--- title: Auto Calc (Pillar) description: Calculations are automatic. Changes are instant upstream/downstream. With 7 million integrated equations, PowerCalc ends repetitive and tedious calculations. --- [![Powercalc_Logo.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/Powercalc_Logo.png?width=592&height=91&name=Powercalc_Logo.png "Powercalc_Logo.png")](https://www.powercalc.co) # autocalc ***Just 3 inputs / circuit= over 300 NEC and other code outputs*** *[![AutoCalc_Image_3_Arrows_white.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/AutoCalc_Image_3_Arrows_white.jpg?width=178&name=AutoCalc_Image_3_Arrows_white.jpg)](https://powercalcpak-1002713.hs-sites.com/powercalc?hs_preview=QwaVfwRt-4330596770)* **  Inputs **   *PowerCalc* is smart software with a proprietary database. *  [Just 3 inputs / circuit](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) = over [300 NEC and other code outputs.](https://www.powercalc.co/nec-code) *   1. Electrical Load (kVA) 2. Type of Electrical Load (lighting, motor, etc.) 3. Circuit Breaker # of Poles (single or 3 phase power) That’s the *entire *power distribution system in a building from the branch circuit to the electrical service…for *any size* building, for *multiple *buildings like a campus or a high rise building. [more on inputs / outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) **Automatic Calculations and Changes** Calculations are *automatic*. Changes are *instant *upstream/downstream.* All* panel boards are generated *simultaneously *(not just one panel board at a time). [more on panels](https://www.powercalc.co/panels) With 7 million + integrated equations, *PowerCalc* ends repetitive and tedious calculations. Input each value just *one time* for repeated use across the entire design. Then, directly export to AutoCad or Revit (*coming soon*). [more on Save Time / Save Money](https://www.powercalc.co/save_time_and_money) *PowerCalc* is a patent protected innovation. Covered by US Patent # 7,636,650. [more on patent](https://www.powercalc.co/patent) **Outputs** With just the 3 inputs listed above, *PowerCalc* *automatically calculates*, and *instantly re-calculates for all changes*, over 300 NEC compliant outputs.* PowerCalc* also makes certain that the power distribution system is not over designed (saving the owner money) or under designed (a safety concern). [more on NEC and other standards.](https://www.powercalc.co/nec-compliance) **Manual Override** Although *PowerCalc* automatically defaults to the appropriate values of the NEC and other standards, the user can also elect to *manually override* these [inputs / outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) for the job and design requirements. **Wizard **[![wizardwand.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/wizardwand.jpg?width=35&name=wizardwand.jpg "wizardwand.jpg")](https://www.powercalc.co/wizard) To make it even easier, *PowerCalc* has a Wizard. The user can elect to design using the full panel schedule or using the Wizard to pop up a circuit-by-circuit screen for input. [more on Wizard](https://www.powercalc.co/wizard) ![Wizard.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Wizard.png?width=1000&name=Wizard.png)   # *TAKEOFF: POWERCALC IN THE CLOUD* # ***PowerCalc* launches its new product in the cloud:** **![shuttle.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/shuttle.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=shuttle.png)** After a year of hard work with tremendous coders, *PowerCalc* is the first SaaS based software for electrical engineering design for buildings. It is all *new: new *cloud platform*,* *new *website* (*[powercalc.co](https://www.powercalc.co/)*) *and *new *friends*.* Product launch coincides with our graduation from FAU Tech Runway, an accelerator for startups. Our mentor team has guided us from startup to takeoff. ***1: Why PowerCalc?*** It makes electrical engineering easy, fast and smart. Just 3 inputs (kVA + load type + # of poles) per circuit = over 300 NEC compliant outputs…that’s a building’s entire power distribution system. Calculations are automatic. Changes are instant upstream and downstream. All panelboards are generated simultaneously. Saves 40%+ in design time. That’s what 7 million+ integrated engineering equations can do. ***2: Why in the Cloud?*** Just a few of many reasons: (1) access your work anywhere from your pc or tablet, (2) real time updates for changes in codes and other standards, (3) collaboration for your team with a single source of information, and (4) no cumbersome downloads or access issues. ***3: How smart is **PowerCalc******?  **      * Really smart. Its proprietary databases are completely populated and ready to use. ***4: And what else?*** No training is necessary, but a Wizard, guide and visual demos are available. The Fault Analysis and Equipment AIC Rating are now included and t*he **first ever graphic 1 line diagram *is on the way (publication in early 2017). Celebrate this *great* day with us and get your free trial at [powercalc.co](https://www.powercalc.co/powercalc-store). More on our launching day [Takeoff: *PowerCalc* in the Cloud.](https://www.powercalc.co/takeoff-powercalc-in-the-cloud)   # ***THE PROBLEM / THE SOLUTION*** ![](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/blob.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=blob.png) Every day thousands of engineers face the labor intensive work of creating electrical specifications for all types of buildings. It takes thousands of calculations. The problem is that people in the construction industry need a product to improve efficiency and accuracy, but none exists. AutoDesk can’t do it, nor does any other automation tool. But *PowerCalc* solves this problem with just 3 easy inputs per circuit. An engineer can now automatically calculate the entire power distribution system for any construction project. That’s from the light switch to the power grid in any building. And all in compliance with building code requirements. Updates for construction changes are instantaneous. Also, there is soon to be the first automatic graphic 1 line diagram. And the engineer can do all of this with virtually no training. *PowerCalc* saves days of engineering man hours and millions of dollars for both the engineering firm and the developer. It avoids the problem of “overdesign” saving the developer time and money and also “underdesign” so there are no fires or other safety issues. Our software is the first in the cloud so that your team can collaborate and work together with access to *PowerCalc* in the field and office. Our goal is to expand our customer base and make *PowerCalc *the standard in the construction, building and facility management industries. In the field of electrical engineering for buildings, *PowerCalc* is magic. We’ve been working on this product all year…recoding the over 7 million engineering equations and creating our platform in the cloud…it has been a demanding 24x7 task. There is now a new *PowerCalc, *a new cloud platform, new website, and lots of new friends. More on the [Problem/The Solution.](https://www.powercalc.co/the-problem-the-solution)   # *HORROR STORIES: WHO IS THE SOLUTION?*  **Save your customers time and money = be the solution:** ![horror_story_email-2.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/horror_story_email-2.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=horror_story_email-2.png)Last week, we attended the annual South Florida Bluebook Conference [The Bluebook](http://www.thebluebook.com/). It provided the opportunity to speak with lots of General Contractors working in the building industry and a few facility managers. Our thanks to each of you. Even for seasoned consulting engineers, it was an eye-opener: gas equipment specified instead of electrical equipment; 10 same sized transformers specified instead of just 5; an undersized Main Service Conductor specified in a 20 story high rise.  Costly mistakes ranging from an estimated $250,000 to millions to fix. ### The Challenge These issues arise from the current electrical design practice of using “rules of thumb”, “guestimating”, makeshift spreadsheets, and software that “designs” from the top-down (*estimating* the total electrical load at start of the design, instead of *knowing* the *actual* load by adding loads from the circuit to the service entrance of the facility (bottom-up)). To put this in perspective, a typical 2-story office building of 10,000 SF averages over 10,000 electrical calculations, with the possibility of up to 70% of these (or 7,000) being re-calculated for changes. And then, the results of these calculations must be checked for compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC). As all of you know, the NEC’s Handbook has 1000+ pages with endless lookup tables. In short, the current electrical engineering practice for the design of power distribution systems in buildings is like herding cats. No matter how often the calculations are checked, the process streamlined, the number of engineers increased, the process is never quite under control: repetitive, tedious calculations; lengthy and time-consuming processes; overdesign/underdesign issues; costs from unnecessary design time; mistakes; process inefficiencies; NEC compliance issues; and building department concerns. **The Solution** The solution is automation of the electrical design process. Streamlining the process with technology that automatically calculates, and instantly re-calculates for changes, the entire power distribution system in a building, all in compliance with the NEC.  With a tool addressing the calculation and code issues, the electrical professional can finally do the work of designing an optimum power distribution system. As most of you know, *PowerCalc *was invented because of these deficiencies in the electrical design process.  Our software has been used to design hundreds of projects valued well over $4 billion in construction costs. [Projects](https://www.powercalc.co/projects).  Additionally, we continue to be contacted for peer reviews and value engineering projects. You can find out more at [powercalc.co](http://powercalc.co/). ### Design Build And there is also the issue for many GCs of trying to estimate costs for design build projects. Today’s electrical design process does not allow for a determination of what electrical equipment is actually required for a construction project until the design phase is complete. But it is no longer necessary to have a single mark on a drawing to do “quantity takeoffs” of the electrical equipment for estimating what electrical equipment is necessary and its cost to bid. Using *PowerCalc*, the electrical equipment can easily be determined at an early stage of the project---that’s* long *before the final design document is generated on AutoCAD and* long* before the design build project is bid. With *PowerCalc*, the design build contractor has fewer cost surprises at the end of the construction project. It also means that the design is done based on *numbers* from electrical engineering calculations, instead of counting up the electrical equipment on construction documents. More on [Who is the Solution.](https://www.powercalc.co/horror-stories-who-is-the-solution)   # *13 WAYS POWERCALC SAVES TIME / SAVES MONEY* # *![STSMChart_NL 9_2016_PNG 2](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Images/one%20line%20diagram/STSMChart_NL%209_2016_PNG%202.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=STSMChart_NL%209_2016_PNG%202.png)* *PowerCalc* saves time and money in many ways. Here goes: **1.** ***Only 3 inputs.*** *PowerCalc's *patented process requires 3 inputs per circuit (load kVA, load type and # of poles).These 3 inputs generate over 300 NEC compliant [outputs. ](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs?utm_campaign=Save%20Time%20%2F%20Save%20Money&utm_source=hs_email&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9mD7p3XGJRbH8YwAraW-VMTKuP5BrZh3pea9GHEUXEPJShhDuy_YfJfLJRhhF-Yawtquwj)As indicated in the chart above, simplifying these calculations saves at least 40% in design time. **2.** ***Bottom - Up Design. ****PowerCalc *designs from the bottom - up (circuit to the power grid). This allows for (i) *actual *engineering values to be used in the design and (ii) for  *PowerCalc's* 7 million + equations to be bundled into a single integrated calculation. The result is an integrated and incomparably accurate design. Contrast this outcome with other softwares that require the project's end size to be estimated at project start including the voltage phase, panel frame, panel main and feeder. *Can all these "estimates" be actively and accurately updated throughout the design process by multiple people? *  As virtually all electrical professionals have either heard or experienced, this "guestimated" process leads to frustrating and expensive errors. **3.** ***Unexpectedly*** ***Easy.* **Only 3 inputs per circuit...that's how easy it is to use *PowerCalc.* In fact, any conscientious staff member can input these values, and then the electrical professional can concentrate on the things which do need their focus...like connecting the panels and designing the power distribution. **4.  *****NEC Compliant.*** *PowerCalc's* calculations are integrated with its proprietary database for compliance with the NEC. The electrical professional can override outputs to meet specific design requirements, but it is their choice. So, goodbye NEC look up tables. **5. *Instantaneous*** ***Changes.**** *With a design completely integrated into one big calculation, any change anywhere in the design results in instantaneous updating upstream and downstream across the design. This is construction, so there are always changes. And with *PowerCalc,* the changes are instantaneous. **6.** ***Real Time 1 Line Diagram. **PowerCalc *has the first and only real time 1 Line Diagram on the planet. It is simultaneously generated throughout your design so you can visually see what your numbers mean throughout the design process. **7.** ***Demand Load / No over-design.* **The NEC breaks the demand load into resistive, motor (inductive) and lighting loads. *PowerCalc* does the same thing all in compliance with the NEC. But other programs fail to track load types so cannot reduce their connected load sum by the relevant demand load as outlined in NEC Article 220 *Branch Circuit, Feeder and Service Calculations*. Developers, owners and clients get stuck with big bills for over-designed power distribution systems. Electrical equipment is expensive, and your clients will be far happier if you are saving them money rather than wasting their money by specifying unnecessary equipment. With* PowerCalc*, the electrical professional now has a way to easily avoid over-design concerns. **8. *****Unmatched Accuracy.*** Simply, *PowerCalc* is not only incredibly accurate, but using software reduces human error. **9.** ***Team Collaboration***. *PowerCalc *is the only electrical engineering software in the cloud. This means that your team works and collaborates in real time *any* place, *any* time and on *any* device. It also means that version controls are in place as well as controls over who has access to project files. All the administrative headaches of the design process are now under control. **10.** ***No Change Orders. ***Now that the design is accurate, the electrical professional will be far less likely to have mistakes resulting in expensive change orders. **11.** ***No Lawsuits.*** We know of no lawsuits based on design issues for users of *PowerCalc*.  **12.**  ***No Comments. ***When you use* PowerCalc, *get used to *not*  receiving comments from Building Departments on your submissions. Now this saves a lot of time. **13.** ***Automation.** PowerCalc *saves days of engineering man hours. Automation drives productivity across all businesses large or small. Changes, even small ones, over time snowball into massive gains in productivity. *PowerCalc* includes: automation of processes with databases, standards and updated procedures resulting in fewer errors, fewer building department comments and fewer issues with finished designs. And, just less time spent on design and repetitive calculations.  More on [13 Ways PowerCalc Saves Time / Saves Money.](https://www.powercalc.co/13-ways-powercalc-saves-time-/-saves-money)   ***POWERCALC IS GOLD*** # **Why We Won:** *PowerCalc* won **GOLD** in *Consulting-Specifying Engineers'* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016. So, we're going to count the reasons why. **1.  The Power of the *PowerCalc* Algorithm.** *PowerCalc *is based on a new approach. *PowerCalc* aggregates values from the bottom-up (from the circuit to the power grid) ensuring that all electrical load calculations are accurate. Then, the calculations are integrated as a single, bundled, integrated calculation tied to a proprietary database *instead* of approaching the calculations one-at-a-time or in segments. [See Patent](http://patents.com/us-7636650.html) **2. The Power of the *PowerCalc* Panel.** As you know, each engineering company has its own panel schedule. Generally these schedules are completed manually or with simple calculations. In contrast, *PowerCalc's* panel is used as an "engine" for the calculations and not just a "placeholder". **3. The Power of the *PowerCalc* Process.   **            The user calculates the Branch Circuit (with the 3 easy inputs: load kVA, # of poles and load type per circuit) and multiple circuits form a Branch Circuit Panel. The Branch Circuit Panel is then connected to a Distribution Panel and finally these multiple panels are connected to the Main Distribution Panel. Equipment, such as HVAC, pumps, etc., can be connected to any of the panels. The *PowerCalc* approach of moving from downstream to upstream, results in an accurate and well-designed Power Distribution System. *PowerCalc's* 7 million+ equations do all the initial calculations. Then, because all equations are integrated, any change at any time and for any value is* instantaneous*. That's *instantaneous propagation* across the entire power distribution system, including the addition or deletion of loads, voltage, phase and any engineering value.  **4.  The Power of *PowerCalc* for NEC compliance.** *PowerCalc *tabulates loads by type and automatically applies NEC demand factors. The user can manually override demand factors to meet their specific project needs. See all the [outputs.](http://powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) **5. The Power of the *PowerCalc* Wizard.** Become proficient with *PowerCalc* in minutes with its Wizard. The Wizard is your guide to entering your project's requirements into *PowerCalc.* You are minutes away from completing your next project with the *PowerCalc* Wizard. **6. The Power of *PowerCalc* in the cloud.** *PowerCalc* is in the cloud and can be used anytime, anywhere, on both pcs and tablets. Team members can share work in real time and team managers can control access and privileges for each project . **7. The Power of the *PowerCalc* Experience. ** The best way to understand the power of *PowerCalc* is to see it in action. View our video "[How to *PowerCalc*](https://www.powercalc.co/how-to-powercalc-video)" More on the reason why [PowerCalc is Gold.](https://www.powercalc.co/powercalc-is-gold)   # ***REASON #1: THE POWERCALC ALGORITHM*** ![powercalc_is_gold.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/powercalc_is_gold.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=powercalc_is_gold.jpg) *PowerCalc* won **GOLD** in *Consulting-Specifying Engineers'* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016.  Let’s discuss *Reason #1* in more detail: **the ***PowerCalc ***algorithm.** ***Bottom-Up* Process to Automate Design** It sounds small, but the impact is big: design from *the bottom – up*. *PowerCalc* implements this *disruptive* and patented approach adding electrical loads of each branch circuit to sum up the Total Electrical Load for a facility. *PowerCalc *designs from the *branch circuit to the power grid*. ***Top-Down* Fails *Inside* Facility** Most electrical engineering software is for the *transmission* of electricity in the power grid (*outside* of the facility) and designs from the *top-down* (*power grid to the facility*). And, most electrical engineering software for design *inside* the facility has simply adopted this *top-down* approach used in the power grid. This simple adoption *fails* to recognize that there are *two* different and separate power distribution systems: (1) the *transmission* system in the power grid (*outside* the facility) and (2) the power *distribution* system *inside *the facility. Simply, the power grid’s *top-down* approach to design the *distribution *of electricity in the power distribution system *inside* the facility *never* worked, *never *works and *never* will work. **Confusion: Expensive Mistake** The recurring comment from our customers is how their expensive “power grid” software is sitting on the shelf and never used for their work: the design of power distribution system *inside *facilities. These purchases are expensive mistakes. Apparently, these software companies promote confusion by using the terms “*distribution*” and “*transmission*” interchangeably when discussing electrical issues in the power grid. Let’s clear up this confusion: the di*stribution* of electricity in the power distribution system *inside* the building must meet code and regulatory requirements which are *very* different from those applicable to the *transmission* of electricity in the power grid. For this reason alone (and there are lots of other reasons) the design of power distribution systems *inside *the facility and *outside *the facility (power grid) are *very different*. Power grid software (*outside* the facility) just does not work *inside *the facility. In contrast to the concerns for electrical engineering design *inside* of facilities, these power grid software applications for *outside* the facility insure that connected systems are compatible and in harmony: (1) within the power grid itself or (2) between the power grid and the power distribution system. Typically, these calculations are “studies” to check that connected systems act together as one electrical system. Examples are fault current studies, harmonic current studies, power flow studies and similar calculations including the actual connection of the building’s power distribution system to the power grid/electrical service. **What is *Bottom-Up* design *inside* the facility?** It is a unique approach: *PowerCalc* starts at the beginning by calculating and aggregating data from each branch circuit to the power grid/electrical service (*bottom-up*). For each branch circuit, there are 3 inputs: electrical load in KVA, number of poles (1, 2, or 3 poles) and electrical load type (LTG, Heading, AC, etc.). These 3 inputs provide over 300 NEC and other code compliant outputs. Check out [More on NEC](https://www.powercalc.co/nec-code) and [Inputs/Outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs). **Why *Bottom-Up* design is necessary *inside* the facility?** 1. **Automation Drives Productivity: Instant, Accurate and Compliant Results[![savetimesavemoney no logo (002).jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/savetimesavemoney%20no%20logo%20(002).jpg?t=1532870566061&width=207&name=savetimesavemoney%20no%20logo%20(002).jpg)](https://www.powercalc.co/save_time_and_money)** *PowerCalc’s* over 7 million integrated equations tied to proprietary databases provides accurate and compliant results. And the integration allows for instant changes across the power distribution design…upstream and downstream. So, it is never a problem to add or change equipment, a room, a wing or any change/update. Automation drives productivity. This new accuracy and efficiency is game changing: save over 40% in design time and money. [Save Time/Save Money](https://www.powercalc.co/save_time_and_money). Also, far fewer building department comments, lawsuits, corrections for construction errors and weekend hours. 1. **Total Electrical Load** There should never be an error in the Total Electrical load for any project. Yet, the miscalculation of the Total Electrical Load is one of the most common problems in electrical engineering design. The proper and only fail-proof way to design the power distribution system in a building is to add all the electrical loads from the branch circuit out to the service entrance with adjustments for changes (*bottom-up*). Values are aggregated in a 3 step process (1) add all electrical loads by type, (2) apply code demand factors to each load type and then (3) add all electrical loads. In contrast, *guestimating* the size of the electrical load in conjunction with pre-sets of panelboard sizes, equipment disconnects, feeders and overcurrent protection devices at the start of the project leads to an inaccurate baseline on which to build the power distribution system design. This is construction, so change is the standard in our business. So, how can anyone know the size of the electrical service at the start of a project?  No one can *guestimate* the Total Electrical Load in conjunction with the factors identified above at project start. Only by adding all the electrical loads from the *branch circuit out to the service entrance* can the engineer correctly size and adjust for changes in the electrical load for the project. The Total Electrical Load drives the success of your electrical engineering design.  An addition or subtraction error in the Total Electrical Load results in either electrical equipment being oversized at potentially great cost to the developer or undersized at potentially great risk to the safety of the facility’s occupants. More on reason [#1 PowerCalc Algorithm.](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-1-powercalc-is-gold)    ***REASON #2: THE POWERCALC PANEL*** *![Panels](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Images/PowerCalc/Panels.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=Panels.png)PowerCalc™* won Gold in *Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016.       Let’s discuss *Reason #2* in more detail: **the ***PowerCalc ***panel.** ***PowerCalc’s* Panel is the Design Engine** It sounds like a common issue:  all electrical use panels for their work every day on every project.  Each engineering firm has its own panel style. Other software programs use the panel too, but their uses are generally passive as placeholders for data, simple mathematical calculations or power system analysis. In contrast, *PowerCalc* makes the panel center stage: the engine to design the entire power distribution system in a facility. Each cell on each of *PowerCalc’s *panels is packed with algorithms communicating with its proprietary database. Panel Simple “place holding” or even tabulation is replaced with a software system that integrates 7 million + calculations across the design. To see all the inputs/outputs:[Inputs/Outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) **5 Forms, including 3 Panels ** *PowerCalc *has 5 standard forms: (1) Branch Circuit Panel; (2) Distribution Panel and (3) Main Distribution Panel; as well as (4) Equipment Schedule and (5) eNODE™. All calculations are integrated across these forms to document and design the power distribution system. [Panel](https://www.powercalc.co/panels?hsCtaTracking=cbd67ef6-4663-4a64-a6c3-29a9f3cf57d6%7C9ac7ce70-11d9-44ab-aaf4-880edd77d361&__hstc=88032391.c63fffee31b663bb987484ff813a6636.1480197944864.1487643853081.1487644078672.48&__hssc=88032391.22.1487644078672&__hsfp=3760882989) ![1-1.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/1-1.png?t=1532870566061&width=58&name=1-1.png)[Main Distribution and Distribution Panel Boards](https://www.powercalc.co/panels?hsCtaTracking=cbd67ef6-4663-4a64-a6c3-29a9f3cf57d6%7C9ac7ce70-11d9-44ab-aaf4-880edd77d361&__hstc=88032391.c63fffee31b663bb987484ff813a6636.1480197944864.1487643853081.1487644078672.48&__hssc=88032391.22.1487644078672&__hsfp=3760882989): main feeder conductor and conduit size, ampacity, over current protection device (OCPD), main feeder size, voltage drop and equipment grounding conductor and grounding electrode Conductor. ![2.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hubfs/2.png?t=1532870566061)[ Branch Circuit Panel Board](https://www.powercalc.co/panels?hsCtaTracking=cbd67ef6-4663-4a64-a6c3-29a9f3cf57d6%7C9ac7ce70-11d9-44ab-aaf4-880edd77d361&__hstc=88032391.c63fffee31b663bb987484ff813a6636.1480197944864.1487643853081.1487644078672.48&__hssc=88032391.22.1487644078672&__hsfp=3760882989): conductor and conduit size, ampacity, over current protection device (OCPD), voltage drop and round conductor. ![3.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/3.png?t=1532870566061&width=59&name=3.png) [Building Equipment Schedule](https://www.powercalc.co/panels?hsCtaTracking=cbd67ef6-4663-4a64-a6c3-29a9f3cf57d6%7C9ac7ce70-11d9-44ab-aaf4-880edd77d361&__hstc=88032391.c63fffee31b663bb987484ff813a6636.1480197944864.1487643853081.1487644078672.48&__hssc=88032391.22.1487644078672&__hsfp=3760882989): electrical characteristics of each branch circuit, size of the over current protection device (OCPD) (fuse or circuit                         breaker), conductor size and the electrical enclosure frame size and characteristics. ![4.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/4.png?t=1532870566061&width=58&name=4.png)[eNODE™](https://www.powercalc.co/panels?hsCtaTracking=cbd67ef6-4663-4a64-a6c3-29a9f3cf57d6%7C9ac7ce70-11d9-44ab-aaf4-880edd77d361&__hstc=88032391.c63fffee31b663bb987484ff813a6636.1480197944864.1487643853081.1487644078672.48&__hssc=88032391.22.1487644078672&__hsfp=3760882989): tracks general information about the project and maps the entire power distribution system  aggregating information from the panels,                    modules and schedules and determining connectivity and power flow. This integration means that you can input values on different panels, schedules or even the eNode, and electrical values are automatically populated across the design/on all the forms. **Branch Circuit Panelboard** ![pd.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/pd.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=pd.png)Take a look at *PowerCalc’s* Branch Circuit Panelboard. It is very familiar and intentionally mirrors the panelboard/panel box installed by the electrical contractor in the building. This utilitarian feature promotes the easy and accurate installation of electrical equipment. **“Family Connections”: the Hierarchy** A key part of the power distribution design is connecting the panels and preserve the voltage Hierarchy. **       A.  Parent Child** Whether the Parent Panel and the Child Panel are at the same or different voltage levels, *PowerCalc* allows the connection. If the two panels are at the same voltage level, then the eNODE acts as a traffic cop making the connection and passing the load from the Child Panel to the Parent Panel upstream directly. But if the Child Panel is at a lower or higher voltage than the Parent Panel, the eNODE allows the connection and passes the load through a step down transformer or a step up transformer respectively. *PowerCalc* automatically sizes the transformer kVA along with the associated primary and secondary feeders.        **B**.** Twin Panels** This is the connection known as “Fed Thru” or “Double Lugs” connections in the industry. Whether Fed Thru or Double Lugs, *PowerCalc *considers these “twins” as one eNODE and performs all calculations including the demand load calculations as a single Panel.       ** C.  Brother-Sister** This is the connection known as “Sub Fed” or “Sub Panel”. For details on all and each of the panels, including their organization and functionality, see our just released User Manual: *Chapter Two: PowerCalc Architecture.* **![stsm.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/stsm.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=275&name=stsm.jpg)Why is the panel as a calculation engine important?** *PowerCalc *automates the electrical design process. It is well established that automation is the driver in our tech-centric society and business world. [Save Time/Save Money](https://www.powercalc.co/save_time_and_money) Automation drives productivity across all businesses, large or small. Changes, even small ones, over time snowball into massive gains in productivity. It includes: automation of processes with databases, standards, and updated procedures resulting in fewer errors, fewer building department comments and fewer issues with finished designs, And, just less time spent on design and repetitive calculations. To illustrate this point, we've put together a illustration above, a chart focused just on design time. It shows how *PowerCalc *streamlines the design process to **save days of engineering man hours**.* * More on reason [#2 PowerCalc Panel](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-2-powercalc-is-gold).   *** REASON #3: THE POWERCALC PROCESS*** *![Process](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Images/PowerCalc/Process.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=Process.png)* *PowerCalc™* won Gold in *Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016.       Let’s discuss *Reason #3* in more detail: **the ***PowerCalc ***process.    ** Simply, great teams are built on great communications. *PowerCalc’s* cloud-connected platform establishes a design procedure to maximize your team’s productivity, communications and project quality. No downloads, no software to install, immediately accessible without any hassle. Store, sync, and share your files in the cloud so they are always up-to-date in real time. Plus, you can share project files, changes, documents and more anywhere, any time with anyone. You control access and authorizations. Those who “need to know” have real time information. Everything is tracked so the who, what, where and when is always known. Completed projects are archived for easy and forever access.  *PowerCalc **in the cloud* will be discussed in more detail in our upcoming article on *Reason 6: PowerCalc in the cloud*.     **![Capture 10 B Set Up your Documents.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Capture%2010%20B%20Set%20Up%20your%20Documents.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Capture%2010%20B%20Set%20Up%20your%20Documents.png "Capture 10 B Set Up your Documents.png")**   **Set up Your Documents ** Professional, uniform, up-to-date, standard documentation for all Project Information on all Project Documents. Put the information in once, even your firm’s logo, and it is automatically reproduced on all project documentation.   **![Capture 11 Need Another Panel.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Capture%2011%20Need%20Another%20Panel.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Capture%2011%20Need%20Another%20Panel.png)Do Your Design** Simple is our commitment. Need another Panel, just click to add one. Same for Distribution Panels, Building Equipment Schedules, Fire Pump Panels…easy to use throughout the design process.  Then, just click on any Panel or other form to go back and work on it at any time. Your entire Project is always organized, easy to access and at your fingertips. **![Capture 12 Archived Projects (002).png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Capture%2012%20Archived%20Projects%20(002).png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Capture%2012%20Archived%20Projects%20(002).png)When Finished, Just Archive ** All current Projects are on your up-to-the-minute Project File. But, when your Project is finished, easily archive it for your access forever.     **On to Easy, Accurate and Fast Design** Now your Project is easily accessible to your team, perfectly organized across the documents, and about to be easily, accurately and quickly designed. *PowerCalc* is a new way to design to design the Power Distribution System in a building. It’s a powerful tool with database driven results for fewer design hours, errors, process hiccups and costly mistakes. The design of the Power Distribution System is now simple and comprehensive. Instead of design by handheld calculators, dummy spreadsheets, AutoCAD Blocks, top-down calculations and “rule of thumb”,* PowerCalc* aggregates the load from the circuit to the service entrance of the building (bottom-up) for exacting results. No more one-off calculations, *PowerCalc* is 7 Million+ electrical equations bundled for a single integrated results. To see all the inputs/outputs: [More on NEC](https://www.powercalc.co/nec-code); [Inputs/Outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/inputs-/-outputs) Instead of using the Panel as a placeholder inputting cell-by-cell the results of manually performed calculations,* PowerCalc’s* Panel takes center stage doing all the calculations, look ups in code tables and displaying the results directly on the Panel form, instantly and accurately. All calculations and re-calculations for changes, are automatic and instant across all Panels for all electrical values in real time. More on reason [#3 PowerCalc Process.](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-3-powercalc-is-gold)   ***REASON #4: POWERCALC FOR NEC COMPLIANCE*** ![NEC](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Images/PowerCalc/NEC.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=NEC.png)*PowerCalc™* won Gold in *Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016. Let’s discuss **Reason #4** in more detail: *PowerCalc ***for NEC compliance****.    ** **Database, Database, Database - No Blanks** *PowerCalc* is smart with a proprietary database. The NEC’s 14 lookup tables in Chapter 9 and endless tables throughout its 1500+ pages are fully integrated into *PowerCalc’s* 7 million+ equations. Just 3 inputs per circuit (load kVA, type of load and #of poles) results in over 300 NEC compliant outputs. These outputs are also compliant with IEEE Standards 141, 399 as well as other applicable codes, engineering standards and NEMA Requirements. Other software programs provide a blank database form for the User to complete the values, but *not* *PowerCalc**.* Our database is *fully populated* and *fully vetted* …used to design hundreds of actually constructed projects. See our complete Inputs, Outputs and Special Features by click the following link. **[Inputs/Outputs](https://www.powercalc.co/cs/c/?cta_guid=2f110889-e93d-4eae-a793-fb197bf64cc7&placement_guid=c4830295-e349-4555-ab58-546bc5656800&portal_id=1002713&redirect_url=APefjpG2BTjUkOVrgvpcfqgHUlUS8wq_4lL68xKuk9-pOwG3yonZ2gh_LJX4-aheKjx5guNn67sk6b0ve1Crg1dUSEj_zUM7Uii12wQ8VKGQoyV6NrQaMH1biPxSKMqwnB2lHo6MhfIZVsX2sN7UoBzp6encC57nULNXqajmuSpXAenyCapKn2Eyh0r3J4X_9uGEJvgkjowmTrX_GswoWr_2TNWr4CFMkJJOrtimOYDgwsmhoS_GPlj-PPnpLfY00iL2HgrJKl_KSviDP_Q1gRA5HfC-NQ0ezQ&hsutk=e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec&canon=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.powercalc.co%2Freason-4-powercalc-is-gold&click=160fdab6-5537-41d3-b838-d5d8acd3b2ca&utm_referrer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.powercalc.co%2Fresources&pageId=4961613896&__hstc=233546881.e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec.1520988264749.1520988264749.1521072457946.2&__hssc=88032391.17.1533815260959&__hsfp=1312516030)** *PowerCalc’s* outputs are based on the *minimum *values required by the NEC and other standards. These values can be manually adjusted by the User, with the added protection of warnings flashing on the screen for errors. **Connected and Integrated** *PowerCalc’s* database and design allows for instantaneous changes. So, you know that piece of equipment added at the end of the project…no problem. Need to delete that wing of the hospital…also no problem. *PowerCalc* updates for changes instantly, seamlessly without any late nights and long weekends to get the project out the door. **What Code Requirements?** *PowerCalc* meets over 118 NEC requirements plus the other code requirements noted. 43 of these NEC requirements are exclusive to *PowerCalc*. More on reason[ #4 PowerCalc for NEC Compliance.](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-4-powercalc-is-gold)   # *REASON #5: THE POWERCALC WIZARD* ![Wizard](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Images/PowerCalc/Wizard.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=Wizard.png)**   *PowerCalc™* won Gold in *Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016. Let’s discuss **Reason #5** in more detail: ***PowerCalc’s *****Wizard.**     ### ![easy123.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/easy123.png?t=1532870566061&width=277&name=easy123.png) ### **Easy as 1, 2, 3 / No Training** ### *PowerCalc* streamlines the design process with just 3 inputs per circuit (load kVA, load type and # of poles). Our commitment to easy then goes even farther with design input simplified with Wizards. The user can elect to design using the full panel schedule or use the Wizard to pop up a circuit-by-circuit screen for input. The design process is fault proof with Wizards. This means no training, no mistakes and instant results with an even easier and faster user interface. There are 4 Wizards: (1) Panel Wizard, (2) Branch Circuit Wizard, (3) eNODE™ Wizard and (4) eRASE™ Wizard. And it is all so easy, ***no training*** is necessary!       ### **![one-line-diagram.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/one-line-diagram.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=one-line-diagram.jpg)Starting Point**  In any building, the type of power distribution depends on the building type (commercial, residential, institutional or industrial), dimension (area, height etc.), the length of supply cables, and the loads. The power distribution system can be divided into: 1. The vertical supply system: the riser diagram depicts the vertical relationship between the different components and elements of the power distribution system 2. The horizontal supply system: the electrical one line diagram depicts the horizontal relationship between the different componen ts and elements of the power distribution system. These wizards help design both the vertical and horizontal supply systems to complete the design of the power distribution system.    ### **![Reason#5_2.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Reason%235_2.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Reason%235_2.png)Panel Wizard** Set up the Panel’s Header showing its characteristics and features for population across the design. These inputs then populate the documents with this one easy step. The Panel Wizard depicts all the Fields with associated Panel values. *PowerCalc* uses these settings in the calculation of the Panel Frame, Main, and Feeder values, Branch Circuit Values, Connected and Demand Load. Note that most of these values are set on Auto. On this setting, *PowerCalc* calculates and displays the appropriate value every time a Load (Branch Circuit) is added or removed from the Panel. Each one of these Auto settings can also be manually set by the User to override the Auto setting.     **![Reason5_3.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Reason5_3.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Reason5_3.png)Branch Circuit Wizard** You can input the 3 easy inputs (load kVA, load type and # of poles) on the panel or alternatively, on the Branch Circuit Wizard. This wizard makes it even easier to track your input of these Independent Values. And while you are inputting these numbers (and *anyone* can do this typing exercise), *PowerCalc* is busy in the background calculating all Dependent Values at the same time.   **![Reason5_4.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Reason5_4.png?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Reason5_4.png)eNODE™ Wizard** The eNODE is *PowerCalc’s* traffic cop making sure that the panel voltage hierarchy, the vertical and horizontal relationship is observed. This Wizard allows the User to interface with the software database.             **![erase.png](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/erase.png?t=1532870566061&width=350&name=erase.png)eRASE™ Wizard** Last, if you want an energy saving design, the eRASE™ Wizard allows you to implement *PowerCalc’s* energy savings module with ease. More on reason[ #5 PowerCalc Wizard.](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-5-powercalc-is-gold) # ***REASON #6: POWERCALC IN THE CLOUD (ALL TOGETHER NOW)*** *![Cloud](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Pillar%20Images/PowerCalc/Cloud.png?t=1532870566061&width=550&name=Cloud.png)*   *PowerCalc™* won Gold in *Consulting-Specifying Engineer’s* annual contest for Product of the Year 2016. Let’s discuss Reason #6 in more detail: ***PowerCalc *in the Could.**       ## 1st in the Cloud: Why? *PowerCalc* is the first SaaS (software-as-a-service) electrical engineering design software in the cloud. It wasn’t easy: over 7 million equations were re-programmed in over a year of tireless work effort. The reason for all of this effort? *Being in the cloud changes everything.* 1. *No software:* no downloads/no installation/no risk to your systems 2. *Code*: compliance with instant updates and upgrades 3. *Access:* from anywhere, any device, any time 4. *Control:* over access, authorizations and responsibilities for projects 5. *Up-to-date information:* store, share and sync files for all 6. *Communication:* at all times 7. *Collaboration:* at all times 8. *Accountability:* at all times, track input and changes 9. *Same page:* for every team member 10. *All work is available:* both (i) both current and past projects and (ii) current and past codes 11. *Easy*, *easier* and *easiest* way to work *PowerCalc’s *cloud-connected platform establishes a design procedure to maximize your team’s productivity, communications and project quality. You may think that your work is organized now, but the cloud makes it fault proof. ## How it Works ## ![image #1.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Newsletter%20Images/image%20%231.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=image%20%231.jpg) When the company’s account is set up, a Group Administrator is authorized.       ![Image #2.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Newsletter%20Images/Image%20%232.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Image%20%232.jpg)The Group Administrator or the User then names a new Project or accesses an existing project and invites Users. Users are also able to create their own projects if authorized by the Group Administrator:             ![Image #3.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Newsletter%20Images/Image%20%233.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Image%20%233.jpg)The Group Administrator can add Users by simply sending an email invitation.         ![Image #4-759741-edited.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Newsletter%20Images/Image%20%234-759741-edited.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Image%20%234-759741-edited.jpg)When inviting a User, the Group Administrator assigns privileges: *Create *- User can start a project *View* – User can view a project (editing not allowed) *Print *– User can print a project *Copy* – User can copy a project *Archive* – User can archive / un-archive a project         ![Image #5-100476-edited.jpg](https://www.powercalc.co/hs-fs/hubfs/Newsletter%20Images/Image%20%235-100476-edited.jpg?t=1532870566061&width=300&name=Image%20%235-100476-edited.jpg) Once privileges are set up, then the Group Administrator assigns access by clicking the “Assign Permissions”. Users can be granted or denied access throughout the design of any project. And a User can be blocked or disabled from any work group, and even re-invited to join again. *Accountability* *is ensured*: never any question as to who is doing what, when, where and why. ## How does this help? Teams succeed with great communications and great organization. Simplifying how your team works together promotes the collaboration necessary to excel. *PowerCalc’s* cloud platform provides the method to establish work groups and responsibilities with everyone having access to what is happening. Those who “need to know” have the real time information needed to get the job done and done the right way. ## See for yourself We have just published our User Manual, so take a look for yourself to see how easy and seamlessly this process works. The cloud makes all the difference because it is the way we all get together to manage work flow in today’s work place. *PowerCalc *fits right into your process but makes your work *easier*, *faster*, *more accurate* and *more profitable*. [Download User Guide](https://www.powercalc.co/cs/c/?cta_guid=ccc3e8e8-5ac3-4d99-b7d5-3f5ed1b12952&placement_guid=bb33696a-94d1-4f6a-898d-5b71d673276e&portal_id=1002713&redirect_url=APefjpEnXJ07tFOBoD_a9fgLIRxwZ-Lv6GXeyBjLLvnt16QbA9wKk5qvbvO2OOhKfFUaHY7mUBapK0FbCePXSiiAfGtWKCxdy4AsYmSooyTONlckksnvsHok810desQlb1sPQFfBopoAj2LmGkHTmhkvIoucNEAFc-_clngpaH_5qYGlzK_9KDlzA9GR6GFP9tP5nBjHDmN-Brcg4rEgOceBIEj3IrQhMh9RvwM4X5KGr64x2wnVQPkgxe8nxfUtWRzl_qDeVjVjEDlKPiXLb6ZYQ8XHSdc_fQ&hsutk=e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec&canon=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.powercalc.co%2Freason-6-powercalc-is-gold&click=f6ad95b1-b916-45cf-81ad-8df430cf65e4&utm_referrer=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.powercalc.co%2Fresources&pageId=5064961741&__hstc=233546881.e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec.1520988264749.1520988264749.1521072457946.2&__hssc=88032391.17.1533815260959&__hsfp=1312516030)  More on reason [#6 PowerCalc in the Cloud.](https://www.powercalc.co/reason-6-powercalc-is-gold) [![New Call-to-action](https://www.powercalc.co/hubfs/hub_generated/resized/0f70aba1-dbdc-4087-94bb-a3ddfe985097.png)](https://www.powercalc.co/cs/c/?cta_guid=43ecd730-7c00-4101-bc4a-4d7d7461a684&placement_guid=0ab391e1-360e-4211-839a-cceab9a5f499&portal_id=1002713&canon=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.powercalc.co%2Fpanels-pillar&redirect_url=APefjpECFZkT3-n4hFSDCcrAVb4Y5SRn1Xo09am_ZOgU4Uj1omt8OI13Q14nJlIF1lGHPBT-zlSyuHVYZQphU23K8NrQbafyny-Hws7rIJJypzIwYcUtV67VN4_wqcGo2CSPFmeSKopX8kwJUCw_i6gBtFRaTHZLAxE3dDGnQMSlVs1Lu043GoJlbqM1Br3bT0KZSA37sxPIbzBY2cidFTh515fLbLLRXVerQNaCBoGWoMtrwedX_DqNWYI5SVmme9v5HhI7wvMVhT_XdTuKxNF5xs0L-65lP73xNuoB7lIsLFigbPKi_1A&click=cf5d8550-984b-4468-acb3-4fabf8be8092&hsutk=e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec&utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.hubspot.com%2Fcontent-detail%2F1002713%2Fsite-page%2F6051161649%2Fperformance&__hstc=233546881.e79423a1acb67bdb48496920edd96aec.1520988264749.1520988264749.1521072457946.2) 488 N. 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