Yes, you can open project files created with Revit LT directly in the full version of Autodesk Revit.
When a project file created in Revit LT (.rvt) is opened in the full version of Revit, all elements, data, and settings from the LT file are fully accessible. This provides a seamless upgrade path, allowing you to leverage the complete suite of advanced features and tools available in the full Revit software that were not present or supported in the LT version. This includes enhanced capabilities for advanced analysis, visualization, collaborative worksharing, and integration with various add-ons.
Understanding Revit LT and Full Revit Compatibility
The interaction between Revit LT and the full version of Revit involves two primary scenarios, each with different considerations:
1. Opening a Revit LT Project File in Full Revit
When you open a file created with Revit LT in the full version of Revit, you gain access to all the advanced features of the comprehensive software. This means you can:
- Enhance the Model: Utilize advanced modeling tools, in-place families, and complex parametric constraints that were not available in Revit LT.
- Conduct Advanced Analysis: Perform structural analysis, energy analysis, and other simulations.
- Improve Visualization: Create high-quality renderings and walkthroughs with advanced rendering engines.
- Facilitate Collaboration: Engage in sophisticated worksharing environments with multiple users.
- Extend Functionality: Integrate third-party add-ins and use the Revit API for custom solutions.
2. Opening a Full Revit Project File in Revit LT
Conversely, it is also possible to open a project file created in the full version of Revit using Revit LT. However, this comes with certain limitations. Revit LT is designed as a streamlined, cost-effective BIM solution focusing on core functionalities, meaning it does not support certain advanced features available in the full Revit software. For example:
- Revit LT does not support specific advanced features such as in-place families and some types of parametric constraints.
- Elements created using these advanced features in full Revit might be visible in Revit LT, but they will often be non-editable or appear as static geometry. Their complex behaviors or properties may not function as intended.
- Advanced functionalities like worksharing (with central models), advanced rendering, structural analysis tools, and MEP systems features are not available in Revit LT.
Feature Comparison: Revit LT vs. Full Revit
To better illustrate the differences and compatibility, here's a quick comparison:
| Feature/Scenario | Opening Revit LT File in Full Revit | Opening Full Revit File in Revit LT |
|---|---|---|
| Core Compatibility | Fully compatible; all elements accessible and editable. | Possible, but with limitations on advanced features. |
| Advanced Features | All Revit features become available and editable. | Advanced features (e.g., in-place families, specific parametric constraints) may be visible but non-editable or limited. |
| Editing Capabilities | Full editing of all elements, including new advanced ones. | Restricted editing for advanced elements; core elements remain editable. |
| Project Workflow | Seamless upgrade path for projects, allowing scalability. | Suitable for viewing, minor edits, and basic documentation of complex models, but not for advanced development. |
| Collaborative Work | Full worksharing and collaboration capabilities. | Limited collaboration features; no advanced worksharing. |
| Analysis & Visualization | Full suite of analysis tools and advanced rendering. | Basic visualization; no advanced analysis or rendering features. |
Practical Insights for Your Workflow
- Scalability: Starting projects in Revit LT and migrating them to full Revit is a practical strategy for projects with evolving requirements or for design professionals looking to upgrade their BIM capabilities.
- Collaboration Best Practices: When collaborating on projects, it's generally best for all team members to use the same version of Revit (ideally the full version for complex projects) to avoid any potential feature loss or compatibility issues when files are exchanged.
- Considerations for "Downgrading": If you need to open a full Revit model in Revit LT, always be mindful of the limitations. Save a copy of your project before making significant changes in LT if you intend to continue working on it in the full Revit version, to ensure no critical data is inadvertently affected.
- Why the Difference? Autodesk offers Revit LT as a cost-effective solution for architectural design and documentation, providing essential BIM tools. The full version of Revit offers comprehensive tools for architectural, structural, MEP engineering, and construction, including advanced analytical capabilities, robust worksharing, and extensive customization options.
