MicroStation, Bentley Systems' reference CAD software, adds new capabilities each year. With version 2026, one of the most useful developments for design teams is Component Center 2.0, a cloud library of parametric components. This article details the operation and benefits.
MicroStation is Bentley Systems' 2D/3D CAD platform, designed specifically for infrastructure engineering: roads, bridges, buildings, networks, plans and georeferenced models. Used for more than 30 years by research offices around the world, it serves as a foundation for almost all Bentley's business applications: OpenRoads, OpenBuildings, OpenPlant, and many others. With MicroStation 2026, Bentley focuses on automation, immersive geospatial context and design content governance — with Component Center 2.0 as the centrepiece of the latter.MicroStation serves as a CAD base for all Bentley Systems design applications.
Focus functionality: Component Center 2.0, the cloud component library
Component Center 2.0 is a renewed cloud library, connected to the Bentley Infrastructure Cloud, to manage and reuse design components: geometry, data, reference files and links. It meets a very concrete need of distributed teams: ensuring that everyone uses the right components, in line with company standards.
Regulated catalogues, not shared folders
Administrators create customized catalogues from corporate libraries, and designers place these components directly in MicroStation, with the guarantee that they comply with current standards. No more duplicate, obsolete or non-compliant cells that circulate from project to project.
Continuity to exploitation
Component Center 2.0 is designed for digital delivery: iTwin compatible, it allows to track every component from design to construction and operation. Changes are outlined, governance is strengthened, and information such as cost, installation or maintenance remains accessible throughout the life cycle of the asset.
Reusable parametric components
A parametric cell instance can now be released to Component Center and then moved to other files, with its predefined variations. The teams build families of coherent components, easy to find and manage on a large scale.Component Center 2.0 centralizes and governs design components in MicroStation.
The 10 key points of Component Center 2.0
Functionality
Benefit for your projects
Connected cloud library
Native integration with Bentley Infrastructure Cloud for centralized access.
Approved Content Management
Geometry, data, references and links in a single environment.
Custom catalogues
Created by administrators from corporate libraries.
Direct placement in MicroStation
Designers integrate components without leaving their working environment.
Compliance with guaranteed standards
Each component placed complies with the rules defined by the organization.
Compatibility iTwin
Connected and traceable components from design to operation.
Follow-up of changes
Enhanced traceability and governance throughout the life cycle.
Accessible life cycle data
Cost, installation and maintenance remained related to the component after delivery.
Reusable parametric components
Publication of parametric cell instances to other files.
Multi-application unified interface
Consistent experience through Bentley design applications.
Case of practical use
A CAD team can publish its validated parametric cells (urban furniture, signalling elements, network components) in Component Center, then let each projector reuse them in confidence, without recreating or copying files. For a multi-site study office, it is a direct saving of time and a significant reduction of compliance errors between projects.Component governance benefits all teams working on MicroStation.
Why choose MicroStation with beCAD?
Reseller, trainer and accredited integrator Bentley Systems, beCAD supports design offices in the deployment of MicroStation : advice on the adapted license, training in the management of component libraries and French technical support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Component Center 2.0 replace local cell libraries?
It complements and governs them: corporate libraries remain the source, but Component Center centralizes their distribution and ensures that designers use the correct version of components.
Do you need a specific cloud subscription to use Component Center?
Component Center 2.0 relies on the Bentley Infrastructure Cloud; contact beCAD to check the license terms for your MicroStation contract.
Does Component Center work with other Bentley applications?
Yes, it offers a consistent interface through several Bentley design applications, beyond MicroStation alone. Want to discover Component Center 2.0 on your own projects or train your teams at MicroStation 2026? Discover the product sheet or contact the beCAD team.
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