Web Search
The Web Search tool allows DatumOS to search the internet for current information, helping you find up-to-date codes, standards, best practices, and industry news.
How It Works
When enabled, DatumOS can automatically search the web to answer questions that require current information:
- Click the globe icon in the chat toolbar to enable Web Search
- The icon turns blue when enabled
- Ask questions that require current information
- The AI searches the web and includes results in its response
Tip
Web Search is automatically used when your question requires information that may have changed since the AI’s training cutoff. You can also explicitly request it.
When to Use Web Search
Building Codes & Standards
What are the latest LEED certification requirements?Find current IBC requirements for fire-rated corridor wallsWhat are the 2024 NEC updates for electrical panel sizing?Industry News & Trends
What are the latest sustainable construction materials for 2025?Recent changes to prevailing wage requirements in CaliforniaNew OSHA safety regulations for construction sitesProduct Information
Current pricing for structural steel in the MidwestLatest specifications for Trane rooftop HVAC unitsRecent product recalls for construction materialsBest Practices
Current best practices for concrete curing in cold weatherLatest BIM coordination workflows for large projectsUpdated safety protocols for working at heightExample Queries
Code Research
You:What are the current ADA requirements for accessible parking spaces?
AI:[Searches web for current ADA Standards] Based on ADA Standards: Van-accessible spaces require 11’ min width, standard spaces 8’ min, access aisles 5’ min. 1 in 6 accessible spaces must be van-accessible. Source: ADA.gov, 2024
Material Research
You:What are current trends in mass timber construction?
AI:[Searches web for mass timber trends] Mass timber is growing rapidly: CLT projects up 50% YoY, IBC now allows 18-story buildings, carbon benefits driving commercial adoption. Sources: Woodworks, APA
Search vs. Connected Systems
| Feature | Web Search | Search Connected Systems |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Internet | Your connected data sources |
| Data type | Public information | Your project data |
| Freshness | Real-time | Syncs periodically |
| Use case | Codes, standards, news | RFIs, submittals, documents |
Best Practice
Use Web Search for external information (codes, standards, products) and Search Connected Systems for your project-specific data (RFIs, submittals, specs).
Limitations
- Rate limits - Web searches are rate-limited to prevent abuse
- Source quality - Results come from public web sources; verify critical information
- Not project-specific - Web search doesn’t access your private project data
- Currency varies - Some sources may not be immediately updated
Enabling and Disabling
Web Search can be toggled per-conversation:
- Enable - Click the globe icon (turns blue)
- Disable - Click again to turn off (icon becomes gray)
When disabled, the AI will only use its built-in knowledge and your connected data sources.
Next Steps
Search Connected SystemsSearch your project data across all connected sourcesAI Chat OverviewLearn all the ways to interact with your project data
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