BIM Software Tip: The Difference Between Linking CAD and Importing CAD in Revit
When working with CAD drawings in Revit, you will often come across two common methods: linking CAD and importing CAD. What distinguishes these two approaches? Let me explain.
Linking CAD is similar to the external reference feature in AutoCAD. When you link a CAD file, you need to have the original CAD file available. This means if you copy the Revit project, the original CAD file must also be included. Otherwise, the linked CAD elements will be lost in Revit. In simple terms, linking CAD is like borrowing the CAD file. If the original CAD file is moved or deleted outside of Revit, it will no longer appear in your Revit project.
Importing CAD, on the other hand, converts the CAD file directly into the Revit project itself, rather than just referencing it. Once imported, changes made to the external CAD file will not affect the CAD elements in Revit because they have become part of the Revit project and no longer rely on the external file.
Based on this explanation, it is generally recommended to use the Import CAD function when working with CAD files in Revit. Note: If you are using a mold master for model building, it is better to choose Link CAD instead.
Must log in before commenting!
Sign Up