dessoft technical information (control and instrumentation)

Reg. No. CK99 2635323 � PO Box 53055 Wierdapark, 0149 www.dessoft.co.za

� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 1

Engineering Design Software

DesSoft Technical Information

DesSoft Design Engineering Software - Technical Information

Contents

DesSoft Design Engineering Software - Technical Information ............................................................................ 1

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 2

Software for the environment ................................................................................................................................. 3

Centralized data ...................................................................................................................................................... 7

Centralized drawing and other documentation store............................................................................................... 8

Hardware dependencies for the software to be installed ......................................................................................... 9

Integration into SAP ............................................................................................................................................... 9

Software Installation and Deployment ................................................................................................................... 9

Training Courses................................................................................................................................................... 11

Maintenance activities .......................................................................................................................................... 12

Software specifications ......................................................................................................................................... 13

Software Licensing Method .................................................................................................................................. 14

Specific additional propriety software detail ........................................................................................................ 15

Quality Plan .......................................................................................................................................................... 15

Risks ..................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Annexure A: DRIVE – DesSoft Radiant Impact Value Enterprise ...................................................................... 16

Drive Your Assets To Peak Performance and Drive Your Profits Up and Your Costs Down. ............................ 16

Impact Driven Asset Management ® ................................................................................................................... 16

DRIVE software ................................................................................................................................................... 16

Report Writing Features ....................................................................................................................................... 17

Annexure B: DesSoft P&ID - Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams ..................................................................... 18

Features and Benefits ............................................................................................................................................ 19

Annexure C: FDes – Fieldbus and Instrumentation Designer .............................................................................. 20

Accurate Data ....................................................................................................................................................... 20

CAD and Database Independent ........................................................................................................................... 21

Speed Tools .......................................................................................................................................................... 21

Integration to other systems .................................................................................................................................. 21

Change Control and Document Management ....................................................................................................... 21

Annexure D: EDes – Electrical Designer ............................................................................................................. 22

Accurate Data ....................................................................................................................................................... 22

CAD and Database Independent ........................................................................................................................... 22

Speed Tools - EDes is the most productive design tool with many speed data building tools like: ..................... 22

Integration to other systems .................................................................................................................................. 23

Change Control and Document Management ....................................................................................................... 23


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 2



Introduction To find a 100% engineering software solution that covers all aspects of engineering will always be a challenge. DesSoft knows of a few companies that tried to get this type of result but unfortunately attaining such a perfect solution proves elusive. There are simple reasons for it, as not all vendors managed to have a good solution in such a variety of domains. Some do have strengths in a few domains and lag in another. One of the comments that was loudly voiced in a demonstration with a few owner operators together, were the words “this software will eliminate our current bottlenecks” referring to the DesSoft Instrumentation and Electrical software, where these owner operators decided previously to have a one vendor solution. There is also the business tendency where vendors do research and development more in the software applications that generate the most income for them and that the other software applications become stagnated or lag behind in software technology and the latest plant technology. Stating the above, I would recommend that one looks at the need to go through this process to overcome their problem stated, but to also allow themselves not to be so bound by the “one vendor solution” that, in the end, they are less effective than with the current situation, as was found with the above companies mentioned. What I do understand, and I think what the solution must be, is that the solution must work from a central source and therefore the integration between applications must be the emphasis. I also want to highlight another “common mistake” that I have seen in the years. That is, that decisions are made based on the motivation of certain domains and where all do not have the insight of the other domain’s requirements. What I meant by this, is that it is a fact that in general, when looking at a project’s cost, that Civil, Process and Mechanical are 70% of the project’s costs and that Electrical and Instrumentation & Control are 30% of the costs. But when it comes to documentation produced to build and maintain the plant then the percentages are reversed. Then the Electrical and Instrumentation & Control documents are 70% of the project’s documents and the Civil, Process and Mechanical documents 30% of the project’s documents. So what happens is that the domains with the biggest budget motivates the documentation solution that is required which is very often not to the benefit of all domains. Therefore the DesSoft appeal to an engineering software solution, is to look at a total solution that will cover most of their requirements, but also have an open mind to look at an option that could complement their choice and could overcome some “bottlenecks” in the domains that produced the most documents per project.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 3



Software for the environment There are two major requirements to run a plant effectively. The first is to be able to carry design requirements and decision making information from the design phase into the maintenance phase. The second requirement is to maintain “As Built” changes for the plant drawings. In the first requirement, the problem exists that decisions made during design phase and reasons why certain equipment or material was selected, can be carried through to the maintenance phase because when the first maintenance must start, then there are often the “redesign” and “re-plan” for the equipment maintenance without all the “reasoning” available. Therefore this delay of plant maintenance and lack of knowledge in the beginning of a new plant can cause the plant not to run and be maintained at optimum level. For this DesSoft offers our DRIVE solution, that is working on the same database as the engineering design software, that can also group different engineering equipment items together to store the relevant information as well as “grouped ” information which are very often not considered during maintenance phase decision making. In the second requirement, it is found that with the current drawing office capabilities, they could keep up with the changes for Civil, Mechanical and Process documentation, but especially with Instrumentation & Control, there are always a few months delay in updating the documents, if they could keep up. If all technicians or mechanicians could have easy access from anywhere in the plant to the latest revision of a document, plant downtime can be reduced significantly. For this, DesSoft provides intelligent red-lining, through our FREE DGM viewer, that can be used from the plant SCADA or from a document management system like SAP. What this intelligent red-lining does, is the simple solution where any person that is viewing the document is then capable to red-line the document according to changes required from the breakdown. It will then connect to the central database and flag the database record for that document red. This will allow the person that is responsible to maintain the database, to easily recognize changes as well as give the supervisor a list of all changed documents in his area for example every Monday. The supervisor can then ensure that the changes are within the engineering and health and safety standards, before letting the changes be implemented in the database. A huge benefit is that the next person looking at the documents from SAP or SCADA will either see the red-lined document, or the latest revision of that document which enable confidence in the drawing system as well as enabling more efficient plant maintenance. Below is the information and technology architecture of the as-is and to-be systems.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 4



As-is architecture - DesSoft currently has 8 solutions available with some “User Tools”:

1) DRIVE – DesSoft Radiant Impact Value Enterprise: This software enables one to transfer information from design phase to maintenance phase as well as a maintenance strategy and planning software. See annexure A.

2) DesSoft P&ID: Software tool for Process Flow Diagrams (PFD) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (PID). PFD’s can be saved as PID’s where the process streams of the PFD will be saved as lines that can again be changed to pipes in the PID, allowing for HAZOP studies comments. See annexure B.

3) FDes – Fieldbus and instrumentation Designer: Creating Instrumentation documentation with “speed tools” to assist with reverse engineering and quick start of new projects. See annexure C.

4) EDes – Electrical Designer: Creating electrical low voltage diagrams, cable calculations, motor and rack calculations. See annexure D.

5) 1Des – FDes + EDes: One design tool for Instrumentation and Electrical domains where the same person is responsible for both domains.

6) 1Eng – One Engineer: Reduced functionality of the 1Des solution software to allow all the engineering functions without the detail design functionality like the wire connections for Instrumentation and Electrical domains but can do the engineering calculations and cable block diagrams and all schedules – the DesSoft internal report engine.

7) 1View – One Viewer: a document and report generator from the 1Des database using the configured drawings and reports created in FDes and EDes. Can also red-line diagrams.

8) DGM – Diagram viewer: Standalone free viewer and red-line tool for all DesSoft diagram files.

9) The EDes, FDes, 1Des and 1Eng applications have “User Tools” which integrate with different PLC systems like Allen Bradley L5K, Modicon and Mitsubishi, also SCADA systems like Wonderware Archestra, Citect and Adroit. Another user tool is the DWG tag extractor which has the capability to extract attributes defined from DWG files as well as combine certain attributes to create, for example, tag numbers. There is also a Bentley Plant synchronization tool where information from Bentley’s 3D and 2D database can be synchronized to the DesSoft applications database. This synchronization means that there is a bi-directional update and creation of records between the databases based on an ID, which enable the tool to maintain tag numbers and all different properties as the ID will not change. More of these user tools are continuously developed as client requests are received.

All the above software solutions work on the same database where the same data record is used in the other domain software where it is applicable like a motor with all its properties can be seen in the PID as well as in EDes. This means that when a tag number or a description or any property value is changed by any of the domain software systems, it will reflect immediately in the other domains software as well as on all relevant documents when viewed from the respective applications, except within the DGM viewer where the electronic file must first be updated to reflect the change. The above software is written in VB.Net and framework 4. It uses ribbon bars and an outlook type navigation bar that allows new users to quickly adapt to the software. It can create projects in MS SQL from SQL2005 to SQL2012, SQL Express and MS ACCESS for mobility purposes. MS SQL is recommended for all the software systems and for the DRIVE software it is required.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 5



All the software run on Microsoft operating systems and can run on XP, VISTA, Win7 and Win8. The software is not compatible with Win98 or other older Microsoft operating systems. All the software have a good interface with MS Excel from Excel 97 – Excel 2010, the drawing modules can open and generate DWG files without AutoCAD installed. Further, the drawing module can also produce VSD files if Visio is installed on the same computer. All deliverables, all drawing types and the different reports, can also be stored in PDF file format. The “user tools” integration to external applications (option 9 above), creates the bulk of work in these applications, like the function blocks, according to predefined templates within each application and use the same tag numbers and descriptions as defined within the DesSoft database – eliminating the “duplicate checking” between these applications. To associate external document numbers like SAP allocation number, the database document table has 2 additional drawing number columns, one for the EPC drawing number and then one for the Owner Operator drawing number for the specific reason of external document number referencing. What this means, is that the DesSoft applications can manage the document names according to defined rules, as well as the external document system’s names. In fact all tag numbers can be created according to predefined rules. These rules are by default configured according to the ISA tag naming convention, but can be altered or new ones added to the standard available rules to suit the client’s specific configuration and setup. To-be architecture - During the next year DesSoft will release the following functionality that is already in advanced development status:

1. All the DesSoft engineering applications will be in simulated Metro style, which is based on Windows8 technology and will be touch screen and tablet ready. One of the biggest advantages of the Metro style is that it reduces “screen noise” (hide all menus and buttons that are not applicable on what is open on the screen) which makes it much more user friendly as well as a shorter learning curve, as most smart phones and tablets are already working in this manner. Obviously not all the modules will be in the Metro style, like the new drawing modules, as it will remain a desktop task. Another important aspect is that the new software is Metro simulated, meaning that the software will be able to run from XP operating system to the latest Windows8 operating system.

2. Three new drawing modules will be released that are based on an enhanced drawing engine of the current DesSoft P&ID application. These drawing modules are the Network Layout, Panel Designer and Reticulation Designer.

3. There is also the new Datasheet module that will work with XLS and XLSX files without the requirement of Microsoft Office installed, similar to our current DWG module.

The new functionality that one will be able to do with the new drawing modules are:

a) Network Layout – be able to freely draw (not only semi-auto generated as in the current system) Ethernet network layouts, any fieldbus (ASI, Foundation, PROFI, etc.) networks. Any existing information like the cable numbers, tag numbers or device numbers can be dragged onto a symbol which will link the symbol to the database and from there changes can be made either in the database which will reflect on the diagram or on the diagram and it will reflect in the database and therefore to all other relevant drawings.

b) Panel Designer – will create panel general arrangement diagrams, with the benefit that the Tstrip, terminal and Panel numbers are linked to the database with the same benefit as mentioned in a) above.

c) Reticulation Designer – will add the HV (High Voltage) capability to the EDes software working on the same database structure.

With the Panel Designer one will probably be able to create a host of other drawings not mentioned which can be used within the mechanical domain.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 6



Engineering drawings domains Instrumentation: FDes – Fieldbus and Instrumentation Designer Electrical: EDes – Electrical Designer Mechanical: Possible future Panel Designer Civil: None Process: DesSoft P&ID 3D: None As already stated, DesSoft applications have a good synchronizing Integration to the Bentley PLANT 3D database as well as the integration to SCADA and PLC systems. With the above applications the software ships with built-in tag rules based on the ISA standards. The Instrumentation application has the ISA datasheet or specification sheet range in MS Excel format so that it can easily be used for purchasing purposes. Every time a datasheet is opened, the datasheet module will compare the linked Excel cells to columns in the database and display the differences, giving the user the opportunity to synchronize the information. The P&ID software has the standard set of ISA symbols that is part of the installation. The P&ID module will also align pump, nozzle, reducers (on both sides) and valve sizes according to the defined pipe sizes. The electrical software does cable calculations (cable sizing) based on the derating factors in the SABS 0142 standard criteria and according to cable lengths that can be entered manually or calculated according to the lengths defined for the rack segments in the Racking and Routing module. Through the Racking and Routing module, a proper derating value will be assigned to the cable as the worst section in the cable route, according to the defined rack segments. After the cable sizing, the rack width calculation can be run, which will also warn the user if more than the allowed filling factor is used. It will also calculate the unit weight per meter according to all the cables routed on these racks, so that the necessary support structure can be installed. EDes will also do motor sizing according to a given percentage of the absorbing power required by the process environment. Within EDes a load list will be generated that displays the diversified absorbed load per MCC, maximum demand load, average efficiency, average power factor, normal diversified load and the Running load. In all the applications, the various supplier detail information can be imported from Excel or a CSV file which can includes the costing of the various components i.e. for cables, motors, instruments, electrical devices, PLC cards, other equipment, etc. When this information is entered, proper costing reports are available for all these different components. This is especially important for the engineering houses to do accurate tenders for new projects or new extensions. There are 36 standard reports that include the above costing reports as well as the different schedules and lists like the cable schedule, I/O schedule, pipe-run list, instrument list, equipment list, motor list, etc. All these reports can be further customized by any user to suit their needs. New reports can be created and added with the built-in report designer while the systems are in use by other users, when more reports are required.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 7



Centralized data The DesSoft projects can be configured as a local project or as a server project. For centralized data, one obviously needs a central database on a server that is accessible by all client computers that need to connect to the database. All project related data is stored in the configured project database and only user specifics, like the software dialog’s window sizes and colour schemes and last opened project is stored on the local computer. All libraries and vendor standard information will be relevant to the project’s location. Libraries are standard configurations of data that can be re-used in all projects, ensuring standardization and accuracy for each project. These libraries are built during the first project and can be maintained as new equipment are introduced during a project. Typical library items are a cubicle with all the configured electrical devices with their ratings, cables with their cores and cable types, motor and its properties, document properties, etc. An advantage of having these libraries is that one can create a “design pack” to be given to any engineering group to ensure standards. This design pack will then contain the correct report layouts, the correct symbols for P&ID, correct cable, motor, PLC card, etc. configurations. It will also contain the drawing borders, and the wiring diagram layouts so that a standard can be maintained through all plants and all new extensions. If all plants can be on the same standard it will also assist with consistency and maintenance effectiveness when employees are moving between plants within the organization.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 8



Centralized drawing and other documentation store Most documents are generated from the above configured central database, except documents like PID diagrams and cable block diagrams which are drawn and information is linked to the database. All documents are saved into sub folders on the central server. These folders are domain specific and then within each domain, the specific document category and then optional per defined plant area and then further per document revision (see Fig1 below). In this figure the highlighted folders represents: Project Name (SQLDemo01) Domain name (Instrumentation – could be Electrical, PID for Process) Document category (Documents – could be Datasheets, Hookups, Reports, etc) Plant Area (Area_22 - Optional area number as defined in the document table) Revision Number (Rev_01)

Fig. 1 – Drawing and Document storing structure. Every change in the database will update the document in the “NoRev” folder until the document is revised to the next revision which will then create the new respective folder which will contain the newly revised document. With the DesSoft DGM viewer and intelligent red-lining, the red-lined document will always be in the “state” it was red-lined. This is achieved as a document gets locked and cannot be updated until it is revised again, where it will be created in a new folder again. Within the DesSoft applications one can always go to a specific revision number of a document to see what changes were applied. But for external linking like to a SCADA or SAP system, the DesSoft applications also have the capability to take the latest revision from the various folders and put it in a user configurable central document repository folder. The intelligent red-lining that flags the database will still flag the database record and ensure that the red-lined document is copied to the correct revision’s folder when it can connect to the database to find the relevant information. In other words, when the DesSoft DGM viewer is shelled from the SCADA or SAP to open and view a specific document, the above mentioned red-lining will be performed.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 9



Hardware dependencies for the software to be installed The DesSoft software uses minimal hardware resources. Below is the minimum requirements for the software to function within reasonable productivity.

1) A Pentium III, 1GHz CPU with 1GB RAM or better machine where the emphasis is on the amount of RAM. With versions of Windows later than XP, more RAM is required, up to 3GB. Today the normal entry level computers that are available is sufficient – normally better than the above mentioned.

2) A standard graphics card except when running Vista or later Windows where more graphics RAM will be required.

3) Screen resolution of 1024x768 is the minimum. Recommend 1280x1024 or better. For the person that will spend most of his day updating the DesSoft database, a secondary screen is recommended to reduce unnecessary printing of drawings and documents.

4) A Network card. For the central database, a high speed and well maintained reliable network is required.

5) For the software licensing, the DesSoft concurrent user manager needs internet access to validate available licenses on a regular (every 1 to 6 hourly - configurable) basis. If a license needs to be activated on a client machine (not server) then that computer also needs internet access for validation purposes.

6) Tablets with the windows operating system can be used for document red-lining purposes.

Integration into SAP With the current software, the integration will be via an Excel file or Text file method as well as a centralized folder sharing that contains all physical electronic documents. The free DGM viewer must be associated within SAP to open the DesSoft *.DGM files. Here I must emphasize that the intelligent red-lining from the DGM viewer, will still maintain the different revision folders as well as flagging the database record red, when the SQL database could be found (is accessible) from the machine editing the drawing. As mentioned, there is already a column in the DesSoft database document table to cater for external software naming references. SAP numbers can be used as tag numbers as well with the configurable tag rules in the DesSoft environment. With DRIVE system, SAP numbers can be selected from a drop-down box to associate a specific equipment to a specific SAP number.

Software Installation and Deployment The installation and setup of the software is a simple process consisting of the following:

a) Install the CUM – Concurrent User Manager on a central server, that has access to the internet to validate the license codes for the software.

b) From the DesSoft setup files the applications needs to be installed on each client machine that will work with the software. The software can be installed on all the client machines, more than the amount of licenses as all DesSoft licenses are by default a concurrent user license.

c) Open the software and from the “Help\Activate License”, point each client machine to the above CUM server name. This will ensure that the software is in concurrent license mode and will utilize an available license when the software is started from the client machine. If no license is available, the software will still open, but in evaluation mode. This means that the user will be able to view all information, but cannot change any information or print any documents.

d) Ensure that there is a server with MS SQL server installed that allow Windows and SQL authentication.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 10



e) For new projects from the DesSoft software, the SQL system administrator password will be required on the creation of the project, to allow the DesSoft software to create a database on the SQL server.

f) For existing projects, or projects created by another user or even an engineering group, one can add a project to the “recent project list” for the applicable user giving the entity the power to have different projects available for different users.

g) All the DesSoft applications can open the same project as defined above and therefore share the same information between the different domains.

As mentioned previously, engineering houses that are doing new projects or extending existing projects can utilize the “design pack” to ensure standards and conformity. New projects can then be “restored” to the above SQL server and the new project must be added to the “recent project list” for each required client machine. This adding to the recent project list can be done by each user as it is a simple browse to the new folder on the server and selecting the “DesSoft project configuration” file. This configuration file contains the connection string to the new database from where all the new data and documents will be visible in the software. From the more than 100 different DesSoft clients, there were only 3 that needed on-site support for the installation process, which emphasize the ease of the above mentioned procedure. The problems experienced with these 3 sites were where their servers were virtual machines and the CUM could not be seen by the client computers – network configuration problems on their IT side or where the server could not validate the license codes on the internet, again it was an IT configuration problem outside the DesSoft environment and scope. Therefore the deployment time of the software on site, will be determined by the site’s IT personnel availability and efficiency. Most support to the software is effectively and sufficiently done via telephone or email as our support team are experts on the software and understand the technical related questions. When a support query cannot be handled over the telephone, it is definitely handled via “Team Viewer”. Team Viewer is a free software system that allows one to connect to a remote computer using the internet port. It gives the user security by giving a unique password with every new session. Therefore the DesSoft support team cannot log into a client computer at any time, but only when provided the new password. The power of this solution is that it simulates a DesSoft support member being “next to” the user, and provides an immediate solution, “seeing” the problem where communication failed to describe it correctly. The above mentioned support is included in the yearly “support and upgrade” agreement and therefore at no additional cost. Obviously we still do on-site support at a callout fee, but it really happens on rare occasions, just to emphasize the effective manner of our support structure, but also the ease of use of the software. DesSoft is known in the industry for their effective support and short turn around support cycle. It is also good to note at this stage that DesSoft is continuously improving on their software for either catering for new plant technologies, new operating systems or creating more “user tools” that integrates to other software solutions. And if there is a bug, which happens although the software is diligently tested in the DesSoft environment, then it is fixed within 48 hours, unless it is something major that requires more time, which did not happen in the past 12 years. These new code or bug fixes are communicated to ALL DesSoft clients and the new software is made available on a 2 monthly basis, except in the case of a critical bug, then it is made available as soon as it is fixed. These incremental updates are obviously optional to every user, but gives the user the freedom to “grow” with the software and maintain a low learning curve as the new functions or sometimes interface changes are released. It also gives the user the feeling of more “value” for their upgrade money, to receive these updates more regularly, than only once or twice a year.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 11



Training Courses Training and how to get all the users effective AND productive on the software is always a question. The DesSoft software is also unique with the “speed tools” within the software, but if no user is aware of them or all functions available, then the software is only used at 10% of its functionality. We found that a user’s background and experience will make a big difference in the learning curve of using the software effectively. So we have a balanced course that cater for most users with their various backgrounds. Our courses are also ECSA accredited giving engineers CPD points for the engineering applications. DesSoft P&ID course: The attendee can earn 3 CPD points. Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – 4 days. Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – not required. Training of the software solution, operational – not required. Training documents to be packaged – P&ID training manual and some videos. DesSoft FDes course: The attendee can earn 4 CPD points. Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – 4 days. Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – 3 days (Optional). Training of the software solution, operational – not required. Training documents to be packaged – FDes training manual and some videos. DesSoft EDes course: The attendee can earn 4 CPD points. Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – 4 days. Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – 3 days (Optional). Training of the software solution, operational – not required. Training documents to be packaged – EDes training manual and some videos. DesSoft DRIVE course: Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – 5 days Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – not required Training of the software solution, operational – 5 days Training documents to be packaged – DRIVE training manual and IDAM manual. DesSoft 1Eng courses: Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – 3 days Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – not required Training of the software solution, operational – not required Training documents to be packaged – EDes or FDes manual and some videos. DesSoft 1View courses: Training in the use/functionality of each software solution – not required. Training in the configuration of each software and interfaces – not required Training of the software solution, operational – 1 day. DesSoft DGM viewer: - Training of the software solution, operational – 1 hour (could be done internally by the owner/operator). Specialized courses, covering specific modules in the above software: Creating Hookups, Bill of Materials – 4 Hours; Building Reports, Sub Reports, VB Scripting – 6 Hours Creating Templates, Semi-Auto, Configurations like TCD, Switch Tokens – 6 Hours; User Tools like SCADA Interface, PLC Code Generator, DWG Tag Extraction with attributes – 4 Hours; Speed Tools like Cable Block Import, Libraries, Cable Drum Allocations – 4 Hours; Building Database Queries – 4 Hours; Detail Wire Connections – 2 Hours; Defining Tag Rules – 2 Hours; Racking & Routing, Cable Calculations – 2 Hours; Intelligent Datasheets, Other Documents, Bulk Building of aforementioned, Additional Tables – 4 Hours


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 12



Maintenance activities The DesSoft propriety documents have the intelligent DGM viewer red-lining, and when implemented on SAP and SCADA, will ensure maintained diagrams which are always a headache to overcome. This free viewer can be used by the majority users for their day to day drawing tasks. The application responsible person, will then see the red marked records and can maintain the database accordingly after adhering to safety and engineering standards. For changes to applications, requests can be logged with the DesSoft support team and new releases will be available as stated above. For changes to reports or additional reporting and analysis, the user can maintain and create these without the involvement of a DesSoft resource, however DesSoft does provide a “service” to its clients where a 3 yearly contract can be signed, where DesSoft will maintain these types of changes as required. As already explained regarding software updates, these updates are for FREE with a nominal software upgrade and support agreement. The support agreement covers all telephonic and electronic support, including the team viewer sessions, but callouts to site will be charged at the going callout fee and traveling costs. Note that through all the version upgrades, from version V1.0 to the current version V4.3 there were NO DATA CONVERSIONS required and one could open a V1 project with V4 and visa versa. Obviously the earlier versions could not perform the same functionality, but the data integrity was maintained.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 13



Software specifications The software packages are defined above with the respective details in the attached annexures as defined. Here is an overview matrix of the modules in the various applications, the P&ID and DRIVE systems are not included as they do have other specific functions as per annexure. Note that when buying an application like e.g. FDes, then all the modules for that application are included in the price, therefore no hidden costs or additional cost per application license but only the possibility of more licenses required.

DesSoft Applications

Modules 1View 1Eng FDes EDes 1Des Description

Project Explorer x x x x x Open, Create or Delete Projects (1View can only open)

Elect - Documents x x x Electrical drawings in DGM or DWG formats

Instr - Documents x x x Instrumentation drawings in DGM or DWG formats

Elect - Reports x x x x Electrical lists like Motor, Cable, Load, All Costing, etc.

Instr - Reports x x x x Instrumentation lists like Instrument, Cable, I/O, All Costing, etc.

Elect - Components x x x Electrical Components like MCC, Cubicles, Panels, etc.

Instr - Components x x x Instrumentation Components like Loops, Panels, etc.

Elect - Datasheets x x x Electrical Datasheets in MS Excel

Instr - Datasheets x x x Instrumentation Datasheets (48 ISA standards) in MS Excel

Block Connect x x x x Cable Block Diagrams - Allocations of cables to components

Tables x x x x Spreadsheet view of the database with multi column filters

Queries x x x x Spreadsheet view of a combination of tables with multi column filters

Card Connect x x Allocation of Instrument Tag numbers to Soft addresses

Detail Connect x x x Allocation of cores to terminals – detail wiring

Racking & Routing x x x Route cables on cable racks and calculate cable lengths, rack widths, etc.

Template Editor x x x Create and modify DGM templates

Fieldbus Designer x x Create and modify Network Layouts

Hookups x x x Creating hookups and get a Bill Of Material for all parts used.

Other Excel Documents x x x Link other Excel documents to database like Loop check, Cubicle check sheets.

Allocate Bus Devices x x Allocate Fieldbus devices to Soft address segments

Cable Drum Allocations x x x Allocate cables to Cable Drums per cable type

Utensils x x Utensil diagrams for light fittings, switches, plugs and get Bill Of Material

Motor Calculations x x Electrical Motor Load calculations

Cable Calculations x x Cable Sizing Calculations

User Tools 1View 1Eng FDes EDes 1Des

P&ID Tag Extraction x x x x Extract tag numbers from DWG file when defined with attributes

P&ID DB Synchronize x x x x Link to a P&ID database and synchronize changes.

ArchestrA Galaxy Builder x x x x Build Galaxy import file, to generate SCADA and view DesSoft drawings

Unity XPG Builder x x x x Build Unity program code from XPG templates like AI, Motor drive blocks, etc.

Other Interfaces x x x x More interfaces to other similar systems like Alan Bradley L5K, Modicon UAG, etc.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 14



Software Licensing Method All DesSoft software licenses are by default concurrent at no additional costs. Further are the licenses web based empowering the user to manage the licenses effectively and allowing them to move licenses to laptops or specific desktops (workstations) for a specific time period for specific requirements like commissioning, etc. These time periods can be from a day to a week to a month to a year or longer. It is all controlled by the onsite DesSoft software administrator. This means that any license can be used or configured to be a concurrent user license or a local license dedicated to a machine.

This is achievable through the DesSoft unique client ID and password that will be issued to the client’s software administrator. These details can be used to login to the DesSoft website’s Client Zone from where these licenses are managed. One code can be generated for all licenses that are selected and where the administrator would like to activate on his DesSoft license Concurrent User Manager (CUM). Lastly but not recommendable and in very rare situations, do we offer a hardware dongle at an additional cost, when required. Note that with a hardware dongle, the owner/operator or entity would require insurance for the amount of licenses on the dongle in case of the dongle lost, damage, theft, etc. as those licenses will have to be replaced through re-purchasing of the same amount and type of licenses.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 15



Specific additional propriety software detail With the current software, any MS Office from version 97 to 2010 is required for our datasheets and other Excel documents modules. As already explained, the new software will have its own xls and xlsx file reader and updater without the requirement of Office installed. There is no other software needed for the databases or DWG file viewer or updater. DesSoft has a good interface to the Bentley PLANT database, the Bentley 3D, civil and mechanical software and DesSoft is always open to create other interfaces to any other database drawing system that is a preference in such a way that the full complement of deliverables is achieved.

Quality Plan DesSoft always welcomes any reviews and advice on how we can improve our software as we know that it is “out there” where the requirements are developed. As mentioned, there is on a regular basis new updates of the software to make small change increments, that also assists with less risk and better quality delivered. All changes to the software are tested according to the DesSoft software testing schedule and based on a test database project with all known variations of normal operations. If it is a specific request by a user, then that user will get a pre-release of the software to also test in their environment and to confirm that the development was according to everybody’s understanding. Only then become the pre-release an official release available to all valid subscribers. DesSoft continuously develop functionality and quality of all their products.

Risks The known environmental constraint is that the software needs internet access to validate its web-based licensing method. A proper project scope needs to be identified as specified in the “detailed scope” above as well as the possible integration requirement to other vendor software. The size of the Company DesSoft can be seen as risk. At DesSoft we are confronted with this “risk problem” for the past 13 years. DesSoft exists now longer than the developers’ predecessor companies, Picom and Rebis together. Rebis had a presence in more than 50 countries when they were bought out by Bentley. All I can add to this is that DesSoft is constantly growing and is passionate about their software for the various domains, DesSoft exists now for 13 years, knows this specialized industry with a good reputation.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 16



Annexure A: DRIVE – DesSoft Radiant Impact Value Enterprise Software developed by DesSoft in conjunction with the company Radiant that has many years’ experience in asset management and plant maintenance and whom has developed the IDAM concept.

Drive Your Assets To Peak Performance and Drive Your Profits Up and Your Costs Down. The ideal position for any business to be in, is when it is making the maximum desired production with the minimum expense and when it is doing this on a sustained basis. This position is called Peak and it is here that the business generates maximum profit. Peak performance can only be achieved if the assets that are used to produce the product are operating at Peak performance levels. Enabling these assets to do so thus becomes of crucial concern. Radiant Operations International (Radiant) offers a powerful solution to this matter in the form of Impact Driven Asset Management (IDAM).

Impact Driven Asset Management ® The purpose of Impact Driven Asset Management ® (IDAM) is to provide an asset management program which will ensure that the business’ plant and machinery will perform at Peak performance levels. It is here that the plant and machines will operate reliably and efficiently on a sustained basis. The IDAM process is a structured process that follows a predetermined set of steps which are designed to guide the development of the desired machine asset management program. The outcome of the process is an asset management program for the plant and machinery in question. The program will be: Technically accurate, Comprehensive and Efficient.

DRIVE software A software application has been compiled to achieve this objective and is known as The DRIVE software application thus forms the vehicle for the development and operation of the asset management program which is established by the IDAM process. The DRIVE application facilitates the creation of the following core processes:

• The Machine Map • The Machine Hierarchy • The Machine Demand • The Machine Supply

DRIVE has a flexible, powerful capability which makes it possible to present the outcome of the IDAM process in a variety of formats.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 17



Report Writing Features The application is based on a SQL data basis and this provides the program with comprehensive data manipulation techniques. The functionality of DRIVE goes far beyond the ability to create maintenance programs for machines and equipment. It is a comprehensive tool designed to manage a wide range of asset management aspects. These include the following:

• Machine related technical information - Accessing and storage of such information. • Machine performance information - Condition of machines, operational performance. • Task Instructions - These include inspection tasks and job tasks. • Scheduling - Human resources, tasks and events. • Know how - Capturing, formulating and conveying. • Real time control systems interaction - DRIVE ties into existing control systems such as SCADA’s. • Condition Monitoring - Seamless linking to data and reports.

DRIVE is suitable for use during the project phase of a new production facility as well as during the operational or Use phase. Benefits Invariably DRIVE provides significant, on-going, benefits to a client in a very short space of time.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 18



Annexure B: DesSoft P&ID - Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams

DesSoft P&ID is database linked (intelligent) P&ID for bi-directional data to DesSoft’s Instrumentation (FDes) and Electrical (EDes) applications. Change data in one place and all documents in the various domains are updated. By thinking differently, and doing things such as PI&D drawings in new ways, one can remove bottlenecks and existing frustrations. So as to be able to focus on other new challenges at hand. Emergency Shut Down (ESD) matrix can be configured with all its trip causes and effects when selecting the special ESD symbol on the P&ID Diagram. Using the P&ID Comments one can create valuable notes during HAZOP studies. One can create your own library in the Symbol Library for grouping of symbols, as well as easily adding own defined symbols. Some Core Features:

• Multiple Document Interface with Dockable Windows • Anchored Pipes for Fast Rearrangement of Diagrams • Built-In Report Designer • P&ID Symbols Link to Database • Email Notification of Added Equipment • Direct Link between Process, Electrical and Instrumentation Departments – same database record.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 19



Features and Benefits The data properties of any Tag Number are visible when clicking on the intelligent symbol or by selecting the item in the Tag List. When changing any properties all information is saved to the database and is immediately available in the other DesSoft applications. Multiple Document Interface - Open the Tag List, Diagram List, Symbol library, other P&ID Diagrams, etc. Anytime intelligence - Linking drawing objects (symbols) to database records with a simple drag drop at any stage of the project. Anchored Pipes - Remain connected when moving equipment on the diagram. Auto pipe numbering - According to Configurable rule. Pipe-run reporting as well as equipment lists and other reports. Nozzle, reducer, valve and motor size calculation according to pipe size. Equipment, instrument, valve, nozzle, count per P&ID drawing (Bill of Material ). Easy creation of symbols to add the existing ISA Symbol Library . Total integration to DesSoft’s Electrical and Instrumentation (1Des) design documentation software. Auto-updated Annotations for any equipment on P&ID. Auto-updated Equipment List on the P&I Diagram. Grouping of drawing objects to keep them together while manipulating the diagram. All documents are stored in their own revision folder – can always look at another revision at any time. DesSoft P&ID can also maintain its documents in a central document repository folder that will contain only the latest document’s revision from the separate folders. This repository folder can be used then by a 3rd party document management system.


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 20



Annexure C: FDes – Fieldbus and Instrumentation Designer

FDes is a powerful design tool that is user friendly but also customizable to suit your specific requirements and produces a multitude of documents with a click of a button. Documents like:

• Instrument Lists • Document Register • Cable Schedule • I/O Schedule • Card Layouts • Rack Schedule • Cable Routes

• Datasheets • Hookups • Bill of Material for Hookups • Fieldbus Network Layouts • Cable Block Diagrams • Termination Connection Diagrams • Loop Connection Diagrams

Accurate Data FDes is a relational database system that ensures accurate data entry from where all documents are generated. This means that data lives in ONE place and changes only have to be made in ONE place and all documents will be correctly updated.

• Multiple Document

Interface

• Open Architecture

• Office 2010 Look

• Dockable Windows

Costing Reports like:

• Instrument Costs

• Cable Costs

• PLC Card Costs

Calculations like:

• Cable Length Calculations

• Rack Used Width Calculations

• Rack Weight per unit Calculations


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 21



CAD and Database Independent FDes has an internal drawing editor that save documents in DGM format but can also save all DGM documents as DWG or PDF formats without the requirement of any additional software installed. FDes can connect to Microsoft ACCESS or SQL databases as required, changes can be made to the table without the requirement of the above software installed.

Speed Tools FDes is the most productive design tool with many speed data building tools like:

• Bulk Datasheets • Bulk Loop Builder • Bulk Document Builder for Loops and Panels • Bus Device Association • Cable Drum Allocation • Apart from the normal table import tools, Bulk import tools for multiple tables • Bulk assignment of Manufacturer Standards for Motors, Instruments, Cables, etc. using drag-drop

capabilities • Bulk rebuild of Tstrip terminals, Cable cores, Tag numbers, etc.

FDes also has a spreadsheet view of all tables to do bulk update or viewing of information. These spreadsheet views also have multi column filtering methods as well as the capability to sort on any field by only clicking on the field’s header or the field’s name.

Integration to other systems Data in all tables can be exported to various formats like XLS, CSV, TXT, etc to enable other software systems to re-use the same data like the PLC/DCS, SCADA, etc. systems. Data in these formats can also be imported to either add more data records or to update existing data records. FDes is totally integrated with DesSoft P&ID software but also provides a P&ID tag extraction tool to gather information from DWG files and import it into the 1Des database. With MAPS-1Eng, imported information is built into the 1Des database, Adroit SCADA images are created as well as Mitsubishi PLC function blocks are defined and ready to use. A Wonderware Galaxy Model builder as well as Schneider’s Unity software, Allan Bradley L5K Builder interface files can be generated from the 1Des database.

Change Control and Document Management All FDes documents like the connection diagrams, datasheets, reports, etc. are saved in their respective revision folders so that all previous revisions can still be viewed. By using the Update Repository button, all the above documents latest revisions are copied into one central repository folder anywhere on your network as specified. Three Access Levels to a project are allowed namely Guest, Designer and Administrator level. Change Control can be switched on at any stage of the project phase and will start monitoring any changes or additions made to the specified fields and will save the date, the old and new values, the table name as well as the logged-in name. A FREE DGM viewer is provided with red-line capabilities that will also FLAG the 1Des database document record red when the changes are saved, to complete the document maintenance cycle. The above features makes the FDes application FAR MORE than just a drawing tool...


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 22



Annexure D: EDes – Electrical Designer EDes is a powerful design tool that is user friendly but also customizable to suit your specific requirements and produces a multitude of documents with a click of a button. Documents like:

• Motor and MCC Load Lists • Document Register • Cable Schedule • I/O Schedule • Card Layouts • Rack Schedule • Cable Routes • Datasheets • Hookups • Bill of Material for Hookups • Cable Block Diagrams • Termination Connection Diagrams • Motor Schematic Diagrams • Single Line Diagrams • MCC Load lists

Accurate Data EDes is a relational database system that ensures accurate data entry from where all documents are generated. This means that data lives in ONE place and changes only have to be made in ONE place and all documents will be correctly updated.

CAD and Database Independent EDes has an internal drawing editor that save documents in DGM format but can also save all DGM documents as DWG or PDF formats without the requirement of any additional software installed. EDes can connect to Microsoft ACCESS or SQL databases as required, changes can be made to the table without the requirement of the above software installed.

Speed Tools - EDes is the most productive design tool with many speed data building tools like:

• Bulk Datasheets • Bulk Document Builder for Loops and Panels • Cable Drum Allocation • Apart from the normal table import tools, Bulk import tools for multiple tables • Bulk assignment of Manufacturer Standards for Motors, Cables, etc. using drag-drop capabilities • Bulk rebuild of Tstrip terminals, Cable cores, Tag numbers, etc.

EDes also has a spreadsheet view of all tables to do bulk update or viewing of information. These spreadsheet views also have multi column filtering methods as well as the capability to sort on any field by only clicking on the field’s header or the field’s name.

Costing Reports like:

• Motor Costs

• Cable Costs

• Electrical Device Costs

• PLC Card Costs

Calculations like:

• Cable Length Calculations

• Rack Used Width Calculations

• Rack Weight per unit Calculations

• Motor Sizing

• Cable Sizing

• MCC Load Calculations


� +27 12 644-2974 � +27 12 644-2497

pg. 23



Integration to other systems Data in all tables can be exported to various formats like XLS, CSV, TXT, etc to enable other software systems to re-use the same data like the PLC/DCS, SCADA, etc systems. Data in these formats can also be imported to either add more data records or to update existing data records. EDes is totally integrated with DesSoft P&ID software but also provides a P&ID tag extraction tool to gather information from DWG files and import it into the 1Des database. With MAPS-1Eng, imported information is built into the 1Des database, Adroit SCADA images are created as well as Mitsubishi PLC function blocks are defined and ready to use. A Wonderware Galaxy Model builder as well as Schneider’s Unity software, Allan Bradley L5K Builder interface files can be generated from the 1Des database.

Change Control and Document Management All EDes documents like the motor schematics, connection diagrams, datasheets, reports, etc. are saved in their respective revision folders so that all previous revisions can still be viewed. By using the Update Repository button, all the above documents latest revisions are copied into one central repository folder anywhere on your network as specified. Three Access Levels to a project are allowed namely Guest, Designer and Administrator level. Change Control can be switched on at any stage of the project phase and will start monitoring any changes or additions made to the specified fields and will save the date, the old and new values, the table name as well as the logged-in name. A FREE DGM viewer is provided with red-line capabilities that will also FLAG the 1Des database document record red when the changes are saved, to complete the document maintenance cycle. The above features makes the EDes application FAR MORE than just a drawing tool...

dessoft technical information (control and instrumentation)

Technology

drive software

software installation

software specifications

software licensing method

engineering design softwarereg

annexure c

annexure b

annexure d