Version PLS-CADD/LITE -Software Tailored for the Quick Modeling

PLS-CADD/LITE is a streamlined version of PLS-CADD used to quickly model a few spans. Developed specifically for Joint-Use type applications, PLS-CADD/LITE is the ideal tool for quick sag-tension, clearance and loads calculations. While the program can be used in stand-alone mode, it can also be combined with our PLS-POLE program to provide the ultimate Joint-Use structural analysis system.

Our goal in developing LITE was to provide a tool that lets you model simple systems of a couple spans as quickly and as simply as possible. Each wire in LITE is represented by a single row of input data. This row defines the span's end points and wire tension. The interface is flexible and allows definition of span geometry by the coordinates of its attachment points or by span length and bearing. Likewise, the program gives a range of options for sagging the wire including input of tension, catenary constant, sag, or entry of coordinates of a surveyed point on the wire. A wizard interface walks you through the process of creating your model. This wizard can link to the Wood Pole Wizard in PLS-POLE to provide a seamless experience creating not only the wires, but also the structure that supports them.

PLS-CADD/LITE uses the same cable libraries and engineering criteria as the full version of PLS-CADD. It also shares many of the same proven calculation routines. Its streamlined interface does away with the need for the terrain and structure modeling in the full version of PLS-CADD (see a table comparing PLS-CADD editions).

Many clients ask whether PLS-CADD/LITE or SAGSEC is better suited for solving a certain kind of problem. The following chart should help you decide which program will best meet your needs.

• Models up to 60 wires fanning out in all directions

• Built-in sag-tension calculations

• Galloping ellipses

• IEEE 738 and Cigre Brochure 207 thermal rating calculations

• Structure loading calculations

• Clearances between wires and crossing spans

• Check clearances between conductors and structures (including guy wires)

• Powerful 3D graphics to let you visualize your work

• Option to string wires to and develop loads for PLS-CADD, PLS-POLE and TOWER structures

• Span geometry entered using your choice of:

  • X, Y and Z coordinates of attachment points

  • Span bearing, length and change in elevation

  • Span bearing, wind span and weight span

• Wire tension entered using one of following:

  • Tension

  • Catenary constant

  • Mid span sag

  • X, Y and Z of point on wire

  • Automatic sagging criteria (% of RTS)

• A Microsoft Windows 10 or 11 (x64) environment that lets you:

  • Run on powerful yet inexpensive computers

  • Use the most common graphical user interface (GUI) in the world

  • Print reports and plot drawings directly on any Windows compatible printer or plotter

• A simple system for strength and clearance design criteria that lets you specify:

  • Weather cases with individual wind, ice, temperature, and reliability adjustments

  • Load factors for checking the strength of structures

  • Cable conditions (Initial, after Creep or after Heavy load)