KB: How to change template-based component parameters

Solution Details

When a new parameter is added to a Component Template, the related existing components are automatically updated to include the newly added parameter. However, renaming an existing parameter in a Component Template does not automatically propagate changes to the related components as one might anticipate. 

For instance:

• Modifying the letter case of a parameter (e.g., changing "ROHS" to "RoHS") will not reflect in existing components.

• Changing the name of a parameter (e.g., from "RoHS" to "RoHS Compliant") will result in two separate parameters—one labeled "RoHS" and one labeled "RoHS Compliant"—within the existing components.

To address this, it is necessary to follow specific steps to update the existing components after renaming a parameter in a Component Template. 

The step-by-step process involves:

1. Opening the affected components for Batch Component Editing.

2. Removing the existing template.

3. Manually renaming the parameter.

4. Reapplying the latest Component Template to ensure consistency.

Removing/Reapplying a Component Template

Case 1: Changing "ROHS" to "RoHS"

1. Open the existing component for batch editing.

2. Click on Add, then select Template and set it to None.

3. Navigate to the Parameters section and rename the "ROHS" parameter to "RoHS" to match the template parameter.

4. Click on Add again, select Template, and choose the latest Component Template.

Case 2: Changing "RoHS" to "RoHS Compliant"

1. Open the existing component for batch editing.

2. Click on Add, then select Template and set it to None.

3. Navigate to the Parameters section. If the components were already updated, delete the newly added "RoHS Compliant" parameter and rename the "RoHS" parameter to "RoHS Compliant" to match the template parameter. 

4. Click on Add again, select Template, and choose the latest Component Template.

Case 3: Changing the Value of a Read-Only Parameter

1. Open the existing component for batch editing.

2. Click on Add, select Template, and choose None.

3. Delete the read-only parameter from the component.

4. Click on Add again, select Template, and apply the latest Component Template.

Note: The option "Preserve lifecycle state" when releasing components was introduced in Altium Designer version 24.6.  This prevents the component lifecycle states from reverting to their initial state, such as "Draft".

For more details, please refer to the link:

• Added Ability to Preserve Lifecycle State when Releasing