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GRAPHISOFT NEWS from Graphisoft Inc. March 1999

>>Sixth Annual Graphisoft Prize Design Competition Announced<<

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Offering a unique challenge to create architectural fantasy with ArchiCAD, the Graphisoft Prize international competition invites architectural students and professional architects to submit their interpretations of buildings that previously existed only in the imagination. Each year, a collection of themes is drawn from literature, film, poetry, mythology, music and fine art that hopes to fascinate and inspire all competitors.

This year's themes include "Cheap Hotel" from William Gibson's sci-fi novel, Rick's American Cafe from Casablanca and the diner from Edward Hopper's painting Nighthawks.

Though no fee is required to enter, competitors must register to participate at www.gsprize.com. Separate award categories for students and professionals were established in 1998; student entrants must be at the university level of architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, or an allied discipline.

For complete details, as well as a look at the 1998 Graphisoft Prize winning projects, visit <http://www.gsprize.com>.

>>Graphisoft Achieves 17th Consecutive Year of Double-Digit Growth<<

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After completing the most dynamic year in its history, Graphisoft is pleased to report that fourth quarter and annual results exceeded analysts consensus expectations. Strong demand for new and upgrade units of ArchiCAD 6.o brought fourth quarter and annual revenues to record levels.

Simultaneously with these financial results, the events of last year poise Graphisoft for continued expansion in 1999 and beyond.

"In 1998, Graphisoft released ArchiCAD 6.o, the most comprehensive upgrade to date; developed new products based on ArchiCAD technology; significantly expanded its sales channel; and made its debut on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange," said President and CEO Gabor Bojar. "Graphisoft was able to move successfully from the private to the public sector and launch significant initiatives to open new markets, while increasing software sales and achieving its 17th consecutive year of double-digit revenue growth and profitability. With such a strong balance sheet, we are poised for accelerated growth in 1999."

The company made important inroads in 1998 by developing software based on Graphisoft's proprietary object technology that will open new markets for building product retailing and facilities management. The first implementation of its object-based retailing solution "SalesCAD" is being installed at Europe's BauMax-x stores.

In addition to developing new markets around ArchiCAD technology in 1998, Graphisoft released the first Software Development Kit (SDK) allowing third party developers to create programs that will work inside ArchiCAD 6.o and add specific functions such as shadow calculation, wood framing, piping and molding.

For more information, and other company news, visit Graphisoft's website at <http://www.graphisoft.com>.

TECH SUPPORT NEWS

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>>Tech Tips from user Bradley Skaggs of STUDIOS Architecture<<

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"How much of a project do you model?"

This may be the most frequently asked question among new ArchiCAD users. It may also be the question most debated by more advanced users. If one is to look at the foundation that ArchiCAD is built upon -- the creation of a virtual building -- then the answer is clear.

Everything should be modeled.

Perhaps a better question would be, "How much detail should be modeled." The concern most users have in regard to modeling a building is the time it takes, which is related to the extent of detail modeled. The real issue is inputting enough 3D data that ArchiCAD can help you create sections and elevations, perspective views, axons, etc., that show you your project but not so much that

A.) it won't be seen; or

B.) it slows down the rendering process.

The modeling example on ArchiGuide Online <www.graphisoft.com> describes one technique for creating a model while at the same time maintaining a plan view that is rendered properly.

Before you begin drafting a project, think about what you are going to want to show your client in 3D. Perhaps it is the Executive Offices of an office project or the Living Room and Kitchen of a residential project. Defining these areas in advance will better help you plan your time. Always draw your walls with a height and use Stories as a 3D layering scheme. Also work as if you were drafting with a pencil.

Try to get the entire plan roughed out before beginning to add detail.

For more useful tech tips from Bradley Skaggs, visit ArchiGuide Online on the Graphisoft website <http://www.graphisoft.com/ArchiGuide>.

>>Keep Folder Names Shorter than 27 Characters<<

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On the Windows platform, when opening an ArchiCAD file whose name is longer than 27+3 characters (or whose housing folder's name is longer than 27 characters) from within the Directory dialog box, ArchiCAD may freeze. Future ArchiCAD releases will display an error message whenever the user tries opening such a file.

>>ArchiCAD-Talk<<

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Graphisoft hosts a mailing list for ArchiCAD users to communicate with the ArchiCAD community.

If you are interested in participating, please send an email to archicad-talk@graphisoft.com with "subscribe digest" as the subject. An "ArchiCAD-Talk" digest will be then be delivered to your email address daily. If you would prefer to receive each message individually as it is posted, please enter "subscribe" as the subject heading.

If you are a subscriber and would like information on how to change your subscription status (i.e., unsubscribing and changing your email address), please send an email to <archicad-talk@graphisoft.com> and enter "Help" as the subject heading. You will receive a HELP document via email describing the various mailing list commands and procedures.

Past ArchiCAD-Talk digests are archived on the Graphisoft website. Go to the support area at <http://www.graphisoft.com/support/> and select "ArchiCAD-Talk" from the navigation menu.

PRODUCT NEWS

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To locate the authorized ArchiCAD reseller nearest you, visit our Partner page on the Graphisoft website.

<http://www.graphisoft.com/partners/namerica.html>

>>Free API Tools<<

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The Downloads area on the Graphisoft website contains tools created using Graphisoft's Application Programming Interface that extend the functionality of ArchiCAD 6.o. These free and ready-to-use features tools allow you to select and delete doubled elements, automatically create revolved GDL objects, and more. Once downloaded and placed in the appropriate ArchiCAD add-ons folder, these features are available via ArchiCAD 6.o's Tools pull-down menu.

<http://www.graphisoft.com/down/>

>>Objects Online<<

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Objects Online is a 24-hour source for purchasing and downloading 3D, fully parametric objects. They recently added more than 100 new products and more developers. You can browse through the entire catalog, use the Find feature if you know exactly what you are looking for, or check out the Objects Online "Top Ten" page to see what the most popular products are.

Visit Objects Online at <http://www.objectsonline.com>

If you've created objects that you think might be valuable to other ArchiCAD users, consider joining their team of developers. For a copy of the Objects Online Developer Agreement and Guidelines, email info@objectsonline.com.

>>Library Back on the Market<<

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GSCNE's Building Textures Medley is available again. This Mac/Windows CD created by GSCNE includes over 2000 textures that can be used with ArchiCAD, Art*lantis Render and others. Textures include artwork, appliances, stones, tiles, vegetation, birds, carpets, wallpaper, metal, fences, doors and much more.

>Building Textures Medley: $195.00.

For information on purchasing this library, contact your local reseller.

USER FEATURES

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>>Featured User Website -- Vermillion and Associates<<

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An architectural multimedia firm, Vermillion and Associates has been producing high-quality architectural presentation materials for the housing industry for two decades. After years of creating traditional illustrations, they embraced computer technology and ArchiCAD in order to improve the quality of their graphics and sell their clients' projects more efficiently.

Their staff include professionals in the areas of architecture, interior design, graphic arts, commercial art, photographic engineering, information technology, multimedia, web design, programing and kiosk solution technology.

Recognizing the World Wide Web as a powerful sales tool, Vermillion and Associates now merchandises their clients' home designs on the web. Visit <http://www.vermillionassociates.com> to view their recent work, including floor and site plans, renderings and VRs.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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ArchiCAD User Group Meetings

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+ Seattle Area ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Held at the offices of d'ARCH, 5962 Fauntleroy SW, Seattle. For information, contact Brian Sweeney at 206-938-3805 or bpsarch@accessone.com; or Dana Kruse at dana@darch.com.

+ San Francisco ArchiCAD User Group

Next meeting held March 17, 7-9:00 p.m. at Builder's Booksource in Berkeley. Highlights include a demonstration of the ArchiCAD 6.o Design/Build Series, as well as the monthly mixed bag forum. Bring your tips and/or problems -- none too small! For more information, contact Lee or Nina at Lee Moulton Architecture, 415-974-5722 or email lm37arch@aol.com. Interested users can be added to the group's mailing list.

+ Los Angeles ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Join this active user group to get the latest news, see new libraries and add-on products, and share projects and techniques to enhance your ArchiCAD experience. AIA Los Angeles Chapter office, Pacific Design Center, Suite M3, 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood. For information call 310-572-7849 or contact Bobrow@bobrowconsulting.com.

+ So. California ARCHICAD DIGITAL ARCHITECTURE User Groups

Sponsored by Digital Vision Design Automation. For more information, call John Stebbins at 714-708-2391.

Irvine/Orange County

First Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. OCB Reprographics, 17721 Mitchell North (at Fitch), Irvine.

Palm Desert/Palm Springs

Second Tuesday of every month, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Office of Stanford Leonhard, Architects, 73350 El Paseo, Ste. 207, Palm Desert.

La Jolla/San Diego

Third Monday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Office of Mark Lee Christopher, Architect, 7757 Girard (at Silverado), La Jolla.

+ Colorado User Group

Regularly scheduled meetings are held every other month at the Colorado AIA offices. Sponsored by CADDesigns in Golden, CO. Call Kevin Wichmann at 303-742-0100 for information.

+ The Dallas ArchiCAD User Group (D.A.U.G.)

D.A.U.G is currently involved with Legacy '99, a volunteer project for the AIA National Convention in May. More than 13 user group members have volunteered their time to the project, which involves converting a 1913 hospital into a chronic disease awareness center. Graphisoft has donated software for this project and the group is using this building as a learning tool for ArchiCAD 6.o. There are no membership dues. Meetings are held Monday from 7-11 p.m. Dallas AIA offices, 2811 McKinney Ave. Call Steven Williams at 972-496-5848.

+ Minnesota ArchiCAD User Group

Meets April 23 at 1 p.m., at the National Technical Institute in Eden Prairie. Call MicroCAD Partners at 612-895-8236 for more information. Notices for each meeting are sent to registered users.

+ Washington, D.C. ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Wednesday of every month from 7-8:30. Begins with Q & A, and includes a presentation by an expert followed by discussion. Users of all levels are invited to the meetings, held at STUDIOS, 1133 Connecticut Ave., NW, near M. Street, NW. Contact DMaudlin@aol.com or visit <http://members.aol.com/archicaddc/index.html>.

+ The New England ArchiCAD User Group

Meets periodically on the last Wednesday of the month in Boston at the Apple Design Center, 29 State St., 9th floor. Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m., presentation at 7 p.m. Members interested presenting or hosting meetings should contact Jon Oxman at 617-426-2858, James Shuttleworth at 617-426-2858 or Paula Collins at 617-451-6127.

>>ArchiCAD 6.o Seminars<<

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Informational ArchiCAD seminars show you why you don't have to compromise with ArchiCAD. Space is limited, so please make your reservations now.

+ Salt Lake City, UT ArchiCAD 6.0 seminar [March 16]

Come see how this incredible tool can enhance the way you design and work! Join us from noon - 2:00 pm at Bibliotect Bookstore, 329 West Pierpoint Ave. Seminar followed by a Q&A session. Lunch will be served. For more information, or to r.s.v.p., contact Dave Richards Architect at 801-466-1396, fax 801-466-6810 or e-mail dfrichards@worldnet.com.

+ Los Angeles, CA ArchiCAD 6.0 Seminar [March 18]

Held from 9:30 a.m.-noon, this seminar, hosted by the Bobrow Consulting Group, will feature noted local architect Robert Anderson. Location: AIA L.A., Chapter Office, suite M3, Pacific Design Center, 8687 Melrose at San Vicente, West Hollywood. Refreshments provided. Call 310-572-7849 to r.s.v.p.

+ Traverse City, MI ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [March 19]

Held from 3-5 p.m. Join us for an informational ArchiCAD seminar at The Holiday Inn, 615 E. Front Street. See how ArchiCAD can be an effective solution for your design, architecture and building needs. Call David Pacifico, AIA at 248-476-3348 to reserve your place.

+ Indianapolis, IN ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [March 23]

Held from 1-3 p.m. Join us for an informational ArchiCAD seminar at The Crown Plaza, 123 Louisiana St. See how ArchiCAD can be an effective solution for you. Call Architechnology at 513-985-9100 to reserve space.

+ Cleveland, OH ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [March 25]

Held from 1-3 p.m. Join us for an informational ArchiCAD seminar at The Holiday Inn, 111 Lakeside Ave. See how ArchiCAD can be an effective solution for you. Call Architechnology at 513-985-9100 to reserve your space.

+ Newport Beach, CA ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [March 25]

Interactive demonstration help from 6-8 p.m. You give the specs, and based on these, John Mulcahy & Danny Counts will build a model within ArchiCAD - complete with sections, elevations, 3D renderings, even fly-throughs. Larry Rocha from WATG is the guest speaker. Refreshments will be served. AIA Orange County, 1617 Westcliff Drive #200. For more information, contact ray@uscad.com or visit www.uscad.com.

+ Albany, NY ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [March 25]

Registration begins at 9 a.m. Refreshments will be provided. Integrated CADD Services invites you see why you don't have to compromise. Please r.s.v.p. at 617-576-8778, and ask for Valerie Mathes.

>>Trade Shows<<

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+ Custom Home Show, Chicago, IL [March 11 & 12]

Join Graphisoft at the Custom Home Show in Chicago! Visit Booth #267 to learn more about ArchiCAD 6.o through a live theater demonstration of our software. McCormick Place East, Chicago, IL. For information, contact info@graphisoft.com or visit <www.builderonline.com>.

+ AIA Expo, Dallas, TX [May 6-8]

Visit Booth #1042 to learn more about ArchiCAD 6.o. We'll be offering terrific show specials and live theater demonstrations of our software. Dallas Convention Center, Dallas, TX. Contact info@graphisoft.com or visit <http://www.aiaexpo.com> for more information.

+ AEC Systems, Los Angeles, CA [May 25-27]

Visit Graphisoft at booth #2001 to learn more about ArchiCAD 6.o. Attend the ArchiCAD User Meeting at the Los Angeles Convention Center during the AEC Systems Show om May 25 at 3 p.m. Learn more about current and future development. Meet fellow ArchiCAD users and hear from our special guest, Gabor Bojar, president and CEO of Graphisoft.

HOTSPOTS -- YOUR ARCHICAD EZINE April 1999

If you haven't already made plans to attend the industry's major trade shows this spring, read below for details of Graphisoft's schedule of events at the A/E/C Systems show in Los Angeles.

In anticipation of AIA Expo '99 in Dallas, the Dallas ArchiCAD User Group donated their collective knowledge and resources to the Dallas AIA's outreach efforts, dubbed the Legacy Project. You'll find their success story in this month's User Feature.

As usual, we've added new seminars and user group information to our calendar of events. Please continue to send your questions and comments to ensure that this newsletter is a valuable resource for ArchiCAD users.

CONTENTS

[!] Graphisoft news

[?] Tech support news

[$] Product news

[*] User feature

[&] Calendar of events

[@] Contact us

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[!] GRAPHISOFT NEWS

>>Kirksey And Partners Architects Makes ArchiCAD Their Standard<<

Innovative Firm Cites Graphisoft's Virtual Building Concept as Key

Kirksey And Partners Architects, one of the most successful architecture and interior architecture firms in the southern United States, announced that it has made ArchiCAD its CAD standard with the purchase of 70 licenses from CADeshack, Graphisoft's Houston-based value-added reseller (VAR).

In an effort to significantly enhance its CAD productivity, the 84-person firm -- which is growing from 30 to 50 percent annually -- will rely heavily on ArchiCAD's teamwork capabilities to support its own innovative and highly-successful team approach to specific projects.

"Our existing CAD environment, composed of Cadvance and AutoCAD, simply wasn't capable of taking us in the direction we wanted to go. We needed a solution that could handle every phase of design, collaboration and documentation, and after an exhaustive evaluation, determined that ArchiCAD is that solution," comments David Larrew, former CAD manager and now head of Kirksey And Partners Architect's Visualization Team.

Kirksey will receive off-site training from CADeshack. Graphisoft will utilize the excellent corporate training facilities of McCoy Inc., the largest contract furnishings operation in Houston. McCoy Inc. has worked with Kirksey on several projects in the area. For more information, visit Graphisoft's website at http://www.graphisoft.com.

>>Graphisoft Exhibiting at AIA Expo '99 and A/E/C Systems '99 shows<<

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The AIA's 1999 national convention will be held May 6-8 at the Dallas Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. The event promises great networking opportunities, more than 450 exhibitors, and the opportunity to earn CES credits at workshops, seminars and professional tours.

Stop by Graphisoft's booth, #1042, at AIA Expo '99 for a live demonstration of our software and terrific show specials. Our CAD Shootout team will also be on our booth May 6 & 7, practicing their design charette for the competition at A/E/C Systems '99. For additional information about the AIA convention and expo, visit http://www.aiaconvention99.com/home.asp.

A/E/C Systems '99 kicks off in Los Angeles on May 25, but you may want to arrive at the Los Angeles Convention Center a day early for veteran ArchiCAD user Tom Simmons' "ArchiCAD Power Tips." This hands-on tutorial, held May 24 from 12:15 to 1:45 p.m., will show you how to get the most out of ArchiCAD. For registration information, visit http://www.aecsystems.com or refer to your A/E/C Systems '99 pre-show planner.

1999 marks the 10th anniversary of Graphisoft in the U.S. Attend our National ArchiCAD user group meeting in room #504 at the Convention Center on May 25 at 3 p.m. Meet and share ideas with fellow ArchiCAD users, and hear from Graphisoft about current and future development. To register for the user meeting online, visit http://www.graphisoft.com/aec99.

On May 26, Graphisoft President and CEO Gabor Bojar will be one of three speakers in the Industry Leaders Keynote Session. Joined at the podium by CEO Carol Bartz of Autodesk and CEO Keith Bentley of Bentley Systems, Bojar will offer his vision of what the future holds for the CAD industry. The keynote session begins at 8:30 a.m.

Also on Wednesday, May 26, watch Graphisoft battle other leading CAD software companies for top honors in the 3D CAD shootout. The heated competition challenges 3-person teams to design a specific building complex including high-quality renderings; a walk-through animation; coordinated plans, sections and elevations; and a VRML virtual reality model -- in only three hours!

The competition is juried by architects, CAD professionals and industry gurus. ArchiCAD emerged with the most medals (17 in 21 categories) for the third year in a row at the 1998 Designers 3D CAD Shootout held in November during BuildBoston98.

Be sure to visit our impressive booth, #1701, before the show ends on May 27 for a demonstration of ArchiCAD 6.o and the Design/Build Series and terrific show specials. For additional information about the show, refer to your A/E/C Systems pre-show planner, or visit the A/E/C Systems website at http://www.aecsystems.com.

>>Graphisoft's First International Newsletter on Press<<

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The premiere issue of Graphisoft.News, our English-language international newsletter, will be mailed to ArchiCAD users in May. Planned for a quarterly release, Graphisoft.News contains informative stories about the company and ArchiCAD, as well as tech tips from our development team. The first issue includes a forward-looking article about intelligent objects, and an example that shows you how to model dormer windows using roof planes. Look for your copy in the mail next month.

>>Call for Entries in Computer-Aided Design Competition<<

Take this opportunity to show the world what you can do with ArchiCAD!

The 7th Annual Bay Area Architectural Computer Graphics Exhibit is accepting submissions of computer graphics work. The exhibit intends to showcase the results of meshing the latest technology with design and architecture. All work must pertain to architecture and have been wholly or partially created on the computer.

Despite the title of this competition, you do not have to live or work in the Bay Area to compete. The entry fee for AIA members is $60, non-members $75 and students $20. Fees are due by May 3, 1999, and submissions by May 10.

Cash prizes will be awarded in several categories, including Best 2D Graphic Presentation and Best 3D Rendering. For additional information, contact the AIASF at 415-362-7397.

>>ArchiCAD Now Customized for Estonia<<

A localized version of ArchiCAD 6.o was just released in Estonia, becoming the first foreign software completely customized for this Baltic state. This marks the 25th localized version of ArchiCAD and underlines Graphisoft's ongoing commitment to providing software for local markets in their native tongues.

[?] TECH SUPPORT NEWS

>>Static Level Dimensions in ArchiCAD 6.o R4 - Known Bug<<

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We have encountered a problem in ArchiCAD 6.o R4/V4 with the Level Dimensions.

Once the "Static Level" checkbox is CHECKED in the "Level Dimension Settings" dialog box, it cannot be switched off. Unchecking and closing the dialog box by clicking the OK button doesn't help. After reopening the dialog box, internally, the option remains SELECTED (although the checkbox may not actually *look* checked).

Only a New & Reset can restore the UNCHECKED setting.

Workaround: <Alt + Click> on a Level Dimension that is not static (WIN), <Option + Click> on a Level Dimension that is not static (MAC).

After completing the workaround, you will be able to place associative level dimensions.

Note: Existing static dimensions cannot be changed by <Ctrl + Alt + Click>(WIN) or <Cmnd + Option + Click>(MAC). If you cannot find an associative Level Dimension to use for the workaround, perform a New & Reset using <Ctrl+Alt+ N> (WIN), <Option + Cmnd + N> (MAC), place an associative Level Dimension, then Copy it and Paste it into the file you wish to correct. Then use the workaround.

This bug will be fixed in the next subrelease of ArchiCAD 6.0 (r5/v5).

>>New iMate Driver v1.0b6 Available for Download<<

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Our in-house tests reveal that ArchiCAD runs properly on the new iMac computers using an ADB dongle in tandem with Griffin Technology's

"iMate" ADB to USB Adapter and iMate Driver v1.0b6. The iMac "classic" machines also require iMac firmware and ROM updates.

The new iMate Driver v1.0b6 is available for download on the Griffin Technology website at http://www.griffintechnology.com/imac/imate_driver.html

This webpage also contains detailed information about important iMac updates and links to the corresponding Apple ftp sites. Graphisoft does not recommend using iMate drivers earlier than v1.0b6 with the ArchiCAD ADB dongle.

Note that ArchiCAD runs on iMacs using the new USB dongle without any additional hardware required. However, the iMac USB key must be specified at the time of ArchiCAD purchase.

>>Video Cards<<

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+ Diamond Fire GL 4000 (Driver version# 4.00.1381.2221.400). If editing in the 3D window, ArchiCAD may crash. We are already in contact with the vendor in order to solve the problem. They should have an update to their driver shortly. Please visit the support area at <http://www.diamondmm.com> to see if a newer driver is available.

+ STB Velocity and Windows 98. Some users reported display problems on the STB Velocity 4400 card. (The User Origin and rubber band line do not appear while drawing.) After we installed the newest driver from the STB web site (http://www.stb.com) the problems disappeared.

>>Tech Tips from user Bradley Skaggs of STUDIOS Architecture<<

The Patch Tool is new to ArchiCAD and seems to be either one of those tools that no one knows about or that is too difficult to understand. This issue of ArchiGuide Online examines the Patch Tool and shows you how to use it.

The Patch Tool (Command)

The Patch Tool solves the problem of showing greater 2D detail while allowing you the option of less articulation in 3D. ArchiGuide Issue 10: A Modeling Example included a situation that would have been perfect for the Patch Tool (If you haven't read this issue, you may wish to read it first). Node E contained a section of wall that was underneath the table surface. Therefore, for the plan to appear correct, the wall had to be split and put onto two different layers - one for plan view, where it wasn't shown and another layer for 3D or Section/Elevation views where it was shown.

With the Patch Tool, we wouldn't have had to separate the wall segments onto two different layers. The wall would have still needed to be split since it changed heights (although this could have been avoided by inserting an empty "window" into the wall at the this location to "cut" the wall). The Patch Tool would have solved this problem easier and faster.

Creating a Patch

Creating a Patch is a rather simple process.

1. Begin by selecting the objects in the plan window that you wish to "cover" with a Patch by enclosing them within a marquee.

2. Select Create Patch from the Tools menu.

3. Name the patch and save it into one of the active libraries. It is a good idea to create a folder in the library for all your patches in order to keep them organized.

4. If you wish to place the Patch immediately, click the Place Patch Now checkbox. The Patch has now been created. Patches can also be placed at a later time by using the Object Tool to insert them into either the Plan or Section/Elevation window. Placing the Patch when it is created is strongly recommended because you can then be sure that the Patch is placed at the exact location it was created. Be aware, though, that there isn't any visual que that the Patch has actually been placed. Click at one of the corner points of the marquee to select the Patch. Notice in the image to the left that Patch contains nodes at all the corners of the marquee.

For additional tips and tricks from user Bradley Skaggs, visit ArchiGuide Online at <http://www.archiguide.com>.

[$] PRODUCT NEWS

> To locate the authorized ArchiCAD reseller nearest you, visit our Partner page on the Graphisoft website. <http://www.graphisoft.com/partners/namerica.html>

>>Free ArchiCAD 6.o List Templates Available on the Website<<

Calculation functions in ArchiCAD 6.o have been greatly enhanced. In addition to the ability to determine what, and in what order, should be included in calculations and listings, now you can also define custom layouts.

Forty-five of the most common list and schedule types are now available for free downloading on the Graphisoft website at <www.graphisoft.com>. These listing templates, which will also be bundled with future releases of ArchiCAD, make it possible for everyone to take advantage of the new listing functions.

New and particularly useful templates are the Door and Window Schedules that come in four styles. These include all major attributes of doors and windows in a plan, grouped according to type or story. Room lists are also a promising new alternative. You can list the elements contained in each room with a press of a button, or obtain information on the walls that surround each room and their openings, grouped and subtotaled by story. Component lists include all components used in your design, making cost and logistical calculations a breeze.

>>Library Back on the Market<<

>Building Textures Medley: $195.00.

For information on purchasing this library, contact your local reseller.

[*] USER FEATURES

>>Dallas Legacy Project<<

To honor the 1995 American Institute of Architects (AIA) National Convention in Atlanta, the national organization and its Atlanta chapter collaborated with Habitat for Humanity to build six houses on-site. Dubbed a "Legacy Project," this began a successful outreach program through which the AIA chapter in the annual convention·s host city leaves behind "an architectural residual of lasting value and service."

When Dallas was chosen to host the 1999 AIA National Convention, the Dallas chapter of the AIA put out a "Request for Dreams" to 125 organizations and individuals in the Dallas area to find out what the city needed. The winning project was a plan to renovate the historic 1913 Parkland Hospital, which was previously outgrown and abandoned, into a revolutionary new facility for lay medical education called The Health Service Center for Dallas.

The new facility will play host to education programs, including group and one-to-one counseling sessions on diseases and general health and prevention. It will also house local not-for-profit groups and agencies related to lay education, and will provide a "neutral" space where groups can freely discuss issues like alternative medicine, the right to die and surviving with cancer.

When the design process was underway, Graphisoft donated copies of ArchiCAD, and Steve Williams, the authorized ArchiCAD reseller for the Dallas area, secured the commitment of the Dallas ArchiCAD User Group to undertake the huge task of modeling the hospital in ArchiCAD.

Using the project as a tool to learn ArchiCAD 6.o, the User Group began volunteering their time and expertise mid-1998 to create the model, as well as renderings and virtual reality tours to be used in Parkland's fundraising efforts. The ArchiCAD computer model of the new center -- and the virtual reality tours which were produced from it -- are a key component of the Parkland Foundation's $25 million fundraising effort. ArchiCAD images are being used to communicate the proposed renovation to potential investors, which include large corporations, non-profit organizations as well as the community at large.

ArchiCAD renderings and a VR tour are available for viewing on the Dallas AIA website at <http://www.dallasaia.org>. A Legacy Exhibit will also be featured at AIA Expo '99 in Dallas.

>>Featured User Website -- Muller & Caulfield Architects<<

Muller & Caulfield Architects, based in Oakland, Calif., design "working, learning and living environments" for public, non-profit and business clients in Northern California. They recently completed an award-winning design of the new campus for the Thousand Oaks Elementary School in Berkeley.

Through the use of the ArchiCAD VRs and renderings created by Muller & Caulfield, students at Thousand Oaks will be given a "virtual tour" of their new school, slated to open fall 2000.

To view this project, and other Muller & Caulfield designs, including libraries and single- and multi-family housing, visit their website at <http://www.mullercaulfield.com>.

[&] CALENDAR OF EVENTS

>>User Group Meetings<<

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+ Special 10th Anniversary National ArchiCAD User Group Meeting

Held at A/E/C Systems '99 at the Los Angeles Convention Center on May

25 at 3 p.m. in room 504. Meet and share ideas with fellow ArchiCAD

users, and hear from Graphisoft about current and future development.

To register for the meeting, visit <www.graphisoft.com/aec99>.

+ Seattle Area ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Wednesday of every month. Held at the offices of

d'ARCH, 5962 Fauntleroy SW, Seattle. For information, contact Brian

Sweeney at 206-938-3805 or bpsarch@accessone.com; or Dana Kruse at

dana@darch.com.

+ San Francisco ArchiCAD User Group

Next meeting held in May, with a printing workshop scheduled. For more

information, contact Lee or Nina at Lee Moulton Architecture,

415-974-5722 or email lm37arch@aol.com. Interested users can be added

to the group's mailing list.

+ Los Angeles ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m. Join this active

user group to get the latest news, see new libraries and add-on

products, and share projects and techniques to enhance your ArchiCAD

experience. AIA Los Angeles Chapter office, Pacific Design Center,

Suite M3, 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood. For information call

310-572-7849, email Bobrow@bobrowconsulting.com, or access the meeting

agenda and user group newsletter at <http://www.bobrowconsulting.com>.

+ So. California ARCHICAD DIGITAL ARCHITECTURE User Groups

Sponsored by Digital Vision Design Automation. For more information,

call John Stebbins at 714-708-2391.

Irvine/Orange County

First Wednesday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. OCB Reprographics,

17721 Mitchell North (at Fitch), Irvine.

Palm Desert/Palm Springs

Second Tuesday of every month, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Office of Stanford

Leonhard, Architects, 73350 El Paseo, Ste. 207, Palm Desert.

La Jolla/San Diego

Third Monday of every month, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Office of Mark Lee

Christopher, Architect, 7757 Girard (at Silverado), La Jolla.

+ Colorado User Group

Regularly scheduled meetings are held every other month at the

Colorado AIA offices. Sponsored by CADDesigns in Golden, CO. Call

Kevin Wichmann at 303-742-0100 for information.

+ The Dallas ArchiCAD User Group (D.A.U.G.)

Meetings are held Monday from 7-11 p.m. Dallas AIA offices, 2811

McKinney Ave. There are no membership dues. Call Steven Williams at

972-496-5848 for additional information.

+ Minnesota ArchiCAD User Group

Meets April 23 at 1 p.m., at the National Technical Institute in

Eden Prairie. Call MicroCAD Partners at 612-895-8236 for more

information. Notices for each meeting are sent to registered users.

+ Washington, D.C. ArchiCAD User Group

Meets the first Wednesday of every month from 7-8:30. Begins with Q &

A, and includes a presentation by an expert followed by discussion.

Users of all levels are invited to the meetings, held at STUDIOS, 1133

Connecticut Ave., NW, near M. Street, NW. Contact DMaudlin@aol.com

or visit <http://members.aol.com/archicaddc/index.html>.

+ The New England ArchiCAD User Group

Meets periodically on the last Wednesday of the month in Boston at the

Apple Design Center, 29 State St., 9th floor. Meetings begin at 6:30

p.m., presentation at 7 p.m. Members interested presenting or hosting

meetings should contact Jon Oxman at 617-426-2858, James Shuttleworth

at 617-426-2858 or Paula Collins at 617-451-6127.

>>ArchiCAD 6.o Seminars<<

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Informational ArchiCAD seminars show you why you don't have to

compromise with ArchiCAD. Space is limited, so please make your

reservations now.

+ Oakbrook Terrace, IL ArchiCAD 6.0 seminar [April 14]

Attend this informational ArchiCAD seminar at the Microsoft Oakbrook

Office to see how ArchiCAD can be an effective solution for you. Learn

more about the software that pioneered the use of object technology in

CAD. Call 773-388-0429 to reserve your space, or email

tracey@graphisoft.com

+ Chicago, IL ArchiCAD 6.0 Seminar [April 21]

Join us for an informational ArchiCAD seminar at AIA - Chicago

offices, 222 Merchandise Mart. See how ArchiCAD can be an effective

solution for you and learn more about the software that pioneered the

use of object technology in CAD. Call Tracey at 773-388-0429 or email

tracey@graphisoft.com.

+ Los Angeles, CA ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [April 22]

See an in-depth presentation showing why ArchiCAD is truly "the

standard" in 3D object-oriented architectural CAD software. Presented

by one of the most experienced ArchiCAD experts in the country, Eric

Bobrow. Held 9:30 am - Noon at the AIA Los Angeles Chapter Office,

Pacific Design Center, Suite M3, 8687 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood.

For information call 310-572-7849 or email

bobrow@bobrowconsulting.com.

+ Milwaukee, WI ArchiCAD 6.o Seminar [April 28]

Join us for an informational ArchiCAD seminar at the Sheraton

Brookfield - 375 S. Morrland Rd., Brookfield. See how ArchiCAD can be

an effective solution for you. Learn more about the software that

pioneered the use of object technology in CAD. Breakfast will be

served and space is limited. For additional information or to reserve

your space, call Tracey at 773-388-0429 or email tracey@graphisoft.com

>>Trade Shows<<

----------------------------------------------------------------------

See the "Graphisoft News" section for additional show information.

+ AIA Expo, Dallas, TX [May 6-8]

Visit Booth #1042 to learn more about ArchiCAD 6.o. We'll be offering

live theater demonstrations of our software. Dallas Convention Center,

Dallas, TX. Contact info@graphisoft.com or visit

<http://www.aiaexpo.com> for more information.

+ AEC Systems, Los Angeles, CA [May 25-27]

Visit Graphisoft at booth #1701 to learn more about ArchiCAD 6.o.

Attend the 10th anniversary ArchiCAD User Meeting at the Los Angeles

Convention Center during the AEC Systems Show on May 25 at 3 p.m. in

room 504. Meet and share ideas with fellow ArchiCAD users and hear

from Graphisoft about current and future development. To register for

the user meeting, visit <http://www.graphisoft.com/aec99>.

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FAX: 415-703-9770

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WAS THIS EZINE FORWARDED TO YOU BY A FRIEND? To subscribe to this

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Rt. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners.

Plotting on a Network and USB Keys :

Date: 22 Jun 1999

From: gregcon@intcad.com

Subject: Re: ArchiCAD V9-US/Powerbook G3/HP Plotter 600

Gustavo,

In answer to your questions....

<<< 1. Does ArchiCAD for Teamwork V9-US and PlotMaker 2.0 V6-US support the hardware configuration described above, i.e. plotting through a hub? If it does not,how do you plot? >>>

Yes.

<<< 2. Can you plot through the network from any Apple computer? What hardware/software do you need? >>>

With ArchiCAD you can use the Plotflow utility to plot from any computer on the network. Connectivity can be established 2 different ways:

1) Direct from the computer running Plotflow via serial cable. This is a mini DIN 8 to 25 PIN "Mac to Epson Compatible" (the pinouts).

The following Belkin part numbers work:

Belkin #F2V026-06 (06 is length) Mac to Epson Compatible, Mini DIN8P-DB25P, 6' Belkin #F2V024-10 (10 is length) Mac to Epson Compatible, Mini DIN8P-DB25P, 10'

I also have them in custom made 25' lengths for $45.

i Setup Plotflow on the CPU connected to the plotter. Do the configuration as

required for your model (Baud rate, stop bits, parity etc.).

i Create a spool folder on this CPU that other computers have access to.

i Leave Plotflow running on this machine. It's a small application and doesn't

use much memory. i You might want to make an alias in the "Startup Items"

folder

in your System so it's always running.

i The other CPU's on the network then need to open "Plot Setup" and set your

spool folder location.

i Then just plot "Plot to file" and it all works very well.

I have setup 25 or 30 offices to run this way. Works well, Cheap.

2) Using Ethernet.

i Get a Jet direct card for your plotter (probably around $250 to $450).

Connect

to Hub.

i In "Plot Setup" Select Apple talk as the configuration, not modem or serial

port.

i It should then see the plotter if it supports Apple Talk. Yours may not.

System

has to be 7.5.2 or greater with Open Transport installed.

i I believe the rest of the info on setup for this type of configuration is in

the manuals.

I would go with the first one because:

i It definitely works with your plotter.

i It's cheaper.

<<< 3. We also understand that the new G3 Powerbook does not have any ADB ports anymore. They now have USB ports, which are different. Will It be possible to connect the ArchiCAD key? >>>

This is direct from GS on the USB question:

Some clarifications:

a) Currently we are shipping a USB key which works with ArchiCAD 6.0 for

Macintosh V5 ONLY. There are both single standalone license and network

license USB keys. Some iMac users have been able to use V4 with a

"patcher" CD and the USB key, but with the release of V5, the

patcher is no longer necessary.

b) In ALL CASES, enabling USB dongle support from ArchiCAD requires a

special "USB Sentinel" system extension to be installed. This extension

can be found in the "USB SUPPORT" folder on the V5 CD. PLEASE NOTE: MacOS

8.5.1 or NEWER is required!

c) The currently shipping USB key has been tested to work with the