Software Tools

Easy-to-use software tools dedicated to routine distribution engineering tasks, using modern graphical user interfaces, are not generally available. Much of the distribution engineering software used in the industry is older DOS-based or mainframe applications. Many have fallen into disuse because they do not meet the current expectations of ease-of-use. There are some engineering workstation software suites on the market today, but often these are quite complicated and require extensive expertise and training for their use.

To meet the need for modern engineering software tools, the DSTAR program has developed a number of applications that are designed to be used with minimal training. These applications can be easily customized to the materials and practices used by each member utility, allowing the ultimate user (for example, a design technician with limited engineering expertise) to apply the program with maximum efficiency and minimum complexity.

The samplings of software tools listed below are available to the member utilities participating in the respective DSTAR programs. These tools were developed under the guidance of the member utilities and are being used extensively within the member utility organizations:

DSTAR Transformer Owning Cost Software (TOCS)

This powerful program evaluates transformer total owning costs, including the economic effects of loading on transformer life. Hour-by-hour thermal modeling is performed. A companion application, the TOCS Optimizer, performs advanced optimization using TOCS results to specify loading ranges for transformers, optimize transformer procurement with a limited first-cost budget, and optimize transformer kVA ratings maintained in stock.

DSTAR Graphical Secondary Voltage Imbalance Calculator (GSVIC)

It is often desirable to apply transformers with unequal characteristics in a three-phase bank, construct three-phase banks with two transformers in the open delta-delta and open wye-delta configurations, or to apply unbalanced loads to three phase transformers or transformer banks. The resulting voltage imbalance can require derating of three-phase motors. The Graphic Secondary Voltage Imbalance Calculator performs these voltage imbalance calculations and determines motor derating, as well as phase voltage, currents, and transformer loading.

DSTAR Cable Electrical Parameters Software (CEPS)

The Cable Electrical Parameters Software (CEPS) provides convenient calculation of underground cable parameters. A highly graphic user interface allows easy usage. The user specifies the cable construction (conductor size, stranding, insulation parameters, neutral type and design, etc.), as well as the cable installation parameters (duct spacing, duct size, trench width, etc.), and CEPS determines a wide range of cable electrical and physical parameters, including impedance, charging current, losses, voltage regulation, short-circuit current capability, and overall dimensions. For three-phase cable runs, the program also calculates impedances where a separate neutral conductor is installed. CEPS presently covers primary cables with concentric, drain wire, tape shield, and longitudinally corrugated neutral constructions. CEPS is also capable of calculating parameters for secondary cables and three-phase PILC primary cables.

DSTAR Secondary Electrical Design Software (SEDS)

Residential secondary circuit calculations are routinely performed by designers when laying out new subdivisions. DSTAR has developed a new Secondary Electrical Design Software which allows the designer to draw in the circuit configuration with a mouse, and quickly define the transformer, cable, and load parameters. SEDS supports complex circuit configurations such as secondary mains and secondary pedestals. With the click of a tab, the designer has results for the steady-state voltage drop, voltage flicker, and short-circuit duty at each of the services, as well as coincident loadings of each secondary cable and the distribution transformer.

DSTAR Engineering Toolbox

A collection of Windows-based software tools to support routine distribution engineering operations. Included are applications for guy tension calculation, transformer loading analysis, cable pulling tensions, overhead line design (sag, blowout, loading), voltage drop and flicker analysis, and others. Stressed are user convenience and ease of customization to individual utility preferences.

In addition to the software listed above, DSTAR has been actively involved in a wide variety of projects including equipment testing, system protection, operating safety, and asset utilization.

Download More Information

• DSTAR Brochure (77KB PDF)

For More Information

To learn more about membership or DSTAR software products:

• Contact the DSTAR Program Manager