DavidJPotter

DJP

DJP

The basic basic of terrain is to place at least two differing elevation values and the software then calculates a gradient between those two values. The other Elevation tools are set up to offer more ways to modulate terrain as you require. I prefer importing graphic terrain maps, .dwg's are preferred, then selectively convert the imported CAD lines to elevation lines one at a time. Often times importing GPS data or surveyor digital data results in a terrain plane too complex to easily display on most PC's. I prefer to keep it as simple as is possible (I am not a surveyor, surveyors use specific dedicated software for their work). DJP

In the shared plan there is NO PDF file, only its "placeholder" (the actual file is associated with the plan file but is not visually present). the thing to understand is that when you assign a material or import an image or PDF it is ONLY referenced in the plan. The plan file is reading it from a location on YOUR hard drive, it is not embedded in the plan file but it is just being associated with the plan file while it is actually physically located somewhere on your computer. What probably happened is you perhaps renamed the file or deleted or changed its original location AFTER you imported it into your plan file. Plan files read material and image files that are physically elsewhere on your computer and IF you ever move them, change their original location or name all that is left in the plan file visually is a blank placeholder as you currently have now. DJP

Imported images and PDF files are assigned by Default to the "CAD Default" layer so if for some reason that layer is turned off (unchecked) in Display Options for your plan view, it would of course not show visually while still "being there". Check for that. If no joy, I will download and look at your plan file. DJP

I do not understand "lost", you can easily just turn it on in the Main Tool bar by right-click-select DJP

Not enough data to advise you, this looks rather easy to me, whether preprogrammed or manually. if set up by preprogramming then ceiling heights and wall settings are essential, manual roofs take time and practice to master. You need to make sure your room ceiling heights are correctly set. The dimensions of the first and second floors must be correctly set, then the roof pitches need to be set so they are the correct pitch. Then all walls need to be properly set via the "Roof Tab" per wall to get close to automatic roofs. Then edit as required. DJP

I am having a new PC created right now so I am using my PC laptop and I do experience where the menus are off screen causing me to have to move the entire interface to the right to access them. I have only seen this on my laptop, not my desktop. I use two monitors with either set up. I have no idea what causes it or how to make it stop. I just cope with it and it seems to go away by itself. It may be an OS thing or hardware, I haven't a clue. I do not blame anyone or thing, I just deal with it and drive on. DJP

Set an appointment with him to get started this Sunday. DJP

Current versions of Home Designer Software can import .dwg files (not true in the past) I assumed they wanted a fully 3D version of the 2D AutoCAD file for use in Home Designer Software. DJP

DWG files are natively 2D only. One imports the 2D file and then traces over its lines with 3D tools for walls, windows, doors etc.. It is not "click of a button" fast, the fully 3D model or .plan file takes time to recreate. One would have to see the complexity of the existing design in order to offer you a bid or estimate. DJP

Using railing walls set to "Post to Beam" you enclose the Patio space. Then you program the walls of the patio for the type of roof you wish over it (see the "Roof Styles Tab" of the "Build Roof Dialog" for specific instructions or learn how to manually create roof systems (that takes a while to become competent) DJP

"Automatic" (Presets in Default Settings" are limited to the existing programming of the software but you can manually do anything you can dream up since you are not a pre-programmed device. Just do what you wish when you desire something is my advice. DJP

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 765M video card is rather antique for X12. Check to make sure your video software drivers are up to date (that is free and easy to do). Otherwise I suggest you consider upgrading with an up to date PC or laptop. DJP

David - I appreciate your helping out a fellow Chief user who DID make a legitimate purchase, but could you now delete the download link for our content? Your heart is in the right place, but I'm sure you can understand our concerns. Thanks very much, Jay Done DJP

By way of the light sources dialog box. DJP

3D - Lighting - Add Lights then adjust the location of the added lights DJP

I also have X10 and I commonly help other users to advance their skills. Contact me to get started please. DJP

Try this, please DJP

You can import .alb files within X12 using "Library - Convert Legacy (.alb) files" command, easy-peasey! DJP

http://chiefsymbols.com/c07.html Partial Solution DJP

It is mastery and competence with the software and NOT just one of its tools. That Material List tool just measures how accurate the virtual model is and NOTHING more. It measures how well YOU understand how the software works and nothing else. If I have a client who wishes an accurate materials list from a plan file, I tell them up front that it takes three to five times longer to do that over and above what is required just for Construction Documents. It only measures what you did and nothing else. DJP

The easiest recourse is to upgrade (duh!?) But that choice is the most expensive. You can see about purchasing a newer version (Beware of software Pirates!) You can buy Home Designer Professional for $495.00 but all of your Chief Architect V8 files must then be converted for use in Home Designer Software by a Chief User. You might offer Chief Inc some money to convert your V8 seat from a hardware lock to a password seat, costs nothing to ask. DJP

https://www.chiefarchitect.com/search/?default_tab=all&q=This+file+does+not+have+a+valid+header+record PLEASE READ THESE HELP ARTICLES ON THE CHIEF WEBSITE, HOPE IT HELPS Otherwise contact Chief Tech support for help, in 25 years of use, I have not seen this one before. DP