Volts Software

[HarlanT]

Hello,

Does anyone have an opinion on the software package called "Volts".

Harlan

 

[dpc]

I've only played with an evaluation version. The interface is nice, but the analysis seems pretty limited. If all you are doing is light commercial type work, or limited 480 V work, it could be useful.

 

[HarlanT]

I did not notice that it is limited to 480 VAC, thats a pretty big limitation

 

[snorks]

I have been using Volts for a number of years and I can't believe the threads on this post.

Volts supports voltages up to 35,000 not 480. It can handle the most complex industrial project supporting switchboards, MDPs, 3 levels of feeder panels and sub panels. It is currently being used in oil fields, large and small industrial facilities, large and small commerical facilities, casinos, etc.

Volts just finished the Miami Airport and is now starting the Port of Miami. Volts was used to setup the military installations in Iraq and Afganistan. Volts sets up NASA sites. And the list goes on and on.

I think it would be better to contact Dolphins Software for complete and accurate information.

http://www.dolphins-software.com

 

[acvolts]

I use VOLTS on a daily basis and there are no limitations with voltage, i.e., maximum 480V. If fact VOLTS accommodates voltages and frequency requirements across the world AC or DC. VOLTS also includes a comprehensive cables and conductors database which includes DC resistance values, AC impedance values and AC reactance values. Voltage drop calculations are performed to the IEEE Std 141 Exact Formulae. VOLTS also performs NEC load calculations, voltage drop analysis, series voltage drop analysis, raceway fill calculations, automatic generation of panel schedules, one-line riser diagrams, material lists, DXF export of reports and schedules into AutoCAD, etc. – the list goes on. I am unaware of any limitations with the software program other than its inability to perform short circuit calculations and arc flash analysis.

 

[snorks]

I been thinking a bit about how you all could possibly think that Volts only supports up to 480 volts. I think it comes from entering device voltages over 480v while using a conductor. Conductors are only able to handle 600v and less. You need to select Cable from the Conductor Type, the select a type MV or other cable type that supports the higher voltages. Then you'll find that Volts' only limitation is your imagination on how to take advantage of the program's powerful worksheet.

 

[dpc]

snorks,

As I mentioned my experience was limited to a eval version from a couple of years ago.

My impression was that it was better suited to 480V and lower systems. It seemed that was where the program's emphasis and focus was.

My standard advice to anyone considering a major software purchase is to get an eval or demo version of all programs under consideration and do a comparison based on the tasks and systems you want to use it for. This is generally much more useful than trying to compare features listed in brochures.

Cheers,

Dave

 

[snorks]

Hi Dave,

One additional closing comment.

I am a member of Volts' development team. We have been constantly increasing Volts' abilities and features with both the customer's and our own ideas and needs. With that Volts can handle any task inclusive of fiber optic fills with any application inclusive of even ship building. I must say that it is a pleasure to be associated with a customer driven company that responds rapidly (usually within a day for additions or modifications) that does not out source.

Also, when evaluating a complex software package like Volts it is a far better idea to contact the developers with any questions or observations before drawing any conclusions. I think you already know the story about assuming...

 

[jraef]

I have been using Volts for a number of years and I can't believe the threads on this post.

I am a member of Volts' development team. We have been constantly increasing Volts' abilities and features with both the customer's and our own ideas and needs.

Hmm... a bit disingenuous don't you think? First you imply that you are a user, then later admit you are an employee. But I'll hand it to you for coming clean. A lot of us work for manufacturers but endeavor to keep our biases out of the forum, or state up front that we are posting on behalf of our employer. I recommend you follow that guideline in the future.

 

[thewellguy]

Snorks, Aren't you being just a little rough on a guy who openly stated that he didn't have alot of experience with it and that the program may be useful?

 

[bjenks]

I have AutoCAD Building Systems 2007 and SKM PowerTools. I have a sophisticated Excel spreadsheet That does all my motor centers, up to 10 subpanels scedules and the MDP, and service entrance calculations. It also does voltage drop and determines the conduit size and conductor size. It does every type of load calculation and bases it on building type ( I can even tell it to consider Noncoincident Loads) . After all calculations are done I have a sheet for each panel that I send to autoCad. The problem is that the spreadsheet has gotten so complicated and the formulas so long I now have to come up with another solution. ABS and SKM have very limited capabilities for this type of stuff. What is everyone else using? Is there something commercially available that will get updated with each NEC update? I wasn't sure if VOLTs is what I am looking for so I was wonder what the other electrical engineers are doing. VOLTs reminded me of something a electrical contractor would use, but maybe I am wrong.