How to Export, Share and Back Up Bluebeam Tool Sets

Choose the Right Sharing Method

There are two different team workflows. Importing a BTX file gives each user a local copy that they can customise independently. Adding a BTX file from a shared network location keeps the team connected to one centrally managed file. Use local imports when project teams need flexibility; use a shared set when consistent company standards matter more than individual editing.

Export a Tool Set as a BTX File

Export the clean source set before distributing or editing it for a project:

1. 1Open the Tool Chest panel in Bluebeam Revu.
2. 2Find the tool set you want to share and open its Properties or Settings menu.
3. 3Select Export.
4. 4Choose a controlled folder and save the exported file with its BTX extension.
5. 5Keep the exported master unchanged and distribute a copy to users or projects.

Import a Local Copy for Independent Use

A local import is the simplest distribution method. In Revu, open Tool Chest, choose Manage Tool Sets, select Import and open the BTX file. Because the user receives a local copy, later changes to the master file do not automatically update that copy. Include a version in the tool-set name so users can tell whether they have the current release.

Manage a Shared Network Tool Set

For a centrally controlled library, store the BTX file in a network location available to every intended user and add the existing set through Manage Tool Sets. Apply Windows file permissions deliberately. Give write access only to maintainers and read access to normal users. Revu uses locking for shared sets, but file permissions remain the practical control that prevents unplanned edits.

Use a Version and Release Routine

Treat a company Tool Set like a small controlled deliverable:

1. 1Use a clear name such as Company-Electrical-v1.2 rather than Final or New.
2. 2Record the release date, owner and changes in a short manifest.
3. 3Test the exported BTX on a separate Revu profile before distributing it.
4. 4Keep the current master, the previous approved version and an off-device backup.
5. 5Tell users whether a release should replace an older local import or remain alongside it.
6. 6Never overwrite a project-specific customised set without first exporting that version.

Back Up More Than the BTX File

A BTX export protects one Tool Set. For broader recovery, Bluebeam also documents preference backups and profile exports. A profile exported with dependencies can include Tool Sets and related configuration, while a preferences backup captures wider Revu settings. Store backups away from the workstation so a device failure does not remove both the live configuration and its recovery copy.