Skip to main content

Error Opening Single-Line Diagram Graphic File

When I try to insert a single-line diagram graphic or run commands that display graphic lists, I receive the following error message:​

ElectroBIM

A new version of file <Revit project or family file> has been detected.

An error occurred when trying to update the file.

The older cached version of this file will be used instead.

The error typically involves a file in the ProgramData folder and may contain additional information, such as:

  • The process cannot access the file '<Revit project or family file>' because it is being used by another process.
  • Illegal recursive document loading
  • Exception Type: System.UnauthorizedAccessException
  • Access to the path '<Revit project or family file>' is denied.

Cause​

When you insert a single-line diagram graphic family that was created using an older version of Revit than the one you are currently running, ElectroBIM will generate and cache a graphic family compatible with the newer Revit version; for more information, visit Updating Single-Line Graphic Family Definitions. Rarely, the file that is generated and cached becomes corrupted. As a result, when ElectroBIM tries to access that file, it fails, causing the error.

Solution​

Using Windows Explorer, navigate to the specific file listed in the error—for example, C:\ProgramData\Design Master Software\Electrical RT\2026\DME-EQU-Panel-Top.rvt—then delete that file. ElectroBIM will generate a new cached file the next time you run a command that references it.

If deleting and regenerating the file does not fix the error, when you press the button for the error message, you will be prompted to contact support. Follow the steps provided for assistance. For more information, visit What to Do When ElectroBIM Crashes.

"The model was saved by a later version of Revit."​

If the error message contains The model was saved by a later version of Revit, the original file located in your customization folder has been updated to a newer Revit version than the one you are currently running. The solution to this error is to convert your project to a newer Revit version, or restore a backup of that single-line diagram graphic file from an older Revit version if one exists. For information about where the customization folder and backups of the default single-line diagram graphics are located, visit ElectroBIM Customization Folder Location.