Tech Update

EASTCOAST CAD/CAM

EastCoast CAD/CAM announces the release of Version 3.4 of its Design to Fabrication software, comprised of tools that further automate and streamline the MEP system design and manufacture for sheet metal, piping and plumbing industries. Version 3.4 adds additional visualization, editing and reporting capabilities throughout the entire line of tools.

Examples of EastCoast's commitment to continual product improvement include label settings that show connection locations and inlet, independent liner labeling, tie rods, additional report exporting to PDF in DuctMaker, new manufacturer content, added estimating support, Trimble and Vulcan download functionality and new properties editing options to work with the Design to Fabrication content, specifications and manufacturer defaults. Improvements were also made to MEP Fabrication, its newest offering for Autodesk Revit MEP and AutoCAD MEP, to automate the conversion of generic HVAC engineering systems to fully specified systems.

By embedding targeted tools directly inside the leading industry-standard CAD MEP software by Autodesk — AutoCAD MEP and Autodesk Revit MEP — EastCoast CAD/CAM has given piping and sheet metal professionals the tools they need to collaborate much earlier in the design process.

EastCoast CAD/CAM is currently shipping its new Version 3.4 software solution to customers who have active subscriptions, and has made it generally available to new subscribers. | www.eccadcam.com

Fieldpiece Instruments

The wireless revolution has made it easier than ever for technicians to take HVACR tests and send the data immediately to the meter in another location for analysis. Fieldpiece Instruments introduces the wireless HVAC Guide^® System Analyzer, model HG3 and wireless transmitter, model ET2W. This new system turns any of the Fieldpiece Accessory Heads into wireless test meters. Technicians now simply attach accessory heads to the test points and collect and analyze all the test data on the HG3. As the tech makes adjustments to the system, his HG3 will continue to collect the data in real time for easy analysis. Up to 12 parameters can be measured wirelessly at one time and sent to the HG3 for live viewing and analysis.

The Fieldpiece Instruments HG3 is a wireless system analyzer that leads technicians step-by-step through critical tests including: Target Evaporator Exit Temp, Target Superheat, Superheat, Subcooling, Combustion and the CheckMe!^® diagnostics program. The HG3 is the third generation HVAC Guide System Analyzer and now includes tests for CFM and Data Logging, and also has a display switch position to easily read results from any accessory head. | www.fieldpiece.com

General Tools

General Tools & Instruments has expanded The SEEKER^™ line of video inspection systems to provide comprehensive, cost-effective solutions that meet the wide-ranging technical and price-point needs of HVACR contractors and technicians. What distinguishes The SEEKER line of video inspection systems is the variety of system combinations offered, the range of interchangeable probes with different lengths and diameters and the ability of some models to stream live video over the Internet.

General offers multiple, interchangeable, small-diameter probes (5.5mm, 9mm and 12mm). With their close-focus capability (0.5 to 5.0 in. depth of field), the small-diameter probes allow a “close-up” look at the internals of a system or piece of equipment. All scopes in the line come equipped with flexible-obedient, camera-tipped probes that have adjustable lighting and are water, oil and dust proof to IP67 standards. Both the 5.5mm and 9mm probes are available in lengths of 1m, 2m and 3m, while the 12mm probe accepts 1m, 2m and 3m extensions that increase the overall reach to 5m.

The SEEKER line includes more than seven powerful and practical models, the least expensive being the wired wand-type 050 model, which plugs into a PC via USB and operates using the PC's monitor. The 100 model, which is also a wand-type and operates using a PC's monitor, connects wirelessly and features video over Internet capability. The low-cost pistol-style 200 and 300 models are non-recording and feature 2.4 in. and 3.5 in. integral monitors respectively. Additionally, the three models in the wireless, recording 400 Series also offer video over Internet capability. Both The SEEKER 100 and 400 Series models have integral transmitters that communicate wirelessly with the new RCV100 Wireless USB Video Receiver (included with The SEEKER 100, optional with The SEEKER 400). The RCV100 plugs into and is powered by the USB port of any recent Windows computer. Working in concert, the grip, the receiver and included software allow video to be streamed over the Internet via Skype^™. | www.generaltools.com/visionaries