The biggest news in this space is the recent acquisition of Ci Tools by Graphisoft. Industry analysts suggest this is part of a strategy to absorb the best third-party features into native Archicad. We have already seen this happen with the and Keynotes tools.
Store all project notes, material specifications, and building codes in an external database.
: If you lack an internet connection on your workstation, you can create an Offline Install File
Cadimage objects provide exceptional visual quality in both 3D and 2D. They allow for complex, realistic rendering in 3D and clean, professional drawings in 2D, which is crucial for client presentations and construction documentation 0.5.4. Conclusion cadimage tools
Manages annotations linked to a spec or master list.
Cadimage Tools is a suite of add-ons and custom objects designed to bridge the gap between standard Archicad functionality and the practical requirements of architects. Originally developed by Cadimage Group (based in New Zealand) and now managed by Central Innovation, these tools have become an essential part of the Archicad ecosystem.
If a specification changes in the database, every corresponding keynote across the entire layout book updates instantly. 5. Cadimage Electrical The biggest news in this space is the
If you design airports, hospitals, or high-rise curtain-wall towers, many Cadimage tools (Joinery, Stair+ residential focus) won’t be useful.
These tools are designed to reduce the "paperwork" and manual drafting burden:
Beyond the core modules, the Ci Tools suite includes several other specialized tools. The tool assists with the design of light timber framing, while Bracing helps calculate bracing requirements (though it's noted that this is not a full compliance pathway). The Electrical tools provide an intuitive and intelligent way to place electrical symbols and generate schedules. Finally, a suite of Productivity tools, including Metadata , Shortcut , Quantities , and Time Tracker , helps enhance workflow efficiency. Conclusion Manages annotations linked to a spec or
The transition from Cadimage Group to Central Innovation marked the end of one era and the beginning of another. Now branded as Ci Tools, the product suite is positioned for long-term stability. The commitment to a subscription model suggests a focus on continuous improvement rather than disruptive, major version overhauls .
The high level of parametric detail provided by tools like Cabinets and Coverings means that 3D models look realistic right out of the box. This improves client presentations and reduces the need to export models to external software just to add fine finish details. Conclusion
In essence, Ci Tools is a powerful plugin that acts as a productivity accelerator for ArchiCAD. While ArchiCAD provides robust, general-purpose tools for architectural design, Ci Tools fills the gaps with specialized functions that automate repetitive tasks and allow for a higher degree of customization. The suite is so comprehensive that it even has a dedicated tab within ArchiCAD's interface, making its tools easily accessible.
Automatically generate accurate door and window schedules that update instantly with model changes. 2. Cadimage Coverings
Licensing often includes tiered discounts to reward multi-product adoption: