Template controls model categories. How can I exclude one sub-category from being template-controlled?

[HVAC-Novice]

I'm using Revit 2024, but that shouldn't matter. In my templates I have the V/G Override controlled by the template.

i want one sub-category NOT be controlled by the template (Ligth source in thsi case)

Reason I want to do that is, that my lighting plugin (elumtools) has a buttton that will turn light source on or off. this could come in handy for lighting design.

The only way I can make it work is if I either don't let the template model categories (which isn't practical), or I enable temporary view properties. 

Is there a way to have the template control all model categories, except this one (Light Source)? 

[JL.FCG]

Not that I'm aware of.
In this situation I would just duplicate your current template so one has the light source on and once doesn't.

Sorry that's not a great help.

[HVAC-Novice]

I like to keep number of templates at a minimum. Less clutter and easier template maintenance. Like if I decide to make a change to my lighting template, I only want to do that in one template, not both. 

Changing template also requires more clicks than using temporary view overrides. I think if there isn't an official way to exclude a sub-category, using the temporary view overrides would work best. I only need to turn them on once during a session, and then can just use that toggle to turn light source on/off. 

I don't need to turn on light source that often, but with some directional fixtures (or new families quality control), it is nice to see the light source at some point. I guess that is why they included that togggle. 

[ToanDN]

Why don't you keep the Light Source ON and use the tool to turn it off when not needed?

[HVAC-Novice · Accepted solution]

Same problem. If a sub category is turned on by template, it requires  temporary overrides to turn it off. 

And most of the time, and especially for final product, I want the light source to be off. So I like that to be the default. 

I did ask elum tool support, and they stated that use of temporary view properties or not using templates are the only option they are aware off. BTW, they provide outstanding and quick support. 

So using temporary view overrides likely are the only and best option unless Revit adds an option to exclude sub-categories.