Detailed Description

This page provides a detailed description of the major attributes of PCSWMM 2006. For a less verbose take on PCSWMM 2006, please select from one of the links to the right.

Advanced file and information management

PCSWMM 2006 simplifies the organization, connectivity and manipulation of the many files and file types generated and used by SWMM. The new file management methodology fully supports local area networks (LAN's), Intranets and the Internet.

Groups of related files are represented by data-aware objects. These objects are arranged logically in project folders and illustrate the flow of timeseries between different model components. SWMM data file structures have been simplified by eliminating the need for the Executive module command lines from all input data files. Existing SWMM files can be easily imported into PCSWMM 2006, and/or new data files can be created from customizable template files.

Project information management is provided by means of note objects which can store and share project details over a network in ASCII text, HTML, Microsoft Word™ or any other document format.

Plan view editing and importing from GIS/AM/FM/CAD systems 

PCSWMM 2006 includes its own powerful stand-alone Geographical Information System (GIS) tool for storm water modeling. This plan view editor tool is used in graphically creating, editing and/or importing all model entities and attributes for the SWMM5, and SWMM4 Runoff, Transport, Extran modules.

This component's two main focuses are: (1) as a stand-alone GIS-type editor for the creation and editing of SWMM entities and the dynamic viewing of model results, and (2) as a tool for linking existing GIS, Facilities Management/Information Management Systems (FM/IMS), CAD systems, and/or other external databases with SWMM.

In its stand-alone capability, the PCSWMM 2006 GIS component does not need any existing external software or data: Runoff, Transport, Extran and/or SWMM5 entities can be graphically 'drawn' or created through the local database tables. Entities and attributes can also be easily imported from existing SWMM input files, 12 common database formats, spreadsheets, delimited text files and other file types. Your model network can be viewed in either schematic or 'real world' views and switched between these and other views quickly. Multiple background map layers and image layers can be displayed under your model network.

Most common map layer formats are supported, including: ArcView shape files, AutoCAD DXF and DWG files, MapInfo, and Microstation files and more. Raster image support includes TIFF, JPG, BMP and others. For example, you can tile digital ortho quads (DOQs) and/or have multiple thematic ArcView layers displayed under your model network. Any coordinate system can be used: raster images can be precisely geo-referenced in a number of common formats.

Linkages to existing GIS/FM/IMS/CAD systems are easily performed with full SQL query support. Most common database formats are supported, and import wizards step you through the normally complicated importing process (field matching, etc.) with ease. Automatic or manual reduction of model complexity is provided with the aggregation wizard - an intelligent tool for simplifying model networks by aggregating adjoining entities into a hydraulically equivalent entity.

Entity attributes are easily edited through linked tables or pop-up property sheets.  PCSWMM 2006 features intelligent connectivity checking and reporting and the ability to determine entity attributes from the chosen coordinate system (conduit length/subcatchment area). Runoff, Transport, Extran input data files can be instantly updated and SWMM can be run directly from the PCSWMM GIS component.

The GIS component also provides direct links to other visualization tools in the PCSWMM 2006 package. Paths can be graphically selected for displaying profile plots and playback of the dynamic hydraulic grade line. Hydrographs and depth graphs can be instantly displayed for selected nodes and conduits.

Even if you don't have access to existing GIS/AM/FM/CAD databases, PCSWMM 2006 will provide you with the graphical tools to create/edit your model's conduit/nodes and subcatchments, view the model results, and extensively query your data - essentially a full-blown stand-alone GIS without the normal price tag!

Please refer to our frequently asked questions (FAQ) on the GIS component of PCSWMM 2006 for more information.

Flexible input file editor allows you to work the way you prefer

The all-new input file editor allows you to work with your model in your own style. Choose between forms-based, spreadsheet-based, or document style editing - or some combination of the above. The views of your data file are easily switched with handy tabs at the top of the editor. 

In all cases, a context sensitive help window leads you through parameter meanings, complete with hyperlinks to additional decision support material. As you edit individual parameters, the help window instantly updates to provide parameter definitions, units, hints and relevant links.

Navigation through your file is easy with the Table of Contents listing on the left of your screen. Inserting new data lines is quickly done as the editor pre-formats the required data line, complete with a leading comment line containing aligned parameter names.

The forms-based view provides user-friendly parameter names and dropdown lists for easy parameter selection where appropriate. The spreadsheet view allows cell by cell editing, column selection and a powerful, customizable, Find and Replace utility. Mistakes can be undone at the touch of a button. All views are optimized for easy keyboard navigation to speed up the editing process for power users.

Easing SWMM runs

SWMM runs are executed by simply selecting either a single or groups of objects and choosing Run SWMM from the menu. PCSWMM 2006 automatically handles the required file connectivity. The SWMM engine can be either run in a window, in the background, or full-screen. Options are provided for the type of SWMM output generated.

Hot-swapping SWMM engines

You can select between any SWMM engine (i.e. any version of SWMM4) on the fly by simply selecting the engine from a list inside PCSWMM 2006. Most versions are fully supported, and PCSWMM 2006 is flexible enough to accommodate new, custom, procedures in your own in-house SWMM4 version. PCSWMM 2006 ships with nine SWMM engines, including the latest SWMM4 engine. For SWMM5 modeling please see our PCSWMM.NET software.

Dynamic display of computed results

In addition to the dynamic thermometer-style plan view display shown above, the computed dynamic hydraulic grade line can be displayed for any Extran sewer profile. Both smooth dynamic simulations and static displays can be viewed at any time step. Surcharge warning is provided, and the program can search for surcharge events. Locations of surface flooding is clearly highlighted. Simulation summary tables can be viewed for the selected profile, and profiles can be easily switched or zoomed in on, even during simulation playback. Pump stations, storage facilities, weirs, orifices and dummy pipes are all supported, and property dialog boxes allow you to customize the presentation and playback.

Graphing and reporting

PCSWMM 2006 creates fully customizable hyetographs, hydrographs, pollutographs as well as depth and velocity graphs from SWMM output. All SWMM related input and output timeseries can be graphed, edited, and quickly imported/exported in multiple formats. Continuous simulation output is easily and quickly analyzed with fast, unlimited zoom and pan in both the X & Y directions, and support for millions of data points. Quality constituents, velocity, flow and depth values can all be plotted against observed data, with simultaneous support for up to 6 Y-axes. The customized, high-resolution plots can be printed, saved/copied in a variety of graphic and spreadsheet formats, and/or dragged and dropped directly into reports (i.e. other applications such as word processors).

Sensitivity, Calibration and Error Analysis (SCEA)

The Sensitivity Wizard is a powerful tool for gaining insight to the dominant processes of a particular model, and how they can change through an array of input functions (i.e. different rainfall intensities and durations). Any number of Runoff parameters can be tested automatically, reducing a virtually unmanageable task to a few mouse clicks and a couple sips of coffee. The Error Analysis tool generates observed vs. computed plots, complete with an array of evaluation functions, for any objective function (peak flow, total flow, pollutant loading, etc.). A big step forward, the Genetic Algorithm based Calibration tool completely automates the calibration process and supports all SWMM5 and SWMM4 Runoff, Transport, Extran, and Storage/Treatment parameters. 

Rain data analysis and importing

CHI's bundled and integrated RainPak software can be used to directly access multiple ASCII data logger files (recorded by exception - no loss of detail), compute speeds and directions for individual storm cells, visualize spatial and temporal variability of storm systems, generate statistics and/or generate discretized timeseries (at any time step from 1 to 60 minutes) from an array of rain gauges for input into the Runoff module. RainPak can also generate Rain module user-defined long term timeseries directly from the data logger files. Most data logger file formats are supported, a user-defined format is provided as well.

Bibliographic database

PCSWMM 2006 provides instant access to reference information on 10,000 papers given at SWMM users meetings & conferences. The database includes over 6000 full, searchable abstracts, two powerful search engines (one WWW type and one Boolean type), and an updated user interface. Papers of interest can be ordered from CHI or located at other library services.

Permeable Pavement Wizard

The design and evaluation of permeable pavement BMPs is made easy with the all new Permeable Pavement Wizard included in this release. Stepping you through the design, this wizard runs SWMM in the background to provide a detailed hydrologic and hydraulic analysis. Reports are created, a variety of graphs are generated and the user has the ability to run multiple iterations to perfect the design.

Flexibility for power-users

Users can develop their own in-house, custom modeling environments using the extensive selection of included plug-in tools and PCSWMM 2006's seamless integration of any external processes (programs, batch files, macros, etc.). This enables a completely flexible modeling environment created from third-party modeling software and in-house tools, as well as the powerful tools bundled with PCSWMM 2006.

Help at your fingertips

PCSWMM 2006 comes with extensive, online, indexed help (over 60,000 words) which provides a variety of key modeling information. Video tutorials are provided to get you up and running quickly. A Tip of the Day feature ensures you have access to the full power of PCSWMM 2006 and step by step instructions are available for all PCSWMM 2006 procedures. Known trouble spots are highlighted for quick explanations. PCSWMM 2006 also provides complete online help for all aspects of SWMM data file development for all modules of SWMM. Up to the minute help on a wide variety of storm water modeling issues is available here through our searchable storm water Q&A database (over 700 detailed and informative topics) and provided through fast-response email services.

CHI support services

• Free, unlimited, fast-response telephone, fax, email and web-based support for both PCSWMM 2006 and SWMM by professional engineers and the software programmers,
• Workshops on SWMM and PCSWMM at locations across North America and abroad,
• In-house seminars on SWMM and PCSWMM,
• Upgrades at minimal cost, and
• CHI also offers customized software solutions for your particular modeling needs.

System requirements

PCSWMM 2006 can run on any multimedia-compatible computer (minimum Pentium III, CD-ROM, 256MB RAM, 200MB available hard-drive space and SVGA resolution) running Windows 2000 or XP. However, due to the compute-intensive nature of SWMM, and the highly graphical nature of PCSWMM 2006, a Pentium 4 computer or greater with  1024MB RAM or greater and a high resolution (SXGA or better) monitor is recommended. PCSWMM 2006 links to a series of Getting Started video tutorials which necessitate a sound card & speakers (or headphones).

PCSWMM 2006 pricing

PCSWMM 2006 retails for only $599.95. Reduced cost is available for multiple licenses and/or educational institutions. Upgrades are free for 6 months, and half-price ($299.95) for users upgrading from the previous version. PCSWMM 2006 is downloadable directly from our website after your order is processed.

Time-limited licenses are available with training. See our workshops schedule on our main page. For participants who bring their own laptop computers, the fee for the software and two full days is $945. Full-time students are entitled to a 1/3 discount, with proof of status. Additional fees are payable for computer rental.

Ordering information

Use our online order calculator to select your desired products, fill in your shipping address and view the total cost (including shipping). You can then complete the order and we will overnight your new software.

For more information

For more specific information, call us at tel: (519) 767-0197 or email us at info@computationalhydraulics.com.