New to BIM Explorer? Start here. No model to hand? Load sample offers three: the sample house (also a free IFC download on the BIM Explorer downloads page), and a duplex apartment and a clinic exported from Revit - buildingSMART test models, CC BY 4.0.
Open a model
Start by opening an IFC model, loading the sample building, or reopening a model from the local library. BIM Explorer keeps model files and review data on this PC, so the workspace can be resumed without uploading files anywhere.
- Use Open IFC for a file on your PC, or drag the .ifc file onto the window.
- Use Load sample to pick a test model: the sample house (every panel available, quick to open), a duplex apartment or a clinic - the last two are buildingSMART test models exported from Revit, CC BY 4.0.
- Use Library to reopen or delete models you've opened before on this PC.
Large IFC files
Large IFC files take time to read, prepare and turn into geometry. BIM Explorer shows its progress, records load messages in Console and doesn't hide failures behind a frozen screen.
- Leave BIM Explorer open while a large model is being prepared.
- Very large or complex models may use significant memory before the first geometry appears.
- If loading fails, open Console to see whether the problem was reading the file, the IFC itself or memory.
Library
The Library is the model store on this PC. Use it to reopen files you've already opened, without browsing for the same IFC again.
- Each Windows user on the PC has their own library.
- Deleting a model removes the stored IFC and its review data from this PC.
- The library is on your PC - it is not a shared team store.
Interface language
BIM Explorer's interface is in English, French and German. It follows the Windows display language, and you can choose another one with the globe button in the top bar.
- Automatic uses French or German when Windows is in French or German, and English otherwise.
- Model data - names, properties and values - always stays as it is in the IFC file.
