Using the Electrical Standards Database

[hanchris]

So, we are up to AutoCAD Electrical 2019 and I figured I wanted to try and learn how the Standard's databases interface with the project/drawings. The best I can guess is it is what determines the drop down options of Circuit Builder. 

Unfortunately, I don't see too many tutorials on this subject, either here or on the general Internet.  The only help seems to be the NFPADEMO Project, but I still don't see how the Standards database interfaces. Would someone mind helping me understand? 

[dougmcalexander]

The standards database indeed supports the Circuit Builder utility.  It stores information from the standards relating to such things as wire ampacity, de-rating for wire length, bundled and confined or free air, etc., among other things.  It can provide a general idea of cost to operate a circuit, based upon the per kilowatt hour rate of your power company.  One thing to be aware of is that it will suggest Brown, Black, and Gray wires for L1, L2, and L3.  These colors come from the IEC standard, interestingly.

[hanchris]

Thanks! So, that answers part of my question. Is there any other purpose that you know of for the Standard's database? Is it used for any other tools or in any other way or is Circuit Builder the only use for it at this time? 

[dougmcalexander]

It is exclusively in support of the Circuit Builder.