Setting the Default Open Version for Revit Files
When working on projects that require an older version of Revit, you might notice that double-clicking an RVT file always launches it in a lower version, which can be frustrating. Even changing the default Windows program for opening these files often doesn’t solve the issue.
This happens because Revit stores startup version information in the Windows registry, and the most recently installed version overwrites these settings. Additionally, unexpected crashes can cause the registry entries to revert to different versions. Let’s explore how to adjust these settings manually.
1. Changing the Default Startup Version for Revit Project Files:
First, open the Windows Registry Editor by typing regedit into the search bar located at the bottom-left corner of your screen.
Navigate to the following path:
ComputerHKEY_CLASSES_ROOTRevit.Projectshellopencommand
Right-click on the entry and select Modify. Then, update the Revit version number in the command path to your desired startup version, such as 2020.
Note: The registry path should correspond to the installation directory of the Revit version you want to set as default.
If you’re unsure about the installation path, you can find it by right-clicking the Revit shortcut, selecting Open file location, and noting the folder path.
2. Changing the Default Startup Version for Revit Family Files:
Similarly, locate the registry entry for Revit family files at:
ComputerHKEY_CLASSES_ROOTRevit.Familyshellopencommand
Modify the path here to match the Revit version you prefer for opening family files.
After making these changes, double-clicking RVT or RFA files will launch them in the specified Revit version, greatly improving your workflow.
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