How the Connection Works
Once you’re signed in, the desktop app runs a local Client that bridges your conversations to the SAP2000 and ETABS installed on your machine. The agent sends modeling commands; the software executes them live on your screen. The Client pill in the header shows the connection at a glance:| Status | What it means |
|---|---|
| Gray dot | Client isn’t running yet |
| Pulsing gray | Downloading or starting (normal for a few seconds after launch) |
| Green dot | Connected and ready to drive SAP2000/ETABS |
| Error | Something failed. Restart the client from this menu. |
The web app’s ETABS and SAP2000 agents use this same connection. To run those agents from app.stru.ai, keep the desktop app open and signed in on the machine where the software is installed.
Start a Modeling Session
Pick your agent
Choose SAP2000 Agent or ETABS Agent from the agent picker in the header. The choice locks once the conversation starts. Start a new chat to switch.
Choose a working folder (optional)
The working folder pill on the composer decides where model files live: This chat only keeps everything in the conversation’s own sandbox, or pick a shared project folder so multiple conversations can work on the same files.
Describe the model
Prompt the agent the same way you would on the web: geometry, sections, materials, load cases. See Writing Effective Prompts for what works best.
The agent paused at its step limit
The agent paused at its step limit
Long builds can hit the per-turn step limit. The status bar shows Agent paused with a Resume link. Click it to continue right where it left off. You can raise the limit under Settings → Agents → Agent step limit.
Which software versions does it use?
Which software versions does it use?
The app auto-detects SAP2000, ETABS, and Mathcad installed in their default locations and uses the newest version it finds. If you have several versions installed, pick the one you want under Settings → SAP2000 / ETABS. Each tab shows its detected-versions list with a refresh action.
Good to Know
Closing the app mid-run
Closing the app mid-run
If SAP2000/ETABS is running under Stru’s control when you quit (or install an update), the app asks for confirmation, because continuing closes that software session too. Save your model first if it matters.
Pre-warming the connection
Pre-warming the connection
Settings → General → Pre-warm SAP2000 and ETABS on app launch starts the software connection as soon as the app opens, so your first prompt doesn’t wait on startup.
Internet is required
Internet is required
The desktop app connects to Stru AI each time it starts and during agent runs. If the connection drops, the app shows a reconnect screen and resumes automatically. You’re never signed out for being offline.
Next Steps
ETABS & SAP2000 Agents guide
Prompting patterns, use cases, and troubleshooting for the agents themselves.
Settings & Troubleshooting
Fix detection issues, update problems, and more.
Questions? Email support@stru.ai or book a call.