Setting up the PSCAD V5 Free Edition - Using the Installer Utility
1. Introduction
The PSCAD V5 Free Edition may be run on Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11 (64-bit), with an Internet connection. The following information may be used to set up your software and licensing.
Note - PSCAD V5 is not supported on Windows 32-bit.
This article provides instructions for using the Installer Utility to install the Free Edition. Preferably, the MyUpdater deployment tool should be used instead, to ensure access to the latest version. However, the Installer Utility may be used when MyUpdater is not permitted by an organization.
The Installer Utility will install the PSCAD Free Edition, and generate an installation log file. Also, a Desktop link will be created, for launching the Free Edition.
Separate Installer Utilities may be used to install the FORTRAN compilers, which are required for building your PSCAD projects. Refer to this article for compatibility information (top paragraph) and the GFortran installers (Step 4).
2. Installing the PSCAD Free Edition
- Download the installer from this link, unzip the top-level file, called “PSCAD_Free_x64_Installer.zip”, and save the files to a folder on a local drive (e.g. desktop).
Warning
Do not unzip any of the folder sub-levels.
- Right-click on the unzipped “Installer.exe” file, and select “Run as administrator”.
When prompted by the Windows User Account Control, select "Yes" or enter your Admin login credentials, to run this installation with Windows administrator permissions. - The Installer Utility will launch, and will install the software. When done, select OK when prompted, then close the utility.
- The PSCAD Free Edition will be installed, and may be launched from the new Desktop link.
3. GFortran Compiler
If not already installed, install a supported FORTRAN compiler. Refer to Step 1 above for information on this.
Warning
After installing FORTRAN COMPILERS, ensure to restart your computer.
4. Launching the PSCAD Free Edition
Launch PSCAD using the new Desktop shortcut, "PSCAD Free (x64)".
5. Licensing the PSCAD Free Edition
Launch PSCAD, and from the Licensing menu on the right-hand side of the application, select Certificate | Acquire. If prompted, enter your MyCentre login credentials. The software should now be licensed and ready to use.
6. Testing your FORTRAN Compiler
Test your PSCAD building using the GFortran compilers as per this article.
7. Resources for Using PSCAD
This article lists some resources to assist new users to become familiar with PSCAD.
8. Troubleshooting Your Setup
If the Installer fails, please save the log file (from the “File” menu, select “Save Messages As”), and forward it to our Support Desk for assistance.
For any login issues, please refer to these articles.