ArchiCAD Extensions are pieces of software which enable ArchiCAD to perform new functions in addition to the basic feature set.
At press time, nine extensions are available for exporting 3D model information in a variety of file formats. In the future, you will see extensions performing other tasks.
Technically speaking, ArchiCAD Extensions are applications, just like ArchiCAD itself. The difference is that you cannot open them directly from the Finder. Instead, ArchiCAD will start, control and quit them automatically if necessary, using inter-application communication routines.
Like other applications, ArchiCAD Extensions have certain environment requirements.
• CPU Type
Each ArchiCAD Extension has twin versions, one for 680x0 Macintosh computers and one for Power Macintosh models.
To tell the difference, you need to open the Info window of the extension in the Finder. A simple note in the version field will inform you that you are seeing the Power Macintosh version.
The 680x0 versions require the presence of a math coprocessor - just like ArchiCAD, so this should never be a problem.
• Memory
The default memory settings for all extensions are 500 KB minimum and 1 MB suggested size. If the minimum memory size is not available when ArchiCAD starts an extension, you will get an alert box reporting the situation.
If working with a very large amount of data, you may need to increase the preferred memory size. As a rule of thumb, take a look at the ArchiCAD Temporary Folder on your hard disk and check its size. Divide this value by 6 to 10 and use this as the memory size.
Should the memory size still be not sufficient for your particular purpose, you will be notified by an alert box.
Examples of Info windows for the 680x0 and the Power Macintosh version of the same ArchiCAD Extension.
Normally, you will hardly notice that you are using an extension. Upon a command or action in ArchiCAD, the extension will be started by ArchiCAD, and you will simply perceive is as an ArchiCAD feature.
The only thing you need to care about is the location of the extensions in the file system.
• Where to place ArchiCAD Extensions?
ArchiCAD Extensions must be stored in a folder called ArchiCAD Extensions.
This folder can be located either at the same level of the file system (i.e. in the same folder) as ArchiCAD, or in the System Folder. If placed elsewhere, ArchiCAD will not be able to access them.
ArchiCAD checks the presence of extensions on starting up. If the ArchiCAD Extensions folder or any of the extensions is placed improperly, you need to quit ArchiCAD, relocate the required items and start again.
