The modern standard. You can import large .las or .laz datasets. Use the software’s filtering tools to classify points into ground, vegetation, and existing structures.
To deepen your understanding of PLS-CADD, it is highly recommended to study the official documentation provided by Power Line Systems.
Power Line Systems - Computer Aided Design and Drafting (PLS-CADD) is the global industry standard for overhead electric power transmission and distribution line design. Known for its powerful three-dimensional engineering capabilities, it integrates terrain modeling, structural analysis, and sag-tension calculations into a single, cohesive platform.
He began by importing the LiDAR data. On his screen, the flat white space transformed into a digital wilderness of 3D points. Using the tutorial's "Terrain" chapter, Elias carefully traced the centerline. Each click felt like a footstep on a mountain trail. He then placed his first "Method 4" structure—a towering steel lattice. pls-cadd tutorial pdf
When linked properly, PLS-CADD passes wind, ice, and wire tension loads directly to the .str files, evaluating whether a pole or tower is loaded past its structural capacity (expressed as a percentage, e.g., 95% loaded). 5. Checking Clearances and Structural Loading
PLS-CADD projects rely on many external files ( .wir , .str , .xyz ). To share a project or back it up, always use File > Backup to create a compressed .don file containing all necessary dependencies.
Traditional survey data formats (Point number, Northing, Easting, Elevation, Description) can be imported via text or Excel formats. The modern standard
You can manually "drop" structures onto the alignment or use the Automatic Spotting
In the niche world of power delivery engineering, PLS-CADD (Power Line Systems – Computer Aided Design and Drafting) reigns supreme. It is the industry standard for the structural and geometric design of overhead power lines. However, PLS-CADD is notoriously complex; it is not merely a drawing tool like AutoCAD, but a database-driven engineering environment where geometry, meteorology, and structural mechanics intersect.
Finding a specific PDF tutorial for PLScadd might require some patience and exploration. If you're unable to find a PDF, consider reaching out to the software provider's support team to inquire about available resources. Additionally, experimenting with the software while following along with video tutorials can be a practical way to learn. To deepen your understanding of PLS-CADD, it is
Export critical construction reports using the Reports menu:
Importing LiDAR, GIS data, or survey data to create 3D ground models.