Help Database

  Chief Architect saves files to the location on your computer that you have chosen to save them, the program cannot delete files from your system.

To search for your file

1. Check your Recycle Bin
   
   Often your "lost" file or files have simply been deleted - either accidentally or intentionally.  Check your Windows Recycle Bin or use another operating system or third party utility to effect recovery.
   
   
     You should check your Recycle Bin immediately, as continued write activity increases the possibility of unrecoverable loss.
   
   
   
2. Use the Windows Search Function to Find your Files in Windows Vista & 7
   
   Microsoft Windows Vista and Windows 7 both have a new indexed search utility.  If you cannot remember where you saved your file in Vista or 7 simply click the Windows Start button and type your search in the search box.
   
   
   
   Try searching for the exact name of your lost file.  If that does not work, or if you are not sure of the exact name, use the following WILD-CARD search.
   
   
   • In Chief Architect X1 and newer versions, type *.plan or *.layout (depending on the type of file that you cannot recall where you saved it to) into the search box.
     
     This will populate the search with every single file that ends in either .plan or .layout.
     
     
   • If you do not see the plan you are looking for right away, you might try clicking on the work documents to show you a full list of all .plan files on the hard drive.
     
     
     Note: Chief Architect X1 is not supported on the Windows 7 operating system.
     
     
      
     
     
     
3. Use the Windows Search Function to Find your Files in Windows XP
   
   Microsoft Windows XP also has a built- in search function.
   
   If you cannot remember where you saved your file on the computer:
   
   
   1. Exit all programs that you might have open, including Chief Architect.
      
      
      
   2. Click the Windows Start button and select either Find> Files and Folders or Search and then click on All Files and Folders to search your entire hard drive for your drawing.
      
      
      
      
      
   3. Try searching for the exact name of your lost file.  If that does not work, or if you are not sure of the exact name, use the following WILD-CARD search.
      
      In Chief Architect X1 and newer versions, type *.plan or *.layout (depending on the type of file that you cannot recall where you saved it to) into the All or part of the file name: field.
      
      
      
      
      
4. Seek Professional Assistance
   
   If you are not able to access your hard drive, or if you are unable to find your missing data, contact a computer professional in your area.  Alternatively, use another computer to search the Internet for a data recovery expert.