PLA File Extension

What is PLA file?

File with .PLA extension stores a project or multiple CAD projects created with ArchiCAD along with associated objects. PLA format supports compression. PLA is a complete project archive that in a single container stores all required project resources, including:

• Multiple CAD files (PLN),
• Library parts linked with given project(s),
• Images and backgrounds associated with the project,
• Library properties,
• Textures applied to project objects.

PLA files offer 3D project portability and a convenient archiving solution. PLA files are also an easy way to transfer project resource between workstations. It is worth mentioning that it is a good practice to archive not only parts of libraries used by the project, but whole libraries in case other parts are needed during project development.

Default format used by ArchiCAD for storing 3D projects is PLN. PLN files are based on BIM model and thus don’t contain object used by the project, but only references to them. If given project uses non-standard object or texture libraries, it is advised to ensure that the user with which the project is shared have access to proper resources that match the version used by the project, or the project might not be opened properly. PLA files allow to avoid such situations by saving all resources in a single archive by exporting the project using the Save As option. Users can choose which elements of given project should be saved in the archive.

Programs which support PLA file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PLA files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PLA suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 04/09/2022

How to open file with PLA extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PLA files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with PLA files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PLA files.

Step 1. Download and install ArchiCAD

Problems with opening and working with PLA files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PLA files being present on your machine. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download ArchiCAD and install it on your device. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PLA files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading ArchiCAD installed is by going to developer’s website (Graphisoft) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of ArchiCAD

You still cannot access PLA files although ArchiCAD is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that ArchiCAD cannot handle files with PLA may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of ArchiCAD is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign ArchiCAD to PLA files

After installing ArchiCAD (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PLA files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the PLA file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where ArchiCAD is installed, check the Always use this app to open PLA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with PLA extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PLA extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the PLA file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper PLA file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the PLA file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the PLA is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the PLA file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the PLA file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the PLA file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the ArchiCAD Project Archive file.

4. Check whether your system can handle ArchiCAD

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support PLA files. Close all running programs and try opening the PLA file.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with ArchiCAD Project Archive files. It may be the case that the PLA files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PLA file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on PLA file.