Linking CAD into Revit thru BIM 360 issue

[adobbertin]

I am a new BIM 360 user, and recently published my first Revit model. There are several CAD and Revit files that I am trying to link into my model through the BIM 360 platform. I am able to load the proper Revit links through BIM 360 normally. However, I also have a CAD site survey that I need to link in. When I attempt to link the CAD survey file (which is saved on BIM 360), I navigate to Manage Links>CAD links>Add, however, there is no option for me to navigate to BIM 360 to select the file I want to link. I can navigate to other locations on my computer and network, but I cannot get to BIM 360 specifically when trying to link a CAD file. (I have linked other Revit models into my model successfully - there is an External Resources button that leads me to the BIM 360 network and I can navigate normally when linking Revit.)

I have tried installing Desktop Connector as was suggested through another answer, however, Desktop connector is very finnicky/buggy on my computer and shuts down/denies access every time my computer reboots. The CAD linking issue remains with Desktop connector installed on my machine. 

[gareth.spencer1]

Hi @adobbertin ,

You will need the desktop connector to link CAD files from either BIM 360 or Autodesk Docs. As when you link it does not go automatically to  the project like Revit links does. I am not sure why. When you in the window select your Look in at the top of the screen and select This PC, then under devices and drives select Autodesk Docs. Select the hub > Project > Folder location and you should see the CAD files. 

If you are having issued with your desktop connector I would suggest having a look at this article on Autodesk Knowledge Network.

[adobbertin]

I read through a few of the articles regarding why Autodesk Desktop Connector might not be working. Based on that info, my current guess is that the anti-spyware software/firewalls installed on my computer are recognizing Desktop Connector as a threat. I work on a company computer, so I'm working with a company IT specialist to see if adjusting the settings on the anti-spyware software/firewalls might help. 

Can anyone explain: 

a) Why Autodesk Desktop Connector is being recognized as a threat? What settings can be adjusted in a firewall that would allow Desktop Connector to operate?

b) Why is the process for Linking CAD and Revit files different, where one needs a special additional piece of software and the other one doesn't? Shouldn't these processes be the same?

[adobbertin · Accepted solution]

Update: The issue was resolved by reinstalling Autodesk Desktop Connector on my machine. It appears that it didn't install properly the first time. 

After installing the second time, the program crashed 4 times, but I was finally able to open it and then navigate to the required survey on the cloud through the CAD Links panel.