V5 Features

PRSIM™ (Power System Importer) - Included in Enhanced Package

The PRSIM application is available in the enhanced package and allows users to convert standard PSSE or PowerFactory network data to PSCAD with minimal time and effort.

PRSIM.png (154 KB)

  • Convert PSS/E and PowerFactory data files to PSCAD V5.0 and V4.6

  • Import detailed dynamic data

  • Import sequence data

  • Import location data for automatic schematic expansion

  • Form network equivalents for unexpanded segments of the network

  • Re-initialize previously generated PSCAD projects

PSCAD Initializer

An Electro Magnetic Transient (EMT) program such as PSCAD simulates the behaviour of a power system network after a disturbance, such as a fault or a circuit breaker operation. During this short period, the system gradually changes from one steady-state behaviour to another.

The purpose of the PSCAD Initializer is to set up the proper power flow conditions (e.g. correct voltage and angles at buses, active, reactive power flows between buses, etc.) prior to the disturbance. This involves a solution to the power flow equations and setting up the correct parameters of generators, sources in PSCAD, etc.

Please note that the PSCAD Initializer is a separately licensed product that is included with the purchase of PSCAD.

Initializer.png (370 KB)

Automation: Embedded Python Scripting With Recording

Automation of the PSCAD application, utilizing custom-made Python language scripts, was first introduced in v4.6.1. It included commands to launch the software, load and run simulations, change parameters, and analyze data, among many others. Installed as standalone software, an automation controller library was bound to other Python scripting libraries, to achieve control over application-level features through an automation interface (part of PSCAD).

In V5, automation utilizing the Python script language is embedded directly into the software and is included with the installation of PSCAD.

Screen Shot 2020-07-22 at 10.42.21 AM.png (70 KB)

Now users can maintain their scripts from within PSCAD, using a new Script pane, from which custom scripts may be recorded, edited or launched.

Screen Shot 2020-07-22 at 10.42.48 AM.png (72 KB)

 

Modified, Augmented Nodal Analysis (MANA) in EMTDC

Modified Augmented Nodal Analysis is an extension of nodal analysis which not only determines the circuit’s node voltages but some branch currents. This helps to mitigate some of the problems in classical nodal analysis, such as the difficulty of representing dependent sources.

Dependent source models are now included as a part of the master library. The solution automatically uses the MANA algorithm if dependent source models are included in the simulation.

KLU Sparsity Algorithm in EMTDC

KLU is a software package for solving sparse linear systems of equations that arise in circuit simulation applications. It relies on a permutation to Block Triangular Form (BTF), several methods for finding a fill-reducing ordering (variants of approximate minimum degree and nested dissection), and a sparse left-looking LU factorization algorithm to factorize each block.

EMTDC now uses KLU algorithm for larger subsystems. The default matrix size where KLU comes into solving the equations can be set by the user.

New Master Library Models

MMC Model Library:

PSCAD V5 includes a library of Modular Multilevel Converter (MMC) component models.

  • Full-Bridge Cell:

This component models a multi-valve, full-bridge MMC with Thévenin equivalent circuits, which effectively increases the computational efficiency.

full-bridge cell.png (5 KB)

  • Half-Bridge Cell:

This component models a multi-valve, half-bridge MMC with Thévenin equivalent circuits, which effectively increases the computational efficiency.

Half-Bridge Cell.png (5 KB)

  • Firing Signal Generator for MMC Full-Bridge:

This component generates firing signals to full-bridge cells based on the capacitor voltage balancing algorithm.

Firing signal.png (6 KB)

  • Firing Signal Generator for MMC Half-Bridge:

This component generates firing signals for half-bridge cells, based on the capacitor voltage balancing algorithm.

Firing signal half.png (12 KB)

  • Multi-Dimensional Comparator:

This component compares modulating waves against carrier waves generated by Carrier Signal Generator, and outputs control signals to MMC cells.

Multi-dimensional Comparator.png (10 KB)

  • Carrier Signal Generator:

This component generates a vector of PWM carrier signals for a specified fundamental frequency.

Carrier signal Generator.png (12 KB)

Single-Phase Induction Machine:

This component models a single-phase induction motor.

Single-phase induction machine.png (8 KB)

Z-Domain (Discretized) Controls:

A library of eight, commonly used controls components are included in the master library. These include: Delay, Derivative, Differential Pole, Integrator, Lead-Lag Pole, Transfer Function, PI Controller and Real Pole.

z-domain controls.png (13 KB)

1-Phase, Multi-Winding (5-12), Transformer:

This component models a single-phase, ideal transformer that can be configured to model from 5-12 windings. Options are provided to enable a simple saturation model on a user-selected winding, as well as for adding a tap changer.

1-phase.png (19 KB)

3/5-Limb, Duality-Based Transformer:

This component represents a mode of a 3-phase, 2-winding transformer, based on the principle of duality. It can be used to model a multi-limb transformer or a bank of single-phase transformers. Several methods of entering transformer core, nonlinearity parameters are available. Optional stray capacitances are also available.

3:5 limb.png (15 KB)

Hysteresis Reactor:

This component models a hysteresis reactor. It can be connected to a single-phase or 3-phase node.

Hysteresis.png (1 KB)

3-Phase Current Source:

This component models a 3-phase, positive-sequence, ideal AC current source.

3-phase.png (1 KB)

Dependent Sources:


PSCAD V5 includes a collection of dependent source component models.

  • Current Dependent Current Source:

This component models a single-phase or three-phase scalable current dependent current source.

current dependant.png (2 KB)

  • Voltage Dependent Current Source:

This component models a single-phase or three-phase scalable voltage-dependent current source.

Voltage dependent.png (2 KB)

  • Voltage Dependent Voltage Source:

This component models a single phase or three-phase scalable voltage dependent voltage source.

voltage dependent voltage source.png (2 KB)

  • Ideal Ratio Changer:

This component models a single phase or three-phase scalable ideal ratio changer (i.e. a combination of voltage dependent voltage source and a current dependent current source).

ideal ratio changer.png (3 KB)

IEEE Standard 421.5-2016 AC Exciters:

The collection of AC Exciters in the master library have been updated from the previous 1992, to the revised 2016 IEEE standard. Includes AC1C, AC2C, AC3C, AC4C, AC5C, AC6C, AC7C, AC8C, AC9C, AC10C and AC11C models.

AC exciters.png (32 KB)

IEEE Standard 421.5-2016 DC Exciters:

The collection of DC Exciters in the master library have been updated from the previous 1992, to the revised 2016 IEEE standard. Includes DC1C, DC2C, DC3A and DC4C models.

DC exciters.png (15 KB)

IEEE Standard 421.5-2016 Static Exciters:

The collection of Static Exciters in the master library have been updated from the previous 1992, to the revised 2016 IEEE standard. Includes ST1C, ST2C, ST3C, ST4C, ST5C, ST6C, ST7C, ST8C, ST9C and ST10C models.

Static exciters.png (24 KB)

Individually Configurable, Delta-Connected Load:

This component models a delta-connected load. Each branch can be individually selected to be any series combination of R, L and C elements, or as an open branch.

Delta-connected load.png (4 KB)

Individually Configurable, Delta-Connected, 3-Branch Load:

This component models a delta-connected load. Each leg is a combination of two, parallel branches in series with another branch. Each branch can be individually selected to be any series combination of R, L and C elements, or as an open or shorted branch.

3-branch load.png (1 KB)

Individually Configurable, Y-Connected Load:

This component models a Y-connected load. Each branch can be individually selected to be any series combination of R, L and C elements, or as an open or shorted branch.

y-connected load.png (3 KB)

Individually Configurable, Y-Connected, 3-Branch Load:

This component models a Y-connected load with a neutral connection. Each leg is a combination of two, parallel branches in series with another branch. Each branch can be individually selected to be any series combination of R, L and C elements, or as an open or shorted branch.

Individually Configurable, Y-Connected, 3-Branch Load.png (2 KB)

Per-Unit Impedance Branch:

This component models a 3-phase passive branch of R, L and C elements. Parameters are entered as per-unit impedances, based on specified base values.

Per-Unit Impedance Branch.png (985 b)

Isolation Switch:

This component models an isolation switch for electric circuits. The status of the switch can not be changed during the run. The switch is modelled as an infinite or zero impedance branch.

Isolation Switch.png (743 b)

TRV Envelope Generator:

This component generates standardized Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) curves and outputs violations when the input voltage exceeds the envelope. This is a simplified approach to determining whether a breaker will restrike after a current interruption.

TRV Envelope Generator.png (5 KB)

Harmonic Signal Generator:

This component generates a signal composed of user-defined harmonics of varying magnitudes and phases. Harmonic numbers and associated peak magnitudes and phases can be input through ports as an array signal. Alternatively, the user can specify them from a file.

Harmonic Signal Generator.png (10 KB)

Pick-Up, Drop-Out Timer:

This component models a pick-up, drop-out timer.

Pick-Up, Drop-Out Timer.png (2 KB)

Clark/Inverse Clark Transform:

This component performs Clarke or Inverse Clarke transformation.

Clark:Inverse Clark Transform.png (4 KB)

Change Detector:

This component detects changes in the input. The output is 1 if a change is detected, otherwise it is 0.

Change Detector.png (5 KB)

Dead-Band Controller:

This component models a dead-band controller.

Dead-Band Controller.png (1 KB)

Scale Changer:

This component does a linear transformation of the input signal in y = mx + c form.

Scale Changer.png (1 KB)

Discretizer:

This component discretizes the input signal, from a specified range to a different discretized range.

Discretizer.png (1 KB)

Sort Indexer:

This component examines an input data array and outputs the sorted indices of the array in ascending or descending order.

Sort Indexer.png (8 KB)

Complex Conjugate:

This component outputs a complex conjugate signal, based on the input, complex signal.

Complex Conjugate.png (1 KB)

Electrical Phase Tap:

This component may be used to tap off a single phase, from a multi-phase electrical wire.

Electrical Phase Tap.png (1 KB)

Backlash:

This component models a backlash controller.

Backlash.png (2 KB)

Complex Constant:

This component is used to create a constant, COMPLEX data signal.

Complex Constant.png (2 KB)

 

General Master Library Model Enhancements

Complex Signal Support 

Most of the standard controls components (CSMF) have been updated to support the new complex signal type in PSCAD V5.

Complex Signal Support 5792.png (22 KB)

Array Signal Support

Most of the standard controls components (CSMF) have been updated to support array signal (vector) input and output. All components are by default scalar. To utilize array signal functionality, simply modify the component dimension parameter.

Array Signal Support 4022.png (13 KB)

Multiple Run Additional Recording Statistical Summary

The ability to add a statistical summary to the output file has been added to the Multiple Run Additional Recording component.

Multiple Run Additional Recording.jpg (5 KB)

FFT Enhancements

The Fast Fourier transform component now provides support for output signals up to 1023 harmonics. A new input parameter has been added to allow enable/disable control of frequency tracking using a signal variable.

FFT Enhancements.png (16 KB)

B-H Core Characteristic for Saturable Reactor

The Saturable reactor core characteristic can now be represented as a B-H curve, where data is entered Flux Density (T) vs. MMF (A/m).

B-H Core Characteristic for Saturable Reactor 3418.png (58 KB)

Permanent Magnet Machine Neutral Connection

The Permanent Magnet (PM) machine component has been provided with an external connection to the neutral point of the stator windings.

Permanent Magnet Machine Neutral Connection.png (6 KB)

Mutually Coupled Three Wires – Zero Impedance

The Mutually Coupled, Three Wires component has been updated to provide the ability to model a zero-impedance transmission line. This is helpful when importing models from powerflow software.

Blackbox Upgrade

The blackbox module feature, first available in PSCAD v4.5 and v4.6, has been updated in V5 to include many new enhancements, including the support of electric networks in combination with control systems.  

  • Electric Networks Support: Starting from the top-level page module, an entire electric network, which may span across several module levels, can be collapsed into a single component, complete with multi-instance compatible, Fortran source code. The new component definition includes prefabricated graphical port arrays to represent the network, as well as pre-scripted Branch, Transformers and Matrix-Fill segments.

  • Global Substitutions: If project-based global substitutions are used within a module hierarchy that is to be blackboxed, the user has two options on how to process them: The default option is to embed (hard-code) the literal value of the global substitution upon creation of the blackbox component. These values will thereafter remain constant and unchangeable. A second option allows users to make each global substitution available as a constant input parameter in the final blackbox component. Each parameter created is unique according to: 1) the actual substitution, and 2) the target unit of the parameter it is used in. For example, if a global called FREQ is used in two parameters, one whose target unit is [Hz] and the other [rad/s], two separate parameters are created.

  • Retention of Inner Definitions: When blackboxing a page module hierarchy (a module with other modules inside it), it is now possible to retain the blackboxed component definitions of each, individual module, as opposed to keeping just the top-level component definition. If retained, each definition is itself a blackboxed component and may be utilized exclusively from all the others.

New and Improved External Resource File Handling

The addition of external source (*.f, *.c) and linking of compiled object and library (*.obj, *.lib) files to a project build has, since PSCAD V3, been accomplished via two separate input fields in the project settings, or via the File Reference component. In V5, this functionality has been overhauled and organized into a convenient and intuitive, central area called the Resources Branch.

File Handling.png (16 KB)

Appearing as a sub-branch of every project in the workspace projects list, the resources branch provides a means to easily manage all resource files related to a specific project. The resources branch encapsulates the functionality of both the prior project settings fields, and the file reference component, enabling users to append all types of files related to the project; such as Microsoft Word or Excel files, images, Python files for automated scripting, as well any type of text file. All this in addition to the source and linked compiled files supported in previous versions.

The operating system file association settings are utilized so that the proper application is launched when the file is viewed. Also, resource branch icon graphics will display the current status of the resource file, such as whether or not it is included in the build.

Note that the File Reference component will continue to be supported in V5.

A new Application Option has also been added to the Environment category called Relative Path resolution, which provides a means to specify folders where the compiler should look for dependent files. In this way, only the file name need be specified in the project, as long as the file resides in one of the specified folders.

New Binary EMTDC Output File Format

A brand new EMTDC output file format (*.psout) is included with the PSCAD V5 release. A proprietary design, this new format is binary, which ensures a much smaller storage footprint, as well as faster data access. Not only does it store all simulation curve and trace data, but it can also store all sequential or parallel multiple run data, as well as animated graphics information, all in a single file. For example, if you were to launch a volley of 100, parallel simulations, all EMTDC output data is stored in a single file named <project_name>.psout.

New Binary EMTDC Output File Format .png (14 KB)

Given that binary files cannot be read using a simple text editor, a new utility, called the PSOUT Reader, is also included with PSCAD V5. This utility provides a convenient, tree-based data display environment, and includes appropriate file manipulation features, including the ability to export to the older EMTDC *.inf/*.out file format. The utility may be launched from the Tools tab of the ribbon control bar.

PSoutreader.png (3 KB)

In addition, *.psout files from previous runs, may be added as a resource in the project it was originally run. When invoked, users can display the previously run data on the graphs within that project.

RunData.png (27 KB)

Co-Simulation Interface

A general Application Programming Interface (API) is provided with PSCAD V5, enabling EMTDC to link to, and co-simulate with, just about any external application. Referred to as the Co-Simulation API, it is in its basic form, a C-language structure called EmtdcCosimulation_Channel, which houses a collection c-functions. These functions can be used to customize an interface on the external application-side. At the same time, a new master library component called Cosimulation, may be utilized in a case project to quickly provide the PSCAD/EMTDC side of the interface.

Cosimulation.png (4 KB)

Note that the onus remains on the user to program the interface from the external application side, as all external applications differ in complexity and purpose. A complete description of the Co-Simulation API can be found in the PSCAD Application Help.

Rubber Banding (Sticky Wires)

A new, tri-segment ‘sticky’ wire component has been added to PSCAD V5. When either endpoint of this wire is attached to another object (component, bus or another wire), the wire’s endpoint will ‘stick’ to the object. If the object is moved, the wire endpoint will remain ‘stuck’, and the sticky wire will stretch (like a rubber band), as the object to which it is attached is moved around.

Rubberbanding.png (20 KB)

Multiple Language Support in Sticky Notes (Unicode)

The PSCAD V5 codebase has been updated to fully support Unicode, which enables users to use all known writing systems within sticky notes. This of course includes the Cyrillic alphabet, Chinese characters, etc. This is a very important new feature, which has been passionately requested by many of our Asian users.

Languages.png (17 KB)

Cluster Launch System (CLS)

The utilization of high-performance and parallel processing functionalities requires multiple processor cores – the number of which may exceed those available locally on a typical workstation. In such situations, users may either purchase a large and expensive, high-performance computer (ex. 64-core) or connect a collection of multi-core computers across a Local Area Network (LAN). The latter option is referred to as a computational cluster.

Cluster Launch System (CLS).png (81 KB)

Running processes across multiple computers requires additional software to manage the simulation processes. Enter the Cluster Launch System (CLS), a utility that can both launch and manage simulations on a computational cluster.

For example, a user wanting to run 10 simulations on a computer (Host 1) comprising of 4 cores, can use the CLS to configure a computational cluster and run 10 simulations using several multi-core computers connected across a LAN. As shown in the figure above, Host 1 can be treated as the master, since PSCAD is running on this computer. PSCAD launches the CLS, which is then used to configure a computational cluster comprising of Host 1, Host 2 and Host 3.

Tandem Lines: Sliding Faults

With PSCAD V5, we introduce tandem line configuration (or Tandem Lines) for both underground cable and overhead transmission segments. This in response to numerous requests for an easier way to automate a sliding-fault style study. The tandem lines feature combines multiple run control, parallel-processing and the transmission segment configuration components, to enable quick and efficient sliding-fault simulations.

Tandem Lines- Sliding Faults.png (10 KB)

Using the basic, standalone multiple run control configured in the project settings Runtime tab, a tandem line simulation involves a pre-solve of all possible transmission segment lengths (i.e. produces multiple *.tlo files, based on the tandem segment parameters) prior to launch. Then the simulation is run multiple times, each time using different segment lengths, creating the illusion of a sliding fault.

Mixing of Overhead and Underground Transmission Systems

The underground cable transmission segment editor and line constants program (LCP) have been modified to allow the combination of overhead transmission tower and underground cable cross-sections, within the same right-of-way.

Mixing of Overhead and Underground Transmission Systems.png (36 KB)

The additional formula in the LCP takes care of the mutual impedance between aerial and underground lines.

COMPLEX Signal Type

Complex-type signal variables, in addition to Real, Integer and Logical-types, are now supported in PSCAD V5. Support for #LOCAL-type, complex declarations in component definition script was introduced in v4.6 but did not include the creation and support of actual complex-type data signals. V5 includes the following enhancements to provide full support:

  • A Complex data type option in component graphics port objects.

  • A Complex parameter-type for both module and non-module components.

  • Miscellaneous new and updated master library components, including a Complex constant tag. Also Complex signal support in many CSMF components.

  • New orange colour represents Complex signal wires.

    COMPLEX Signal Type.png (7 KB)

Enhanced Component Parameter Dialog

In an effort to provide a more efficient means of organizing very large amounts of component input and output parameter data, the component parameter dialog has been greatly improved for the V5 release. Two huge improvements were made: The manner in which parameter category pages are organized, as well as the inclusion of a Java-based, dynamic display and feedback window, called the Dynamic Help Pane.

The flat, drop-list category page format, which has been a part of PSCAD since the V2 days of the 1990s, has been replaced by a multi-level, tree-based category window. The new tree style can be extended to provide multiple branch levels (branches within branches), to provide a second dimension to the organization of categories.

Enhanced Component Parameter Dialog.png (34 KB)

A very powerful and customizable display window, called the Dynamic Help Pane, is also included in the new parameter dialog. The new pane is simply a viewing mechanism to display the output of an associated, JavaScript-powered, HTML file. The power and flexibility of JavaScript and its libraries may be utilized to create a wide assortment of parameter data visualizations, from help text, to images and dynamic graphs that change as the data changes.

For example, the arrestor component in the master library has associated with an HTML file that defines a V-I curve plot, based on the V and I parameter data entered in the dialog. The curve is displayed in the side panel window as shown below. The graph is dynamic and will change immediately if the parameter data is changed.

Enhanced Component Parameter Dialog 2.png (37 KB)

Project Navigation Enhancements

Multiple enhancements have been included with PSCAD V5, to help users navigate projects quicker and more efficiently, as well as minimizing the risk of getting lost in larger projects. Prior to V5, project navigation was performed by drilling down through multiple module layers manually. Navigating upwards was accomplished in the same way. PSCAD V3 and V4 provided a sub-tree under each project, containing a clickable representation of the existing module hierarchy, allowing users to jump to specific modules. In X4 (v4.3 to v4.6), this navigation tree was brought out into its own area, referred to as the workspace secondary window.

V5 now boasts a handful of other navigation-related niceties, in addition to the navigation tree, as described in the following bullets:

  • Navigation Bar: Each and every schematic canvas tabbed viewing pane, possesses its own navigation bar. The bar shows the hierarchal path, including each navigation level, to the present viewing position. Each level itself is a navigable link, and displays the module definition name and instance number. Users may easily traverse up the path with a simple click of the mouse.

    Nav.png (17 KB)


  • Bookmark Component: Bookmarks are essentially a special type of a component that provides a clickable hyperlink to a xy-coordinate on a specific schematic canvas within a project. Bookmarked points are first defined, and then a bookmark component can be added from the ribbon bar that, when clicked, will navigate to that exact position from anywhere in the project.

    Bookmark.png (6 KB)
  • Bookmarks are also managed from within the Bookmarks pane. This pane provides a convenient and navigable list of bookmarks.

    Bookmark pane.png (13 KB)
  • Case Link Component: Case links are a special type of component with a single purpose: When clicked, they will open a project from anywhere on your local system, into the current workspace. Simply add a path to the project file and give it a name.

    Case Link.png (3 KB)

  • Hyperlink Component: Hyperlinks are special components that may be used to set a URL to a specific webpage, for easy access to information related to the current study, for example. Simply add a URL to the project file and give it a name.

    Hyper Link.png (3 KB)

Improved Parallel Multiple Run (PMR)

In computing, the acronym SPMD (or 'spim-D') stands for Single Program, Multiple Data, and is one of several computer architectures described in a classification called Flynn's taxonomy. It is a technique used to achieve data parallelism, where multiple instances of a simulation are run simultaneously on multiple processor cores, given different input, in order to obtain overall results quicker and more efficiently than if running them sequentially. In PSCAD, the SPMD technique is referred to more affectionately as a Parallel Multiple Run (PMR).

The PMR feature enables users to launch multiple simulation runs in parallel, based on a single case project, but providing different data to each parallel simulation task. Each simulation is run independently on its own, unique processor core.

Improved Parallel Multiple Run (PMR).png (12 KB)
  • Multiple Plotted Data Sets: If the user chooses to enable tracing (passing plot data back to PSCAD for viewing) on all parallel tasks, a convenient list of data sets will appear under the simulation. These sets will represent each individual run, and when clicked, will display the data for that run in the project graphs. For example, if the tracing is enabled for all parallel tasks in the above simulation, all 49 runs will appear as follows:

Plotted Data sets.png (34 KB)

The simulation task with rank 12 is currently selected, so this data will be displayed in the project graphs.

Simulation Set Functionality Improvements

Simulation sets were introduced in PSCAD v4.5 in order to facilitate the launching of parallel simulations.  They have been continuously enhanced in each version since, and V5 is no exception:

  • Project Settings Override: The ability to override runtime project settings, in each simulation task, is now included.

    Project settings override.png (9 KB)
  • Layer Settings Override: If a project contains layers, individual settings may be overridden on a per-simulation task basis. This feature provides a lot of flexibility, as project schematics can be modified between simulation set runs.

    Layer Settings Override.png (6 KB)
  • Global Substitutions Set Select: In PSCAD V5, it is possible to maintain multiple sets of global substitutions for each project. A single global set may now be associated with a simulations task, allowing users to modify global substitution values between simulation set runs.

  • Enable/Disable Set: Use the enable/disable simulation set option to enable or disable individual simulation sets. Disabling a set will ensure it is not included when running all sets.

  • Parameter Grid Support: Use the parameter grid to manipulate the options of multiple simulation sets simultaneously.

    Parameter Grid Support.png (38 KB)
  • Force Re-Build: The ability to force a re-build of the project, prior to launching the simulation, is now available as a Simulation Task option. When enabled, this setting will also ensure that the temporary folder is cleared between runs.

  • New Parallel Run Options: New options, such as Maximum Volley (limits the number parallel tasks launched on a volley), and Snapshot File (allows the selection of specific snapshot files based on rank number), have been added.

New and Enhanced Global Substitutions Design

The global substitutions feature, part of the PSCAD X4 family of products (v4.3 to v4.6), has been completely redesigned for V5. Based on feedback from users over several years, we have assembled an entirely new global substitutions functionality, much more flexible and intuitive than the previous design. Major changes include:

  • A new global substitutions pane, which provides a central area to edit, add and delete all global substitutions related to a single project.

  • Inclusion of alternate global substitution values (or sets of values) when running the project as a task, in the context of one or more simulation sets.

  • Store, append and replace global substitutions to/from file in *.cvs format.

  • Set the min/max limits of slider components.

    New and Enhanced Global Substitutions Design.png (14 KB)

New and Improved Parameter Grid

The immensely popular parameter grid feature has been completely re-architected in PSCAD V5, specifically to address the user-identified shortcomings of its predecessor in v4.6. For the most part, the new parameter grid looks and feels like the old one. However, under the hood, we have made many changes that will facilitate functionality that was missing previously. Here is a list of some of the more significant enhancements:

  • Support for buses, transmission lines, simulation sets, file reference components and sticky notes: Virtually all schematic objects.

  • Results may be filtered by parameter category page, in addition to page module.

  • Disabled parameters (instance-based) are now displayed as such in the parameter grid results.

  • Store, append and replace parameter grid results to/from file in *.cvs format.

  • Parameter grid results may be transferred directly to a spreadsheet, modified and then transferred back via copy/paste.

  • Full undo/redo support.

New and Improved Parameter Grid.png (45 KB)

Smart Paste

Cut/copy and paste just got a whole lot smarter in PSCAD V5. Now when an object is copied, PSCAD stores a great deal more information on the Windows clipboard, so that when it comes time to paste, an intelligent decision can be made, depending on the context of where the object is being pasted. This can save click steps in many areas:

  • Copy/Paste of Output Channels: Copy an output channel component. Depending on where it is pasted, PSCAD will intelligently perform the correct operation: Paste over a graph, and a curve will be created; paste on the schematic canvas to copy the component; paste over a blank graph panel and a new graph containing a new curve will be created; paste over a control panel to create a new meter interface.

  • Paste External, Copied Text Directly as Sticky Note: Text copied from an external file, such as Microsoft Notepad or Word, is now formed directly as a sticky note when pasted on the schematic canvas.

  • Multi-Select Copy Transfer: Select a single module or multiple modules and select copy. Paste transfer into the same project or a new project.

  • Layer Information Included in Copy/Paste: All layer information is now included when a component is copied. On paste, the layer state will be maintained. If the layer exists already, the component is added to it; if not, a new layer is created.

  • Paste Rename: When a component that contains a text input parameter with symbol name Name is copied, this text can now be given a new name, based on the original seed text. For example, a component with a Name parameter with value MyComponent can be automatically renamed to MyComponent_1. This is especially useful when copying data labels, node labels and xnodes. To make use of paste rename, right-click and select Paste | Paste Rename on paste of a copied component.

  • High-Resolution Bitmaps: Copying of schematic canvas components now produces a high-resolution bitmap image, which when pasted into other applications, maintains high image quality.

Enhanced Component Wizard Design

The component wizard has gone through a few changes over the years. The original design, which survived through PSCAD V3, V4 and on through to X4 (v4.3), was redesigned for the v4.4 release, and then again in v4.6.

PSCAD V5 includes a completely new and refactored component wizard, our best and most powerful iteration yet. Unlike its predecessors, the V5 component wizard provides a much higher level of flexibility, including the following user-requested enhancements:

  • Fully sizeable box graphic.

  • Flexible port connection placement: Once a port is added, it can be moved around the box graphic to the desired position.

  • Quick access property view.

  • All component definition script segments may be optionally added at the time of creation.

  • Automatic creation of a dummy language interface to either FORTRAN, C or MATLAB, upon creation of the Fortran, Dsdyn and/or Dsout segments.

Enhanced Component Wizard Design.png (30 KB)

Animated Graphics Patch

The animated graphics feature has been in use since PSCAD V3, and has remained mostly unchanged, until now. Prior to V5, the animated graphics display (ex. breaker state colour, multi-meter PQ text, etc.) would only update if the corresponding component was currently in view, during a simulation. This means that if the user was to navigate to another page module schematic after the run had finished, the graphical state of any components in that schematic may not be up to date. For example, if a breaker went from open to closed while not in view, it may still appear green if the user navigates into its page module following the end of run.

This issue has been rectified in V5, so that all animated graphics will show their last state in the simulation, regardless of whether they were viewed or not.

Animated Graphics Patch.png (2 KB)