Products

FAQs

About ESA Products and Services

What does ESA do?
Established in 1984, ESA develops electrical engineering software products, including EasyPower™, EasySolv™, and SafetyTracker™. We also provide training for EasyPower and electrical safety in general, in addition to offering a full range of engineering services.

What engineering services does ESA provide?
As a full-service firm, we offer system studies and Web-based engineering support , using the latest online meeting tool that basically allows you to look over our shoulder as we work on your specific project.

How long has EasyPower been on the market?
ESA was the first company to develop power system software from the ground up, in Windows®. We released the first version of EasyPower in 1990.

What is EasyPower?
EasyPower is a fully integrated software program for intelligently designing, analyzing, and monitoring electrical power systems. The product family offers a full lineup of easy-to-use tools that can be configured and scaled to your specific needs.

Who should use EasyPower?
Electrical engineers, contractors, electricians, and plant personnel will all save considerable time and effort by using EasyPower. Please see our product comparison chart (PDF) to determine which configuration is best for you, or explore all the included and optional features further.

Why should I buy EasyPower instead of the competitors’ products?
Simply put, you will save countless hours, and therefore thousands of dollars, using the easiest and fastest program on the market.

Of all the power system software programs available, EasyPower is the:

  1. First developed from the ground up, in Windows®
  2. Easiest to use with its intuitive graphical interface
  3. Fastest, delivering results to complex calculations in milliseconds
  4. Most automated with new one-touch design and PDC features
  5. Smartest, providing insightful analysis backed by our team of expert engineers
  6. Only truly integrated one-line
back to top

What’s new with EasyPower 8.0?
EasyPower has always been incredibly fast and easy to use. Now, with one-touch automation, it’s off the charts. What used to take hours, days—weeks even—now takes mere seconds. SmartDesign and SmartPDC, both new to 8.0, will revolutionize the way you work.

What standards does EasyPower adhere to?
ANSI C37.010, C37.5, C37.13; UL 489; NEMA low-voltage standards; IEC 60909, 56, 62271, 947-2, and 127; NFPA 70E; IEEE-1584, 519, 399, 242, 666, 141, 241, and the IEEE Violet Book.

What is EasySolv?
EasySolv, with many of the basic powerful features of EasyPower, is a great place to start for developing an arc flash program. You can create detailed electrical one-lines, perform arc flash hazard calculations, and print arc flash labels. Download a free demo version and give it a try.

Who should use EasySolv?
Typical EasySolv users are electrical contractors at small to medium commercial facilities, as well as electricians, plant personnel, and electrical engineers. Anyone charged with overseeing a plant’s arc flash program will find it an invaluable weapon in the fight against electrical hazards. Please see our product comparison chart (PDF) to help you make your decision.

What is SafetyTracker?
SafetyTracker, designed for plant personnel, allows the viewing of one-lines and files created in EasySolv and EasyPower with ArcFlash™. You can perform arc flash hazard calculations and print arc flash labels, but you cannot modify the one-line. Everything within SafetyTracker is included in EasyPower with ArcFlash. Download a free demo today.

Who should use SafetyTracker?
Plant personnel charged with managing and implementing electrical safety programs will get the most out of SafetyTracker, including: facility managers, safety managers, electricians, electrical contractors, and maintenance managers. Please see our product comparison chart (PDF) to help you make your decision.

What is the difference between EasySolv and SafetyTracker?
SafetyTracker, like EasySolv, is a detailed arc flash hazard program, but the one-lines can only be viewed, not modified. With both, you can perform arc flash calculations, create and print arc flash labels and energized work permits, and conveniently store safety documentation. In EasySolv, you can also create and modify one-lines.

Which product is right for me?
You have a few options to determine the best product for you:

  1. Review our product comparison chart (PDF)
  2. Download a free product demo
  3. Schedule a live, online product presentation

What is your online product presentation?
We use an interactive online meeting tool to demonstrate our software. You can watch an ESA engineer use the product live—without leaving your desk. You just need a high-speed Web connection and a telephone. This is a very convenient way for you to see EasyPower's capabilities and to get your specific questions asked. We schedule these one-on-one demonstrations daily.

back to top

 

Buying ESA Software Products

Is ESA a small business?
Yes, ESA is classified as a small business. We are listed on the CCR, U.S. Federal Government Department of Defense.

What kind of product guarantee do you have?
Our guarantee is the best in the business. It’s really simple; if you’re not completely satisfied within 30 days of purchasing an ESA software product, call our sales team for full refund and return instructions. Download a free demo version now and see why we’re so confident in your satisfaction!

Do you list pricing on your website?
Because EasyPower is totally customizable to include only the features you need, pricing varies. Consequently, we do not publish a price list online. We are happy to provide you with a quote, however. Please email us or call 503-655-5059.

How is EasyPower pricing determined?
We base it mainly on bus size and the combination of optional features. For our most popular suites, we have options for 100, 300, 1000, and unlimited buses. We will gladly customize a package for you. Please contact us for details: email or call 503-655-5059.

Are ESA software products available from resellers or distributors?
As the software developer, we sell direct to our customers and are the sole source of EasyPower products. We will sell through select international representatives, however. If necessary, we will work with individual resellers for a specific customer’s purchase.

Are discounts available to companies purchasing multiple copies?
Yes. Please contact us for details via email or by calling 503-655-5059.

How do I place an order?
After receiving a price quote from our sales team , you can send your purchase order or letter of intent on company letterhead one of three ways:

Fax: 503-655-5542, Attention: Sales
Email: sales@EasyPower.com
Mail: ESA, Inc.
Attn: Sales
PO Box 2110
Clackamas, OR 97015

Please state your hardware key preference on your purchase order: USB or parallel port key.

back to top

 

What other specific instructions should I include?

  1. United States: Please specify a shipping method: UPS Overnight, $55; UPS 2-Day $35; UPS Ground (5-7 Days) $15.
  2. Canada: Please specify a shipping method: UPS Express (1-2 Days), $75; UPS Expedited (3-4 Days) $70; UPS Standard (5-7 Days) $25. In addition, please inform us of your preference for declaring the full or nominal value for customs.
  3. International:DHL $150.00. Please inform us of your preference for declaring the full or nominal value for customs.

What are your purchasing terms?
Buyers are responsible for all taxes and tariffs associated with their country. All prices are in U.S. dollars and are subject to change without notice. If you’re purchasing from within the United States, sales tax does not apply because ESA is based in the state of Oregon. We ship and then bill with net 30 terms. For details, please email us or call 503-655-5059.

How is EasyPower sold—with a single-user or a network license?
EasyPower is sold with a single-user license, either as a stand-alone program or on a network. You are welcome to install it on multiple computers in your office. However, in order to use EasyPower, you must have the hardware key attached to the computer in use. Many offices find this process works well if only one or two people use EasyPower, or for having EasyPower on a laptop for home or field use. If a single-user license proves cumbersome, you can purchase additional stand-alone copies or a network conversion.

What is EasyPower’s network version? And how does network licensing work?
Multiple simultaneous users (determined by number of licenses purchased) can access EasyPower through a network with the same hardware key. A machine connected to the network will have the hardware key, license manager software, and the EasyPower files. Other machines connected to the network can access the program.

Can I convert from a stand-alone copy to a network copy?
Yes, you can convert to a network version in the future. We will facilitate your upgrade. For details, please email us or call 503-655-5059.

What are the licensing requirements for EasyPower?
We require a signed license agreement for every company location. The agreement will be included in the package we send to you.

Can I upgrade EasyPower by adding buses or more features?
Yes. You can start conservatively and add buses or optional features, such as ArcFlash or PowerFlow™. You can add copies as well, either stand-alone or on a network, as your needs require.

What is EasyPower maintenance?
The first year of maintenance is included with the purchase of each EasyPower copy. Annual maintenance includes all program updates—including new version releases—device library updates, technical support (phone and email), and discounts on EasyPower training. After the first year, maintenance is renewable, with annual pricing based on the package purchased. For details, please email us or call 503-655-5059.

back to top

 

Installing ESA Software Products

What are the system requirements for EasyPower, EasySolv, and SafetyTracker?

What do I need to install either the demo or purchased version?
All of the following is required for installation and is included in your package:

  1. Installation CD , which contains installation software, device drivers, tutorials, user’s manual, and other utilities.
  2. Serial number and authorization code issued by ESA, which you will be prompted to enter during the installation process.
  3. Hardware key (dongle: parallel port or USB key), which is required at all times for operating the software. This is a device that is plugged into your printer port or a USB port. A separate hardware key is provided for each stand-alone copy purchased.

What is a hardware key/dongle?
EasyPower’s main physical security mechanism is a hardware key, available for a parallel port or USB port. EasyPower can be installed on multiple machines; however, the hardware key must be plugged into the machine currently using EasyPower. This maintains the single-user status.

After installing, how do I run the program?
Click on the Windows Start button. Then choose Programs, EasyPower 8.0 (or EasyPower Demo 8.0, if you have the demo version).

Can I install multiple versions of EasyPower on the same machine?
Yes, you can have multiple versions of EasyPower on the same machine. For example, if you already have EasyPower 7.0, you can also install EasyPower 8.0 without overwriting 7.0. The new version will be installed in a new program folder.

I have an older version of EasyPower (6.0, for example). How can I update to the latest version?
Version updates are included at no additional charge, as long as your maintenance plan is kept current. We will provide the installation CD for the latest EasyPower version and a new authorization code once your maintenance plan is brought current. Please contact ESA to update from an older version.

Note: A regular update within the same version is like service packs. A new EasyPower version needs to be installed because it requires new system files, and is installed as a separate program.

Can I install EasyPower on a local or a network drive?
EasyPower can be installed on either a local or network drive, regardless of whether the local or network version is purchased. Also, EasyPower does not require you to save your data files in the same directory as where EasyPower is installed. Therefore, you can install EasyPower on a local drive, but save your data files on a network drive that is backed up. The program itself does not need to be backed up since it can always be reinstalled.

Can I have a network license that can be accessed over the Internet if the users are in different cities?
Yes. You will need to do a full install on every user machine. When you do the setup for each user machine, you will need to specify the IP address of the machine that has the license manager and the hardware key.

Where is the default location for EasyPower program files?
The default folder for EasyPower 8.0 is C:\Program Files\ESA\ EasyPower 8.0. You can choose a different folder during installation.

How do I uninstall EasyPower or EasyPower Demo?
Select the Windows Start button, then Settings, Control Panel, Add/Remove Programs. Then select EasyPower and press the Remove button.

back to top

 

Learning and Using EasyPower

Do I need training to use EasyPower?
No. EasyPower is very intuitive and easy to use. However, to take full advantage of all the advanced features, we recommend attending a regional PowerClass , held periodically throughout the year. We also can schedule onsite training at your facility. Or, we offer one-on-one support from an ESA engineer in a customized Web-based session.

How can I learn EasyPower on my own?

  1. Tutorials: the first place to start for learning simple tasks. Tutorials are here: C:\Program Files\ESA\EasyPower 8.0\Docs. The suggested sequence of tutorials for beginners interested in arc flash calculations: 1) One-Line Creation 2) Short Circuit 3) Arc Flash
  2. Help Menu: You can access online help from within EasyPower. The Help buttons available with dialogs will explain the features and steps. Press “F1” on the keyboard for help.
  3. User’s Manual: an EasyPower Basics manual is provided with your installation package. A more extensive reference manual is available in a PDF file on the installation CD.

Is technical support available from ESA engineers?
Complimentary email and phone support is available to licensed users with a current maintenance plan and users evaluating a demonstration copy. Ask engineers your specific questions via email or by calling 503-655-5059 during regular business hours (PST).

Also, ESA engineers are available for one-on-one Web-based support to provide instructions, troubleshoot problems, review your one-line, and more.

Do you offer in-person training for EasyPower or arc flash safety?
Yes, regional classes are held in different cities throughout the year, and onsite seminars are also offered. Get more details .

What is a bus?
A bus is a node or a connection point within the one-line.

Can I see your protective device data library? What devices are within EasyPower?
We have an extensive device library which may be viewed or downloaded from the demo or installation CD. Our tech support engineers would be happy to talk with you regarding the specific devices you’re looking for.

Can I add or modify EasyPower’s device library?
Yes, you can customize your device library. We’re also happy to add any devices not currently in EasyPower, or we can show you how to do this. (If we add the devices, it is free of charge for customers with a current maintenance plan and based on our engineers’ availability.)

Can EasyPower export files to a CAD program?
Yes, EasyPower’s SendCAD feature allows you to export EasyPower one-line graphics as a DXF file to AutoCAD®, Intergaph®, MicroStation®, and other CAD programs. You can also export it as a DWF™ file for non-CAD users to access with a free viewer.

back to top

 

Using EasyPower for Arc Flash Safety

Does EasyPower follow the IEEE Standard 1584 or NFPA 70E?
EasyPower follows both NFPA 70E and IEEE-1584.

How do I run arc flash calculations and view results on the one-line diagram?
On the toolbar, click on Short Circuit, then Arc Flash, then Fault Buses. The arc hazard results will appear next to all equipment.

How do I print out the one-line with the arc flash hazard results?
After running the arc flash calculations, click on the Print button and select the printer/plotter.

How do I export the drawing with arc flash hazard results to AutoCAD?
After running the arc flash calculations, select File/Export from the menu, and save as “.dxf” file format. You can open the saved file using AutoCAD.

How do I create an arc flash hazard report?
Select from the menu, Tools/ Short Circuit Options/Arc Flash Hazards. Then check the box for Create Report for Arc Flash Hazard Spreadsheet. After running the arc flash calculations, you can view the report by choosing Window from the menu.

How do I create arc flash hazard warning labels?
In the Arc Flash Hazard Report window, select from the menu, File/Print Label/All Devices (or Selected Devices). Select the appropriate label printer name in the print dialog box.

Can I save the warning labels as a PDF file so that someone else can print it later?
Yes, if you have a PDF writer (Adobe Acrobat, Adobe PDF, etc.). From the arc flash hazard report, select File/Print Label/All Devices (or Selected Devices). In the print dialog, select the “PDF writer” instead of a label printer. Provide a file name to save as, when prompted.

What size are arc flash hazard warning labels?
A typical size is 6 inches wide by 4 inches high. Based on the label printer size, you can have different sizes of labels. EasyPower software comes with several templates for arc flash labels, enabling you to customize your own labels.

Can I add comments to warning labels?
Yes. When you print the labels, the print dialog has a comment field at the bottom. Type in the text you want to add and this will appear on the label.

Can I change the description of PPE printed on the warning label?
Yes. You need to edit the description from the EasyPower standard library. Open the EasyPower library when you are in Database Edit mode by choosing File/Open Library/Stdlib.mdb. (File path is C:\Program Files\ESA\EasyPower 8.0\Stdlib.mdb.) In the left panel of “Stdlib” window, click on PPE Levels/Levels. On the right window, a spreadsheet will appear. You can edit the description column.

How do I disable arc flash hazard calculations for nodes, terminations or certain equipment?
In Database Edit mode, double-click on the equipment to view the data. This needs to be a bus, MCC, panel, or ATS. Select the Arc Flash Hazard tab. Check the box for “Exclude this bus from arc flash hazard report.”

What additional resources do you have for company-wide arc flash safety programs?
Our arc flash resource center has a wealth of free information, including a 20+ page arc flash study specification template, and a 133-page book, Practical Solution Guide to Arc Flash Hazards, to help you ensure safety and compliance.

back to top