panel from different floor.

This can be difficult to achieve with Revit MEP because Panels have only 1 parameter called Panel Name that typically is added automatically to the device circuit tag if you have the Circuit Naming parameter set.

Video shows an added shared parameter for the naming of the panel and changing the Circuit Naming parameter properly so that 2 custom tags can display the proper information.

Example: Branch Panel 1 on first floor would read "BP.1-BP1" Device cicuited on same floor would tag "B1-1" and device circuited from a different floor to BP1 would tag as "BP.1-B1-1"

Hope this video can help many others in the Electrical world. Cheers

Video Here use full screen mode if viewing video below

Revit 2012’s Update 2 released

2011-09-28T11:16:00.001-04:00

Revit Architecture 2012 update 2

Revit Structure 2012 update 2

Revit MEP 2012 I could not find an update on Autodesk's website and my product says it’s updated but that was update 1. Maybe Autodesk has not issued RMEP update 2 yet

Autodesk Cloud Offerings

2011-09-28T11:00:00.001-04:00

Now are available through Autodesk Subscription

Autodesk Cloud Rendering website link. Also all of Autodesk Cloud offerings

Autodesk has launched a number of cloud services for subscription customers. What you get as a subscription customers depends on what products you have on subscription and if you have a standard, premium or ultimate suite.

In the end not every subscription customer will get all the cloud service options. Good or bad I guess time will tell.

You can read here about the finer details and how you can register below. You will find core benefits, select benefits, videos and be able to compare the services. Learn More Here

Here is another link to all of Autodesk Cloud offerings for example.

- storage, sharing and viewing of files
- DWG Editing in the cloud using AutoCAD WS
- Mobile Viewing with Design Review Mobile App
- Rendering in the Cloud
- Optimization with Autodesk Inventor coming soon
- Energy Analysis with Autodesk Revit Conceptual Energy Analysis
- Green Building Studio
- Collaboration with Autodesk Buzzsaw Mobile

Learn More Here

Revit MEP Pipe Fitting Annotation Scale

2011-09-13T11:03:00.001-04:00

Simple video regarding pipe fitting annotation scale within Revit MEP and benefits of turning the check box off vs. leaving the box on. Video HERE

Autodesk WikiHelp

2011-04-18T21:55:00.001-04:00

I wanted to point out a great web resource for users of Autodesk software called Autodesk WikiHelp.

Autodesk’s WikiHelp contains over 20 products of information along with almost 10,000 users and many contributors that publish videos, comments and additional information when it comes to Autodesk products.

Revit 2012 WikiHelp was just updated with 2012 product information

enjoy!!

SugarSync Thank you

2011-04-18T21:54:00.001-04:00

I would like to thank all the people who used my Sugar Sync referral link and signed up. I now have 10GB of storage space. I could always use more but why be greedy lol. Yet again why not, so if you still have not signed up here check out this post.

SugarSync Blog Post Here

Autodesk Showcase 2012

2011-04-14T09:50:00.001-04:00

Straight from a Labs email. Take a look at the video well worth 5 mins.

Autodesk Showcase 2012 real-time 3D presentation and rendering software, which is now available!

Try it now and see how quickly and easily you can turn your Autodesk Revit Architecture and AutoCAD designs into compelling imagery, movies, and immersive presentations for interactive design reviews, stunning marketing materials, and convincing sales pitches.

Watch our demo video.

Try it now for free!

For more information about Showcase, visit http://www.autodesk.com/showcase.

Showcase 2012 can be purchased as a stand-alone product or as part of one of our suites, such as Autodesk Design Suite or Autodesk Building Design Suite.
Learn more at www.autodesk.com/suites.

SugarSync

2011-04-08T15:26:00.001-04:00

This post is a bit off topic then usual. But if you are looking for an online storage account that can monitor windows or mac folders and keep them in sync with the cloud. Similar to that of DropBox then you should look into SugarSync.

SugarSync gives you 5GB of free storage compared too DropBox that is 3GB more and has plenty more features like streaming music photos videos right from SugarSync cloud to any mobile device way better than Dropbox.

I will post my referral link here if you all sign up for an account through my link you will receive an extra 500mb of storage and I will too.

If you are like me, most of my music resides on my laptop at home not my work PC. I listen too my music at work using SugarSync. So take a look at the website and if you like use my referral link https://www.sugarsync.com/referral?rf=ct4jxs3qa0cd9 we both receive more storage space.

https://www.sugarsync.com/ watch the videos cool stuff.

See how Sugar Sync compares to the competition https://www.sugarsync.com/sync_comparison.html

cheers

Autodesk Video Goes Viral

2011-04-04T14:30:00.000-04:00

Straight from Auto News Bulletin email. I am just reposting link to video here.

“http://www.autodesk.com/ Join the students at Huntley Boarding School as they meet their new teacher, Mr. McCluskey. Learn how Mr. McCluskey's unorthodox teaching methods educate and inspire the next generation of artists, engineers, architects and designers”

Great Video hope Autodesk continues to make more like this.

RMEP 2012 What’s New Video #5

2011-04-04T13:00:00.000-04:00

Video #5 is a bit of a recap from a few features in the previous videos along with some new tweaks to existing features. In this video I will show the following.

* Change Type of Run *
* Inherit Elevation / Size *
* Insulation & Lining *
* Interference Check Insulation *
* Copy / Monitor Improvements *

You can view the video here on YouTube or see below.

RMEP 2012 What’s New Video #4

2011-04-04T10:17:00.001-04:00

Video #4 is actually a continuation from Video #3. I meant to put this video in behind #3 but forgot.

So here is a video on the what's new feature when it comes to generating duct and pipe placeholders using the generate layout command. Placeholders can be used in interference check as well.

List of Features

* Generate Duct Placeholder Layout *
* Visibility & Graphics Placeholders *
* Interference Check Placeholder *

I have kept my videos short instead of one long video, figured it’s easier to follow this way. Let me know below in the comments or with the like buttons in YouTube if these videos are helpful. I plan on releasing more videos in the future. Some simple and some more in depth.

You can view the video here on YouTube or see below.

RMEP 2012 What’s New Video #3

2011-03-31T15:39:00.003-04:00

This video I show the new Duct & Pipe placeholder functionality. I discuss how you can create and modify tag and schedule these placeholders.

Another great feature of this tool is to use it for single line duct layout, since you can tag the placeholders (single lines) So not only can you generate the lifework to 3D geometry but utilize for single line designs.

Features List:

* Create & Modify Placeholders *
* Convert Placeholder Layout *
* Tag & Schedule Placeholder *

In my next video tomorrow I will show the generate placeholder duct layout tool and interference check duct and pipe placeholders.

You can view the video here on YouTube or see below.

RMEP 2012 What’s New Video #2

2011-03-29T13:52:00.001-04:00

This video still has to do with system Enhancements but on the side of creating systems and the enhancements adding to this tool. You will see how each system can have their own graphics, material, abbreviation and rise drop symbols, also a new way to create systems.

Features List:

* Creating Systems *
* System Type Properties *
* Graphic Overrides *
* Turn off System Calculations *
* Add Material to System *
* Edit Rise & Drop Symbol

No longer do we need filters to control said features we can just use the type properties of a system. These new features will be a big time saver. You can view the video here on YouTube or see below.

In my next video and post I will show you the new duct and pipe placeholders feature. (think single lines)

Be sure to click the FULL SCREEN button, sometimes the blog cuts off the video.

RMEP 2012 What’s New Video #1

2011-03-29T11:42:00.003-04:00

Over the course of the upcoming week I will be posting short videos on some of the new features within Revit MEP 2012. Some of the features work within all the Revit platforms and most within other disciplines in RMEP. For example I will be showing most features using ductwork but piping, cable tray, conduit work the same.

Features List:

* Graphical Warnings *
* System Connector Labels *

This first video has to do with System Enhancements I will be touching on graphical warning and system connector label enhancements. You can view the video here on YouTube or below.

In my next video I will show the enhancements within creating systems.

Be sure to click the FULL SCREEN button, sometimes the blog cuts off the video.

License File Add a Comment

2010-10-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

This tip is from a colleague of mine.

If you want to put a comment in your license file, put a # character at the start of the line. This is especially useful when you want to merge licenses together;

# Server Information

# Product A

# Product B

Revit Sub. Advantage Pack Links

2010-10-01T10:35:00.001-04:00

The blog world has been a buzz the last few days with introduction of Revit Subscription Advantage Packs. Autodesk at the same time launched packs for the remaining product line. See my post below for a list.

Revit’s package included Revit Server and Revit Conceptual Energy Analysis. I don’t plan on posting the ins and outs of how these features work, the blogging community has already done so. I will post two links that will help explain through text and video on how to use these two great features. Both links from Autodesk’s website

Subscription Advantage Pack for Revit 2011 (videos) – this links has both Revit Server and Conceptual Energy Analysis videos. Don’t forget to check out Revit Extensions provided in the above link.

Revit Conceptual Energy Analysis – this links has more on Conc. Energy Analysis.

*all items available to subscription customers only

AutoCAD WS for iPhone, iPad, iPod

2010-09-29T21:12:00.002-04:00

Autodesk launched today on the app store AutoCAD WS for the iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. This mobile app enables you to view and work with AutoCAD drawings on your iOS devices. Here is a link AutoCAD WS. Youtube Video here

Features include:

• Open DWG drawings uploaded to your free* AutoCAD WS online workspace
• See all aspects of your DWG file, including external references, layers, and image underlays
• Use Multi-Touch zoom and pan to more easily navigate very large drawings
• Tap objects to select, then move, rotate, and scale
• Draw or edit shapes with accuracy using Snap and Ortho modes
• Add and edit text annotations directly on your device; no need for paper mark-ups
• Validate distance measurements in the drawing while you are onsite at the actual location
• Save your edits to your AutoCAD WS online workspace, so your drawings stay up to date
• Share designs with others directly from your device
• Work with other people on the same DWG file simultaneously
• View edits to drawings in real time: AutoCAD WS immediately captures changes made by you and others in your online workspace.

Subscription Advantage Packs 2011 Released

2010-09-29T19:37:00.002-04:00

Autodesk has just released this year’s Subscription Advantage Pack for all Autodesk’s 2011 Products.

Clients with subscriptions that are still active can log into Subscription Center to download the subscription packs and other Autodesk product enhancements and get early access to the latest software technology. I have also provided a link to Videos you can download that show off the Subscription Advantage Packs. Advantage Pack 2011 Videos

Product Releases with Subscription Packs are below with links to the pack itself. please note you need log in to access the links: Don’t forget if your not on Subscription speak with your local reseller.

Revit Architecture 2011
Revit MEP 2011
Revit Structure 2011
AutoCAD 2011
Navisworks 2011
AutoCAD Architecture 2011
AutoCAD MEP 2011
Inventor 2011
AutoCAD Mechanical 2011
AutoCAD Electrical 2011
3ds Max 2011
Maya 2011
MotionBuilder 2011
Mudbox 2011

If you are unsure how to access Subscription Center you can view several PDF guides that are an invaluable self-help support resource for using and managing your Autodesk Subscription Service. Guides Here

Revit 2011 Product Update #2

2010-09-28T22:54:00.001-04:00

Autodesk has released web update #2 for Revit MEP, Revit Structure, and Revit Architecture. You can find more information on the download pages below.

Revit MEP 2011

Revit Architecture 2011

Revit Structure 2011

Enjoy!

Purge Unused - Revit

2010-09-10T14:28:00.001-04:00

I have created a short video on how to use the Purge function in Revit. I demonstrate using Revit MEP software, the same method can be used with any of the Revit products. I also talk about file size and how you can reduce it not just by purging elements in your project but also by saving your project using the compact file option when saving.

You can approach purging unused elements in many different ways, my recommendation is not to purge all the time. Purging can be a time consuming depending on what elements you are looking to purge. Revit by default looks at your project and any objects not in use get a checkbox next to them to be purged. This can be beneficial and not beneficial, I explain in the video, reason it’s great would be I can purge all items at one time. I would only recommend if sending to a consultant or archiving that project.

If you still plan on working with this project you are better off making sure all boxes are unchecked and picking particular items manually that you wish to purge. This gives you control so that you are not accidentally purging text styles, dim styles, section markers, pipe types, duct types etc that you have not used in your project. Think about it the same way as AutoCAD, if you purge specific items and you need them back you will have to either re-import them or create those styles. Costing you time and money.

Also you have to take your template file size into account, remember if you put every family in your template and the template is let’s say 15mb. Your project when started will be 15mb. Try not to put to much into your template, if you want specific families you use on every project in then please add them but you might want to purge certain Types of that family so not all are in the model. My recommendation for template size would be 7 to 15mb, our here are around 8mb.

Lastly the compact file option when saving I show at the end of the video, will and could drastically reduce the file size. On this small project you will see the file size reduce in my opinion a great amount. In a past project I had it was 150mb I then purged the project went down to 115mb I then used the compact option and reduced file further to 90mb. about a 40% size change.

Here is the link to my YouTube video. Purge Unused Elements using Revit

Enjoy!!

Creating Custom Diffuser Tag

2010-09-08T12:18:00.002-04:00

We all know that not all out of the box Revit MEP content meets our company standards, and often that is the result when we are talking about the diffuser tag in RMEP.

I have created a short video on how you can modify the OOTB diffuser tag to pull the neck size and type mark parameters from the diffuser itself.

The finished tag will look like this:

Here is the link to my youtube video. Creating Custom Diffuser Tag

enjoy!!

FlexNet / LMTools 2011 updated version

2010-03-31T10:51:00.005-04:00

A colleague I work with has confirmed that the 2011 release of Autodesk software contains an updated version of FlexNET / LMTools. Your Network license servers will need to be upgraded to the latest version (11.7) in order to ensure support for the latest 2011 and previous Autodesk product releases.

Upgrade procedure from Autodesk can be found below

Upgrading Autodesk Network License Manager (FLEXlm®)

Revit MEP 2011 - Conduit

2010-03-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

As stated the other day I plan to post some of the new features in Revit MEP 2011 throughout the course of this week. Again many people have blogged about the features and done a great job. I have some small videos I would like to share, here is one on the new Conduit feature in RMEP. Note that I have not added audio, the video is a little quick but still real time, I must have been on a lot of red bull that day. enjoy!!

Be sure to click the FULL SCREEN button, sometimes the blog cuts off the video.

Revit MEP 2011 - Cable Trays

2010-03-29T12:49:00.002-04:00

I have noticed a lot of post going around regarding the Revit 2011 products and many other bloggers have been listing the latest features of those products and doing a great job I might add. So what I thought I would do as the non-disclosure agreement has based with Autodesk is post a video on cable trays in Revit MEP 2011. Yes that is correct if you do not know already that Cable Trays and Conduit have now been added to the Revit MEP 2011 product.

Don't get me wrong, many other features have been added as well, but these two have been requested for a very long time and very much needed in RMEP. Here is a link to the video or you can view the video below I have embedded into this post. No audio in the video, just a small 2 min clip on Cable Trays.

Troubleshooting Whats New in Revit 2011

2010-03-29T12:36:00.003-04:00

Autodesk posted a video last week on their youtube channel troubleshooting whats new in Revit 2011. This video here is intended to teach the common questions customers may encounter with the 2011 release of Revit products.

Understand how the new features will impact user we support through graphic generation, rendering, and work sharing.

I noticed the video had been viewed 305 times, not many considering the number of users, so here is the link again take a watch very useful information for the upcoming release of Revit 2011 products.

without Comics where would we be?

2010-03-29T12:15:00.002-04:00

I was surfing the web the other day and came across a great site for comical relief the site is Architexts the creators have an almost daily web-based comic created for the amusement of user in the cad world.

I am now hooked after catching up and reading all the comic strip and have even added the site to my RSS reader for what I hope daily comical relief. If you become hooked make sure you read the tab on the website "Cast of Characters" this page gives you in site into the employees that are part of the comic strips.

enjoy!!

Revit Manufacturer Content

2010-02-03T11:34:00.005-05:00

Edit: Bell & Gossett have just released Revit Content have added the link in this post and on my sidebar.

It's been awhile since my last post, I have been extremely busy. I have populated a list of manufacturer Revit content on the right side of my blog. I have just went through all the links and updated any broken ones.

I hope this helps in your search for content.

please refer to my AUGI link on the right hand side of my blog for RMEP content http://forums.augi.com/showthread.php?t=99663

Autodesk Support Answers on youtube

2009-12-02T15:21:00.000-05:00

When a client calls me up with a support question and I can't seem to find the solution I contact Autodesk Support. Now Autodesk has two youtube channels dedicated to MEP support.

On the AutoCAD MEP and Revit MEP support side at Autodesk I often speak with two individuals to find the solutions to our clients problems. The two MEP support specialists at Autodesk have launched two channels on youtube called SupportAcadMEP and SupportRevitMEP

At those channels you will find answers to questions that had been asked through Autodesk Support. Check them out you will find the videos very informative and helpful.

Don't forget to signup for a youtube account and subscribe to those channels and the many more channels offered by Autodesk on youtube.

enjoy!

William Wright
Application Consultant

Schedule Parameters from a Nested Family

2009-08-26T16:21:00.011-04:00

So you have a family let's say a "Toilet". This toilet is working great in your project you can schedule all the parameters that belong too it, but one thing is missing. The "Flush Handle" of the toilet just wont schedule any of the parameters why is that?

Well if this is you then we have the solution, certain families at times you might want to have nested into another. Example would be two separate families the "Toilet" and the "Flush Handle". The Flush Handle is nested into the Toilet family so they load together in my Revit project.

However in order to have a nested family schedule you need to open the nested family "Flush Handle" select Family Categories and Parameters and make sure Shared is checked in the dialog box under Family Parameters (see photo)

hope this helps Enjoy!

Revit Content Keeps Coming

2009-08-26T15:47:00.011-04:00

I was searching the net today and came across some companies that have launched more Revit Content. This content is more on the Architectural side and these companies are well known in the industry and have had content out on the past. Here is the breakdown

KONE - Provides solutions for the installation and maintenance of elevators, escalators & automatic doors.

With the EcoSpace Toolbox, you can obtain 3D models and Specifications for the EcoSpace Elevator Product you selected based on your specs.
after selecting and working through the configurator on the webpage click Draw 3D Revit Model
Now the KONE's configurator will take some time and generate a Revit RFA file that you can now place into your model

Sto Corp - Sto is the world leader in cladding, coating and restoration systems.

Sto has an Architectural Toolbox this configurator will generate wall types for Revit
After selecting your options Bldg Type, Wall Structure, System Type & Product Series you are then presented a screen to download the Revit RVT File, download the Spec or Brochure on that Wall Type
I have tested this and it works nicely.

Jeld Wen - Windows & Doors

Jeld Wens Architectural Toolbox works much the same as above
Able to generate Revit Content and Specs from it.

Pella - Windows and Doors

Pella has a simple Architectural Toolbox you maybe asked to input an email address to view the Revit Content.
Able to generate Revit content for the product line.

Oh and don't forget to check out CADdetails BIM 3D Design Content for even more manufacturers content.

The companies stated above do not just have Revit content, other content may include sketchup files, dwg files and vectorworks etc. My post is related to Revit.

I completely understand that some of this might not be new, but what I have discovered when speaking with clients is they have issues finding the content when going to the manufacturers website and that could be because a 3rd party company is providing the service / configurator.

I have tried to combine some of the latest I have found and will continue to add as the weeks go by. I hope I helped some people.

Enjoy!

Revit 2010 Switching to classic UI

2009-08-04T11:03:00.006-04:00

I was browsing the Autodesk knowledge base and came across the link for switching your Revit 2010 software (Arch, Structure, MEP) user interface from the Ribbon to the 2009 and previous classic user interface.

Click on the following link Switching to pre-2010, Classic user interface

enjoy!

Solar Radiation Technology add on

2009-07-27T13:21:00.007-04:00

Latest from Autodesk Labs is an add-on for Revit MEP and Revit Architecture called Solar Radiation Technology Preview. Use the Solar Radiation Technology Preview to analyze the effects of solar radiation on various surfaces of your conceptual building model.

You can find links to a video and read me files on using the add on in the link above. Be sure to have Revit Update #1 for 2010 installed before using this add on.

Revit MEP 2010 Update #1

2009-07-27T13:18:00.004-04:00

Old news but good news, I just wanted to make the post link for the latest build for Revit MEP 2010 called Update #1. You can download the build from here Revit MEP 2010 Update #1. Remember that when an update comes out for one version of Revit, example Revit MEP, that same day a the same build will come out for Revit Architecture and Revit Structure.

When collaborating on a project coordinate and discuss with the other disciplines to stay on the same year and build number.

AUGI AEC Edge

2009-06-29T13:23:00.006-04:00

AUGI has developed a downloadable mahazine called AUGI AEC Edge. This is an exciting new print and digital publication designed to enable architects, engineers, designers, and builders using Autodesk AEC products to be more productive, better informed and help keep them at the top of their game.

Link can be found here AUGI AEC Edge definately worth the read. I believe the magazine is out quarterly right now starting with this issue.

Control Linked Model Halftone

2009-05-22T16:01:00.010-04:00

In my line of work I have clients asking me the question. “How can I control the line weights of an architects model that has been linked into my Revit MEP as a background.

So what has happened is when using Revit MEP, the workflow is to link in the Architects Revit model into your project. When you create views under any other MEP discipline the Architects model (background) is automatically grayed out and the line weights are control by the software. This is a hard coded feature inside of Revit MEP 2009 and previous releases.

Some clients felt that the view was way to light and had troubles viewing the background when the view was printed. In Revit MEP 2009 and previous releases you had to change your MEP views to a different discipline either to Coordination or Architectural and then control the linked model components individually using object styles. This can be a pain especially when you are trying to use the software to its fullest and utilize MEP disciplines to clean up the project browser.

In Revit MEP 2010 the display of the background is still the same hardcoded however Autodesk has created a new setting under Manage > Settings called Halftone / Underlay that will allow you to modify the linked background line weights within a few clicks of the mouse. See screenshots below.

Image 1: As you can see the image to the right shows that I have my 1 – Mech view under Mechanical discipline and HVAC Sub-Discipline.

Image 2: Shows the Architectural background as Revit MEPs default hard coded line weights.

Image 3: In Revit MEP 2010 with your view open that you wish to make the underlay change to click on Manage then click on Settings and activate the Halftone / Underlay tool.

Image 4: With the Halftone / Underlay box open you are able to control the underlay line weight by clicking on the No Override fly out and changing the Weight to a different line weight. Make sure you uncheck Apply Halftone box for this override to work.

Image 5: Or you can click on the reset button and control the halftone of the underlay as indicated in this photos.

This has been a long post, but I hope that the post has helped many of you with your underlay line weight issues. Again assuming you have upgraded to Revit MEP 2010.

Revit MEP Manufactured Content

2009-05-22T11:58:00.007-04:00

Revit MEP users have been waiting for a long time ever since the inception of Revit Building Systems now called Revit MEP for Manufactured Specific Content.

Well wait no longer as more and more manufacturers on the mechanical side are creating content for Revit MEP. I have compiled a list of the ones I know of. If you know of more please let me know and I will add them as well. Be careful when using manufacturer content, as some content may be bloated and slow down your model. It is difficult to know who actually build the families for these manufacturers.

Below click on the manufacturer and you will be taken to the Revit content page. Some of the sites require you to create a login.

I hope I have been able to help some Revit MEP users with these links. My posts have been far and few between lately, however I will post topics as I find them interesting enough to share.

Autodesk MyFeedback Portal and Forums Closing May 30th 2009

2009-05-19T15:07:00.004-04:00

This is a link to another blog post on the subject "Autodesk MyFeedback Portal and Forums Closing May 30th 2009". Visit Shaan Hurley's blog to find out more information regarding the closing of Autodesk's MyFeedback Portal and the new site that Autodesk will be launching in replace of MyFeedback Portal.

Revit 2009 - Productive Tool

2008-12-23T10:05:00.006-05:00

I came across this tool earlier today when working in Revit MEP. This has been around since the launch of 2009 but I never seen it before today, as I am not much of a right-click menu type user.

You can now access temporary snap overrides from the right-click context menu when you place an element or component in the drawing area, or while moving, copying, rotating, or arraying existing elements.

AU 2009 - Location Picked

2008-12-06T18:08:00.004-05:00

Wow we just finish this AU 2008 and they have posted the location for the next years Autodesk University 2009.

Save the Dates
18th Annual Autodesk University
December 1-5, 2009
The Mandalay Bay Hotel Las Vegas, NV
Registration opens mid August, 2009

here is the link to website information on AU 2009

I also want to mention that Autodesk is relaunching AU online here some of you may have not been aware classes were taped and now can be viewed online starting Monday December 8th.

Not to mention AU Dailys weblink here

Revit MEP 2009 - Update #3

2008-12-06T17:58:00.003-05:00

Autodesk has released update #3 for Revit MEP 2009.

Here are the links below

Revit MEP Service Pack Readme File

Revit MEP Web Update Enhancement List

Revit MEP Suite 2009 Product Update #3

Many improvements have been made with this update, I recommend reading the Readme file.

Don't forget to turn on communication center if you have not done so already. That way you will always stay up to date.

Autodesk University 2008 - Las Vegas

2008-12-06T17:48:00.005-05:00

Well once again it's been awhile since I have posted. I was busy over the past 7 months with helping my wife plan our wedding. I have been recently married as of November 4th, 2008. We had 36 guests join us in Cuba at the Occidental Royal Hideaway Ensenachos Resort where we exchanged vows drank a lot and had a great time.

Been back in Canada for a few weeks and then gone to Vegas for AU 2008. I just returned yesterday and I have to say AU is well worth attending if you have never been. I went with a few co-workers specializing in the AEC and MSD world of Autodesk and each of them had great things to say. Seeing some of the software that Autodesk is working on for the future was really neat. I took mostly the Revit MEP content creation classes, although a couple of the classes lack advance knowledge which I was looking for I still got a better understanding of even the basic knowledge and quicker ways of doing things.

But overall most classes were great and the most important thing I find with Autodesk University if meeting new people and seeing how they are doing things in the real world. As a reseller I get to see the user use the programs but it's great to hear in person from users all over the world.

Look forward to next year maybe then I can make some money back from the tables :)

Google Chrome - Web Browser

2008-09-07T23:03:00.001-04:00

For this post I have decided to put the industry aside for a day and tell you about some geek news on a different level. A great new web browser has been launched this past week by Google and they call it CHROME.

Google has taken a different approach on a web browser and have decided to create a browser for today's web based user requirements, such as watching and uploading videos, chatting over the Internet and playing web-based games.

Other web browsers like IE, firefox, maxthon and safari all were designed many many years ago based on the IE architecture when people just used the web for browsing the internet. Google has taken a fresh approach to the web browser and I think you are going to like it.

You can download the Google Chrome from here, after install you will be presented with a streamlined web browser with two tabs. What I like most about the browser is how Google created quick easy to watch videos on some of the features of Chrome and also a comic book explaining the story about Chrome being development and the theory being the browser.

I tested Chrome this past weekend and I must say I am very impressed. I used Maxthon for the past 4 years I felt Maxthon was a great browser far better than firefox and IE. however Google has now made web browsing smoother and faster. I have now officially made Chrome my default browser.

Below I will list some of the features:

Crash Control

- Every tab you're using is run independently in the browser, so if one app crashes it won't take anything else down. Basically each tab runs as a separate process.

Application Shortcuts

- Use web applications without opening your browser. Application shortcuts can directly load your favorite online app.

Incognito Mode

- Don't want pages you visit to show up in your web history? Choose incognito mode for private browsing

Simpler Downloads

- No intrusive download manager; you see your download's status at the bottom of your current window.

Those are just a few of the features available. So what are you waiting for? This browser is a must download and try. I am sure within a week you will be making Google Chrome your default web browser.

Autodesk working on a 3D Plant Package?

2008-07-28T13:43:00.002-04:00

Not sure who all knows about this or if it's relatively recent news. I received an e-mail last week from my feedback portal that Autodesk will be hosting a sneak peak at AutoCAD Plant 3D.

Three sessions will be hosted on Wed. July 30th, 2008 at the following times.

7:30 am (PDT, GMT-7hours)

10:00 am (PDT, GMT-7hours)

6:00 pm (PDT, GMT-7hours)

This application is a follow on to AutoCAD P&ID and is for 3D piping design and modeling. I am excited to see what Autodesk will be showing.

My questions I hope to have answered would be will this package compete with other software on the market place like ProCAD, and CADWorx?

Will we soon seen a Revit Plant package? I think that is what everyone is wondering and hoping for. I guess Autodesk feels it's better to bring the AutoCAD solution for plant before the Revit solution. Either way I can't wait to see what's they have in store.

Well that's about it from now, I will post more on this down the road, I have yet to get my hands on a beta version and from my knowledge one has not been released yet.

AutoCAD MEP 2009 - Update #1

2008-07-28T13:23:00.003-04:00

Autodesk has released update #1 for AutoCAD MEP 2009 release date July 25th, 2008.

Here are the links below

AutoCAD Revit MEP Suite 2009 Product Update #1 32-bit only

AutoCAD MEP 2009 Product Update #1 32-bit

AutoCAD MEP 2009 Product Update #1 64-bit

Many improvements have been made with this update, I recommend reading the Readme file.

Don't forget to turn on communication center if you have not done so already. That way you will always stay up to date.

ARCAT - free library of BIM objects

2008-06-17T17:14:00.003-04:00

We all know now about Autodesk Seek, BIM World, Revit City three main locations for Revit users to find content. Well here we go again, just as I finish my previous post I receive information in my inbox on another website this time offering free BIM object libraries.

Company name is ARCAT Inc. ARCAT provides building product information for architects, spec writers, engineers and contractors. Including 10,500 manufacturers with thousands of their cad details, specifications, wizards, links to every web site and other information. This data assists professionals in making informed product selections.

However that's not all the company has to offer, you can download BIM families, CAD libraries free. Here is the link ARCAT BIM Library

I downloaded a couple of families and yes they have a ton of information the families very spec driven which is what ARCAT is about. However on the MEP side of things they are missing the Electrical and Mechanical Connectors, that can created more work on our own end if using the MEP families. Some families are very detailed so some tweaking and cleaning up might be involved.

You also have to register before downloading any of the families no different then other sites offering free content. I have to say that surfing through some of the content that I am impressed with what is offered and how clean the interface is to browse for the content. Best of all every family has a 3D view showing.

I hope this post has opened your eyes to yet another company providing Revit content and that you can utilize some of the content for future projects.

Enjoy!!

Broutek - buy Revit Families

2008-06-17T16:46:00.002-04:00

I believe this company was posted about last year on another blog, I wanted to post again for some of the new comers to the Revit Family of products.

Broutek Ltd. is a London-based company providing ready-to-use product families for Autodesk's Revit Platform.

You can request content that Broutek will create for your company and Broutek states they can have the content created in less than 48 hours. with no extra charge or obligation to purchase

If you want to buy families already created they have credit packs that you may purchase example would be $300 for 5 families. Currently posted on the web site I counted roughly 780 families available for purchase.

All families are fully parametric, and Broutek has sample families you can download. Here is the web site address Broutek Ltd.

Many companies such as Broutek are providing similar content over the web at a cost. So if your firm is in a bind for a specific family and does not have the staff or someone who knows family creation these companies might be the best alternative.

Revit 2009 Update #1 Released

2008-06-11T11:24:00.008-04:00

Hello everyone, it's been awhile since I have posted on my blog, a few months actually. Things have been hectic with wedding planning and work. I have not found the time to post.

Autodesk has released web update #1 for Revit MEP, Structure and Architecture. You can find more information on the download pages. Build # (20080602 1900).

Download and Enjoy!

Adding Parenthesis to a Diffuser Tag

2008-01-31T17:28:00.001-05:00

Adding Parenthesis to a Diffuser Tag and Removing the CFM

A question was asked on the Revit MEP discussion group on how to remove the CFM suffix from a diffuser tag and add parenthesis to match company standard.

As you all know I like to create videos to better show how to do something in Revit MEP. So here yet again is another video. Please see the attached video on how to create these tags. This is the workaround I have come up with.

Autodesk may actually have a solution, however at this time I do not believe they do. Would be nice to include this in a future release under "project units"

Note: You will need to create a tag for CFM that contain 2, 3, 4 etc zeros. example (xx) (xxx) (xxxx). I show this in the video. This is the old way of creating parenthesis, now with 2010 and 2011 it’s a lot easier.

Enjoy!!

Adding Ceiling Grid in Linked Model

2008-01-31T16:38:00.001-05:00

Adding Ceiling Grid in Linked Model

The Setup:

My attached video will show you how to turn off the Architects ceiling grid and place your own ceiling grid in your Revit MEP model.

You see Architects don't always place the ceiling grid in the spot the Electrical designer would like, and the problem with linking in an Architects model is that you can't copy/monitor the ceiling grid in Revit MEP allow you to manipulate the placement of the ceiling grid.

In the video I will show you how to do just that, so you have more flexibility and can make sure the ceiling grid is set to your proper designs. This also makes things easier when placing Air Terminals and Lighting Fixtures in your views, as you can snap to the grid.

Make note that the MEP firm and the Architect should coordinate who is in charge of the grid. I personal think the MEP firm should be and the Architect should update his model accordingly.

Hope this helps at least one person in the Revit MEP world.

Enjoy!!

Manipulating Project Browser by Building ID

2008-01-23T17:00:00.001-05:00

Manipulating Project Browser by Building ID

I was browsing once again on the discussion groups, the place I find many of my questions answered and look forward to helping others. One of the members had asked a question on creating Building ID's for the project browser in Revit and having Revit MEP sort by the Building ID.

I have created a video on creating the building ID which I call a sub-sub-discipline, you can call it what you like. So sit back relax and watch my video on sorting project browser by building ID.

Enjoy!!

Creating Pipe Abbreviation Tag

2008-01-22T23:05:00.004-05:00

Creating a Pipe Abbreviation Tag

This post will show you how to create a pipe abbreviation tag in Revit MEP. I have created a video on how to do this. I feel videos are a great way to get the point across with minimal text and creating a step by step guide.

I have sent this to users on the discussion groups and have had positive feedback, I hope this will help others looking for the same feature.

Enjoy!!

Revit 2008 Worksharing Monitor

2008-01-21T17:39:00.000-05:00

Revit 2008 Worksharing Monitor - Subscription Customers Only

The Worksharing Monitor facilitates the use of Revit software in a worksharing environment, in which multiple people work on one project. For workshared projects, the Worksharing Monitor answers questions like the following:

• Who is currently working on this project?
• Is my local copy of the project up to date?
• When will my Save to Central operation finish?
• Has my request to borrow elements been granted?
• Are any issues interfering with my work on a Revit project?

Note: The Worksharing Monitor is not useful for standalone Revit projects, which do not use worksharing to divide the work for a project among several people.

To install and run Worksharing Monitor for Revit 2008, you need to have at least one product from the Revit 2008 product family installed on your computer. You must have a 2008 version installed, with SP2 or SP3 (also known as WU or web updates). Available products include:

• Revit® Architecture 2008, SP2 or SP3
• Revit® Structure 2008, SP2 or SP3
• Revit® MEP 2008, SP2 or SP3