The successful format is heading into the next round in a refined version: on 15 May, Eplan and its affiliate Cideon are hosting their third virtual trade fair on future-oriented engineering trends. What’s new: the virtual trade show stand includes a digital representation of the joint appearance at this year’s Hannover Messe. Interested parties from around the world can take a virtual tour of the individual stations. The proven elements from the past two years’ trade fairs remain: informative presentations, live demonstrations of the newest software versions, not to mention the opportunity to chat with experts around the world and to network with other users.

Master data for a project are like oil in an engine. With them, the process runs smoother – simply better. Users save a lot of time when they can use complete macros and don’t have to create them from scratch. Starting in Version 2.8, solutions provider Eplan offers a pooled macro collection in the field of building automation. This free data increases user benefits and complements the comprehensive collection of device data in Eplan Data Portal. Interested parties got a first glimpse of it at the Light & Building trade show in Frankfurt.

AutomationML makes it possible! The new integration solution from Eplan Electric P8 to Melsoft iQ Works by Mitsubishi Electric connects electrical engineering to automation. Data such as symbolic addresses, for instance, can now be exchanged bidirectionally with the current software suite. The results in Eplan Electric P8 are impressive: valid schematics, including bus wiring for PLC components amongst themselves, and top quality hardware configurations.

Eplan Cogineer, first presented at the Hannover Messe, is now a fully fledged member of Eplan Platform. This software for easy and fast generating of schematics and fluid-power designs gives automation an extra boost. At the SPS IPC Drives, Eplan has presented the software’s first cloud application as a sneak preview. Based on Microsoft Azure, Eplan Cogineer will now also be offering the added value of a cloud-based engineering solution.

The new Eplan Platform version 2.7 has been available since September. The platform’s system for consistent digitisation and an interdisciplinary focus for engineering processes allow data to be continually enhanced along the entire value chain process. Nineteen software languages, numerous detail upgrades and bidirectional connections to automation technology – including to TIA Portal by Siemens and to Melsoft IQ by Mitsubishi – guarantee more efficient engineering.

The earlier you structure and consistently acquire data for engineering, the better. This especially applies to key connection data in early project phases, including piping definitions and information as well as cable data. The new version of Eplan Preplanning now includes its own piping module. Users also have the chance that cabling data can be defined as specifications for downstream engineering processes. Central management of this connection data reduces the efforts needed while increasing project quality.

Automatically creating schematics is now child’s play. Solutions provider Eplan presents a brand new software for efficient configuration at the Hannover Messe, ensuring both a quick start using the soft-ware and impressive results, all with just a few clicks. Eplan Cogineer, which is completely inte-grated into the Eplan Platform, offers ease of use and maximum simplicity. Expert knowledge about configuration or variant management isn’t required – just standard knowledge of how to use macros.

After the successful start of the new online concept in 2016, solutions provider Eplan is taking the next logical step. In association with its affiliate Cideon, the specialists for efficient engineering are hosting the next Virtual Fair on 21 March. Customers and other interested parties will experience a trade-show feeling, up close and personal: software demonstra-tions will be happening live, as will the presentations. No time-consuming travel is necessary: just register, log in and take part in the talks online or chat with experts from around the world at the virtual engineering stand.

Efficiency ranks first, but the joy of designing doesn’t get short shrift: the new Eplan Harness proD version 2.6 is an intuitive 3D/2D software that covers all of today’s requirements for wiring and wire harness engineering. New features include enhancements to production specifications, which include cable drawings in addition to the nail board. Cable dimensioning is now automatic. If desired, cables with predefined length can easily be routed in an intuitive fashion. Cooperation between mechanical and electrical engineering becomes true team-work with open interfaces.

Eplan Education, the training concept for schools and colleges, includes software solutions in the areas of electrical, fluid power, ICA and control cabinet engineering. Previously limited to 25 slots, Eplan Education Campus now has an expanded network licence with 300 slots. The licence is made available on a central server and can be used across institutions around the entire campus. This provides education facilities around the world the opportunity to fully train on the software.