Alternative Parts with Active BOM

I am trying to add an alternative part to an item on the active BoM for a non managed component, but when I right click on my item I do not get the option to add an alternative as expected according to documentation.

Starting in Version: 18.0
Up to Version: Current

Solution Details

This documentation describes the process for adding alternative parts:
https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/bom-management-with-activebom-ad#!including-an-alternative-part

To add a new BomDoc to the project, use File ► New ► ActiveBOM or right-click on the project in the Projects panel to select Add New to Project ► ActiveBOM. Note that each PCB project can only include one BomDoc.

To select a functionally equivalent alternative part, right-click on the part then select Operations ► Add Alternative Item from the context menu.


The Component Search dialog will open, where you can search the connected Managed Content Server for a suitable alternative. 

When trying to add an alternative part to an item on the active BOM, the use alternate part option is only available for managed components.  Otherwise, you will find the right-click option does not offer a choice for add an alternative. 

An Altium 365 Pro subscription Includes the IHS Markit to compliment the supply chain intelligence from Octopart.  IHS augments component lifecycle and alternative part data to deliver unparalleled supply chain information and insights.  https://www.altium.com/part-data-sources (built into MPS panel)

This video from Altium Academy may help if you are a Pro level subscriber:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nZmBD9VXhTA