When encountering issues with selecting a linked model in Revit, users may feel frustrated. However, understanding the various factors that could impede selection can help resolve these challenges. Below is a detailed guide covering the potential reasons for this problem and how to effectively select linked models.
Enabling Selection of Linked Models
Activate Linking Option: Ensure that the "Select Links" option is enabled. This is crucial before attempting to choose any elements in linked models.
Hover Over the Linked Element: Navigate to the drawing area of the host model’s view. Slowly move your cursor over the linked model to locate the specific element you wish to select.
Use the Tab Key: Press the Tab key repeatedly until the intended element is highlighted. This action cycles through overlapping elements, allowing you to isolate the desired object for selection.
- Confirm Selection: Once the desired element is highlighted, click on it to make your selection.
Troubleshooting Selection Issues
If selecting the linked model proves challenging, consider the following:
Visibility Settings: Open the Visibility/Graphics Overrides dialog box (accessible from the View tab) and ensure the linked model is checked in the Visibility column. An unchecked box means the model will not display in the view.
Check Display Settings: If the linked model is visible but still unselectable, verify the Display Settings column for the linked model within the Visibility/Graphics dialog. Sometimes settings here can obscure selection capabilities.
- Unpinning Elements: If the elements are pinned, they can’t be selected by default. Use the "Select Pinned Elements" tool found on the status bar. By enabling this option, you can select pinned elements that are otherwise non-selectable.
Managing Linked CAD Files
When working with CAD files, the selection process has its unique considerations:
View Specificity: If you wish to display a linked CAD file only in certain views, make sure to open that specific view before attempting to link the file.
Linking CAD Files: Go to the Insert tab and use the Link CAD option. Choose the necessary file type and navigate to the folder containing the CAD file for linking within Revit.
- Updating Linked CAD Files: If changes occur in the CAD file outside of Revit, reload the file using the Manage Links dialog found in the Manage tab. Select the linked CAD file and click the Reload button to ensure the most up-to-date version is displayed.
Understanding Linked vs. Imported Files
It’s important to distinguish between linked and imported models for effective project management:
Linked Files: These files maintain a connection to the original hosts. Changes made to the source file reflect in Revit whenever the file is reloaded or the project is reopened.
- Imported Files: Once imported, these files lose their referral ties and become permanent fixtures in Revit, making them harder to update without re-importing.
Adjusting Visibility and Overrides
For better visibility and selection of linked models:
- Graphic Overrides: Right-click on the linked model, navigate to "Override Graphics in View" and select "By Element". You can adjust colors, line weights, and patterns to enhance visibility.
FAQ
Q1: Why can’t I see my linked model in a specific view?
Ensure that the linked model’s visibility is enabled in the Visibility/Graphics Overrides. If it still does not appear, check if the layer or category it belongs to is turned off.
Q2: What should I do if my linked model appears but won’t allow selection?
Verify that the "Select Links" option is active and check if the relevant elements are pinned. If they are, you will need to unpin them first.
Q3: Can I have multiple linked models in a single Revit project?
Yes, Revit allows multiple linked models in a project. However, it is crucial to manage their visibility and graphics settings to avoid confusion when selecting elements.
