Last updated on Apr 24, 2026.
iSync automates repetitive Revit maintenance tasks in the background. It can save, synchronize, relinquish, reload links, and optionally shut down the workstation after a long unattended session.
Use it when a workshared model needs regular maintenance without requiring someone to trigger each sync cycle manually.
Getting started
Overview
iSync opens as a modeless interface with tabs such as Status, Log, Sync, and Options. The tool is designed to keep running while Revit remains open.
The most common setup is a timer-based sync and relinquish routine for a workshared document, with optional reloads for linked files.
Requirements
- A supported Revit installation with iSync installed.
- A clear understanding of whether the current document is workshared, local, detached, or a family file.
- Permission to run synchronization or save actions in the current file context.
Install and uninstall
Deploying to multiple machines? This section covers standard local installation. For automated deployment by IT administrators or BIM managers, see the Silent Installer Guide.
Install
- Close Revit.
- Run the iSync installer with administrator rights.
- Complete the installer steps.
- Start Revit and confirm the iSync command is available.
Uninstall
- Close Revit.
- Use the Windows uninstall entry for iSync.
- Confirm removal and reopen Revit only after the process completes.
Some Revit.ini entries under the [iSync] section can remain after uninstall, so review them separately if the workstation should be fully reset.
Automation workflow
Status and log tabs
- Open iSync from the ribbon.
- Use the Status tab to confirm the current document state.
- Review the Log tab when testing a new automation setup.
- Confirm that unattended actions are behaving as expected before leaving the session running.
Sync, save, and relinquish
iSync is most valuable in workshared files where repeated synchronize and relinquish actions reduce manual upkeep. Configure the timing rules carefully so the cycle matches the actual project workflow.
- Use save or synchronize actions depending on the document type.
- Enable relinquish behavior when the file should release borrowed ownership after each cycle.
- Check detached files separately, because unattended sync logic is not meant for every file state.
Reload links and shutdown options
iSync can also reload linked Revit models and optionally shut down the workstation after inactivity. These options are useful for scheduled maintenance sessions, but they should be tested first in a controlled setup.
Options and behavior
Document-type behavior
iSync behaves differently depending on whether the file is workshared, local, detached, or a family document. Confirm the document type before assuming that a sync option will run the way it does in a shared central-model workflow.
Startup behavior
If the launch-on-idle option is enabled, the modeless window can open automatically on the first idle event after Revit starts. This is useful for unattended workflows but should be documented on shared workstations so users know why the panel appears.
Troubleshooting and FAQ
Nothing happens when the timer should run
Cause: The current document type does not match the configured action, or the window is not actually running the intended automation profile.
Fix: Recheck the active document type and confirm the current options on the Status and Options tabs.
Linked models are not reloading
Cause: The reload action is disabled, or the session does not have the right file context for that operation.
Fix: Review the linked-file settings and test the workflow while watching the Log tab.
The workstation shut down unexpectedly
Cause: The auto-shutdown option was enabled for an unattended session.
Fix: Disable the shutdown option unless it is intentionally part of the maintenance workflow.
When should I use iSync?
Use it when a Revit session needs repeated unattended save, sync, relinquish, or reload behavior, especially in workshared environments where manual upkeep is repetitive.