Backup Files in Revit? | TutoCAD

Understanding Backup Files in Revit

Backup files are an essential aspect of using Revit effectively, enabling users to recover previous versions of their projects and protect against data loss. When a model is saved, Revit automatically generates a backup of the previous version, allowing users to revert to an earlier state if needed. This backup feature is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the design process and safeguarding against unexpected issues.

Location of Revit Backup Files

Backup files created by Revit are stored in specific directories. For non-workshared projects, the backup copies can be found within the Journals folder, located at:

C:\Users\<username>\AppData\Local\Autodesk\Revit\<product_version>\Journals

Here, users can also retrieve related families from their projects. Be mindful of accessing this folder regularly to manage backups efficiently.

Steps to Save a Revit Backup

If you need to restore a backup version of your project, you can easily do so by following these steps:

1. Navigate to the Collaborate tab in the Ribbon.
2. Click on Manage Models in the panel.
3. Select the Restore Backup option.
4. In the dialog that appears, find and choose the folder where your backup files are kept, then click Open.
5. A list of available backup versions will appear. Select your desired version from the Project Backup Versions dialog.
6. Finalize the process by clicking Save As to create a new file from the selected backup version.

Managing Revit Backup Files

While it may be tempting to delete outdated backup files, caution is required. Backup files related to a central model are stored in a dedicated folder named [Centralfilename]_backup. It is highly advisable not to delete or rename any files within this folder, as doing so could compromise the integrity of your central model.

Temporary Files Storage in Revit

Revit also generates temporary files during operation, necessary for its functionality. These temporary files can typically be found in the %temp% directory on your PC. To access this location, open the Run dialog (Windows + R), type in %temp%, and press Enter. It is important to routinely manage and clear out these temporary files to optimize performance.

Recovering Deleted Revit Files

If you have accidentally deleted a Revit file, recovery is possible if you are using cloud services. Follow these steps to recover:

1. Click on the Collaborate tab from the Ribbon.
2. Select Manage Cloud Models.
3. Navigate to the Trash tab to see the deleted projects.
4. Identify the model you wish to recover.
5. Click on Recover followed by Recover again to restore the deleted file.

Changing Backup Location in Revit

Revit does not offer a direct method to alter the default backup location for files. However, an alternative approach involves creating a DOS batch file to move backup files to a different folder automatically. This task can be scheduled to run just before Revit executes its backup operation.

Troubleshooting Revit Save Issues

If you encounter problems while attempting to save your Revit file, consider the following possible causes:

• Ensure that you have adequate write permissions for the user account in use.
• A corrupt Windows User Profile may present issues; check for any profile-related problems.
• Anti-virus programs or other third-party applications might interfere with Revit’s save function, so temporarily disabling them may help.

Identifying the Most Recent Backup File

Revit maintains a backup of the model immediately preceding the current project save. This latest backup file adopts a naming convention that mirrors the project name, providing an accessible way to trace back to the most recent version.

Understanding Revit AutoSave Functionality

Revit features an AutoSave function that automatically saves progress every five minutes, ensuring that users have a recent file to revert to in case of unexpected software closures. Aside from this automatic feature, users can manually save their project whenever necessary.

Repairing a Corrupt Revit File

If you find that a Revit file has become corrupted, you can try repairing it by following these steps:

1. Go to the File tab and select Open.
2. In the Open dialog, navigate to the model that needs restoration.
3. Check the Audit option to enable a scan for corrupt elements.
4. After the repair, utilize the Purge Unused feature in the Manage tab.
5. Close the repaired file and exit the application to ensure all changes take effect.

Reverting to Previous Revit Model Versions

To roll back to an earlier version of a Revit model, do the following:

1. Open the dialog that shows the recent versions of your project file.
2. Choose the version of the file that corresponds to the date and time you wish to return to.
3. Click Save As to create a new model based on that older version.
4. Detach and save this new model on Revit Server as a central model.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I manually create backup files in Revit?
Yes, users can manually save copies of their projects by clicking the Save button regularly. However, Revit’s built-in backup system provides automated backups with each save.

2. What file types does Revit use for backups?
Revit saves backup files with a .rvt extension, identical to the primary project files, which ensures uniform handling throughout the software.

3. Will AutoSave conflict with my regular saving schedule?
AutoSave works independently but complements your manual save actions. It automatically saves work in the background; users are still encouraged to perform regular saves to reinforce data protection.