EPLAN Pro Panel Professional

Performance Description
Contents: EPLAN Pro Panel Version 2.5

Status: 09/2015
Status: 09/2015
Copyright © 2015 EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG

EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG assumes no liability for either technical or printing errors,
or for deficiencies in this technical information and cannot be held liable for damages that may result
directly or indirectly from the delivery, performance, and use of this material.
This document contains legally protected proprietary information that is subject to copyright. All rights
are protected. This document or parts of this document may not be copied or reproduced by any other
means without the prior consent of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG.
The software described in this document is subject to a licensing agreement. The use and reproduction
of the software is only permitted within the framework of this agreement.
RITTAL® is a registered trademark of Rittal GmbH & Co. KG.
EPLAN®, EPLAN Electric P8®, EPLAN Fluid®, EPLAN Preplanning®, EPLAN PPE®, EPLAN Pro Panel®
and EPLAN Harness proD® are registered trademarks of EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG.
Windows 7®, Windows 8®, Windows 8.1®, Windows Server 2008 R2®, Windows Server 2012®, Microsoft
Windows®, Microsoft® Excel®, Microsoft® Access® and Notepad® are registered trademarks of the Mi-
crosoft Corporation.
PC WORX®, CLIP PROJECT®, and INTERBUS® are registered trademarks of Phoenix Contact GmbH
& Co.
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STEP 7®, SIMATIC® and SIMATIC HW Config.® are registered trademarks of Siemens AG.
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Unity Pro® is a registered trademark of Schneider Electric.
RSLogix 5000® and RSLogix Architect® are registered trademarks of Rockwell Automation.
All other product names and trade names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
owners.
EPLAN uses the Open Source software 7-Zip (7za.dll), Copyright © by Igor Pavlov. The source code of
7-Zip is subject to the GNU Lesser General Public License (LGPL). The source code of 7-Zip and de-
tails on this license can be found on the following Web site:
http://www.7-zip.org
EPLAN uses the Open Source software Open CASCADE, Copyright © by Open CASCADE S.A.S. The
source code of Open CASCADE is subject to the Open CASCADE Technology Public License. The
source code of Open CASCADE and details on this license can be found on the following Web site:
http://www.opencascade.org
EPLAN provides an import function which uses eCl@ss. Usage of the eCl@ss
standard is subject to license and requires registration and ordering in the DownloadPortal:
http://www.eclassdownload.com
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Table of Contents
Introduction ······································································ 8
We Develop Solutions for More Efficiency ············································ 8
EPLAN Platform – Your Key to Success ·············································· 9
EPLAN Pro Panel Professional ·········································· 12
Virtual 3D Enclosure Design ···························································· 12
Innovative 3D Mounting Layout and Wiring········································· 12
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper ······························································· 13
User Interface·································································· 16
Look & Feel ················································································· 16
Workflow & Integration ··································································· 17
Method ··········································································· 18
Project Structure – 3D Mounting Layout ····························· 19
The Layout Space ········································································· 19
Navigators in the 3D Mounting Layout ································ 19
3D Mounting Layout Navigator ························································· 19
Layout Space Navigator ································································· 20
Logical Structure in the Layout Space Navigator·································· 20
Device Representation in the Layout Space Navigator ·························· 20
3D Mounting Layout ······································································ 21
Device Placement ···························································· 22
Placing Mounting Panels ································································ 22
Placing Free Mounting Panels ························································· 22
Placing Enclosures ········································································ 22
Placing Mounting Rails ··································································· 23
Placing Wire Ducts ········································································ 23
Placing Busbar Systems ································································· 24
The described functionalities are only available for certain module packages.
See the Licensing Overview chapter.
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Placing C Horizontal Rails ······························································ 24

Placing User-defined Rails ······························································ 25
Inserting Cut-outs·········································································· 25
Defining Locked Areas ··································································· 26
Defining Restricted Drilling Areas ····················································· 26
Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout ········································ 26
Editing Components Graphically ······································· 27
Duplicating Objects in the 3D Mounting Layout ··································· 27
Rotating Objects about a Freely Selectable Axis·································· 27
Changing the Length of Objects in the Layout Space ··························· 27
Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts ···························································· 28
Device Logic ··································································· 29
Importing 3D Graphic Data ····························································· 31
Merging Objects in the Layout Space ················································ 31
Defining a Mounting Surface ··························································· 31
Defining a Handle ········································································· 31
Defining Mounting Points ································································ 32
Defining a Mounting Grid ································································ 32
Defining and Changing Placement Areas ··········································· 32
Defining a Base Point ···································································· 33
Transfer Base Point Scheme ··························································· 33
Interpreting and Carrying over Enclosure Logic ··································· 34
Defining Connection Point Pattern in Layout Space ····························· 34
Mounting Lists ································································ 35
Mounting List Report ····································································· 35
Checking and Positioning Aids·········································· 36
Using Collision Check ···································································· 36
Displaying Mounting Clearances ······················································ 36
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Displaying Mounting Aids ······························································· 37

Auxiliary Lines ·············································································· 37
Connection Preview ······································································ 38
Measuring in the Layout Space ························································ 38
Updating Main Elements ································································ 38
Updating Part Dimensions ······························································ 39
Editing Legend Items ····································································· 39
3D Macros ······································································ 39
Creating 3D Macros······································································· 40
Placing 3D Macros ········································································ 40
Changing the Rotation Angle ··························································· 40
Model Views···································································· 40
Changing Model Views ·································································· 41
Moving Property Texts ··································································· 41
Generating Machining Data for Automatic Equipment
Systems ········································································· 42
NC Record ·················································································· 42
Drill Exceptions············································································· 43
Generating Manufacturing Data for Machining ···································· 44
Inserting 2D Drilling View ································································ 44
Generating Mounting Data for Terminal Placement Machines ················ 44
Routing Connections ······················································· 45
Generating Routing Connections ······················································ 45
Displaying Connection Points Graphically ·········································· 45
Inserting Routing Paths ·································································· 46
Inserting Curves ··········································································· 46
Inserting Routing Ranges ······························································· 46
Inserting Wiring Cut-outs ································································ 46
Using Connection Filters ································································ 47
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Generating a Routing Path Network ·················································· 47

Displaying Routing Path View ·························································· 47
Optimizing Nets Automatically ························································· 48
Routing Connections ····································································· 48
Routing Connections Freely ···························································· 48
Changing Routing Tracks ······························································· 49
Displaying Fill Capacity ·································································· 49
Bundling Connections ···································································· 50
Generating Manufacturing Data for Wire Fabrication Machines ·············· 50
EPLAN Project Processing – Importing Devices ·································· 51
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper for the Design of Busbars ············ 53
Creating Manufacturing Data for the Processing Machines ···················· 54
EPLAN Pro Panel 3D Data Export······································· 55
Exporting EPLAN Pro Panel Data to 3D PDF ······································ 55
Exporting 3D Graphic Data in VRML Format······································· 56
Exporting 3D Graphic Data in STEP Format ······································· 56
EPLAN Design Space Exchange – Interdisciplinary 3D Data
Exchange ······································································· 56
Calculation of the Total Power Dissipation of Switch Gears··· 58
EPLAN Revision Management ··········································· 59
EPLAN Multi Language Translation ···································· 60
EPLAN Project Options ···················································· 60
EPLAN Project Management ············································· 62
EPLAN User Rights Management ······································· 62
EPLAN Project Reference ················································· 63
Multi-user ······································································· 64
EPLAN Data Portal ··························································· 65
Hardware Requirements ··················································· 66
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Workstation hardware requirements ·················································· 66

Recommended workstation configuration ··········································· 66
Network ······················································································ 66
Multi-user ···················································································· 67
Software Approvals ························································· 67
Operating systems ········································································ 67
Microsoft Products ········································································ 68
SQL Server (64-Bit) ······································································· 68
Autodesk Products (64-Bit) ····························································· 68
PDF redlining ··············································································· 69
PLC systems (PLC & bus extension) ················································· 69
Overview of Functions ····················································· 70
Extended Functional Scope of the Stand-alone Variant ········· 83
Licensing Overview ························································· 91
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Introduction
EPLAN Software & Service develops CAE solutions and advises companies in
the optimization of their engineering processes. Customers profit from in-
creases in efficiency in the production creation process through standardized
procedures, automated processes and consistent workflows.
EPLAN supplies customized concepts for system introduction, setup as well as
made-to-measure integration into the IT / PLM system landscape – on the basis
of standard engineering solutions.
The service portfolio furthermore encompasses customizing, consulting and

training. The development of individual and standardized ERP and PDM inter-
faces to the PLM integration ensures data consistency in the product creation.
Consistent customer orientation, global support and innovative development
and interface competence are factors in success. EPLAN belongs to Rittal Soft-
ware Systems and thus to the Friedhelm Loh Group and thus stands for conti-
nuity and investment security:
Optimized engineering processes are our promise. – Customized and practical.
We Develop Solutions for More Efficiency

Globalized markets, higher cost and time pressure as well as increasing com-
petition permanently place pressure on companies to work more efficiently. As
the only way to meet the challenges in their branch and achieve their ambitious
targets such as leadership in innovation, worldwide growth and operational ex-
cellence.
In the pursuit of these targets unused potentials are often found in particular in
engineering that have an effect on the entire process of product development
process.
Under the motto "EPLAN – efficient engineering" the company has been devel-
oping practice-oriented engineering solutions and individual concepts for opti-
mizing engineering processes for its customers for more than 30 years. With
competence and experience EPLAN advises companies with the aim of per-
fectly synchronizing processes, reducing project durations and lowering engi-
neering costs. More than 45,000 customers of various sizes and from different
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branches nowadays rely on EPLAN and its products daily to secure their com-
petitiveness and the future of their company in the long term.
Ensure that you have a decisive head start against your competitors and in-
crease the efficiency of the engineering processes in your company sustaina-
bly!
EPLAN Platform – Your Key to Success

The EPLAN Platform interconnects expert systems for the various disciplines
such as electrical, fluid power and E-I&C engineering as well as enclosure man-
ufacturing. Thus all applications are supplied with the same basic data and edit-
ing functions, ensuring high project quality and a mechatronical working
method.
EPLAN Electric P8
EPLAN Electric P8 is a CAE software solution for designing, documenting and

managing electrical-engineering automation projects.
EPLAN Fluid
EPLAN Fluid is a CAE software solution for designing and documenting fluid-
plants in the fields of hydraulics, pneumatics, cooling and lubrication.
EPLAN Pre-Planning
EPLAN Preplanning is a CAE software solution for the technical pre-planning of

machines and plants. The software supports graphical and database-based
working methods with data transfer to the interdisciplinary detailed planning. In-
dividual system configuration allows flexible customizing to established engi-
neering processes.
EPLAN Preplanning P&ID
EPLAN Preplanning P&ID is a CAE software solution for creating plant over-
views, PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams) and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation
Diagrams) for process-engineering machines and plants.
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EPLAN Pro Panel
EPLAN Pro Panel is a CAE software solution for configuring and verifying en-
closures and switch gears in 3D including the provision of data for material lo-
gistics and production integration.
EPLAN Harness proD
EPLAN Harness proD is a CAE software solution for efficient designing and
documenting of cables and wire harnesses in 3D / 2D, from a digital prototype
to the creation of complete production documents.
EPLAN Engineering Configuration One
The use of EPLAN Engineering Configuration One (EEC One) is the first step
into the world of automated Excel-based schematic generation for electrical en-
gineering and fluid power on the basis of predefined standards such as EPLAN
macros, value sets, variants.
EPLAN Engineering Configuration
EPLAN Engineering Configuration Professional (EEC Professional) is a type of

"central control unit" that forms the bridge between mechanical engineering,
electrical engineering and control technology as well as documentation. A mod-
ular system and a set of rules allow variant management in machine and plant
engineering.
EPLAN Data Portal
Integrated, web-based data platform for the provision of up-to-date device data
of leading component manufacturers for direct use in the configuration with
EPLAN software solutions.
Our software is conceived as an integrated system and connects all disciplines.
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Note:
The scope of service contained in this performance description applies for the
product "EPLAN Pro Panel" with all extension modules and add-ons. For the
features of all available program variants and module packages, please see the
"Licensing Overview" chapter at the end of this document.
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EPLAN Pro Panel Professional

Virtual 3D Enclosure Design
With EPLAN Pro Panel you conceive and design control system enclosures,
switch gears and flexible power distribution systems for the energy supply in
3D. The scope of performance of the software includes 3D mounting layout, vir-
tual 3D wiring as well as the design, modification and customizing of copper
rails.
Further functionalities apply to the manufacturing integration: All the project re-
ports, drawings and unfolds including the data required for the machine control
that are relevant for manufacturing and mounting can be generated directly in
EPLAN Pro Panel – both for the machining of enclosure components or copper
rails as well as the controlling of automatic machines and the use of service
concepts for the cable and wire fabrication, the automatic equipping of terminal
strips as well as robot-supported wiring of devices. Innovative bundle technolo-
gies are also supported.
Innovative 3D Mounting Layout and Wiring

Free selection of workflow approach and engineering methods – EPLAN Pro
Panel is flexible: You determine your working method yourself – whether on the
basis of device and connection lists, electrotechnical or fluid-power schematics;
whether in 3D mounting layout directly on the mounting panel or in the course
of the design of busbar systems and flexible power distributors. All the relevant
components can be identified very easily and for example mounted on the
mounting panel. Thanks to the innovative eTouch technology you place devices
and components in 3D just as precisely and simply as in 2D.
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Optimum dimensioning with planning reliability: The virtual 3D model of the en-
closure or of the switch gear supports you in dimensioning and in the perfect
usage of space. Integrated planning aids such as the collision checks, the on-
line connection display, or the consideration of the manufacturer specifications
about installation requirements, minimum distances, material properties and
bending radii, allow rapid and optimal positioning and installation. Disturbance
recognition and other aspects of consistent quality assurance are moved to the
development phase and eliminated at an early stage – including planning relia-
bility.
Virtual wiring
For perfect wiring of the control technology EPLAN Pro Panel uses the 3D
mounting layout and for example the schematic. Virtual wiring of the enclosure
is carried out on the basis of the combination of the exact position of the item in
the mounting layout and the connection information. At the click of a button the
system determines the optimum conductor and cable routing tracks as well as
all the resulting connection lengths. The result of the virtual wiring can be used,
in turn, to optimize the schematic.
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper

Measuring, cutting, bending, fitting and connecting: Copper rails are an im-
portant factor in planning energy distributors. The "EPLAN Pro Panel Copper"
extension module can be used to plan individual busbar systems and flexible
current distributors including the copper rails to be bent and their connections,
and to fit them to the installation situation. All the required data for drill holes,
punched holes, bending angles or radii are also provided in the form of draw-
ings and machine data for NC-supported manufacturing – the new dimension in
design, manufacturing and mounting.
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With its deep integration, the EPLAN Pro Panel sustainably speeds up parallel-
ized engineering on a uniform data basis.
The bottom line is this: elimination of need for data conversion, data checking
and "Reverse Engineering"; decreasing costs, rising quality, reduced "time-to-
market", and sustainable investment security.
The core features of EPLAN Pro Panel as well as the delimitation of the Profes-
sional module package and the optional extension modules are described in the
following chapters.
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However, it is beyond the scope of this document to provide all details. If you
have any further questions – particularly on details you don't find in this descrip-
tion – just contact us at [email protected].
Monheim, September 2015
Product Management
EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG
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User Interface
Look & Feel
The system provides an intuitive user interface. Windows-compatible operation
with functionalities such as Tooltips, toolbars, drag & drop and Online Help al-
low beginners and occasional users to get to grips quickly.
Users can easily adapt the entire interface including window arrangement and
toolbars to their needs and wishes. The settings can be saved and retrieved as
workspaces as needed.
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This allows you e.g. to save defaults for work standards and processes. Users
can then focus optimally on their actual work – engineering – as the user inter-
face customized to their task allows efficient and rapid designing.
In addition, users can customize their own keyboard shortcuts. User-defined

keyboard shortcuts are also displayed in the menu bar. Experienced users
achieve high input speeds using continuous keyboard control.
In addition to the default input boxes for properties , configurable properties are
also available to which the users can assign their own names and predefined
values. This allows terms and default values that are established in a company
to also be used in EPLAN Pro Panel. Rapid familiarization and the implementa-
tion of company-specific standards are thus easily possible.
Workflow & Integration

The system can be configured by means of settings to meet the needs of the
user, company, and project. The result: The workflow is accelerated and the re-
quired work result achieved efficiently.
You also have access to an extensive online didactic help system which pro-
vides efficient work support.
Functions for backing up data, archiving, and sending projects via e-mail en-
sure the necessary security and transparency of work results. A compression
function removes the non-essential data from a project, if desired, to reduce the
storage medium load, to simplify data maintenance and, if necessary, to protect
your company know-how when projects are passed on.
Data formats, such as TXT, CSV, XLS, XML, PDF and DXF / DWG with layers
and blocks are available as interfaces for exchange with Microsoft Office prod-
ucts.
The possibility of using existing data beyond engineering and the online provi-
sion of documents are the basis for simple service and maintenance processes.
Interfaces facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation.
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The program can be integrated into the existing added value chain. The infor-
mation and work flow can be automated using scripts or API in the ".NET" envi-
ronment. An active automatic exchange of information simplifies integration into
PDM and ERP systems. And this comprehensive approach doesn't just help
project engineers to achieve the correct result faster – other departments such
as Materials Management, Production, Controlling, and Sales also benefit from
transparent IT processes.
Method
The CAE program reflects the specific working method and methodology of an
engineer in the context of wire harness design – thus ensuring the highest pos-
sible effectiveness within the product creation process. This should be differen-
tiated as follows:
• Graphical combination of mounting layouts and the derivation of drawings

for manufacturing and mounting.
• Start of the planning in the schematic or optionally in the 3D mounting
layout, for example directly on the mounting panel or in the enclosure.
• 3D mounting layout of the basis of electrical-engineering and fluid-power
schematics or on the basis of device and connection lists.
The work method changes frequently or is combined between individual pro-

jects but also during the project phases. Any editing sequence is possible.
The program is designed so that editing in the system can always follow the ac-
tual course of the project. The system allows the project to be edited at any
time from different views. This releases new potential productivity in engineer-
ing and also increases transparency.
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Project Structure – 3D Mounting Layout

The Layout Space
In addition to the display of the logical structure within a project and the graph-
ical representation on the EPLAN project pages, there is also a graphical 3D
display area that shows placed devices. This display is independent of any pro-
ject page. The 3D model is displayed in a layout space that allows the 3D ob-
jects and their editing to be viewed.
It is therefore a basic requirement for working with 3D components in an

EPLAN project that a layout space has been created. This is the environment /
workspace for the 3D data and the functional logic that connects it.
Navigators in the 3D Mounting Layout

3D Mounting Layout Navigator
The 3D mounting layout navigator is used to list the electrical engineering and
fluid power devices available in the project so that they can be placed in a lay-
out space.
All the electrical engineering and fluid power devices to which a part is assigned
are listed. Mechanical components are not listed.
The view in the tree view is always identifier-based 3D mounting layout naviga-
tor. The list view is alternatively available.
Parts without a device tag are grouped in a separate node.
Devices that have already been placed in the 3D layout space are identified by
an additional icon, if there is a matching device in the schematic or in the device
navigator. If this is not the case, devices placed in the layout space have a spe-
cial identification.
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Multiple entries may be selected in both the tree view and the list view. These
selected devices can then be placed at the same time on the mounting panel
or, for example, on doors or side panels. It is also possible to select a node in
the tree view. All devices that are affected by this selection are placed together.
Layout Space Navigator

The layout space navigator gives you a logical overview of your project data
within a 3D mounting layout:
In the layout space navigator you can create layout spaces in order to view and
to place devices independently of project pages in a 3D view.
You can activate mounting surfaces in the layout spaces for the placement of
devices.
You can filter the display and switch between the tree and list views in the lay-
out space navigator in just the same way as in other navigators.
Logical Structure in the Layout Space Navigator

The layout space navigator maps the logical structure of the placed part. There
are hierarchical dependencies between all the items. If a superior item (such as
a mounting rail) is moved or deleted, the devices that are placed on it will be
moved or deleted as well. This logical structure can also be included in reports.
Device Representation in the Layout Space Navigator

The layout space navigator displays all devices that exist in the layout spaces
of the opened project.
Tree view
The layout spaces form the top hierarchical level in the tree. Beneath a layout
space, the devices it contains are arranged in hierarchical order: Starting from
the mounting panel or the superior enclosure, all devices are displayed beneath
the item on which they are placed.
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3D Mounting Layout
EPLAN Pro Panel is used for placing electrical engineering and fluid power de-
vices from the EPLAN project, from the EPLAN parts management or from the
EPLAN Data Portal, as required. In conjunction with mechanical components
such as cable ducts, mounting rails, mounting panels or entire enclosures,
EPLAN Pro Panel simplifies the construction of complex 3D mounting layouts
dramatically.
Some mechanical components can have several individually selectable mount-

ing surfaces, allowing the placement of other items. These include mounting
panels, doors, walls, profiles, and also electrical engineering and fluid power
devices, which are represented by a 3D graphical macro. Other mechanical
components, e.g., mounting rails, have only an internally defined mounting sur-
face for devices, which cannot be changed and which are therefore also not
shown in the tree view of the layout space navigator.
You can generate 2D model views of the mounting panels and enclosures
mounted in the layout space, and these are saved on project pages. These
model views can include dimensions and other information and can be used as
production documents.
Reports in the form of enclosure legends and bills of material help you with cal-
culating and planning materials requirements.
You can influence the display of the tree view. If you have placed a mounting
panel in the layout space, for example, the grouping sign is inherited by all the
items arranged beneath it and is prefixed before their designation text. This en-
sures that it is always clear which part placement belongs to which mounting
panel or enclosure in the navigator tree.
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Device Placement
To place devices correctly on mounting panels, mounting rails, doors, walls,
etc., the required mounting surface or item must be identified for placement.
There is an option in the Layout space navigator dialog to enable you to acti-
vate surfaces of this type automatically or directly.
Automatic activation is suitable for all surfaces and items that are not covered
by other components.
Use direct activation to access the mounting surfaces of covered components

or components that are at the back, from the layout space navigator. This is not
possible in the graphical representation without hiding the covering compo-
nents. The viewpoint is toggled to the front view. All components that are not in-
volved are hidden.
Placing Mounting Panels

For quick and easy design and configuration, it is possible to place an individual
mounting panel in the layout space without surrounding enclosure profiles and
without selecting from parts management. When mounting panels are placed
as parts, an automatic filter is set on the "Mounting panel" part group.
Placing Free Mounting Panels

The free mounting panel has the same properties and editing options as the
mounting panel associated with a specific part. The mounting panel is defined
geometrically by the entry of the height, width and depth. The part selection al-
lows the mounting panel to be retrospectively assigned a part.
Placing Enclosures
Enclosures are placed in a layout space in the 3D mounting layout. The parts
management dialog contains various predefined series of enclosures; you can
select enclosures from them to be placed. There are two different enclosure
types, which are defined in parts management in separate product subgroups.
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With both enclosure types, the elements are grouped and fixed to the enclosure
by the "Item is fastened immovably to the superior item" property.
Placing Mounting Rails

Mounting rails are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting sur-
faces of enclosure profiles. The automatic activation or direct activation options
help with accurate placement. The handle of the mounting rail can be changed
before placement.
Mounting rails can be inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by
which the length is entered:
• Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the
length is defined by the distance between the two points.
• Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the mounting rail is
placed by entering a single point.
With the second method the mounting rail can also automatically be positioned
centrally between two already placed items.
Placing Wire Ducts

Wire ducts are normally placed on mounting panels or on the mounting sur-
faces of enclosure profiles. They are placed in the same way as mounting rails.
The automatic activation or direct activation options help with accurate place-
ment. The handle of the wire duct can be changed before placement. Wire
ducts can be inserted in one of two ways, which differ in the method by which
the length is entered:
• Variable-length placement by entering the start and end point; here the
length is defined by the distance between the two points.
• Adoption of the length of an already placed item; here the wire duct is
placed by entering a single point.
With the second method the wire duct can also automatically be positioned cen-
trally between two already placed items.
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Placing Busbar Systems

Busbar systems can be placed in a layout space from the following sources:
• Via the menu

• From the part master data navigator
• From the bill of materials navigator
• By inserting devices
• From the device list
• From window macros
• From the EPLAN Data Portal.
Busbar systems are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be placed
on any other mounting surfaces. The selection and placement method are simi-
lar to those of mounting rails and wire ducts: in addition the number of busbars
can be specified and the corresponding busbar supports assigned and auto-
matically placed during the definition of busbar systems.
Placing C Horizontal Rails

C horizontal rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources:
• Via the menu

• By inserting devices
C horizontal rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be
placed on any other mounting surface. Selection and placement are similar to
those of mounting rails and wire ducts:
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Placing User-defined Rails

With this function it is possible to assign a profile outline created with the 2D
outline editor to a part and to extrude this 2D outline with a definable length in
the course of the rail placement. The profile outline and the defined length form
the rail.
User-defined rails can be placed in a layout space from the following sources:
• Via the menu

• Via the inserting of devices
User-defined rails are usually placed on mounting panels, but can also be
placed on any other mounting surface. Selection and placement are similar to
those of mounting rails and wire ducts.
Inserting Cut-outs
Cut-outs are manually placed openings in construction items, mounting panels
and sheets that are drilled or manufactured by NC robots. Cut-outs do not actu-
ally model the 3D body in which they are inserted, but rather are visualized by a
placeholder that penetrates the item and contains all the information on coordi-
nates and material thickness. NC machines can interpret such information and
implement it as manufacturing steps.
Cut-outs of the following types can be inserted individually or in multiples:
• Drill hole
• Threaded hole
• Rectangle
• Slotted hole
• Hexagon
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• Octagon
• User-defined outline
• From drilling pattern.
Defining Locked Areas

Parts of mounting surfaces on components in the layout space (mounting pan-
els, enclosure profiles, walls, doors) can be locked for positioning so that part
placements cannot occur on them. Locked areas are independent 3D objects
drawn as rectangles.
Defining Restricted Drilling Areas

Restricted drilling areas exclude the affected area from the calculation of drilling
coordinates. Drill holes within these areas are not displayed in the drilling view
or output with NC data and so are not drilled. User-defined drill holes cannot be
placed on restricted drilling areas either.
Restricted drilling areas are placed in the same way as restricted placing areas.
In contrast to restricted placing areas, however, the restricted drilling areas pen-
etrate the entire item and are also visible and effective on the opposite side.
Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout

Devices are placed as devices on mounting rails, mounting panels or on any
other items. The automatic activation or direct activation options help with accu-
rate placement. The handle of the device can be changed before placement.
The device dimensions are specified in the part definition or in the assigned
graphical macro, and cannot subsequently be changed.
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Editing Components Graphically

Duplicating Objects in the 3D Mounting Layout
Using the Duplicate command, you can insert multiple copies of 3D objects and
3D macros in the layout space very easily at the same time. Duplication only
works within the layout space, not across layout spaces.
Rotating Objects about a Freely Selectable Axis

The "Rotate around axis" functionality rotates one or several objects in the lay-
out space (e.g. 3D bodies imported from STEP files) around the center of the
invisible rectangular body enveloping them. Edges, auxiliary lines, or the axis of
a mounting point or a base point can be used as axes of rotation. Thus it is pos-
sible to rotate 3D objects also around non-orthogonal lines and edges, inde-
pendently of the coordinate system of the layout space.
Changing the Length of Objects in the Layout Space

The length in the layout space of placed items variable in length, such as
mounting rails or wire ducts can be changed subsequently. The length can al-
ways be changed only for an individual object; it is not possible to select several
objects.
Different forms of input can be used to define the new length:
• Free point entry by clicking

• Snapping a projection point to another object
• Entering a positive or negative value in the input box.
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Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts

Fitting is about reconciling the lengths of length-variable items placed in parallel
to each other (wire ducts, mounting rails, busbars, C horizontal rails, user-de-
fined rails) with selectable points and edges. Possible uses are:
• All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed on a mounting panel are
drawn towards an edge of the mounting panel in a suitable manner in a
single work step.
• All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed next to a vertical wire
duct are drawn towards it in a suitable manner in a single work step.
• All rails and wire ducts of varying lengths placed between two vertical
wire ducts are drawn towards them in a suitable manner in two work
steps.
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Device Logic
3D objects that are to be used as mechanical or electromechanical devices in
the 3D mounting layout must have a range of properties that allow them to be
used in the mounting layout:
• The objects can be placed in the layout space and on other objects.
• Other objects can be placed on the 3D objects.
• The placed objects fit in with the logical structure of the items.
All these properties in their entirety are known as the device logic. There are a
number of functions available for creating and editing the device logic. These
functions are used following the use of graphical import and editing functions
and prepare the 3D graphic – which immediately after import has no logic func-
tions – for use as a 3D macros for devices. To ensure correct placement it is
necessary as a minimum to define a placement area; the other logic functions
are optional.
Graphic Definition for Devices

The following functionalities are available for defining the 3D graphics:
• Importing of 3D graphics
• Uniting of several graphics components
• Rotating of a graphic around an axis.
These functions can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D macro pro-
ject.
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Logic Definition for Devices

The device logic can be defined through dedicated functionalities. Certain
points and areas are only visible in a 3D macro project. This applies to:
• Placement areas
Defined area on an item on which the 3D object itself is placed and
aligned.
• Mounting points
Defined points which as 3D snap points allow other components to dock
to the 3D object.
The following functionalities can be used in the schematic project and in the 3D
macro project:
• Mounting surface: Definition of surfaces on which components can be

placed; these surfaces are found by automatic activation or can be selec-
tively activated.
• Handle: Definition of points by which the 3D object is moved on the cur-
sor on placement; these points can dock to other 3D objects if placed on
3D snap points.
• Base points: Definition of points on which accessory parts can be placed
automatically at fixed defined positions in enclosures.
Handles and Mounting Points: Interactive Points, Lines, and

Areas in the Device Logic
The functions for defining the device logic work with interactive points, lines,
and areas.
User-defined points and surfaces can be used to create dependencies in the

assembly of 3D components. Interactive points can also be added if necessary
to components that have been imported from external 3D CAD systems using
the STEP exchange format, to control placing options or to define degrees of
freedom in the rotation and alignment of components to one another.
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Importing 3D Graphic Data

You can import 3D graphic data to create your own items and 3D macros. The
item data must be available in the common international STEP format (STand-
ard for the Exchange of Product model data). A new layout space is generated
for each import, and is given the name of the imported STEP file. Once im-
ported, the item data can be edited and given functional logic.
Merging Objects in the Layout Space

A 3D macro (in other words a layout space in a macro project) can contain sev-
eral individual bodies if there were several bodies included in the imported
source file. Although a geometrical addition of bodies is not possible, there is a
function available which merges all components of the layout space in such a
way that a 3D macro is treated like one item. This functionality is only available
in layout spaces and is intentionally differentiated from grouping in the 2D
mounting layout.
Defining a Mounting Surface

Individual surfaces of bodies imported as 3D data can be defined as mounting
surfaces. These are areas on the item on which other components can be
placed. They are used for capturing the handles of rails, channels and compo-
nents that are to be placed on them. The mounting surfaces can be activated
automatically by touching them with the cursor or selectively from the layout
space navigator. Mounting surfaces can be deleted in the navigator.
Defining a Handle
A handle is used to place a 3D macro. In addition to the handles, which are
generated automatically for 3D bodies, there is a user-defined handle in the
macro. When placing an item in the project, select this handle in the placement
options in the Handle field under the name "Graphical macro".
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Defining Mounting Points

Mounting points are used to define points on 3D objects on which other compo-
nents can be placed. Mounting points can be used for the exclusive placement
of a suitable handle on a 3D object. Example: Placement of the center of a
mounting rail drill hole on the center of a drill hole on a support. A mounting
point is therefore a snap point.
Mounting points can have a direction and a rotation, which means that place-
ment of the 3D objects can be controlled using a set of rules:
• The direction determines the direction in which the object to be placed on

the mounting point should be aligned.
• The rotation also allows the object to be placed to be moved around the
selected direction axis.
Defining a Mounting Grid

Mounting grids are assigned to individual areas of a 3D part placement, and
during the placement of other components are displayed on these areas. Thus,
placement is only possible on the intersections of the grid lines. Using the
mounting grid, it is possible to represent a manufacturer and type-specific hole
pattern, for example, on enclosure profiles, within which screw connections are
set during the mounting.
Defining and Changing Placement Areas

In order to be placed correctly on other 3D objects, 3D macros require infor-
mation about the area with which they are placed and the direction in which
they may have to be turned. This information is stored in the 3D macro by the
definition of a placement area. The position of the placement area also deter-
mines the mounting depth to which the 3D object is positioned on a mounting
surface. Nine handles are then automatically generated on the placement sur-
face. You can use these for positioning. In addition you can define a further
handle. This handle is always projected onto the defined placement area when
placing it.
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Defining a Base Point

Base points are components of the device logic that are used in working with
enclosure accessories.
Base points are fixed defined mounting points in a layout space. You can use
base points to install enclosure items (e.g., side panels, base) at a fixed defined
location in the accessories management. A distinction is made between auto-
matically generated base points and user-defined base points. You can use au-
tomatic base points to place enclosures and matching accessories from acces-
sories management, without having to generate detailed macros for this
purpose. But there is also the option to store user-defined base points in a
macro and to use them in accessories management as the property of an ac-
cessory placement.
Automatic Base Points

Automatic base points are generated for all enclosures that are generated di-
rectly without macro from the parts database. (Product group "Enclosure",
Product subgroup "Component" and "Body"). In the data transfer of accessory
parts from EPLAN Cabinet, the existing base points are applied and converted
to automatic base points.
User-defined base points are mounting points with predefined properties manu-
ally placed in a macro by the user that can be used as the property of an acces-
sory placement in accessories management. This way you define the positions
on frame profiles and housings where the macro may be placed as an acces-
sory part.
Transfer Base Point Scheme

In connection with the creation of enclosures of the Rittal series "TS8", "AE",
and "CM", which have been imported into the layout space as STEP data, it is
possible to place the base points automatically in a manner suitable for the en-
closure series.
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Interpreting and Carrying over Enclosure Logic

Using the Automatic enclosure interpretation you transfer the existing logic of
an enclosure to another, newly to be defined, enclosure of the same design.
This way you can substantially simplify and speed up the work steps to create
your own enclosure series.
The preparatory step is always the selection of a suitable interpretation tem-

plate that contains the device logic to be interpreted and corresponds to the de-
sign of the enclosure to be interpreted.
In addition to enclosures other devices can also be interpreted automatically in

this form and have design-specific logic assigned to them. Logic elements of
items from a project other than the active project, for example a macro project,
can be used as the interpretation template.
It is furthermore possible to selected an existing part via the parts management

as the interpretation template.
Defining Connection Point Pattern in Layout Space

Part placements receive information about their connection points mostly from
the definition of the connection point pattern at the part that was carried out in
the central parts management. If in the properties of the part placement on the
Connection point pattern tab the Local connection point pattern check box is ac-
tivated, the connection points defined on the part will be copied to this part
placement. Subsequently, the referencing to the parts data is canceled, and the
connection points can be modified individually.
If the placed part does not have predefined connection points, it is possible to
define the connection points on the part placement graphically.
These graphical connection points are also local and apply to the edited part
placement.
If connection points are already defined at the part, these are converted auto-
matically into local connection points.
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Like all local connection points, the graphically defined connection points, too,
can be modified individually (position, connection point direction). The modified
connection point data of local connection points can then be used again in or-
der to transfer them to connection point patterns in parts management.
Mounting Lists
In EPLAN Pro Panel, you can generate the Mounting list report for 3D part
placements of a layout space. Mounting lists are used to map in a report the hi-
erarchical structure of a mounting layout in the layout space. The report can be
done for a very specific part placement (mounting panel, enclosure, busbar,
etc.).
Mounting List Report

In such a function-based report, the 3D part placements are evaluated for which
the "Create mounting list" property has been activated in the property dialog.
This property can be selected via the property selection for all 3D functions (ex-
cept for mounting surfaces). For devices with the activated property, all devices
of the hierarchy level immediately below are listed in the output mounting list.
To create a mounting list, you can use the new "Mounting list" report type lo-
cated in the "Select report" dialog. As with other function-related reports, too,
when outputting the mounting list you can make a manual selection. In the sub-
sequent "Manual selection" dialog, all 3D part placements are listed for which
the Create mounting list property has been activated.
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Checking and Positioning Aids

Using Collision Check
The collision check checks whether items overlap or penetrate each other dur-
ing placement and editing. It always kicks in when items are placed, moved,
copied, duplicated, rotated or extended. Resulting collisions are visualized by
coloring the affected items. The color used to this purpose can be specified by
using the user options.
• The collision check includes all item types, regardless of whether they are
displayed or hidden.
• The collision check can be turned off at any time.
• When placing length-variable items, the collision check is activated after
defining the first placement point.
• Intentional collisions are not treated as collisions (e.g., a monitor inte-
grated into a door).
• The safety areas (mounting clearances) defined on a part are evaluated
and taken into account by the collision check.
• There is a check run to check for collisions subsequently.
Displaying Mounting Clearances

Parts management can be used to define a mounting clearance in terms of
width, height, and depth on the Mounting data tab in the part properties. This
mounting clearance ensures that the permitted thermal stress on parts placed
beside or on top of one another is not exceeded.
To monitor this, the specified mounting clearances can be shown during place-
ment. They are shown as transparent, surrounding bodies. In the placement op-
tions, the handle of a part to be placed can be set relative to the edges of the
item (default) or to the mounting clearances.
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Displaying Mounting Aids

Mounting aids are the following elements of device logic:
• Handles
• Mounting points
• Base points
• Mounting grid.
These elements are visible in a schematic project only if they are in use, that is,
during the placement in a layout space. Sometimes you may want to render
mounting aids visible even outside of placement actions, so that they can be
edited. The visibility of the mounting aids in the schematic project can be con-
trolled as required.
Auxiliary Lines
3D lines can be placed in the layout space as auxiliary lines. Auxiliary lines can
be used to build a symmetrical or also irregular grid whose intersections can be
used as positioning aids when inserting mounting rails, wire ducts, and devices.
3D lines are placed on mounting surfaces; but placement outside of mounting

surfaces is also possible. In contrast to 2D lines, the starting and end points of
3D lines have a Z coordinate containing information on their position in the
space.
There are two different types of auxiliary lines:
• Line "Through 2 points" (defined by starting and end points)

• Line "Parallel through point".
End and center points of auxiliary lines are found when object snap is turned
on. "Real" intersections of auxiliary lines are also found when the lines are at
the same height in the space.
Auxiliary lines can be moved, copied, duplicated and deleted like 2D lines. Aux-
iliary lines are displayed in model views.
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Connection Preview
The connection preview is useful when placing devices on the 3D mounting lay-
out navigator. A blue line shows which device, already placed, is electrically
connected to the device that is about to be placed in the project plan. The con-
nection preview makes it easier to group associated devices and helps avoid
unnecessarily long wiring.
Measuring in the Layout Space

The "Measuring" functionality is available for checking the equipment of the
mounting panels and enclosures in the layout space. The distance from points
and edges can be measured, and the measurement result is displayed in a dia-
log. This contains the coordinates of both the measured elements, the dis-
tances of the measured points and the shortest distance between the two
measured elements.
The measurement of the coordinates and the distance from points and edges is
output relatively, parallel to a common mounting surface. If the measured points
are not on a common mounting surface, the measured values are relative to the
origin of the layout space.
Updating Main Elements

All the part references of all the associated part placements can be transferred
to the main function in the 3D mounting layout as well. This replaces the part
references in the main function with the part references contained in the part
placements. As in the 2D mounting layout, identification is by the complete de-
vice tag.
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Updating Part Dimensions

When the part number is exchanged in a part placement in a layout space, it is
necessary to update the part dimensions if this causes the part dimensions to
change, would change the macro name, or has changed the image file name. It
is only possible to update the part dimensions for devices, mounting rails and
wire ducts on mounting surfaces, and for individually inserted mounting panels
and free mounting panels.
Editing Legend Items

The 3D mounting layout also has the option of editing legend items and chang-
ing numbering.
3D Macros
The macro technology in "EPLAN Pro Panel" is oriented towards the normal
way of working in the EPLAN platform.
The following applies to 3D macros:
• 3D macros are managed in a macro project.

• 3D macros can be created and used as window (*.ema) and / or symbol
macros (*.ems).
• 3D macros are always created with the "3D mounting layout" representa-
tion type. Both creating and inserting with this representation type is only
possible in a layout space.
• The 3D macros can be assigned to the parts in parts management. As a
result, the part is displayed in detail and very realistically. If there is no
graphic macro for the part, the graphic is implemented as a cuboid by en-
tering the height, width, and depth, in as far as these entries exist at the
part.
• If a 3D macro is assigned to an enclosure, then the graphic of the enclo-
sure is not generated automatically during placement; in this case the
content of the graphic macro defines the graphic.
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Creating 3D Macros
3D macros can be created as follows:
• Manually by saving selected objects from a layout space

• Automatically from imported STEP files (*.ema only)
• Manually or automatically from a macro project.
Placing 3D Macros
3D macros are placed in the layout space in the same way as devices. These
macros can only be placed in an open layout space with the "3D mounting lay-
out" representation type.
Changing the Rotation Angle

When you insert a 3D macro, you can rotate the angle of the macro in 90° in-
crements at the handle. Up to 40 different mounting positions can be imple-
mented with a single 3D macro by changing the handles. These options also
apply to devices whose parts have been assigned a 3D macro.
Model Views
Model views are standardized views and views of equipped mounting surfaces.
They are used for display purposes and for creating drawings. Additional infor-
mation such as dimensioning, texts, etc. for enclosure production (enclosure
equipment) can be drawn in the model views using standard platform functions.
A model view can be inserted in any page type.
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Changing Model Views

You can use the following actions to modify how the content of model views is
displayed and arranged:
• Update
• Center contents
• Move contents
• Edit properties
• Show / hide 3D objects.
Updating the Model View

If the content of the layout space referenced by the model view was changed,
the message "Model view not up to date" appears over the top of the model
view when the page is opened. The model view must be updated to match the
contents of the layout space and model view.
Centering the Contents

If the display in the model view was changed by modifying the frame size or by
using the "Move contents" or "Update" action, you may find that the graphic no
longer appears centered in the model view. You can run the "Center contents"
action to return the graphic to the center of the model view.
Moving the Contents

This action moves the entire content of the model view. You can use this option
to change the position of the graphic in the model view without having to create
a new model view. The centered status can be restored with the Center con-
tents action.
Moving Property Texts

The "Move property texts" command activates the insertion points of the prop-
erty texts of items in a model view and these are made visible by clicking on the
individual components. The text can then be moved using Drag & Drop.
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Generating Machining Data for Auto-

matic Equipment Systems
NC machines are drilling, cutting, and milling robots which convert planning in-
formation into production processes by means of a control program. Mounting
panels, doors, and other equipable enclosure components are mostly manufac-
tured by NC machines when it comes to enclosure design. In the EPLAN Pro
Panel module package manufacturing data can be created for NC machines
and exported using appropriate interfaces.
The NC interface modules transmit the coordinates and dimensions of drill

holes, cut-outs or locked areas, as well as other production data to edit mount-
ing panels, doors or side sections directly on NC drilling and milling robots. For
the NC manufacture of user-defined outlines, outline records, adjusted for the
machine in use, can be generated.
EPLAN Pro Panel furthermore allows for the output of item-specific drilling pat-
terns in a ratio of 1:1 in PDF files. This template, printed on a plotter or large-
format printer in the same size, serves as a template for the manual drilling of
the mounting panel.
NC Record
An NC record is an NC program that can drill and mill an outline on a machine.
In this context, the focus is on the specific possibilities of the machine and its
tools. The outline is created graphically in the outline editor and equipped with
the machine-specific information by generating an NC record.
Field for NC Machining

A field in the NC export is a (part) surface that is machined by the NC machine.
Each NC-relevant surface (i.e. with a specific item ID) and each item with NC
relevance (i.e., with the "Machining" property activated) is treated as a field dur-
ing the export to an NC robot or when creating a drilling template. Of course,
this applies only if it is included in the selection for the export, and only if this
field has been equipped in the project and if, thus, machining occurs.
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Field Size in 3D Macros

When creating 3D macros with NC-relevant surfaces, you must define the
mounting surface as well as a field size, which generally corresponds to the
surrounding rectangle of the mounting surface. NC-relevant surfaces without a
field size are not exported. A check run checks whether all NC-relevant mount-
ing surfaces have a defined field size.
Mounting Check
The mounting check checks whether all items that have been placed on NC-
relevant surfaces have a drilling pattern. This check is done via a check run.
The check run message is always output if a part placement has been placed
on an NC-relevant mounting surface and no valid drilling pattern has been as-
signed.
Drill Exceptions
In machine-based manufacture, it depends on the machine in use whether the
required drill hole type can be generated. For example, a laser can produce ex-
act hexagons, but a milling cutter cannot. This is not set definitively in the parts
data, because it is not known yet which machine will be used for the manufac-
ture.
For each machine, for DXF output and drilling templates, specific drill excep-
tions can be defined in the settings. This way, drill holes that cannot be manu-
factured on one machine are replaced by another type that the machine can
manufacture.
When exporting NC drill data, then, the alternatives are exported rather than the
originals. In the case of real machines, after the exception, alternative pro-
cessing triggered by missing tools is also selected (if the thread cutter is miss-
ing, drill only core hole, etc.).
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Generating Manufacturing Data for Machining

EPLAN Pro Panel allows for the output of manufacturing data for NC-supported
machines of different manufacturers and for sharing it with service providers:
• Kiesling PERFOREX
• STEINHAUER eCAB
• General NC-DXF interface
Each of these formats must be licensed as separate interfaces.
Inserting 2D Drilling View

The drilling view (2D) is a form of model view specialized in the display of NC-
relevant data. It shows the NC-relevant data, drill holes, cut-outs, as well as
outlines of basic items and parts. Dimensioning can be inserted into the drilling
view.
Generating Mounting Data for Terminal Placement

Machines
Optional interfaces allow EPLAN Pro Panel to output data for the automatic
placement of terminals on mounting rails.
• Kiesling ATHEX
This output interface is optional and has to be licensed separately.
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Routing Connections
Generating Routing Connections
Routing means the generation of routing connections of the "3D mounting lay-
out" representation type. These connections can be routed in the layout space.
A routing connection has all the properties that a multi-line connection also has,
but it also additionally contains information about its routing track.
It is generally multi-line connections being routed for whose targets there is a

placed 3D part placement. The routing generates a routing connection if only an
existing multi-line connection is routed. For connections of a single-line repre-
sentation type, routing is not possible, and the option is deactivated.
Routing connections are displayed in the layout space in their conductor color
and with their external diameter. If neither is defined, a default representation
will be displayed.
Displaying Connection Points Graphically

Connection points at 3D part placements can be rendered visible in the layout
space. This allows you to better estimate whether their position and connection
point direction are suitable for existing routing paths and wire ducts, so that
routing connections can find the connection points reliably. If this is not the
case, you must modify either the connection point direction or the course of the
routing paths.
In the graphical display, connection points cannot be deleted, moved or dupli-

cated. Connection point data is modified in the property dialog of the part place-
ment.
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Inserting Routing Paths

Routing paths are automatically or manually inserted default paths along which
connections can be routed. Routing paths are displayed graphically by means
of lines with snap points at the starting, end and center points. The colors of the
routing paths can be set.
Automatic routing paths are generated when you execute the "Generate routing
path network" action on the basis of placed wire ducts, routing ranges, and wir-
ing cut-outs.
Manual routing paths are not linked to wire ducts, etc.
Inserting Curves
Curves are manually inserted default paths along which electrical engineering
and Fluid power connections can be routed.
The curve is defined by a starting point and at least two successive control
points. Once the placement of a curve is completed, the last-placed control
point is interpreted as end point.
Graphically, the curves, like routing paths, are displayed as blue lines with snap
points at the starting/end points and at the control points.
Inserting Routing Ranges

Routing ranges are part of the routing path network. In routing ranges, connec-
tions are not routed along a routing path, but always it is the shortest possible
and direct connection that is routed. This way, for example, it possible to imple-
ment wiring on the back of a mounting panel.
Inserting Wiring Cut-outs

Wiring cut-outs are used to steer connections during routing to the back of a
mounting panel or of a door.
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Using Connection Filters

Wire ducts, routing paths, routing ranges, and wiring cut-outs have the Connec-
tion filter property. The connection filter is used for routing to control which con-
nections may be routed through the routing track. The criteria and the associ-
ated values can be defined and can, for example, be color assignments of wires
or voltage values.
The assignment of values to the connections to be routed is purely textual. Free

text is used to define the values, but it must also be added to the connection
parts.
Generating a Routing Path Network

The graphical objects in the layout space are the basis for creating the routing
path network in which the connection is routed. Wire ducts are equipped auto-
matically with routing paths in the process. Wire ducts do not necessarily have
to be placed at a distance = 0 from the next channel to locate a connection be-
tween channels. A corresponding project setting can be used to set the dis-
tance tolerance that is to be bridged in routing between ducts.
By adding appropriate routing paths, the routing path network can be extended,
or several individual areas can be connected to each other, e.g., mounting
panel and door. After modifying the course of the routing paths, the routing path
network has to be generated anew.
Displaying Routing Path View

Routing path view is defined as the highlighting of the currently valid routing
path network. The routing path view can be displayed in full or filtered through
the respective valid connection filter.
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Optimizing Nets Automatically

With automatic optimization, the connections of the net / daisy chains are rede-
signed in such a way that the following conditions are met:
• All connection points continue to be connected.

• The sum of the wires to be routed is a short as possible.
• No more than connections terminate in a connection point.
• A daisy chain is always generated.
Connection Filter for Routing Path View

In connection with the display of the routing path view, you can set in the con-
nection filter the criteria to be considered for the routing path view. Connections
that correspond to the activated criteria are hidden. Non-activated ones are dis-
played transparently.
Routing Connections
Routing generates routing connections between the 3D part placements that
follow the real course of the wires and cables in the routing path network. If
there are no connection points defined for a suitable part placement, they will
be generated prior to the routing.
Apart from the routing track, the length of wires is also determined. All infor-
mation thus determined can be used as wiring instructions or to control wire
fabrication machines.
Routing Connections Freely

The function for the free routing of connections allows you to route wire, cable
or also tube connections freely in the layout space without any prior definition of
a routing path network or the use of wire ducts.
Freely routed connections can be realized as wires and cables between electri-
cal engineering items as well as tubes between Fluid power items.
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Free routing of connections forms part of the extension module "EPLAN Pro
Panel – Process Wiring".
Changing Routing Tracks

The routing track of a connection determined by routing can be influenced by
modifying the route.
Use the Routing points to modify a route. These points are displayed during
manual modifications to the route. By moving a routing point to another, it is
possible to modify the routing path of connections. If several connections run
through the routing path or duct, a selection dialog will be displayed where you
choose the connection that is to be moved into the new routing path / new duct.
Displaying Fill Capacity

After connections have been routed, the system knows the wire ducts and rout-
ing paths through which the wires run. If the dimensions of the wire ducts and
external diameters of the wires are known, the system can estimate whether
the routing paths are dimensioned sufficiently large in order to accommodate all
wires.
As the number of connections increases, so does also the number of wires in

the wire duct increase. This can create space problems particularly in the junc-
tion area of wire ducts. The "Display fill capacity" function provides feedback on
the space reserves in wire ducts and manual routing paths. This way, the user
can see where specific routes have to be modified in order to force routing
through less crowded routing paths even if another path would be shorter, but
would result in over-allocation.
In the case of automatic routing paths (wire ducts), the cross-section available
to the routed connections is calculated from the dimensions of the wire ducts in-
volved. This cross-section can be carried over to manual routing paths if they
are connected to an automatic routing path. If not, then you have to enter a de-
fault value in the "Cross-section" routing path property. The actual fill capacity is
calculated from the available cross-section of the routing paths and the cross-
section that is taken up by the routed connections.
The fill capacity limit and alert limit are project settings and thus adjustable.
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Updating the Fill Capacity

After each modification to the routing path network of routed connections, the fill
capacity has to be calculated again.
Bundling Connections
The option of organizing and combining wires routed consecutively or in parallel
into bundles and of making them available as labeled bundles for wiring accel-
erates the wiring process and streamlines further the entire enclosure manufac-
ture.
There are two methods for bundling routing connections:
• In the case of Automatic bundling, bundle numbers are determined by the

program and written into the "Bundle" property of the routing connections.
• In the case of Manual bundling, bundle numbers are entered by the user
manually in the "Bundle" property of the routing connections.
Using the interfaces for wire fabrication, you can evaluate this information and
transfer to the manufacturing robots that produce the appropriate combined and
labeled bundles.
Generating Manufacturing Data for Wire Fabrication

Machines
Through optional interfaces EPLAN Pro Panel allows for the output of manufac-
turing data for wire fabrication machines of different manufacturers and for
sharing it with service providers:
• CadCabel
• Komax
• Metzner (Triathlon Kabelcenter)
• Schleuniger (Easy Production Server)
• Steinhauer (Personal Wiring Assistant)
• Wus-TEC.
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Each of these formats must be licensed as separate interfaces.
In addition, it is possible to configure and output a "General wires parts list".

The exported file can be used by manufacturing machines, which interpret this
format, for the purposes of automatic cutting to length, labeling and production
of conductor ends of cables. The wires parts list contains the information on
connections between devices, their part numbers, their flows and length:
• Wire number
• Starting device with unique DT
• Connecting point of such device
• Target device with unique DT
• Connecting point of such device
• Part number of the wire
• Length of wire
• Starting direction from the connecting point of the first device
• End direction to the connecting point of the second device
• Bundle number.
EPLAN Project Processing – Importing Devices

In the context of routing connections, EPLAN Pro Panel Professional optionally
makes it possible to import data from external programs (other CAE systems,
ERP systems, MS Excel, etc.) into an EPLAN project.
It is possible on the basis of these device data to create a mounting layout in-
cluding routing connections even without a schematic.
In addition to the device tag lists, terminal lists and wiring lists with the file name
extensions TXT and CSV, as well as text files with the file name extension ASC are
imported.
MS Excel files can furthermore be read in directly.
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Importing with a sequence of various dialogs and status recognition makes it

possible for you to control the import process interactively. A synchronization di-
alog can be used to define which of the available data are to be imported. It is
also possible to delete devices or routing connections that only exist in the
EPLAN project.
Assigning a part
Suitable parts from the EPLAN parts management can be assigned to the data
to be imported, if part numbers which do not exist in the EPLAN parts manage-
ment are assigned to the devices / routing connections in the external data
source, or if no part numbers are assigned.
Multi-line main functions with one or several parts arise in the EPLAN project
through the import of the device tag list. These parts are placed manually in the
layout space.
In the second step, the routing connections are imported. Non-routed routing
connections result. Precondition: Both the source and the target of the imported
routing connections are defined and are found.
The following properties are supported for devices:
• DT (full) (for terminals including the designation)

• Part number
• Level (terminals)
• Function category
• Function group
• Function definition
The following properties are supported for routing connections:
• DT (full)
• Part number
• Function definition
• Source (separator colon)
• Target (separator colon)
• Internal / External source (terminals)
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• Internal / External target (terminals)

• Connection color / number
• Connection: Cross-section / diameter
• Connection designation.
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper for the Design

of Busbars
Using the optional "EPLAN Pro Panel Copper" extension module, you can con-
struct freely individual copper rails and connection elements. The necessary ex-
pertise about materials, manufacturing techniques or manufacturing machines
can be stored in EPLAN, and can be utilized as part of special planning assis-
tance and to verify the construction. Potential disturbances are identified early
on in the 3D prototype – this accelerates the process of switchgear construction
and allows for project resources to be scaled.
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper offers you the following options:
• Configuration of busbar systems on the basis of system technology com-

ponents of various busbar system manufacturers such as Rittal.
Precondition: The manufacturer data are available in EPLAN Pro Panel
and are provided in suitable form through the parts and accessories man-
agement. The shape and form of copper items can be defined individually
and adjusted for the circumstances in the enclosure.
• Length and angle changes and associated moving of bending positions
can be effected directly on the item by moving the cursor, without any de-
tours via parameter dialogs. This allows for actual designing in the
mounting environment.
• The manufacturing data of the individually constructed copper items are
provided via special machine interfaces and transferred to cutting, bend-
ing, milling, punching, or also drilling machines.
• Standardized copper items that are to be purchased in a fixed preset
form are assigned the "Prefabricated" property. This makes it possible to
control that the copper items cannot be modified after the placement.
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Engineering of power distribution and busbar systems consists of the following

working steps:
• Create a form (path of the rectangular profile form to shape the copper
rail) in the outline editor.
• Place a "Busbar (bending)"; in the process, a rail part of defined height
and width is selected, a form is assigned, and a bending radius is deter-
mined for the bending positions.
• Modify the length, angle and bending positions at the placed rail; adjust
for the specific spatial circumstances in the enclosure; in the process, the
"unfolded total length" of the copper item is calculated and updated per-
manently.
• Copy, rotate, move the placed rail.
• Place other rails; this generates copper bundles.
• Create report on copper parts (mounting list).
• Unfold bent rails; this takes into account bending radii, material stretching
and compression.
• Transfer unfold to manufacturing machines.
Creating Manufacturing Data for the Processing Ma-

chines
The optional interfaces allow EPLAN Pro Panel to output manufacturing data
for NC-supported machining of copper rails for various manufacturers.
The data format of the Copper NC interface is manufacturer-neutral and can be

adapted by machine manufacturers.
Each of the following export interfaces has to be licensed separately:
• EPLAN Production Copper NC

• EPLAN Production Copper DXF
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EPLAN Pro Panel 3D Data Export

Exporting EPLAN Pro Panel Data to 3D PDF
The EPLAN PDF export provides the option of outputting the 3D contents of the
layout spaces of a project in addition to the pages of an EPLAN project. In the
case of a PDF export of the layout spaces, one additional page will then be
added at the end of the page data for each layout space.
Free viewers, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader, make it possible to display the
embedded 3D data of the PDF file, to rotate the contained 3D mounting layouts
or to navigate in the shown model structure. The respective display and naviga-
tion possibilities depend on the viewer.
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Exporting 3D Graphic Data in VRML Format

The VRML export writes the geometry of a layout space's 3D components into
a file in the VRML format. The exported data is displayed as 3D models in
browsers, and there can be rotated all around and zoomed.
Exporting 3D Graphic Data in STEP Format

The STEP export writes the geometry of a layout space's 3D components into a
file in the STEP format. Information about the solids, analytic surfaces and vol-
umes is transferred in as far as it is available in the EPLAN 3D macro. The ex-
ported data can be imported into external CAD systems and be visualized
there.
EPLAN Design Space Exchange – Inter-

disciplinary 3D Data Exchange
The principle: The 3D CAD program makes a geometric space available (for ex-
ample in the form of an enclosure housing) into which the electrical devices are
installed. This geometric area is called the design space.
In this defined installation environment the 3D mounting layout with wire ducts,
mounting rails, busbar systems and devices is carried out then in EPLAN Pro
Panel. The concurrent integration of manufacturing information in the form of
drill holes, threads or cut-outs forms the basis for the next process step: The
provision of this information for the M-CAD application.
Subsequently the data existing in EPLAN Pro Panel for fastening holes, threads
or cut-outs are transferred to the M-CAD application, read in there and inte-
grated into the original 3D M-CAD model using the methods of the M-CAD sys-
tem. This is carried out completely automatically and, if desired, including the
wiring ducts, mounting rails and devices placed in EPLAN Pro Panel.
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The result: A complete 3D-parametric M-CAD model of the enclosure housing,

including all the information required for manufacturing as the basis for all fur-
ther process steps, for example for the housing manufacturing and the machin-
ing of the components.
At the same a comprehensive project documentation including all the wiring in-
formation for the fabrication of cables and wires exists on the EPLAN end.
The following is possible:
• Importing of model data that were exported from 3D CAD programs
• Automatic interpretation of the geometry model
• Implementation of the required 3D mounting layout in EPLAN Pro Panel

in the geometry model from the 3D CAD program. Insertion of information
about drill holes, threads, standard form cut-outs or outline-based cut-
outs
• Exporting of the EPLAN data supplemented in 3D mounting layout

(mounting rails, wire ducts, information about drill holes, threads, cut-
outs) in the form of an XML file
• Integration and interpretation of the data from the XML file in Autodesk
Inventor. Automatic placement of the mechanical and electrical devices in
the parametric 3D model in Autodesk Inventor
• Automatic implementation of the NC-relevant information from EPLAN

Pro Panel in fully parametric Inventor geometry components (drill holes,
threads, slotted holes, cut-outs, etc.).
These results are available:
In the electrotechnical field: A fully developed control system enclosure includ-

ing as-built documentation for the manufacturing.
In the mechanical field: A complete parametric 3D model supplemented with in-

formation from EPLAN
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Calculation of the Total Power Dissipa-

tion of Switch Gears
EPLAN Pro Panel provides a functionality that calculates the total power dissi-
pation of a switch gear. The total power dissipation consists of the power dissi-
pation of the devices and the power dissipation of the busbar systems. The re-
sults of this calculation can be transferred to programs for heating calculation
(such as Rittal Therm), so that air-conditioning solutions can be defined (selec-
tion of a suitable cooling device).
The determined values are reference values and serve solely as an orientation
for the planner when selecting a suitable air-conditioning solution for the in-
tended concrete application.
The air-conditioning solution selected on the basis of the values determined for
the total power dissipation must be examined by the manufacturer of the
switchgear assembly (called the enclosure below) with regard to its suitability
for the intended application – for example through suitable procedures and
tests.
The correctness of the parts data on the power dissipation of the devices that
are provided by the component manufacturer and / or stored by the user in
EPLAN as well as the general conditions specified by the user are, in particular,
significant for the design and dimensioning and can result in considerable devi-
ations of the results for the total power dissipation.
For this reason EPLAN Software & Service does not accept any liability for the
correctness of the determination of the total power loss and the resulting choice
of the air-conditioning solution for the concrete application and is also not liable
for any damage resulting from non-observance of this information.
The following general conditions apply for using the calculation result with Rittal
Therm:
• EPLAN Data Portal access in the context of the Software Service

• Rittal Therm license
• Internet access
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EPLAN Revision Management

Via the "EPLAN Revision Management" extension module, subsequent modifi-
cations of existing plants can be captured and documented automatically on the
basis of a revision control. You can also access older versions of the project
and mark the modified project pages with an approval stamp.
Revision markers can be generated in two ways:
If you have created a revision and continued working in this, changes are high-
lighted automatically (change tracking). When changes are made to a project
page in a revision, the system identifies the changes as a draft. This is dis-
played graphically by a watermark on the project page. This mark is retained
until the project page is closed. If you position the cursor over a modified object
in a revision, a Tooltip is displayed containing information about the revision.
Alternatively you can "freeze" a specific project state and compare it with an-
other project state later. In this way, you can e.g. quickly identify which project
pages have changed in order to start a new print order. You can specify in de-
tail which properties should be compared. The settings are stored in a scheme.
You can therefore create different schemes for different purposes and re-use
settings once they have been specified.
If you have changed an object in a revision, then this is displayed with a graph-
ical marker in the schematic.
The revision states created for a project can be output in revision overviews,
which can be either printed or inserted into the current report as separate report
pages.
Revision management fulfills the requirements regarding traceability of

changes. Changes can be automatically identified, listed, graphically high-
lighted, and commented by the user. This makes working with revisions trans-
parent and efficient.
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EPLAN Multi Language Translation

Increasing globalization makes the ability to work confidently with foreign lan-
guages and output mono- or multilingual schematics essential. The "EPLAN
Multi Language Translation" extension module provides this option, while allow-
ing you to keep using your native language.
The program can represent Unicode characters. The texts are translated online
automatically. The support of professional translation agencies can be inte-
grated through data exchange via XML or in Office format.
The "AutoComplete" functionality minimizes typing work just as in your Internet

browser. The documentation is easier to understand using standard terms, and
typing errors are avoided. Existing electrical engineering expertise can there-
fore be used around the world – with minimal time expenditure.
EPLAN Project Options

The "EPLAN Project Options" extension module allows you to define areas of a
machine or plant as project options and then reveal or hide them within the
EPLAN project. This way, configuration characteristics or a different dimension-
ing of a machine or plant can be easily represented and managed by means of
project options. Hidden project options are not evaluated any more so that re-
ports of a project are also automatically adapted to the selected project options.
For the management of project options, a new navigator, the "Project options
navigator", is available. This can also be activated from the "Project data"
menu. If particular customer requirements mean that you do not require part of
a machine or plant for which a project option has been defined, then simply de-
activate the project option in the navigator. The schematic and the reports are
automatically adjusted.
A project option can also be displayed transparently. This means, the sections
in the schematic are displayed transparently, but not evaluated. With the trans-
parent display it is easy to recognize that at this project point in the documenta-
tion an option has been defined which is, however, currently deactivated.
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By simply switching on and off the project options, the order processor can eas-
ily create a project in accordance with customer requirements.
A basic project is used to create a new project; then some settings are deter-
mined – and the documentation for the actual order is complete. Due to the
central management of all project options in the navigator, operation of the soft-
ware is very easy and intuitive for the user.
As processing preparation, your specialists can define template schematics and

project options. The order result is therefore not editor-related any more, but
can be reproduced at any time due to standardization and is always top-quality.
Processing preparation through templates and project options files off the engi-
neering know-how of the company in the system transparently and inde-
pendently of persons. Knowledge transfer can be controlled by creating the pro-
ject options.
Additional information (e.g. in deactivated project options) can be removed from

a project prior to delivery. A special report is available for indicating which pro-
ject options are contained in the project and which ones are selected.
The workflow can be controlled even more specifically in connection with rights
management. While the colleagues in the development department create tem-
plates and options, the project editors access the prepared components easily,
securely, and quickly, instead of re-inventing these from scratch.
Fluid and electrical engineering can be integrated in the combination of project

options. Based on the mechanical and fluid-specific planning, the result of indi-
vidual project options is thus directly controlled within electrical engineering (in-
cluding structure diagram and I/O assignment of PLCs).
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EPLAN Project Management

The "EPLAN Project Management" extension module offers the option of cross-
drive project management. To find existing projects via project management
from other workstations, you can import the header data of the projects into a
project management database.
In project management, you can also view project-specific and cross-project in-
formation. Extensive functionalities enable ease of use – e.g., when revising,
backing up, or filing off multiple projects.
Project properties can be processed in blocks in project management. You can

also output a complete overview of the project header data from a project, and
display the users currently working on the selected project if you wish.
These properties enable the continual re-use of existing (sub-)projects and

avoid the need to plan projects entirely from scratch.
EPLAN User Rights Management

The workflow in the system can be administered easily, similar to the Windows
rights management.
Using the "EPLAN User Rights Management" extension module, which is dis-
played in a tree structure, you can block dialogs, menu items, and toolbars in
the user interface. The rights can be assigned blockwise to groups. If required,
individual editing functions such as "Delete project" can be blocked specifically.
If certain rights are revoked from a user, the associated menu items will be
grayed out. In this way, the system only offers users the commands they need
to perform their tasks.
This allows an administrator to configure the access rights and the menu struc-
ture. This avoids the user having to deal with menu items that they do not need.
This increases the clarity of the program, and therefore improves the operating
speed and allows the user to work more effectively.
62
Status: 09/2015
The division of the processing steps is different in each company and depends
on working methods, project, knowledge level of the user, etc. The users obtain
their rights by belonging to one (or more) group(s). The permitted editing rights
can be assigned to the user groups by the administrator. The groups give their
assigned rights to all users in the group.
If the user logged on in Windows is set up as a system user, then the logon oc-
curs automatically and the user does not need to enter his / her user name and
password again.
If the rights management is to be used, the module has to be used at all the
EPLAN workplaces in the company. This is the only method of ensuring that a
user cannot circumvent the rights structure.
With rights management, users can be employed according to their abilities.

Planning tasks can be distributed and controlled, and operating errors are
avoided. Rights management also supports adherence to standardization rules.
EPLAN Project Reference

This optional extension module is used to support the cooperation between the
client and the supplier. The incoming project from the supplier can be checked
rapidly and without manual work against the specifications and guidelines of the
client. A structured overview of the test results allows a substantiated assess-
ment of the project quality with regard to the specifications. The client can thus
decide rapidly whether the supplied project is to be accepted or amendment by
the supplier is required.
Often, project participants, e.g. the client, will send the project status to another
participant, e.g. the supplier as engineering service providers. They edit the
project and send an advanced project status back. Using the project verification
the client can check the project status before loading it as to whether the project
has met the requirements or whether it is of the standard required. For compari-
sons between a comparison project and an incoming project you can check the
following criteria:
63
Status: 09/2015
• Is the project free of errors? A project is free of errors if none of the sched-
uled check runs generate messages.
• Are the project-related settings unchanged?
• Are the project data properties unchanged?
• Are they compliant with the project planning specifications?
If the project status does not fulfill the requirements, a message report can be
created that documents the differences from the project specifications.
The "EPLAN Project Reference" functionality can be used to set and automati-
cally check specifications regarding quality standards to be observed for the
documentation. This simplifies and accelerates the management of projects
during a project exchange between different companies.
Multi-user
Multiple users can edit one project simultaneously in multi-user operation. You
can see which users are currently working on a project in project management.
Please contact EPLAN Support with regard to the hardware requirements for
multi-user operation. We can advise you specifically according to your individ-
ual requirements.
64
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Data Portal

The "EPLAN Data Portal" extension module makes web-based device data and
master data of major manufacturers available for direct inclusion in the EPLAN
Platform. In addition to alphanumeric parts data, these master data also contain
schematic macros, multilingual parts information, preview images, documents,
etc.
The data provided by the manufacturers is integrated directly into the EPLAN
Platform when downloaded. The option to download each part and component
selectively ensures a clear structure and specific updating of your personal
parts management.
High-quality master data facilitates uniform use in EPLAN and increases the
quality of the project documentation, from the schematic, through detailed re-
ports, to integration of manufacturer documentation (data sheets, operating
manuals) in high-quality manufacturing specifications.
The EPLAN Data Portal simplifies considerably for the designer the integration
of parts data with the engineering process. While planning, he or she can di-
rectly access master data that has been classified and checked for EPLAN
compatibility, without time-consuming searching of manufacture catalogs, which
thus reduces the project planning time.
Detailed item data is of crucial significance even in downstream use of docu-

mentation during servicing and maintenance work.
A software maintenance agreement is the prerequisite for using the EPLAN

Data Portal.
65
Status: 09/2015
Hardware Requirements
Workstation hardware requirements
The computer platform is a PC with an Intel Core i5 or i7 or compatible proces-
sor. Rather select a high-speed computer with less CPU cores than a slower
computer with more CPU cores.
Recommended workstation configuration
Processor: Multicore CPU, not older than 3 years

RAM: 8 GB*1
Hard disk: 500 GB
Monitor / graphics resolution: 2-screen solution 21" or 16:10 graphics system with
a resolution of 1680 x 1050
3D display: Graphics card from ATI or Nvidia with the latest
OpenGL driver *2
*1: Individual functions like PDF or DXF output require more memory in connection with large projects or very ex-
tensive graphics.
*2: A graphics card comparable with an Nvidia Quadro 600 should be used when EPLAN Pro Panel is used.
Network
We recommend using a Microsoft Windows network.
Net transfer rate of the server: 1 Gbits/s

Net transfer rate of the client computer: 100 Mbits/s
Recommended latency: < 1 ms
66
Status: 09/2015
Multi-user
With regard to minimum requirements for multi-user operation, please contact
EPLAN Support. We can advise you specifically according to your individual re-
quirements.
Software Approvals
In the current Version 2.5 the programs of the EPLAN Platform are only availa-
ble as a 64-bit-version.
Operating systems
The EPLAN platform only supports the 64-bit variants of the Microsoft operating
systems Windows 7 and Windows 8 / 8.1.
The EPLAN user interface language installed must be supported by the operat-
ing system.
The Microsoft .NET framework 4.0 is required to operate the EPLAN platform.
The program is released for the following operating systems:
Workstation
• Microsoft Windows 7 SP1 (64 bit) Professional, Enterprise, Ultimate

• Microsoft Windows 8 (64 bit) Pro, Enterprise
• Microsoft Windows 8.1 (64 bit) Pro, Enterprise
Server
• Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2 (64 bit)
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012 (64 bit)
• Microsoft Windows Server 2012 R2 (64 bit)
• Terminal Server with Citrix XenApp 7.6 and Citrix Desktop 7.6
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Status: 09/2015
Microsoft Products
Prerequisite for the creation of Microsoft Office file formats from EPLAN is a
functioning installation of an Office version as approved by EPLAN on the PC.
• Microsoft Office 2010 (32 bit and 64 bit)*

• Microsoft Office 2013 (32 bit and 64 bit)*
• Microsoft Internet Explorer 10
• Microsoft Internet Explorer 11
*Depending on the selection of the databases for the parts management, the project management and
the dictionary, the use of the 64 bit Office version is mandatory.
SQL Server (64-Bit)

• Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2
• Microsoft SQL-Server 2012
• Microsoft SQL-Server 2014
Autodesk Products (64-Bit)

• AutoCAD 2015
• AutoCAD 2016
• Autodesk Vault 2014 - on the basis of EPLAN EPR/PDM Integration Suite
• Autodesk Vault 2015 - on the basis of EPLAN EPR/PDM Integration Suite
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Status: 09/2015
PDF redlining
• Adobe Reader Version XI
• Adobe Acrobat Version XI Standard / Pro
• Adobe Reader Version DC
• Adobe Acrobat Version DC Standard / Pro
PLC systems (PLC & bus extension)

• ABB Automation Builder 1.1
• Beckhoff TwinCAT 2.10
• Beckhoff TwinCAT 2.11
• 3S Codesys
• Mitsubishi GX Works2
• Rockwell RSLogix professional 20
• Rockwell RSLogix professional 21
• Schneider Unity Pro 7.0
• Schneider Unity Pro 8.0 / 8.1
• Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 version 5.4 SP4
• Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 version 5.5
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Status: 09/2015
Overview of Functions
Standard functionality O Optional extension module / add-on
- Not available
Integration into the EPLAN platform

Support of the EPLAN parts management
Planning of 3D mounting layouts
Graphical detail display and EPLAN 3D macro technique
Integrated design aids
Model views and drawings
Automatic reports and legends
Consistent change tracking in schematic and mounting layout
Further editing of third-party data from CAE and ERP systems
3D data import
EPLAN Data Portal access
Rittal Therm coupling via EPLAN Data Portal
Method
Direct designing in 3D mounting layout
3D mounting layout on the basis of an EPLAN schematic
3D mounting layout of the basis of external device and connection lists
Parts data / Master data
Central management of parts data
User interface
Windows-compliant operation
Dockable windows
Multiple window arrangements can be saved
"Drag & Drop"
Customizable toolbars
Exporting / importing of toolbars
Included Optional − Not available
70
Status: 09/2015
Configurable keyboard shortcuts

Extendable menu structure
Undo / Redo with action tip
Undo / Redo of several steps
Transfer format (brush function)
Direct editing without dialog
Support for every language in the world
Use all Windows fonts
Graphical preview
Preview for properties
Didactic help system
Data exchange via XML, text format, CSV, ODBC, COM
Pro Panel Pro Panel

EPLAN Pro Panel Pro Panel
professional professional
Variant Add-on Add-on Stand-alone

3D layout space
Create a new layout space
Open a layout space
Close a layout space
Copy a layout space
Insert a copied layout space
Delete a layout space
Edit properties of layout space (component)
Open and edit several layout spaces in a project
Layout space navigator for managing layout

spaces
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


3D mounting layout
3D mounting layout navigator
Display of items planned for equipping
Identifier-based view
Separate grouping of parts without device tag
3D macro technique
Support of 3D window macros
Support of 3D symbol macros
Create macros
Manual saving of 3D macros from the layout

space
Manual / automatic saving from 3D STEP files
Manual / automatic saving from macro projects
Management in macro projects
Assignment of 3D macros to parts in the parts

management
Use of placeholder objects in 3D macros
Device logic
Combining 3D objects into one object
Defining mounting surfaces
Defining handles
Defining mounting points
Defining mounting grids −
Defining a placement area
Editing a placement area
Defining a base point −
72
Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Carrying over base point schemes (Rittal-data
−
specifically)
Interpreting and carrying over enclosure logic −
Defining the connection point pattern graphically −
Inserting components
Inserting a 3D window macro
Inserting a device
Inserting an enclosure
Inserting a mounting panel
Inserting a free mounting panel
Inserting a mounting rail
Inserting a wire duct
Inserting a busbar system −
Inserting C horizontal rails −
Inserting user-defined rails −
Outline editor for profile definition
Database-based accessory placement −
Component placement from
EPLAN parts management
EPLAN Data Portal
EPLAN navigators
EPLAN device list
Editing components
Duplicating 3D components
Rotating 3D components around spatial axes x, y,

z
73
Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Modifying the length of length-variable 3D compo-

nents
Fitting mounting rails
Fitting wire ducts
Fitting C horizontal rails −
Fitting self-defined rails −
Checking and placement aids
Collision recognition / collision avoiding – online /

offline
Consideration of mounting clearances to manu-

facturer specification
Mounting aids – handles
Mounting aids – mounting points
Mounting aids – base points
Mounting aids – mounting grid −
Mounting aids – consideration of defined mount-

ing surfaces
Mounting aids – consideration of defined place-

ment areas
Mounting aids – auxiliary lines
Measuring in the layout space
Graphical connection preview – online
Checking for placement context
Supporting of placement options
Parts data / Master data
Central management of parts data
Extended accessories management −
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Defining a connection point pattern in the EPLAN

parts management and assigning parts
Jump functions between the schematic and 3D

mounting layout
Model views – drawings for manufacturing
and documentation
Model views – settings
Model views – 3D object selection
Model views – showing / hiding objects
Model views – selection schemes
Model views – labeling
Model views – labeling schemes
Model views – legend position
Model views – scale definition
Model views – defining a property arrangement
Model views – dimensioning
Model views – updating interactively or automati-

cally
Model views – jump functions to 3D
Model views – orthogonal
Model views – isometric
Model views – on any layers
Model views – edge representation
Model views – hidden lines
Model views – shaded representation
Model views – simplifying representation
Model views – creating an enclosure legend
Model views – creating drilling views −
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Pro Panel Pro Panel


Project processing – external data processing
Importing of device tag lists −
Importing connection lists −
Importing in MS Excel format
−
(*.xls, *.xlsx, *.xlsb, *.xlsm)
Devices −
Importing −
Synchronizing −
Deleting −
Changing properties −
Assigning parts −
Routing connections −
Importing −
Synchronizing −
Deleting −
Changing properties −
3D data import / export
3D STEP import
3D VRLM export −
3D PDF export
3D STEP data export
Exporting layout space contents to STEP
Exporting defined 3D components to STEP
76
Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Process NC – manufacturing-oriented NC data
Defining and editing drilling patterns in the EPLAN

parts management
Assigning drilling patterns to parts in the EPLAN

parts management
NC outline editor for defining free NC outlines −
Testing defined NC outlines −
Cleaning defined NC outlines −
Creating and editing NC records −
Saving an NC record −
Copying an NC record −
Defining and inserting cut-outs −
Inserting a drill hole −
Inserting a threaded hole −
Inserting a rectangle −
Inserting a slotted hole −
Inserting a rectangle −
Inserting an octagon −
Inserting a defined outline −
Inserting from a defined drilling pattern −
Labeling drilling templates −
Outputting drilling templates −
Displaying a drilling view in the 3D model −
Generating manufacturing data for NC ma-
chines
NC Perforex export
NC Perforex – creating / editing machine-specific
−
records
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


NC Perforex – defining fins −
NC Perforex – defining a tool configuration −
NC Perforex – drill exceptions definable −
NC Perforex – thread definition −
NC Perforex – settings for export −
NC Perforex – defining drill exceptions −
NC Steinhauer export
NC Steinhauer – creating / editing machine-spe-
−
cific records
NC Steinhauer – defining fins −
NC Steinhauer – defining a tool assignment −
NC Steinhauer – drill exceptions definable −
NC Steinhauer – thread definition −
NC Steinhauer – settings for export −
NC Steinhauer – defining drill exceptions −
NC DXF export
NC DXF – settings −
NC DXF – thread definition −
NC DXF – outline definition −
NC DXF – settings for export −
NC DXF – defining drill exceptions −
Production ATHEX – terminal equipment
ATHEX terminal equipment – creating / editing
machine-specific records for automated equipping −
of terminals
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Process wiring – routing conductors & cables
in the layout space
Defining a connection point pattern graphically

and assigning parts
Definition of routing path networks for routing con-
−
nections
Routing path networks – automatic definition of
−
routing paths
Routing path networks – manual definition of rout-
−
ing paths
Routing path networks – manual definition of
−
curves
Routing path networks – definition of routing
−
ranges
Routing path networks – inserting wiring cut-outs −
Routing path networks – defining connection fil-
−
ters
Routing path networks – generating −
Routing path networks – deleting routing paths in
−
the routing path networks automatically
Routing connections – settings −
Routing connections – generating −
Routing connections – representation of cross-
−
section and color
Routing connections – routing in a space
free routing of electrical engineering and fluid
power connections (in combination with EPLAN
Fluid)
Routing connections – displaying −
Routing connections – hiding −
Routing connections – routing connections −
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Routing connections – changing the route −
Routing connections – defining and taking into
−
consideration fill capacities
Routing connections – taking function definitions
−
into account
Routing connections – determining the wire and
−
cable lengths
Routing connections – termination processing of
−
the wires and conductors
Routing connections – bundling routings automati-
−
cally
Routing connections – bundling routings manually −
Optimizing nets and routing connections −
Wires parts list – settings −
Creating wires parts lists for manufacturing −
Production wiring – manufacturing data for
the conductor fabrication
Output of manufacturing data for wire fabrication
−
machines
Setting wires – all machines −
Settings conductor termination processing – all
−
machines
Settings machine commands – all machines −
Settings labeling – all machines −
Wire fabrication – CadCabel −
Wire fabrication – Komax −
Wire fabrication – Schleuniger
−
(Easy Production Server)
Wire fabrication – Metzner
−
(Triathlon Kabelcenter)
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Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Wire fabrication – Steinhauer PWA
−
(Personal Wiring Assistant)
Wire fabrication – Wus-TEC −
EPLAN Pro Panel – Production AVEREX
Creating and editing of data for the robot-sup-
−
ported wiring of mounting panels
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper
design of busbars
Creating of copper rail – forms −
Busbars −
Part definition and assignment −
Definition of minimum bending radii −
Placement −
Copying, rotating, moving −
Definition of copper bundles from several rails −
Reporting of the copper items −
Mounting list −
Bill of materials −
Order list −
Unfolding of bent rails −
Creation of manufacturing drawings −
Production Copper NC – manufacturing data
for the copper rail processing
NC-based output of manufacturing data for bend-
−
ing, punching or drilling machines
Production Copper DXF – manufacturing data
for the copper rail processing
DXF-based output of manufacturing data for
−
bending, punching or drilling machines
81
Status: 09/2015
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Rittal Therm coupling via EPLAN
Data Portal
Design of an air-conditioning solution
Download of the determined components from the

EPLAN Data Portal
Component transfer into device list
Project planning in 3D mounting layout on the ba-

sis of the data in the device list
Pro Panel Pro Panel


Supported EPLAN systems and modules
EPLAN Project Management − −
EPLAN Revision Management − −
EPLAN Multi Language Translation − −
EPLAN User Rights Management − −
EPLAN Multi User − −
EPLAN Project Reference − −
EPLAN Project Options − −
EPLAN API Extension − −
82
Status: 09/2015
Extended Functional Scope of the

Stand-alone Variant
The stand-alone variant of EPLAN Pro Panel contains additional functionalities
from the field of electrical engineering design which are described in more detail
below.
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Editing the schematic from the reports
Integrating documents from other programs as project pages
Method
Planning start with schematic
Planning start with bill of materials
Function-oriented View
Projects
Opening multiple projects
Creating new projects from a template / with wizard
Importing projects from EPLAN 5 / EPLAN 21
Copying a project
Creating own project templates
Creating an own user-defined identification structure in the project
Storing projects on any "file servers"
Project exchange via storage medium or e-mail
Structuring projects (e.g., by customer)
Meeting of corresponding standards ISO, EN, DIN, NFPA, IEEE,

GOST
Pages
Creating own symbols
Symbol logic controllable
83
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Updating symbols in the schematic
Eight variants per symbol
Inserting symbols by drag & drop
Electrical engineering IEC / DIN symbol library
Electrical engineering NFPA / JIC symbol library
Open multiple pages and display as workbooks
Copying / numbering pages
Numbering page supplementary fields / determining total number of

pages per property
Saving pages as macros (partial circuits)
Design variants
Multi-line representation
Overview display
Black box representation in the schematic
Support for any page format
Viewing path division with auxiliary lines
Designating schematic paths automatically
Visualizing empty text boxes
Enlarging text on screen to minimum size
Autoconnecting (draw connection automatically)
Pre-connecting (connection preview)
Smart connecting (rubber band function)
Graphical grouping of symbols and graphics
Diagonal autoconnecting (rotate connections)
Logical grouping of machine parts
Nesting logical groups of machine parts
Automatic cross-references of interruption points
84
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Placing contact image and designations individually
Configurable coordinate system / grid, base point shift, relative coordi-

nate input
Grid and grid snap can be activated
Aligning elements horizontally and vertically
Object snap can be activated
Layer management
Defining your own layers
Scale display.
Dimensions: Linear dimension, aligned dimension, continued dimen-
sion, incremental dimension, baseline dimension, angular dimension,
radius dimension
Conversion of dimensions metric to inch
Scaling, stretching graphics
Putting graphic in foreground or background
Processing bar for graphics format
Graphic functions: Line, polyline, polygon, rectangle, circle, circle
through 3 points, arc through center, arc through 3 points, sector, el-
lipse, spline
Texts: Rotating by any angle, scaling, italics and bold
Docking texts together
Automatic path function texts
Processing bar for text format
Printing in color or black and white
Importing / exporting image formats
Importing / exporting DXF / DWG
Output as PDF with search function, navigation and links
PDF export configurable, PDF-A
85
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Items
Planning of multiple bus systems
Planning of multiple PLC systems
Managing terminals
Managing plugs
Managing cables
Adding up cable types
Designating items automatically, cross-referencing automatically, pre-

planning without schematics
Planning of potentials and signals with highlighting
Device list import / export
Property arrangement import / export
Editing Items
Elements without logical report
Page-independent navigation in the project
Parts management with technical data
Parts management with sales data
Connecting parts management externally
Definition of assemblies
Definition of modules
Definition of accessory parts
Varied graphical representation of parts
Parts selection with automatic prefilter
Planning of parts included in delivery
Pre-definition of devices
Wiring devices without schematic
Checking of the schematic for logical inconsistencies
86
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Finding unused devices
Finding devices without designation
Finding incomplete devices
Finding under-assigned devices
Finding over-assigned devices
Protecting devices against schematic changes
Suggest identifiers intelligently
Suggesting connection point designations intelligently
Automatic Cross-reference
Searching and editing with two independent result lists
Jumping from search results to the page
EPLAN Interfacing
Labeling of labels and signs
Bulk Data Processing
Automated processing
Tabular editing functions
Edit properties externally
Editing blockwise
Scripts
Command line parameters
Automatic DT designation
Correcting terminal strips automatically
Correcting plugs automatically
Correcting cables automatically
Numbering cables
Automatic cable selection
Generating cables automatically
87
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
Numbering connections
Exchanging symbols single-line <--> multi-line
EPLAN Assembly Reports
Automatic reports
Online reports
Freezing report pages
Automatic table of contents
Automatic title page / cover sheet
Automatic structure identifier overview
Automatic plot frame documentation
Automatic form documentation
Automatic symbol overview
Automatic connection list
Automatic terminal diagram
Automatic terminal line-up diagram
Automatic plug diagram
Automatic cable diagram
Automatic cable assignment diagram
Automatic revision overview
Automatic parts list
EPLAN Article Reports
Automatic summarized parts list
Automatic device tag list
88
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
EPLAN Administration
Creating own macros
Creating macros automatically from macro projects / DXF / DWG
User-structuring of macros
Creating own symbols
Creating own plot frames
Creating own form templates
Creating own filter templates
Creating own numbering schemes
Managing structure identifiers (==, =, ++ , +, …)
System behavior configurable
User-defined properties
Central management of symbols
Central management of forms
Central management of plot frames
Central management of parts
EPLAN Project Options
Editing Placeholder Objects
EPLAN Revision Management
Revision management – logging
Revision management – comparing
Conversion documents for revision as list
Conversion documents for revision as graphic
Write-protecting revised projects
89
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN Pro Panel

Professional
Stand-alone
EPLAN Multi Language Translation
Translation (Unicode)
Multiple use of translations
Integration of translation agencies
Automatic completion of words
Translating by word or sentence
EPLAN Project Management
Project management across drives
Backing up, filing off, copying, managing several projects
Creating project lists
Outputting project header data
Block editing for project properties
90
Status: 09/2015
Licensing Overview
EPLAN EPLAN EPLAN
Pro Panel Pro Panel Pro Panel
Program variant
Add-on Add-on Stand-alone
Precondition: Precondition:
Basic installation Basic installation
Functions for the electrical
EPLAN Electric P8 EPLAN Electric P8
engineering project planning
compact, select, select,
Precondition:
Basic installation
Functions for the fluid-power
EPLAN Fluid − −
project planning
compact,
EPLAN Fluid
STEP import
Process NC −
EPLAN Concurrent Engi- − −

neering
EPLAN Revision Manage- − −

ment
EPLAN Multi Language − −

Translation
EPLAN Project Management − −

(Basic + Workplace)
EPLAN User Rights Manage- − −

ment (Basic + Workplace)
EPLAN Project Options − −
EPLAN Multi User Manage- − −

ment (Basic + Workplace)
EPLAN Project Reference − −

(Basic + Workplace)
EPLAN Project Processing −
91
Status: 09/2015
EPLAN EPLAN EPLAN

Pro Panel Pro Panel Pro Panel
Program variant
Add-on Add-on Stand-alone
EPLAN Pro Panel — extension modules
EPLAN STEP export
EPLAN Process Wiring −
EPLAN Pro Panel Copper −
EPLAN Pro Panel −

Design Space Exchange
EPLAN Production NC
Perforex −
Steinhauer −
DXF −
EPLAN Production ATHEX
ATHEX −
EPLAN Production AVEREX
AVEREX −
EPLAN Production Wiring
Komax −
Schleuniger −
Steinhauer PWA −
CadCabel −
Metzner Cabel Center −
WUSTec −
AVEREX −
EPLAN Production Copper
NC −
DXF −
Errors and changes reserved.
92

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Performance Description

Contents: EPLAN Pro Panel Version 2.5

Copyright © 2015 EPLAN Software & Service GmbH & Co. KG

Placing C Horizontal Rails ······························································ 24

Displaying Mounting Aids ······························································· 37

Generating a Routing Path Network ·················································· 47

Workstation hardware requirements ·················································· 66

The service portfolio furthermore encompasses customizing, consulting and

Optimized engineering processes are our promise. – Customized and practical.

We Develop Solutions for More Efficiency

EPLAN Platform – Your Key to Success

EPLAN Electric P8 is a CAE software solution for designing, documenting and

EPLAN Preplanning is a CAE software solution for the technical pre-planning of

EPLAN Preplanning P&ID

EPLAN Pro Panel

EPLAN Harness proD

EPLAN Engineering Configuration One

EPLAN Engineering Configuration

EPLAN Engineering Configuration Professional (EEC Professional) is a type of

EPLAN Data Portal

Our software is conceived as an integrated system and connects all disciplines.

EPLAN Pro Panel Professional

Innovative 3D Mounting Layout and Wiring

EPLAN Pro Panel Copper

Monheim, September 2015

In addition, users can customize their own keyboard shortcuts. User-defined

Workflow & Integration

Interfaces facilitate interdisciplinary cooperation.

• Graphical combination of mounting layouts and the derivation of drawings

The work method changes frequently or is combined between individual pro-

Project Structure – 3D Mounting Layout

It is therefore a basic requirement for working with 3D components in an

Navigators in the 3D Mounting Layout

Parts without a device tag are grouped in a separate node.

Layout Space Navigator

Logical Structure in the Layout Space Navigator

Device Representation in the Layout Space Navigator

Some mechanical components can have several individually selectable mount-

Use direct activation to access the mounting surfaces of covered components

Placing Mounting Panels

Placing Free Mounting Panels

Placing Mounting Rails

Placing Wire Ducts

Placing Busbar Systems

• Via the menu

Placing C Horizontal Rails

• Via the menu

Placing User-defined Rails

• Via the menu

Cut-outs of the following types can be inserted individually or in multiples:

Defining Locked Areas

Defining Restricted Drilling Areas

Placing Devices in the 3D Mounting Layout

Editing Components Graphically

Rotating Objects about a Freely Selectable Axis

Changing the Length of Objects in the Layout Space

Different forms of input can be used to define the new length:

• Free point entry by clicking

Fitting Rails and Wire Ducts

Graphic Definition for Devices