PLA File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
File Format PLA (ArchiCAD Project Archive)
Developer Graphisoft
Released Initially released with early versions of ArchiCAD
File Extension .pla
MIME Type application/octet-stream
File Type Archive
Primary Use Project Archiving in ArchiCAD
Contains Project Files, Libraries, Images, Linked Files
Compression Yes
Openability Primarily with ArchiCAD software
Advantage Comprehensive project backup
Risk of Data Loss Low, if handled properly
File Size Depends on project complexity
Encryption Not by default, but possible
Portability High, can be shared with other ArchiCAD users
Version Compatibility Generally forwards compatible within ArchiCAD versions
Used By Architects, Designers, Engineers
Accessibility User must have ArchiCAD or a compatible viewer
Editability Files can be edited within ArchiCAD
Support for External References Yes
Backup Feature Included in the format for project safety