Folders & Registry
Where ARC stores files and how to perform a clean uninstall
ARC installs program files and creates folders for shared assets and per-user projects. The locations below explain what is stored where and which items you can remove to fully uninstall ARC.
Overview
ARC separates its files into three categories:
- Application installation: the main program executable and libraries the system uses to run ARC.
- Shared program data: assets, example projects, skills, and 3D files available to every user on the machine.
- Per-user personal data: each Windows account has its own ARC projects and configuration stored in that user’s Documents folder.
Registry settings are stored per user so each account can keep independent preferences (theme, editor selection, window layout, and other persistent options).
Folders
The primary ARC folders you may encounter are listed below. Removing these will help you achieve a clean uninstall. Some locations require administrator rights to modify.
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Application installation
This folder contains the ARC executable and the runtime libraries. It is installed under the Program Files area and typically requires administrator permissions to change or remove.
Typical path:
%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam (e.g. C:\Program Files (x86)\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam)Tip: Use "Add or remove programs" in Windows Settings to uninstall the application first, then remove this folder only if any files remain.
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Program Data (shared assets)
This shared folder stores downloaded robot skills, example projects, 3D design files, and other assets available to all users on the computer. The ProgramData folder is hidden by default in Windows; you can access it by entering %ProgramData% in File Explorer's address bar.
Typical path:
%ProgramData%\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam (e.g. C:\ProgramData\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam)Remove this folder to clear shared examples and downloaded assets. Administrator permission is usually required.
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Personal Data (per-user)
Each Windows user account has an ARC folder inside that user’s Documents directory. This contains projects, user-created skills, logs, and other personal configuration files. Deleting this folder will remove that user's projects and settings.
Typical path (per user):
C:\Users\<username>\Documents\ARCIf multiple user accounts exist on the computer, repeat this step for each account whose data you want to remove.
Windows Registry
ARC stores per-user configuration in the Windows registry. These entries include the color theme, default code editor, UI preferences, and other persistent settings. Removing the registry keys will clear that user's ARC preferences.
Registry key (per user):
Computer\HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\ARC by Synthiam
View steps to reset ARC user registry
Important: Editing the registry can affect Windows and other programs. Back up the registry (export the key) before deleting anything, and use the built-in support steps when possible.
Steps for a clean uninstall
Follow these recommended steps to completely remove ARC from a Windows machine. Only perform registry and Program Files deletions if you understand the risks and have backups.
- Uninstall ARC using Windows Settings > Apps > Apps & features (or Control Panel > Programs and Features).
- Delete the installation folder if it remains:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam. Administrator rights are required. - Remove the shared program data folder:
C:\ProgramData\Synthiam Inc\ARC by Synthiam. This deletes shared examples and downloaded skills. - Remove per-user data from each account that should be cleared:
C:\Users\<username>\Documents\ARC. This deletes projects and personal settings for that user. - If desired, remove the user registry key:
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\ARC by Synthiam. Export the key first as a backup, then delete it with regedit or follow the support page instructions. - Restart the computer to ensure all changes are applied and any locked files are released.
If you are unsure about any step, consult the support article linked above or contact Synthiam support for guidance.