Limitations of the Chief Architect Trial Version


Reference Number: KB-00967
Last Modified: June 25, 2025

QUESTION

I have been looking at the Chief Architect Trial but have noticed some of tools are limited, or I receive a message when I perform a specific action. Are there limitations when using the Trial, and if so, what are they?


ANSWER

The Chief Architect Trial version is designed to let you explore the software's powerful toolset, but there are restrictions to prevent users from producing files that could be used as professional construction documents or presentation material. Specifically, the following features and functions are not available: 

  • Saving
  • Printing
  • Exporting
  • Recording of Walkthroughs
  • Use of the Time Tracker utility
  • Library Browser restrictions
  • Linked Callouts
  • Linked Plans in the Reference Display
  • Use of the CAD Detail from View tool
  • Creating or saving of Plan Database files


If you have questions about any of the restricted tools or functions in the Trial version, there are a number of resources available for you to gain more information:

  • Select Help> Launch Help  to view the Chief Architect Help content. 
  • Select Help> View Reference Manual  to open the complete Chief Architect Reference Manual in digital format.
  • Contact our Sales team.


TRIAL RESTRICTION DIALOG

If you try to use a feature that is unavailable in the trial version, a Trial Restriction dialog will appear. Clicking PURCHASE FULL VERSION NOW will take you to the Chief Architect website where you will be able to purchase the full version of the software. If you already have a full version product key, you can click the Activate Full Version button to activate the trial, converting it to the full version.

Trial Restriction dialog appears when attempting to save, export, or print