CYMDIST

CYMDIST 4.
Reference Manual
January 2007
 Copyright CYME International T&D Inc.
All Rights Reserved

This publication, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form, by
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including but not limited to any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for
a particular purpose, regarding these materials and makes such materials
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In no event shall CYME International T&D be liable to anyone for special,

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price of the materials described herein.
CYME International T&D reserves the right to revise and improve its
products as it sees fit. This publication describes the state of this product at the
time of its publication, and may not reflect the product at all times in the future.
The software described in this document is furnished under a license

agreement.
CYME International T&D Inc.
67 South Bedford Street, Suite 201 East
Burlington, MA 01803-5177
1-800-361-3627 (781) 229-0269
FAX: (781) 229-2336
International and Canada:

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E-mail: support@cyme.com
Windows 98 and Windows NT, 2000 & XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft. AutoCAD is a
trademark of Autodesk Inc.
CYMDIST 4.7 – Reference Manual
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Getting Started............................................................................................1

1.1 Overview of CYMDIST..................................................................................1
1.2 About this Manual .........................................................................................1
1.3 CYMDIST Manuals Available .......................................................................2
1.4 Computer System Requirements .................................................................3
1.5 Installing CYMDIST ......................................................................................3
1.6 Running CYMDIST .......................................................................................4
1.7 Terms Definition............................................................................................4
1.8 Steps in a Typical Study ...............................................................................5
1.9 Databases used by CYMDIST......................................................................5
1.9.1 Network (feeder) Database ..............................................................5
1.9.2 Equipment Database........................................................................6
1.9.3 Database Illustration ........................................................................6
1.10 Map Formats Supported ...............................................................................7
Chapter 2 The CYMDIST Interface ..............................................................................9
2.1 Overview of the Graphical User Interface (GUI)...........................................9
2.2 Menus .........................................................................................................10
2.3 Explorer Bar................................................................................................12
2.3.1 Databases tab ................................................................................12
2.3.2 Symbol Bar tab...............................................................................14
2.3.3 Network tab ....................................................................................16
2.3.4 Detailed View tab ...........................................................................17
2.3.5 Display tab......................................................................................18
2.3.6 The Switch Monitoring tab..............................................................19
2.3.7 The Abnormal Condition tab ..........................................................20
2.4 Toolbars ......................................................................................................20
2.4.1 Main................................................................................................20
2.4.2 Editor Tools ....................................................................................22
2.4.3 Zoom ..............................................................................................24
2.4.4 Database ........................................................................................25
2.4.5 Display............................................................................................26
2.4.6 Multiple Selection ...........................................................................27
2.4.7 Search ............................................................................................28
2.4.8 Drawing Tool ..................................................................................29
2.4.9 Layer ..............................................................................................30
2.4.10 Tag Layer .......................................................................................30
2.4.11 Tooltip Layer...................................................................................31
2.4.12 Load Model.....................................................................................31
2.4.13 Simulation.......................................................................................32
2.5 Mouse Commands......................................................................................33
2.5.1 Component Selection.....................................................................33
2.5.2 Mouse Modes.................................................................................33
2.5.3 Panning and Zooming with the Mouse...........................................33
2.5.4 Contextual Menus ..........................................................................34
2.6 Hyperlinks Navigation .................................................................................34
Chapter 3 Properties and Settings ...........................................................................35
3.1 Introduction .................................................................................................35
3.2 Section Structure ........................................................................................35
3.3 Section Properties ......................................................................................36
TABLE OF CONTENTS I
3.3.1 Overview of the Equipment Settings ..............................................38

3.3.2 Lines and Cables Settings .............................................................40
3.3.3 By Phase Configuration Settings ...................................................41
3.3.4 Spot Load and Distributed Load Settings ......................................41
3.3.5 Section Contextual Menu ...............................................................45
3.4 Node Properties..........................................................................................46
3.4.1 Node Settings.................................................................................47
Chapter 4 The File Menu............................................................................................49
4.1 Overview .....................................................................................................49
4.2 Database ....................................................................................................49
4.2.1 Select .............................................................................................49
4.2.2 Update Network .............................................................................50
4.2.3 Import .............................................................................................51
4.2.4 Export .............................................................................................52
4.2.5 Create.............................................................................................53
4.2.6 Delete .............................................................................................53
4.2.7 Re-Index.........................................................................................54
4.2.8 Pack ...............................................................................................54
4.2.9 Update Switch Status.....................................................................55
4.2.10 Convert Image DB..........................................................................56
4.2.11 Customer Loads .............................................................................56
4.3 New Study ..................................................................................................57
4.4 Open Study.................................................................................................58
4.5 Merge Study ...............................................................................................58
4.6 Close Study ................................................................................................58
4.7 Save Study..................................................................................................58
4.8 Save Study As ............................................................................................58
4.9 Save Study As Self Contained ...................................................................59
4.10 Export One Line Diagram ...........................................................................60
4.11 Export Active View as an Image.................................................................60
4.12 Print Options ...............................................................................................61
4.12.1 Print Setup......................................................................................61
4.12.2 Page Setup.....................................................................................61
4.12.3 Header / Footer ..............................................................................62
4.13 Print.............................................................................................................63
4.14 Print Preview...............................................................................................63
4.15 Print Area ....................................................................................................63
4.16 Send To ......................................................................................................64
4.16.1 Technical Support ..........................................................................64
4.16.2 Mail Recipient.................................................................................66
4.17 Preferences ................................................................................................67
4.17.1 System Parameters........................................................................67
4.17.2 Custom Files ..................................................................................69
4.17.3 Study ..............................................................................................71
4.17.4 User Interface.................................................................................73
4.17.5 Simulation.......................................................................................75
4.17.6 TCC ................................................................................................76
4.18 Properties ...................................................................................................77
4.19 Exit ..............................................................................................................78
4.20 List of Files..................................................................................................78
Chapter 5 The Edit Menu ...........................................................................................79
5.1 Overview .....................................................................................................79
5.2 Selection .....................................................................................................79
5.3 Search.........................................................................................................80
II TABLE OF CONTENTS
5.4 Copy to Clipboard .......................................................................................81

5.5 Redo Modif .................................................................................................81
5.6 Undo Modif .................................................................................................82
5.7 Geometry ....................................................................................................82
5.7.1 Ortho Mode ....................................................................................82
5.7.2 Move...............................................................................................82
5.7.3 Rotate.............................................................................................83
5.7.4 Rearrange O.L.D............................................................................83
5.8 Feeder.........................................................................................................83
5.8.1 New ................................................................................................83
5.8.2 Load ...............................................................................................87
5.9 Section ........................................................................................................89
5.9.1 Add .................................................................................................89
5.9.2 Insert ..............................................................................................90
5.9.3 Split.................................................................................................90
5.9.4 Reconductor/Rephase ...................................................................91
5.9.5 Calculate Length ............................................................................93
5.9.6 Automatic Renaming......................................................................93
5.10 Source.........................................................................................................94
5.10.1 Source Tab.....................................................................................94
5.10.2 Equivalent Tab ...............................................................................95
5.11 Substation ...................................................................................................96
5.11.1 New ................................................................................................96
5.11.2 Load ...............................................................................................99
5.12 Secondary Network ..................................................................................100
5.12.1 New ..............................................................................................100
5.12.2 Load .............................................................................................100
5.13 Sub Network .............................................................................................100
5.13.1 New ..............................................................................................100
5.14 Zones ........................................................................................................102
5.14.1 Add ...............................................................................................102
5.14.2 Delete ...........................................................................................103
5.14.3 Zone Properties............................................................................103
5.15 Open/Close...............................................................................................103
5.16 Connect ....................................................................................................104
5.17 Disconnect ................................................................................................105
5.18 Delete........................................................................................................105
5.19 Properties .................................................................................................105
Chapter 6 The Equipment Menu .............................................................................107
6.1 General .....................................................................................................107
6.2 Common Window Elements .....................................................................107
6.2.1 Identification .................................................................................107
6.3 Source.......................................................................................................108
6.4 Regulator ..................................................................................................112
6.4.1 Regulator Settings........................................................................113
6.4.2 Regulator Control .........................................................................114
6.5 Transformer – Two Winding .....................................................................117
6.5.1 General Tab .................................................................................117
6.5.2 Load Tap Changer (LTC) Tab......................................................118
6.5.3 Two-winding Transformer Settings ..............................................119
6.5.4 Two-winding Transformer Load Tap Changer Settings ...............119
6.5.5 Two-winding Transformer Meter Settings ....................................120
6.5.6 Transformer by Phase Settings....................................................121
6.5.7 Transformer, Single-phase Two-wire Configurations ..................122
TABLE OF CONTENTS III

6.5.8 Transformer, Three phase Configurations ...................................124

6.6 Transformer – Three Winding...................................................................126
6.6.1 General Tab .................................................................................126
6.6.2 Load Tap Changers Tabs ............................................................127
6.6.3 Three-Winding Transformers Settings .........................................128
6.6.4 First / Second Load Tap Changer................................................129
6.7 Generators................................................................................................130
6.7.1 Generator – Synchronous ............................................................130
6.7.2 Generator – Induction ..................................................................133
6.7.3 Generator – Electronically Coupled .............................................135
6.8 Motors .......................................................................................................137
6.8.1 Motor – Induction..........................................................................137
6.8.2 Motor – Synchronous ...................................................................141
6.9 Protective Devices ....................................................................................143
6.9.1 Protective Devices parameters ....................................................143
6.9.2 Fuse .............................................................................................145
6.9.3 LVCB ............................................................................................146
6.9.4 Recloser .......................................................................................146
6.9.5 Relay ............................................................................................147
6.9.6 Sectionalizer.................................................................................147
6.9.7 Switch...........................................................................................148
6.9.8 Breaker.........................................................................................148
6.9.9 Protective Devices Settings .........................................................149
6.9.10 Protective Devices Operation Settings ........................................149
6.9.11 Protective Devices Meter Settings ...............................................150
6.9.12 Protective Devices TCC Settings .................................................151
6.10 Overhead Line ..........................................................................................152
6.10.1 Overhead Line – Balanced...........................................................153
6.10.2 Overhead Line – Unbalanced ......................................................153
6.10.3 Overhead Lines Settings..............................................................154
6.11 Cable.........................................................................................................154
6.11.1 Multi-wire concentric neutral cable...............................................156
6.11.2 Shielded cable..............................................................................157
6.11.3 Unshielded cable..........................................................................158
6.11.4 Cable Settings ..............................................................................159
6.12 Conductor .................................................................................................160
6.13 Spacing Table OH-Line ............................................................................162
6.14 Shunt Capacitor ........................................................................................163
6.14.1 Shunt Capacitor Settings .............................................................164
6.15 Shunt Reactor...........................................................................................165
6.15.1 Shunt Reactor Settings ................................................................166
6.16 Series Capacitor .......................................................................................167
6.16.1 Series Capacitor Settings.............................................................167
6.17 Series Reactor ..........................................................................................168
6.17.1 Series Reactor Settings ...............................................................169
6.18 Miscellaneous ...........................................................................................169
6.18.1 Miscellaneous Equipment Settings ..............................................169
6.19 Harmonic Devices.....................................................................................170
6.19.1 Arc Furnace..................................................................................170
6.19.2 Ideal Converter.............................................................................171
6.19.3 Non Ideal Converter .....................................................................172
6.19.4 Single Tuned Filter .......................................................................174
6.19.5 Double Tuned Filter......................................................................176
6.19.6 C-Type Filter.................................................................................178
6.19.7 High Pass Filter ............................................................................180
IV TABLE OF CONTENTS
6.19.8 Shunt Multi Frequency Source.....................................................181

6.19.9 Shunt Single Frequency Source ..................................................183
6.20 Default Equipments ..................................................................................184
Chapter 7 The Analysis Menu .................................................................................187
7.1 Overview ...................................................................................................187
7.2 Calculation ................................................................................................188
7.3 Calculation Parameters ............................................................................188
7.4 Load Allocation .........................................................................................189
7.5 Load Balancing .........................................................................................189
7.6 Load Growth .............................................................................................190
7.7 Capacitor Placement ................................................................................190
7.8 Fault Flow .................................................................................................190
7.9 Motor Start Analysis..................................................................................190
7.10 Harmonic Analysis ....................................................................................191
7.11 Protective Device Coordination ................................................................191
7.12 Contingency Analysis ...............................................................................191
7.13 Service Restoration ..................................................................................192
7.14 Switching Optimization .............................................................................192
7.15 Reliability Assessment..............................................................................192
7.16 Arc Flash Hazards ....................................................................................192
7.17 Network Equivalent Calculation................................................................193
7.18 Network Forecaster ..................................................................................193
7.19 Network Reduction ...................................................................................193
Chapter 8 The Report Menu ....................................................................................195
8.1 Overview ...................................................................................................195
8.1.1 Reports Contextual Menus...........................................................195
8.2 On Calculation ..........................................................................................197
8.3 Equipments...............................................................................................200
8.4 General .....................................................................................................200
8.5 Study Summary ........................................................................................200
8.6 Data Validation Rules ...............................................................................201
8.7 Format.......................................................................................................201
8.8 Properties .................................................................................................202
8.8.1 Text-style Report Properties ........................................................202
8.8.2 Worksheet-style Report Properties ..............................................202
8.9 Close.........................................................................................................202
8.10 Close All....................................................................................................203
8.11 Save..........................................................................................................203
Chapter 9 The View Menu........................................................................................205
9.1 Toolbars ....................................................................................................205
9.2 Status Bar .................................................................................................205
9.3 Explorer Bar..............................................................................................205
9.3.1 Show ............................................................................................205
9.3.2 New ..............................................................................................206
9.4 Device View ..............................................................................................206
9.5 Overview Map...........................................................................................207
9.6 Network Explorer ......................................................................................207
9.7 Image And Text Layers.............................................................................209
9.8 Reports .....................................................................................................209
9.9 Freeze.......................................................................................................209
9.10 Zoom.........................................................................................................209
9.11 Pan............................................................................................................210
9.12 Result Box ................................................................................................210
TABLE OF CONTENTS V
9.13 Display Options.........................................................................................211

9.13.1 Show ............................................................................................211
9.13.2 Layers...........................................................................................213
9.13.3 Tags .............................................................................................214
9.13.4 Tooltips.........................................................................................215
9.13.5 Equipment Symbol .......................................................................216
Chapter 10 The Tools Menu ......................................................................................217
10.1 Symbol Editor ...........................................................................................217
10.2 Graphic Viewer .........................................................................................220
10.2.1 CYMVIEW Window ......................................................................221
10.2.2 Chart Settings...............................................................................222
10.3 Validation Rules Editor .............................................................................223
10.4 Magnifying Lens........................................................................................224
Chapter 11 The Customize Menu..............................................................................225
11.1 Overview ...................................................................................................225
11.2 Toolbars ....................................................................................................225
11.2.1 Toolbar tab ...................................................................................225
11.2.2 Commands tab .............................................................................226
11.3 Shortcuts...................................................................................................227
11.4 Status Bar .................................................................................................228
11.5 Result Box ................................................................................................229
11.6 Keywords ..................................................................................................229
11.6.1 Create New Keywords .................................................................231
11.6.2 Keyword Expressions...................................................................232
11.7 Filters ........................................................................................................234
11.8 Customer Classes ....................................................................................235
11.9 Environments............................................................................................236
11.9.1 General.........................................................................................236
11.9.2 Reliability ......................................................................................237
11.10 Menu .........................................................................................................238
11.11 Charts .......................................................................................................239
11.11.1 General Tab .................................................................................239
11.11.2 Background Tab ...........................................................................240
Chapter 12 The Window Menu ..................................................................................241
12.1 New Window.............................................................................................241
12.2 Close.........................................................................................................241
12.3 Close All....................................................................................................241
12.4 Close All Charts ........................................................................................242
12.5 Cascade....................................................................................................242
12.6 Tile Vertically ............................................................................................242
12.7 Tile Horizontally ........................................................................................242
12.8 Attach Map................................................................................................242
12.8.1 AutoCAD files ...............................................................................244
12.8.2 MapServer files ............................................................................244
Chapter 13 The Help Menu ........................................................................................249
13.1 Contents ...................................................................................................249
13.2 Index .........................................................................................................249
13.3 Read Me ...................................................................................................249
13.4 What’s new ...............................................................................................249
13.5 CYME on the Web ....................................................................................249
13.6 Technical Support.....................................................................................250
13.7 About CYMDIST .......................................................................................250
VI TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1 Getting Started
1.1 Overview of CYMDIST
CYMDIST is a software that allows studying and simulating the behavior of electrical
distribution network under different conditions and scenarios. It performs several functions that
are required for distribution network planning, operation and analysis. The analysis functions
such as power flow, voltage drop, short-circuit, network optimizations, etc., are performed on
balanced or unbalanced distribution network that are built with any combination of phases and
configurations. Other of its functions and additional modules, such as optimal capacitor
placement, load balancing and switching optimization suggest ways to minimize losses. Analyze
your network in the future using Load Growth. Use the CYMTCC protection coordination program
to have the protective device settings checked.
The optional packages such as Reliability Assessment, Contingency Analysis, Service

Restoration, Harmonic Analysis, Network Reduction, Secondary Network Modeling, Sub-network
modeling, and Substation modeling offer functions to perform more specialized analyses and
assist in conducting what-if studies and perform the evaluations related to time-dependent
projects.
The interactive graphical interface makes it easy to draw the network One-Line Diagram
on the screen and define the characteristics of its equipment and other components. Additions,
deletions and modifications are simply carried out during the process of creating the network.
Choose which information is displayed on the screen while you work. Use the many
color-coding options to help you identify different features of the network, including overloads and
voltage problems. Overlay your circuits with a street map as the background. Display calculation
results on screen, section-by-section, or for designated sections; and design custom reports.
1.2 About this Manual

This document is the CYMDIST Reference Manual. In it, the CYMDIST user interface
and its features are described, along with each of the commands available. Then, each of the
CYMDIST menus are covered, chapter by chapter, with their items described in order, from top to
bottom. This structure makes it easy to find the explanation for every menu item, just by
observing its position in the Main Menu.
CHAPTER 1 –- GETTING STARTED 1

1.3 CYMDIST Manuals Available
Whereas this CYMDIST Reference Manual lists and describes the menus and
commands available, the following user manuals cover the features of CYMDIST more in depth:
• The CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual complements it by explaining how to

perform analyses using the CYMDIST package.
• The CYMDIST Advanced Customization –User Manual goes more in depth about
the features of CYMDIST that allow to create different configurations in order to
reflect your company’s standards, preferences and environments.
• The CYMDIST Symbol Editor – User Manual describes how to create and modify
the symbols used for the devices.
• The CYMVIEW – User Manual describes this complementary application that allows
viewing the CYMDIST-generated graphics and charts and customizing their
appearance.
• The CYMDIST Database Guide, the Database Reference and the Import/Export
manual.
The features of each of the optional modules are described in the following Users
manuals:
• CYMHARMO (Distribution) – Harmonic Analysis.
• CYMDIST-RAM – Reliability Assessment.
• CYMDIST-CAM – Contingency Analysis.
• CYMDIST-SOM – Switching Optimization
• Arc Flash Hazard Analysis (Distribution)
• CYMDIST-SRM – Service Restoration
• CYMSTAB (Distribution) – Transient Stability Analysis
2 CHAPTER 1 – GETTING STARTED

1.4 Computer System Requirements
CYMDIST requires an IBM PC or compatible computer using Microsoft Windows NT,

2000, XP or Server 2003. The minimum hardware requirements are:
• A Pentium IV-based computer.
• A minimum of 512 MB of extended memory.
• 1 GB of hard disk space.
• Any mouse, monitor and printer or plotter supported by Windows.

Note: Internet Explorer 5.5 or above must be installed and working properly before
installing in CYMDIST 4.7.
If Windows NT 4.1 is used, Service Pack 6a must be installed.
CYMDIST version 4.7 is compatible with CYMTCC version 4.5 rev. 6 or higher.
1.5 Installing CYMDIST
The CYMDIST package includes the installation CD and one protection key, which plugs
into the parallel, or USB port, on your computer. You cannot operate the program without the key
in place. However, you can install the program itself.
Note: Installing a new version of CYMDIST on a drive where CYMDIST already exists
will not overwrite existing databases.
1. Start Microsoft Windows.

2. Insert the CYME CD into the CD-ROM reader.
3. The installation program should start automatically after a few seconds. If it does
not start by itself, use Windows Explorer to inspect the main directory of the
CYME CD. Locate the icon “Setup32” and double-click on it. Alternatively, you
can use “My Computer” and click on the CYME CD icon.
4. Click Install Product.
5. Choose CYMDIST from the list of software names. Note the suffix E on the
version number denotes “English”. (F is for French and S is for Spanish).
6. Follow the prompts and screen instructions. The password is normally printed
on the CD jacket.
7. Insert the hardware key into the line printer port or parallel (e.g., LPT1). Please
refer to the Appendix, Setting Up the Protection Key, for further instructions.
Users of Windows 2000 and NT must also install the proper driver. Please refer
to the Protection Key Appendix.
Note: A USB port key can be ordered instead of a parallel port version.

1.6 Running CYMDIST
Unless you have created a “shortcut” icon for CYMDIST, you will run CYMDIST from the
“Start” menu: Start > Programs > CYME\Cymdist shortcut.
The Main Menu and Toolbar will be displayed, although most of the icons will be disabled
until you open a study. See New Study and Open Study in THE “FILE” MENU (sections 4.3 and
4.4).
Note: The path to the cymdist.exe on your computer may be different.
Note: A database wizard will launch automatically the first time you run CYMDIST 4.7.
The wizard will guide you through the process of creating a new database, and
to populate it (import) with your existing database data. See section 4.2.5
Create. The CYMDIST Database Guide provides further details.
Note: All editor and analysis commands are now directly accessible as public
functions through the CYMDIST COM Interface. Users may write subroutines
in Basic / Visual Basic / C or C++ to access the functionality of CYMDIST
without opening the editor. Thus, enabling CYMDIST to run as a background
application. For more information, please contact CYME International Inc.
1.7 Terms Definition

Section: A length of conductor (3-, 2-, or 1-phase) to which equipment and load
may be attached. A section is the basic building block of feeders.
Feeder: A set of connected sections that originate from a substation.
Network: The database of feeders/networks that represent the "base case" (the
present).
Study: A sequence of modifications made to a selected network(s) for planning
or contingency analysis. A network in a study is either a copy of one
stored in the Network database or it is a new one created during the
study.
Modifying a network during a study does not affect the original network in
the Network database. To copy your modification to the network
database, use the Files > Database > Update Network command
(section 4.2.2).
Active The section that is to be affected by a command. To identify it easily,
Section: assign it a unique color via View > Display Options (section 9.13). To
learn how to select a section, please refer to section 2.5.1 Component
Selection.
Lateral: A section connected to what is considered to be the main feeder. It often
incorporates fewer phases or smaller conductors. It is pertinent to the
Edit > Section > Reconductor/Rephase command (section 5.9.4).

Study File: An electronic computer file containing information on a study. These files
are normally saved in the project directory and have the extension *.XST
(*.SXST for self contained studies)
Node: A circular marker use as a connection point between sections and
feeders. (Refer to 3.2 Section Structure and 3.4 Node Properties
1.8 Steps in a Typical Study

1. Open a new or existing study.
2. Load a copy of an existing feeder circuit (or create a brand new feeder).
3. Make changes to line sections, loads and equipment to simulate a new situation.
4. Run the analysis functions / generate reports and graphs.
5. Save or print the reports and graphs.
6. Save the study.
1.9 Databases used by CYMDIST
CYMDIST uses databases to store the equipment and feeders (networks). (Studies are
saved in files.) You are free to create multiple versions of these databases, so as to keep
projects separate. The databases are briefly described in the following sub sections.
Note: Use the menu File > Database > Select (section 4.2.1) to tell CYMDIST which
Network and Equipment databases to use (Database Configuration).
• Database type support - CYMDIST version 4.7 and later supports the database
types: MS SQL (2000), MS ACCESS (97 and 2000), and Oracle (8, 9 and 10).
• Database compatibility – A database created in version 4.0, or earlier, can be

imported directly into a version 4.7 database (MS SQL, MS ACCESS, or Oracle).
1.9.1 Network (feeder) Database
The Network database contains information describing, for each network, the
connectivity of the sections, the conductors and the equipment types used, the adjustments
made to individual equipment, the loads and shunt capacitors and reactors connected to every
section, and the interconnections between networks, if any.
The networks stored in the database are supposed to represent the actual situation at
some point in time (usually the present). Copies of these networks are used in studies as the
starting point.

Note: Networks that are created in a study will not be stored in the network
database, only in the study, until you use the command Update Network
(section 4.2.2).
1.9.2 Equipment Database
The Equipment database contains the electrical characteristics of all the equipment that
is available for connection to the network. This database can be stored in a separate database,
or in the same database as the network database. By storing the equipment database in a
separate database, several networks may share a single equipment database.
1.9.3 Database Illustration
The diagram below illustrates the concept of keeping different versions of the databases.
While you work on a study with CYMDIST, it accesses the four databases in order to:
1. Display the one-line diagram of the feeder(s),
2. Keep track of loads and equipment connected to the feeder sections, and
3. Record the modifications you make to the feeder(s) in the course of your study.
The base-case feeder(s) are described in the database stored in the Network database.
The available equipment is described in the database stored in the Equipment database. The
studies are saved in files (extension *.xst), not in a database. Please refer to File > Database
(section 4.2) for further information on working with databases.

Example: The diagram below indicates that three different sets of feeders have been
stored in separate 'Network' databases (NET1, NET2 and NET3). In this
example, three people are working, not necessarily at the same time.
• USER1 is conducting studies on the group of feeders stored together

in NET1. He saves his studies (in *.xst files) in his own project
directory, "\USER1".
• USER2 is working with a different set of feeders stored in NET2. She

saves her studies in directory "\USER2". Both networks use a single
equipment database stored in "EQPT1" database.
• USER3 is working on a third set of feeders, in NET3, which uses a

completely separate equipment database stored in "EQPT2". He
saves his studies in directory "\USER3".
NET1 \USER1
NETWORK SCREEN
DISPLAY “.XST” FILE
LOAD
SETTINGS
EQPT1
EQUIPMENT
NET2 \USER2
NETWORK SCREEN
LOAD
SETTINGS
NET3 \USER3
NETWORK SCREEN
LOAD
SETTINGS
\EQPT2
EQUIPMENT
1.10 Map Formats Supported
CYMDIST directly imports the AutoCAD .DXF and .DWG maps. See Window > Attach
Map (section 12.8). If multiple georeferenced map files are available, a function of CYMDIST
allows populating a database with those. The Display Map Automatically function found in the
Attach Map dialog box will permit displaying only the maps that underlay the feeder(s) loaded.
Other map formats are supported by CYMDIST. The Import function of Attach Map
makes a copy of the file(s) and changes the format to MapServer’s .GDS. The following map
formats are handled:
• Atlas GIS (.BNA)
• Digital Chart of the World (.VPF)
• ESRI (.SHP)
• MapInfo (.MIF)
• Metafiles (.wmf, .emf)
• Microsoft Bitmap raster (.BMP)

• Tagged Image File (.tif)
• UK Ordnance Survey (.NTF)
• US Geological Survey (.OPT, .STD)

Chapter 2 The CYMDIST Interface
2.1 Overview of the Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Main This is the area where the network selected is displayed. You may have
display several different views loaded; then, this area will be tabbed to let you
screen access those different views.
The standard view is a Multiple Network View in which are displayed all
networks (feeders) that were loaded (see 5.8.2 Load) Substations and
Secondary Networks might be displayed in this view or represented as a
symbol depending on their initial settings; while Sub Networks will always
be displayed as symbols in this view mode.
The content of a Substation, a Secondary Network or a Sub Network can
be displayed as a separate view by double-clicking on their symbol in the
main display. In this mode, only one network type can be viewed at a time;
other types of networks cannot be shown or added in this view. Each view
invoked is tabbed into the main display for easy access and display.
A global view thumbnail window, located at bottom right hand corner of the
main display screen shows the whole network loaded; this is the Overview
Map (see section 9.5). A blue rectangle shows the area zoomed in.
CHAPTER 2 –- THE CYMDIST INTERFACE 9

Main Located at the very top of the window, with all of the commands provided
menu in pull-down menus. Most of the commands are disabled until you open a
study. The Main Menu can be customized to show only the commands that
are useful to the user (see the command Tools > Menu (section 11.10)
Toolbars The Toolbars are located just below the Main Menu, and feature icons
representing the most frequently used editing, navigation and analysis
functions of CYMDIST. Each icon has a corresponding command in the
Main Menu. All Toolbars are described in section 2.4. Toolbars can be
moved anywhere in the display.
Note that most of the icons are disabled until you open a study.
Icons may be rearranged, removed or re-inserted in the standard toolbars,
and the user can build own toolbars (see 11.2 Toolbars).
Explorer Moveable and resizable tabbed multi purposed commands and information
Bar interface that is presented in a tabular / tree structure. The commands
available here can also be accessed via the various menus.
Additional Explorer Bar windows can be displayed in the main display
area. For more information, refer to section 2.3 Explorer Bar.
Within an Explorer Bar view, you can attach or detach (hide) anyone of the
available tabs.
Reports Tabbed resizable window that is displayed when reports are requested.
See Chapter 8 The Report Menu.
Status Located at the bottom of the screen, it consists in two lines of text that
bar identify information about the active database, the parameters of the
selected section or node, and the cursor XY coordinates. This, also, can
be customized for the users; see 11.4 Status Bar.
2.2 Menus
The MAIN MENU at the top of the CYMDIST screen gives access to all CYMDIST
commands. Menu commands are enabled or disabled depending on whether there is an opened
study or not.
Each menu item contains sub menu options. To displays the sub menu:
• Click on the word with the left mouse button, OR
• Hold down the [Alt] key and press the underlined letter as shown in each menu
option.
This Reference Manual describes each menu entry in its own chapter, and in order from
left to right:
• Chapter 4 = File Menu,
• Chapter 5 = Edit Menu,
• Chapter 6 = Equipment Menu, etc.
10 CHAPTER 2 –- THE CYMDIST INTERFACE

File Here you will find the commands that pertain to the general operation of
the program, the opening and saving studies, exporting studies data, as
well as printing graphics and reports. This menu also contains the
commands for setting up general characteristics of the network, such
as the system of units for length, the frequency and average earth
resistivity. (These parameter affect the calculation / characteristics of
your networks and should NOT be changed without due consideration.)
The commands of the File menu are described in Chapter 4.
Edit This menu contains the commands for finding and editing line sections
and equipment settings. All graphic editing tools are found here,
including commands to load the available networks from the active
database: Feeders, Substations, and Secondary Networks. Note that
the items in this menu are active only when a study is open.
The commands of the Edit menu are described in Chapter 5.
Equipment Use this menu to manage the equipment in your active database (add,
delete, or modify). The equipment database is an inventory of
equipment (such as transformers), which is available for connection in
the feeder circuit.
The active database is updated as soon as you click OK. You can
access this menu with or without an opened study.
The commands of the Equipment menu are found in Chapter 6.
Analysis This menu provides access to all of your analysis functions. It includes
all basic analysis functions available with the CYMDIST license. If
optional analysis modules are acquired, the user will be able to access
the additional functions via this menu. Chapter 7 of this manual lists the
commands available and specifies which ones are optional. Separate
Users manuals are available for detailed information (refer to list at
section 1.3 CYMDIST Manuals Available.
Report The Report menu includes the commands for requesting reports of
calculation results, for customizing the report formats, and for saving
the reports to files. Reports can be based on simulation data or on
equipment parameters. More details in Chapter 8.
View The View menu includes the commands that govern what you see on
the screen (and what you do not want to see!). The Show Options
command is one of the most frequently used commands in CYMDIST.
It has its own icon for that reason.
The View menu is described more in details in Chapter 9.
Tools Here you have access to the following tools: Symbol Editor, Data
Validation Rules Editor, Graphic Viewer, and Magnifying Lens. Details
are found in Chapter 10.
Customize The commands in the Customize menu allow the user to customize the
CYMDIST interface, such as the icons that appear in the toolbars,
which commands appear in the menus, which calculation results to be
displayed, etc. The commands are described in Chapter 11.

Window This menu offers you the ability to open additional windows in which to
view the networks in your study, perhaps with a different magnification.
Other standard Windows commands are available here as well (Tile,
Cascade, etc.).
It is from this menu that you can attach a map in the background, to
help you visualize the geography of the network circuits in your study.
More details in Chapter 12.
Help From this menu, you can display an electronic version of this Reference
Manual in the form of a Help File, the Readme file for this version, the
CYME Homepage and Forum, the customer support e-mail form, and
the details about the revision number currently installed. See Chapter
13.
2.3 Explorer Bar
The Explorer Bar is an area that groups a number of frequently used functions under
different tabs. You can have several Explorer Bar views, and within an Explorer Bar view, you
can hide or detach anyone of the available tabs. The tabs are: Databases, Symbol Bar, Network,
Detailed View, Display, Switch Monitoring, and Abnormal Condition.
2.3.1 Databases tab
The Database tab lists the database

configurations that you have created. Using this tab, you
can access ‘visually’ the frequently used functions found in
the main menu File > Database (section 4.2).
New To create a new database configuration based on an existing or a new

database.
Same as File > Database > Create. See 4.2.5.
Import Displays the CYMDIST Database Utilities (wizard) where you can import
data into a supported CYMDIST 4.7 database type (existing or new).
Same as File > Database > Import. See 4.2.3.

Export Displays the CYMDIST Database Utilities (wizard) where you can export
database data to other formats.
Same as File > Database > Export. See 4.2.4.
Databases A tree-like list of the databases configurations created appears right
loaded below the New, Import and Export shortcuts. Clicking on the “Plus” icon
will expand the selected branch and clicking on the “Minus” will collapse
it.
If you right click on any of the database names in that list, a contextual
menu will appear with all or some of following commands:
Set As To select the database configuration you wish to work with.

Active
Same as File > Database > Select. See section 4.2.1 for
details.
Only one database can be active at any given time. The
name of the active database appears in bold.
Update Applies to the Network database all modifications made in
Network the opened study. See Update Network (section 4.2.2).
Remove Same as File > Database > Delete. See section 4.2.6 for
details.
Rename To change only the name of configuration that you select in
the list.
Import Same as the Database > Import file command (see 4.2.3),
except that the target database will be the one already
specified for the configuration from which name in the list
you invoked the command.
Export Same as the Database > Export file command (see 4.2.4),
except that the target database will be the one already
specified for the configuration from which name in the list
you invoked the command.

Properties Displays the Database Connections Properties dialog

box to override the global default study folder for
configurations that is included in the Custom Files list
accessed through the command File > Preferences
(section 4.17)
2.3.2 Symbol Bar tab
The Symbol Bar tab enables you to built / modify your

network in a drag and drop environment via a visual equipment
list. CYMDIST supplies three default groups (Equipment,
Network and Harmonic). You can also create and add your own.
Network Comprises the main network elements used when building/modifying a

network. It is used by dragging and dropping the icon onto the Main
Display. Once the icon is dropped onto the Main Display area, the
related Properties dialog box will be displayed.
Same as:
Edit > Feeder > New (section5.8.1).
Edit > Substation > New (section 5.11.1).
Edit > Sub network > New (section 5.13.1)
Edit > Secondary network > New (section 5.12.1).

Equipments Comprises all the equipments included in the Equipment menu,

except for the Harmonic equipments. These are in the third default
group provided.
See Chapter 6 for details.
Harmonic Comprises all the equipments included in the Equipment > Harmonic
Devices menu item. (see 6.19).
Right-clicking on any of the symbols in any of the groups will display the following
contextual menu.
Large Icon Displays the list with large icons positioned on top of the name of the
element.
Small Icon Displays the list with small icons positioned to the left of the name of
the element.
Add Group Displays the Add Group dialog box to create your own customized
group of elements (chosen in any category listed).
You can type in a Name for your profile and Save Symbol Bar
settings to a new file in the case you want to create more than one
customized profile.
Note: When you create a new symbol bar file, clicking OK will make
the new symbol bar file active, and will update the default file as
defined in File > Preferences, Custom Files tab (see 4.17.2).
To change between multiple symbol bar files, refer to File >
Preferences, Custom Files tab.

Remove Selecting this option will immediately remove the group from the
Group Explorer Bar.
Customize Displays the Customize Group dialog box where you can add or
Group remove elements (chosen in any category listed).
Item The Item Properties dialog box is displayed upon selecting this
Properties option. In it, you can view basic information about the item along with
the symbol associated with it. You can only change the Description
name that will appear in your Symbol Bar list.
This contextual menu option will be disabled if you right-click on the

background of the group window instead of on an icon.
2.3.3 Network tab
The Network tab provides a quick access to

some useful commands related to the loading and display
of the networks, which includes feeders, substations,
secondary networks and sub-networks. This functionality
is very useful when you have a large and complex
network to work on.
The Network tab pane displays a tree list of the

networks by categories. When you right click in the
background of the pane, a contextual menu will be
displayed with the options to Expand all the groups or
collapse all. With the Auto-locate function of that menu
activated, a double click on any of the network names will
center it in the display.
Other commands are available for the individual

networks in the list. The commands are accessed through
a contextual menu that is displayed by right-clicking on
the name of the network you wish to take action on.

Locate Zooms in and centers the display on the corresponding head node of the
network highlighted in the list.
Report Displays a Topology tabular report containing a list of the IDs of all
sections, equipment and lines composing the network selected, along
with the lengths (when applicable) and the coordinates.
Section IDs and Equipment IDs are hyperlinked; when you click on an
ID, the element will be highlighted and centered on the display and the
corresponding Properties dialog box will be displayed.
Unload To unload the network selected from your networks list and remove it
(Load) from the display. The name of the network unloaded remains in the list
with a white square to the left of the name replacing the green square
that was there. To load that network again, right click on the name and
select load.
The command Unload will not appear in the contextual menu if you have
modified the network selected in the list.
Hide Does not unload the network but removes it from the display.
(Show)
Delete This command deletes the network from the database. The data will be
definitely deleted once you will have used the command File >
Database > Update Network (see section 4.2.2)
Properties Displays the Properties dialog box corresponding to the name of the
network selected in the list.
2.3.4 Detailed View tab
The Detailed View tab can be seen as a

continuation of the Network tab as it displays the list of the
devices, interconnections, loops and phase merging
components of the loaded networks (i.e. active database)
in the form of a tree list.
A right click in the background of the pane displays

a contextual menu.
Global filters To create User-defined filters to apply to the Detailed View list. Note
that the User-defined filters can be also used elsewhere in CYMDIST.
See Customize > Filters (section 11.7).

Expand All / To unfold (display) all the layers and show all components / To return
Collapse All to the roots of the trees and hide all components.
Auto Locate With the Auto-locate function of that menu activated, a double click on
any of the device names will center it in the display; the related
Equipment Properties dialog box is also displayed automatically.
Use Section Id With this option activated, a double click on any of the device names
will center it in the display; the related Section Properties dialog box
is also displayed automatically.
Right click on an item to open its contextual menu, and depending on the item’s type and
status, you will be able to perform various operations: load, unload, hide, show, delete, connect,
disconnect, edit its properties, see its failure history, etc.
2.3.5 Display tab
The Display tab is designed to help you read

information off of the O.L.D. It comprises a subset of the
options found in the View > Display Options dialog box (see
section 9.13 for details on the options). To access and change
the settings, click on the up or down arrows to expand or
collapse the layers, then enable or disable the desired options.
Note: These settings made via this interface are temporary.

To save your changes for subsequent sessions, you
need to open the Show Display Options dialog box
and execute a Save command.

2.3.6 The Switch Monitoring tab
The Switch Status Monitoring tab allows you to verify and monitor the status of switching
devices available on the network. The monitoring portion of this control displays the switch status
changes read from a file. Users can quickly apply the new status to the networks loaded in the
view.
The Switch Monitoring tab window is composed of three columns:

Type Type of switching devices.
ID Identification of the device. Clicking on the ID link of the device zooms in the
display and centers it on the device in question.
Status Click on a cell to toggle the status of the device between Open and Closed.
Double-clicking on the header of a column orders the list in ascending or descending

order based on the contents of that column.
It is also possible to filter the devices you want to see in the list. Click on the Properties
icon, located at the bottom of the window, to display the Properties dialog box and select the
types of devices.

2.3.7 The Abnormal Condition tab
The Abnormal Condition tab window will list all

the abnormal conditions present in the network after
running an analysis.
This control is updated automatically after a

simulation. All abnormal conditions are listed by device
type along with a symbol which color indicates the type of
condition and with a hyperlink on the device ID for quickly
locating the device in the view.
You can sort the list in ascending or descending
order by double-clicking on the column headers. The
colors used to indicate the conditions observed for each
device are the same than the ones defined at the Layers
tab (Analysis Layer option) in the Display Options dialog
box. (see section 9.13.2).
2.4 Toolbars
Toolbars appear directly beneath the main menu. They contain icons that are shortcuts
to frequently used menu commands. To control which toolbar to display, use the menu
command View > Toolbars; or, to customize the toolbars, use the menu command Customize >
Toolbars.
Just like for the menus, the commands are enabled or disabled depending on whether
there is an opened study or not.
2.4.1 Main
NEW STUDY. Opens a new study (blank window) with the temporary title,
Default.xst – ("Window #1"). Equivalent menu command: File > New Study.
OPEN STUDY. Displays a list of existing studies. Double-click on the one you
want to open. Equivalent menu command: File > Open Study.
MERGE STUDY. Displays a list of existing studies. Double-click on the one you
want to open and merge with the actual study. Equivalent menu command:
File > Merge Study.
SAVE STUDY. Updates the existing study file, or, if the study is new, creates a
study file with the name you specify. (Study files have the extension *.XST or
*.SXST.) Equivalent menu command: File > Save Study.
PRINT. Prints what you see in the active network window. Equivalent menu
command: File > Print.

PRINT PREVIEW. Displays each page as it will look when printed (One Line,
Graphic Plot, or Report). Equivalent menu command: File > Print Preview.
SELECT PRINT AREA. To select the area to be printed. When you click on this
icon the cursor will change to . When done with your selection, click again on
the icon to return the cursor to its original state.
SHOW/HIDE NETWORK. Displays the Load / Unload / View Networks dialog
box that allows you to select the networks to load and view from the active
database into the window. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Feeder > Load.
RUN ANALYSIS. Displays the Network Calculation dialog box where you
specify the voltage drop or the short-circuit analysis you wish to perform.
Clicking on the Run button in that window will run the analysis. Equivalent menu
command: Analysis > Calculation.
FIND. Opens the Search dialog box that allows to select by name any section,
equipment, or node to be searched; or using user-defined filters, or using text
appearing the device tags. The operation highlights and centers the element
found in the center of the main display screen. Equivalent menu command: Edit
> Search.
PREVIOUS SECTION. Selects the section immediately upstream from the
active section to be the new active section. Equivalent menu command: Edit >
Selection > Previous.
FIND CURRENT SECTION. Centers the window view on the location of the
active section. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Selection > Find Current.
NEXT SECTION. Selects the section immediately downstream from the active
section to be the new active section. Equivalent menu command: Edit >
Selection > Next.
UNDO MODIFICATION. To undo the last change. You may undo as many
consecutive changes as desired: click the down arrow to see the list of
modifications done. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Undo Modif.
REDO MODIFICATION. Cancels the last Undo command. You may redo as
many undone changes as desired. Not available until at least one change has
been undone. Click the down arrow to see a list of modifications to ‘redo’.
Equivalent menu command: Edit > Redo Modif.
ZOOM IN. Magnifies the view. Equivalent menu command: View > Zoom > In.
ZOOM TO FIT. Reduces or enlarges the view magnification so that the entire
O.L.D. (including any attached maps) fits in the window. Equivalent menu
command: View > Zoom > Fit.
ZOOM OUT. Reduces view magnification. Equivalent menu command: View >
Zoom > Out.
SHOW EXPLORER BAR. Shows or hides the Explorer Bar. Equivalent menu
command: View > Explorer Bar > Show.
SHOW REPORTS. Displays or hides the simulation reports run. Equivalent
menu command: View > Reports.

ANALYSIS REPORTS. Displays the Reports dialog box from which you can
request calculation results. Equivalent menu command: Report > On
Calculation.
DATA RULES EDITOR. Displays the Data Rules Editor dialog box where your
can refine the default CYMDIST data rules by adding your own specific
restrictions and data ranges. Equivalent menu command: Tools > Validation
Rules Editor.
2.4.2 Editor Tools
To use the commands in the Editor Tools toolbar, select the circuit symbol to be
involved in the action and then select the icon of the command. Double-click the left mouse
button anywhere in the diagram window to display the dialog box associated with the action. The
mouse cursor will change to reflect the command chosen. For example:
The selected command remains selected until you select another one. When you have a
command selected, pressing the ESC key will deactivate the command and activate the
Properties icon of the toolbar.
NEW SOURCE. Displays the Properties dialog box at the Source tab window
to create a secondary source(s) within a substation network. Equivalent menu
command: Edit > Source > New.
NEW SUBSTATION. Displays the Properties dialog box at the Network tab
window to create a new substation including a default source node. Equivalent
menu command: Edit > Substation > New.
NEW FEEDER. Displays the Properties dialog box at the Network tab window
to create a new feeder (head node) at the cursor location. Equivalent menu
command: Edit > Feeder > New.
NEW SECONDARY NETWORK. Displays the Properties dialog box at the
Network tab window to create a new secondary network including a default
source node. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Secondary Network > New.
NEW SUB NETWORK. Displays the Properties dialog box at the Sub Network
tab window to create a new sub network that is connected to the currently
selected node. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Sub Network > New.
ADD SECTION. To draws a new section from the selected node to the current
mouse position. The Section Properties dialog box is displayed automatically.
Equivalent menu command: Edit > Section > Add.
To draw new sections without having to fill out the Section Properties data
immediately at each addition, go to Edit > Preferences; select the User
Interface tab and disable the Display the section properties dialog… option.

INSERT SECTION. Adds a new section (of the same length) just upstream of
the selected section. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Section > Insert. The
Section Properties dialog box is displayed automatically.
As with the Add Section command, you can disable the automatic display of
the Section Properties dialog box.
SPLIT SECTION. Like Insert Section, but the existing section has a length
value of ‘zero’. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Section > Split.
The Section Properties dialog box is displayed automatically.
As with the Add Section command, you can disable the automatic display of
the Section Properties dialog box.
ADD ZONE. Groups a number of sections into a zone and attaches a label to
the sections of the zone. The Add Zone dialog box is displayed to specify the
parameters of the zone. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Zones > Add.
DELETE ZONE. Removes the zone attribute from the sections in that zone.
Deleting a zone does not delete any sections. Equivalent menu command: Edit
> Zones > Delete.
DELETE. Deletes the selected feeder or section. Equivalent menu command:
Edit > Delete. See also Update Network (section 4.2.2).
MOVE. Double-click the left mouse button and keep the button depressed at
the second click, then drag the selected section to move it. (All connections are
maintained.) Equivalent menu command: Edit > Geometry > Move.
ROTATE SECTION. Double-click the left mouse button and keep the button
depressed at the second click, then drag to reposition the ‘To Node’ of the
selected section anywhere on a circle with radius equal to the section’s own
length. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Geometry > Rotate.
CONNECT. Connects two or more sections together. Equivalent menu
command: Edit > Connect.
DISCONNECT. Removes the connection between two sections without deleting
either section. (A temporary node is created) Equivalent menu command: Edit
> Disconnect.
OPEN/CLOSE A SWITCH. To open or close a switching device. The Toggle
dialog box is displayed for the selection of the device to toggle. Equivalent
menu command: Edit > Open/Close.
RECONFIGURATION. Opens the Reconfiguration dialog box to change the
line or cable type on a set of contiguous sections or add / remove phases to the
selected section. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Section >
Reconductor/Rephase.
RECALCULATE LENGTH OF SECTIONS. RE-CALCULATE LENGTH OF
SECTIONS. Re-calculates the length of the selected section, or selected and
downstream sections, or all sections in memory. The results are displayed on
the second line of the status bar. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Section >
Calculate Length.
RENAMING O.L.D. SECTIONS. Displays the Automatic Section Renaming
dialog box to change the name and/or ID of the selected section (or multiple
sections), including or excluding nodes. Equivalent menu command: Edit >
Section > Automatic Renaming.

RE-ARRANGE O.L.D. Changes the angle of departure of all downstream

sections based on the Autogen Angle value. Equivalent menu command:
Edit > Geometry > Rearrange O.L.D.
PROPERTIES. To display the Properties dialog box of the selected item.
Equivalent menu command: Edit > Properties.
2.4.3 Zoom
ZOOM IN. Automatically magnifies the view on the Main Display. Equivalent
menu command: View > Zoom > In.
ZOOM TO FIT. Reduces or enlarges the view magnification so that the entire
O.L.D. with the attached maps fit in the window. Equivalent menu command:
View > Zoom > Fit.
ZOOM OUT. Automatically reduces view magnification. Equivalent menu
command: View > Zoom > Out.
ZOOM PREVIOUS. Restores the last magnification level. Equivalent menu
command: View > Zoom > Previous.
ZOOM NEXT. Redoes the last magnification level. Equivalent menu command:
View > Zoom > Next.
ZOOM TO FIT FEEDER. Reduces or enlarges the view magnification so that
all displayed feeders fit in the window (regardless of attached maps).
Equivalent menu command: View > Zoom > Fit to Feeder.
MAGNIFY. Continuously magnifies the area of the Main Display under the
cursor. Keep the left mouse button depressed while you move the magnifying
lens over the display. Equivalent menu command: Tools > Magnifying Lens >
Activate.

2.4.4 Database
CREATE DATABASE CONFIGURATION. To creates a new database

configuration based on either a new database or on an existing database.
When you create a new database configuration, you may put the equipment
database and the network database in a single database or you may put them
in different databases. The command activates the CYMDIST Database
Wizard. See section 4.2.3 Import for all details. Equivalent menu command:
File > Database > Create.
SELECT DEFAULT DATABASE CONFIGURA-
TION. To designate an existing database
configuration as the “active” or working database.
The selection is made by names of configurations
only. Equivalent menu command: File >
Database > Select, Database Configuration
field.
SELECT DATABASE. To display the Database Manager dialog box to
designate an existing database configuration as the “active” or working
database either by its name or any other of its available parameters. Equivalent
menu command: File > Database > Select.
UPDATE NETWORK. Applies to the active network database all the
modifications made in the opened study. Note that this update will affect all
studies that are based on this database. Equivalent menu command: File >
Database > command Update Network (section 4.2.2).
IMPORT DATA. Displays the CYMDIST Database Utilities (wizard) where you
can import data into a supported CYMDIST 4.7 database type (existing or new).
Equivalent menu command: File > Database > Import.
EXPORT DATA. Displays the CYMDIST Database Utilities (wizard) where you
can export database data to other formats. Equivalent menu command: File >
Database > Export.
REMOVE DATABASE CONFIGURATION. Deletes the currently active
database configuration. Same as File > Database > Delete. See section 4.2.6
for details.

2.4.5 Display
SHOW GRID LINES. Displays a grid on the Main Display as a series of lines.
Refer to View > Display Options; Show tab, View group (section 9.13.1).
SHOW GRID POINTS. Displays a grid on the Main Display as a series of dots.
Refer to View > Display Options, Show tab, View group.
SNAP TO GRID. The cursor and the selected symbol will jump to the nearness
grid point when manipulated in the One Line.
ORTHOGONAL MODE. Restricts the drawing or moving of sections to
horizontal and vertical directions only. It has no effect on sections drawn before
it was activated. Neither does it affect modifications that were "redone" using
the Redo Modif command. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Geometry >
Ortho mode.
REARRANGE ALL NETWORKS IN VIEW. Rearranges all downstream sections
so that their angles of departure are uniform and equal to the Autogen Angle.
Go to the File > Preferences dialog box, User Interface tab to set the angle.
This angle applies where two or more sections depart from the same section.
Equivalent menu command: Edit > Geometry > Rearrange O.L.D.
SHOW ALL CONNECTIONS. A breakpoint is a drawing element that allows
hiding the section portion downstream of the breakpoint. A breakpoint is
installed using the corresponding command in the Section Contextual Menu
(see 3.3.5). A tag is displayed at the breakpoint indicating it. To display the
complete section, click the Show All Connection button.
DISPLAY BEST FIT. Will resize all drawing elements (line width, font size,
symbol size) in relation to one another. The corresponding drawing settings
found in the Display Options dialog box are changed. Note that the changes
made to the display cannot be undone using the Undo Modif command.
SELECT DEVICE VIEW. To create filters to display only the types of
equipment, lines and loads wanted. Keyword filters can be utilized. The filters
are created using the Device View dialog box displayed when selecting the
Customize option proposed when clicking this icon. Various views can be
created and saved to be accessed later on.

SHOW OVERVIEW MAP. Opens the Overview Map thumbnail on the OLD
display. See 9.5 Overview Map.
ATTACH MAP. Displays the Setup Map dialog box to select and display a map
in the background. Equivalent menu command: Window > Attach Map.
DISPLAY OPTIONS. Opens the Display Options dialog box at the, Show tab
window (section 9.13.1).
2.4.6 Multiple Selection
SELECTION. Normal selection mode. To select one section, network, or device

at a time.
REGION SELECTION. To select a group of sections in a rectangular area.
POLYGON SELECTION. To select a group of sections in an area of an

irregular shape.
BRANCH SELECTION. To select all branches downstream from the selected
section. You can apply downstream limiters (protective devices) to limit the
selection range.
CLEAR SELECTION. Un-selects any selection / active sections.

2.4.7 Search
HISTORY MODE. When enabled, the combo box will list only the Ids of the
searched results, allowing you to jump between recently searched items.
SEARCH FIELD. To select the item you wish to
find. Once selected, it is automatically highlighted
on the main display, zoomed in, and centered in
the window. The items available in the combo box
are filtered based on parameters that are set in
the Search dialog box.
PROPERTIES. Displays the Search dialog box where you can modify the
search parameters. Equivalent menu command: Edit > Search, section 5.3.
PREVIOUS. Shows on the main display the previous item in the filtered list of
items.
FIND. Locates and centers in the display the item which ID appears (or is typed
in) the Search field.
NEXT. Shows on the main display the next item in the filtered list of items.
SHOW CIRCLE DEVICE. Displays a circle on the One Line around every
instants of the equipment for which a filter is active, to help you see where they
are. To use this option, you must enable the option ‘Use Filters’ in the Search
Properties field of the expanded dialog box. See section 5.3 Search.
Hints: Choose the circle size and color via View > Display Options; go to
the Show tab, the Circle device item is under the Network Symbols
tree item.

2.4.8 Drawing Tool
Click first on the action icon of the toolbar, and then click on the display at the location
where you want to draw elements or insert images.
ACTIVATE DRAWING TOOL. To activate the commands in this toolbar.
Press the ESC key to deactivate.
DRAW LINE. Click the Draw Line button and then click and hold the mouse
button while dragging in the OLD display until the line has the appropriate
length, then release the mouse button.
DRAW ARROW. Click the Draw Arrow button and then click and hold the
mouse button while dragging in the OLD display until the line has the
appropriate length, then release the mouse button; the tip of the arrow will be at
that end.
DRAW RECTANGLE. Click the Draw Rectangle button and then click and hold
the mouse button while dragging in the OLD display until the rectangle has the
appropriate shape and size, then release the mouse button.
DRAW ELLIPSE. Click the Draw Ellipse button and then click and hold the
mouse button while dragging in the OLD display until the ellipse has the
appropriate shape and size, then release the mouse button.
DRAW TEXT. Displays the Properties dialog box at the Text tab. Enter the text
to be displayed in the Text field, adjust the other properties as wanted and click
OK.
DRAW IMAGE. Displays the Insert Image dialog box to select the image to be
inserted on the one line display.
SET DEFAULT PROPERTIES. Select the line, arrow, rectangle, ellipse or text,
and then click on the properties icon to modify the parameters. Note that when
a shape is drawn, you can access its Properties dialog box by right clicking on
the shape, and modify its parameters.
SHOW LAYER. Displays the Drawing Layers dialog box where you select the
layers to be displayed either by shape type or by individual shapes.

2.4.9 Layer
LIST OF LAYERS. Available layers listed in

alphabetical order.
SELECT LAYER CATEGORY. To filter the layers that are available in the List of
Layers. Filters include: All layers, General layers, Analysis layers, Device
layers, and Keywords layers.
SHOW LAYER DETAILS. Displays the thresholds defined for the layer selected
in the List of Layers along with the associated colors.
SHOW LAYER SETTINGS. Displays the Display Option dialog box, at the
Layers tab with the layer data for the layer selected in the List of Layers. Allows
editing the settings.
2.4.10 Tag Layer
LIST OF TAG LAYERS. Displays the list of

layers of tagged device types. See section
9.13.3 Tags to learn about tag layer creation
and organization.
SHOW TAG LAYER SETTINGS. Displays the Display Options dialog
box at the Tag tab.

2.4.11 Tooltip Layer
LIST OF TOOLTIP LAYERS. Displays the

list of layers of tooltips per device types. See
section 9.13.4 Tooltips to learn about tag
layer creation and organization.
SHOW TOOLTIP LATER SETTINGS. Displays the Display Options
dialog box at the Tooltip tab.
2.4.12 Load Model
LIST OF LOAD MODELS. Set with the Load

Model Manager. All analysis, reports and
result boxes will use the active load model.
LOAD MODEL MANAGER. To create load models names. The customer
classes part of the load model are created using the Customer Class
Manager button. This data is saved with the self-contained study. Same
as File > Database > Customer Loads (section 4.2.11).
When building a simulation involving the load model, the simulation
engines adjust all loads on the feeder(s) without changing the load data;
you may also define how the load power changes with respect to the
voltage. About this, see the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual
(Analysis>Calculation, Load Model Tab).
CUSTOMER CLASS MANAGER. Display the Customer Class dialog box
where you can edit the existing customer types and create new ones. You
can also access this function from the menu Customize > Customer
Classes (see section 11.8).

2.4.13 Simulation
LIST OF ANALYSES. Select from this list the

analysis you wish to run.
RUN SIMULATION. Displays the analysis dialog box corresponding to the
analysis selected in the list.
All analyses can also be accessed via the Analysis menu. (see Chapter 7).
The simulations available are listed in the Overview section of Chapter 7 along
with the User Manual to refer to for further information.
RE-RUN SIMULATION. To redo the same analysis using the parameters just
set. Useful when making changes on the network.
SHOW ABNORMAL CONDITIONS. Will display the sections with abnormal
conditions on the OLD display. The color and size of the lines can be set
through the Display Options dialog box, Show tab, Abnormal Conditions
group.
SHOW REPORTS. Displays the Reports dialog box from which you can
request calculation results. Equivalent menu command: Report > On
Calculation.
CHART SELECTION. Displays the Chart Selection dialog box. Place a
checkmark next to the charts you wish to display and click Plot. You can
customize the look of the charts; click on the Customize button. Same as the
menu command Customize > Charts (see section 11.11).

2.5 Mouse Commands
2.5.1 Component Selection
This is done with the mouse at its normal mode. Click the Left mouse button once
anywhere on the node, section, equipment symbol or tag. The element will change in color and/or
handles will appear around the element.
Another way is to click the left mouse button and keep it depressed while you draw a
rectangle on the display. When you release the mouse button, the item inside the rectangle will
be highlighted. If you want to select multiple elements this way, you will need to activate the
Multiple Selection mode or the Region Selection (see 2.4.6 Multiple Selection toolbar).
Note: Through the View > Display Options dialog box, Show tab, you can change
the color of the elements selected
2.5.2 Mouse Modes
The Normal mouse mode ( ) allows the selection of a section or a node with one left-
click of the mouse. A right-click on a highlighted section or node will display the relevant
contextual menu (see below). A left double-click on the highlighted section or node will display
the related Properties dialog box.
A right-click in the normal mode anywhere in the background will enable the Pan mode.
When selecting any of the Edit menu options that allow adding a component to your
study (feeder, substation, zone, etc.), the mouse cursor will reflect that choice until you revert its
mode to normal. A word like “feeder” or “zone”, etc. will be displayed below the mouse cursor.
These are shown in the description of the relevant commands in this manual.
A few examples: . To revert the mode to “normal”, press the

ESC key.
Note: The selected section should appear in a distinctive color. You can configure
that color via the View > Display Options menu command, Show tab, at the
Selection tree item.
2.5.3 Panning and Zooming with the Mouse
To pan the OLD display using the mouse, click the right mouse button and hold it down.
Drag the mouse like to another point in the OLD display and release the button. The point
“selected” when you clicked the mouse will now be located at the point where you have released
the mouse button.
Hint: You can also ‘pan’ the O.L.D. by using the keyboard arrow keys. Ensure the
window focus is on the O.L.D. (by clicking once in the window), and then simply
press the arrow keys to pan.

To zoom in with the mouse, click twice on the right mouse button and hold it down, then
drag the mouse to draw a rectangle around the area you wish to zoom in. Release the mouse
button.
If your mouse is equipped with a wheel, rolling it forward or backward will zoom the OLD
display in or out. The focus of the zoom will be where the pointer is located on the display.
You can also “draw a rectangle” using the left mouse button in the Overview Map tool
display around the area you wish to see displayed in the main display. To display the Overview
Map tool, select the View > Overview Map (section 9.5).
Finally, you can use the zoom commands found in the Zoom Toolbar (section 2.4.3) or
via the View > Zoom menu commands (section 9.10).
2.5.4 Contextual Menus
Right-clicking on a highlighted symbol or in the background of the various workspaces of

CYMDIST will display a contextual menu with the commands that are available. A few examples
are shown below.
Section Node Fuse Symbol Bar
2.6 Hyperlinks Navigation
Specific elements of the O.L.D. interface are hyperlinked. For example: Clicking on a
substation’s nametag will open the substation’s edit / view window; clicking on a zone tag will
open the zone properties dialog box. Some elements in the tabular reports are hyperlinked as
well.
These links are designed to reduce the number of key presses (or mouse clicks)
operations required to move between the various controlling environments.
Interconnection stubs are tags highlighting the connection points between the loaded and
un-loaded feeders, (networks). Click on the stub to load the connected feeder / network.
• Interconnection stub between same network types are red.
• Interconnection stub between different network types are blue.

Chapter 3 Properties and Settings
3.1 Introduction
With CYMDIST you can create and model your default equipment, lines and conductors
(see Chapter 6) and then create your network’s substations, feeders and secondary grids; switch
gears, network vaults, etc. As you build or modify your model, you can set the properties specific
to each component.
3.2 Section Structure
The one line diagrams representing the network are composed of successions of
sections and nodes.
• The sections are the basic “building blocks” for your network. Section Structure is
explained in section 3.2 below. Equipments, lines, loads, etc. are “installed” on
sections; and each element can be parameterized with individual settings.
• Nodes are circular markers used for connecting sections and feeders together.
Nodes are an O.L.D. concept and as such have no electrical value; they are not
considered by any of the analysis / calculations. A section is always associated with
its up stream node (From node) and its down stream node (To node). See section
3.4 Node Properties.
For a feeder, a "section" is internally represented by up to three parts: the Source-end

(FROM node), the Conductor and the Load-end (TO node).
Source end Load end

= From node = To node
From “From” “To” To

node Equipment
Conductor Equipment node
For a substation (sub-network) or a secondary network (grid):
Source end Load end

= From node = To node Node
From Series Device To
node node
Shunt
Device
CHAPTER 3 –- PROPERTIES AND SETTINGS 35

While drawing a One Line Diagram, you will create conductor sections to which you may
connect equipment at the source-end and/or at the load-end. You may also connect loads and
capacitors at the source-end, mid-point and load-end. You may also distribute a load evenly
along the conductor section (see 3.3.4 Spot Load and Distributed Load Settings).
When you request a Voltage Drop report for an individual section, you will be able to
monitor the voltage and/or current at each of the three sub-sections. Refer to the diagram below.
IS IC IL
node Equipment
+ + +
VS VC VL
- - -
Voltage Drop Results
• The current (IS, IC or IL) is reported at the entry to the sub-section. The voltage (VS,
VC or VL) is reported at the end of the sub-section.
• If there is no equipment attached to the source end, then IS = IC and VS = VL of the

previous upstream section.
• If no equipment is attached to the load end, then VC = VL and IL = IS of the next

downstream section.
When you request a Short Circuit report for an individual section, the current is reported
at the fault location (FROM Node, or TO Node). These are the same locations where the voltage
is reported in Voltage Drop.
3.3 Section Properties
The Section Properties dialog box is basically composed of three parts: (1) the
identification of the section; (2) a work area through which you can add or remove devices,
indicate the type of load and select the settings pane to display; and (3) a pane showing the
details of the component selected in the Devices tree list, including the specific settings that you
can adjust.
The Section Properties dialog box is automatically displayed each time you Add, Insert or
Split a section using the File > Section menu item (see 5.9) or using the related commands in
the Editor Tools toolbar (see 2.4.2).
You can display the Section Properties dialog box of an existing section by highlighting
a section on the one line display and select Properties in the contextual menu you access with a
right-click.
36 CHAPTER 3 –- PROPERTIES AND SETTINGS

Section This is the unique identification label for the section. The section (ID)
may not contain blank spaces.
Phase Activate the checkbox(es) to define the phase(s) present in the
section.
Environment To associate an environmental attribute to the section. Environmental
factors are taken into account in the calculation of reliability indices in
RAM analysis. See section 11.9 Environments on how to set the
attributes.
Devices To add or remove devices, and to select in the tree list the element for
which you want to adjust the settings. When you select an element, the
pane to the right of the dialog box displays the main properties of the
element in question.
Also, still in the tree list, you may see sub-entries that are other types
of parameters that can be set. In other words, this is where all the
Settings dialogs are displayed. See 3.3.1 Overview of the Equipment
Settings, and following sub-sections below. See also 3.4.1 Node
Settings.
To add a device type from the pull down menu. The
element selected from the drop down menu is added
downstream of the component selected in the tree
list. Included in that menu:
• Equipments (see chapter 6)
• Spot and distributed load (see 3.3.4 Spot Load
and Distributed Load Settings)
• Line configuration (see 6.10 Overhead Line, 6.11
Cable and 3.3.3 for By Phase Configuration
Settings.
• Network equivalent (see Analysis > Network
Equivalent Calculation, section 7.17)

To remove elements from the section. Click Remove,

then select the element to remove from the pop up
list that will appear.
Note that you cannot remove nodes, lines or cables.
Navigator To select the section immediately upstream (Back), or downstream
(Next) from the current selected section. The list of components will be
refreshed immediately with the components of the newly selected
section. When the Navigator gets at a junction, a pop up list is
displayed with the possible paths, click on the section you want.
Note: The Add button will be replaced by Select and the

Remove button by Unselect when only one component
can be installed. If one element is already installed, the
drop-down list of the Select button will be grayed out. If you
want to change the component, you will need to first
Unselect the element installed.
3.3.1 Overview of the Equipment Settings
Some equipment types allow you to make adjustments to them “in the field”, that is, when
an equipment is connected to a section. These adjustments are called “settings”. The default
properties for the devices, lines, etc. are set through the commands found under the Equipment
menu (Chapter 6).
Note: The data given in the settings pane of the Section Properties dialog box have
priority over the (default) data given when the equipment was originally defined
under the Equipment menu.
All the Device Settings dialog boxes contain an identification group box that is located at
the upper right hand section of the dialog.
ID Applies the standard / global settings as defined in the Equipment menu

for each device type. You may select the exact device your need from the
ID drop-down list.
Number Enter a (or change the) unique identifier for the individual device (optional).
Once the related window is opened, you may also consult the other default
devices part of that device type.
Location The position of the equipment with reference to the section. Available
positions may be At From Node / At Middle / At To Node, or At From Node
/ At To Node, depending on the type of equipment.
Status May be: Connected, Bypassed or Bypassed in restoration.
To consult the default parameters of the related equipment type.
To display the Failure History report related to the component.

To modify the setting of a specific instance of a device, and click to select the target
equipment’s layer, and sub-layers (TCC Settings and or Meter Settings). Modify the setting
according to your requirement.
Below is a list of the where you can find more information about the settings for specific
equipment.
Regulators 6.4.1 Regulator Settings, page 113
6.4.2 Regulator Control, page 114
Transformers 6.5.3 Two-winding Transformer Settings, page 119

6.5.4 Two-winding Transformer Load Tap Changer Settings, page 119
6.5.5 Two-winding Transformer Meter Settings, page 120
6.6.3 Three-Winding Transformers Settings, page 128
6.6.4 First / Second Load Tap Changer, page 129
Generators 6.7.1.1 Synchronous Generator Settings, page 132

6.7.2.1 Induction Generator Settings, page 134
6.7.3.1 Electronically Coupled Generator Settings, page 136
Motors 6.8.1.1 Induction Motor Settings, page 139

6.8.1.2 Induction Motor Starter Settings, page 140
6.8.2.1 Synchronous Motor Settings, page 142
6.8.2.2 Synchronous Motor Starter Settings, 142
Protective Devices 6.9.9 Protective Devices Settings, page 149

6.9.10 Protective Devices Operation Settings, page 149
6.9.11 Protective Devices Meter Settings, page 150
6.9.12 Protective Devices TCC Settings, page 151
Capacitors 6.14.1 Shunt Capacitor Settings, page 164

6.16.1 Series Capacitor Settings, page 167
Reactors 6.15.1 Shunt Reactor Settings, page 166

6.17.1 Series Reactor Settings, page 169
Harmonic Devices 6.19.1.1 Arc Furnace Settings, page 170

6.19.2.1 Ideal Converter Settings, page 171
6.19.3.1 Non-Ideal Converter Settings, page 173
6.19.4.1 Single Tuned Filter Settings, page 175
6.19.5.1 Double Tuned Filter Settings, page 177
6.19.6.1 C-Type Filter Settings, page 179
6.19.7.1 High Pass Filter Settings, page 180
6.19.8.1 Shunt Multi Frequency Current Source Settings, page 182
6.19.9.1 Shunt Single Frequency Current Source Settings, page 183
Miscellaneous 6.18.1 Miscellaneous Equipment Settings, page 169

3.3.2 Lines and Cables Settings
Type Applies the standard / global settings as defined in the Equipment menu
for each line or cable type. You may select the exact type your need from
the drop-down list.
To consult the default parameters of the related equipment type.
To display the Failure History report related to the component selected.
Length This field is displayed when selecting a line, a cable or a line configuration
from the Devices List.
Enter the “electrical” length of the section. The units of measure may be
changed via the Files > Preferences menu command, System Unit tab.
Alternatively, you may compute the length from the X and Y coordinates
of the up-stream and down-stream nodes by clicking on Calculate.
Note: You may change the X and Y coordinates, either by typing in the
fields or by moving the node graphically (via menu commands:
Move or Rotate, or by dragging the node with the mouse),
without changing the section’s “electrical” length. This feature
allows you to draw not-to-scale if you prefer.
To make the “electrical” length match the graphical length, click
on the Calculate button. The scaling factor will be taken into
account.
Settings There are four types of Line Configuration you can select. Refer to the
following sections for details about the related settings:
• For Overhead Line Balanced and Overhead Line Unbalanced, see
6.10.3 Overhead Lines Settings, page 154.
• See 6.11.4 page 159 for Cable Settings
• See 3.3.3 for By Phase Configuration Settings, below.

3.3.3 By Phase Configuration Settings
When the Line Configuration Type selection is ‘By Phase Configuration’, you can select
the conductors and spacing arrangement for the section without necessarily having to use a
predefined type from the equipment database.
Click on to view detail information on the selected Conductor (see 6.12) and or
Spacing Table OH-Line (see 6.13).
Select the “By phase” option to view the calculated impedance by phase, uncheck the
check box to view it in sequence.
3.3.4 Spot Load and Distributed Load Settings
The use of spot/distributed is determined by your own policies and what you need to
represent. For example, some utilities model all the customers’ transformers individually as spot
loads, where other customers would represent of series of small identical transformers on a
group of section as one section with an equivalent distributed load.
Distributed
load
Source end Load end


node Equipment

Distributed loads are evenly distributed on the whole section. Spot loads can be located
at the beginning, the middle or the end of the section.
Source end Load end


node Equipment Equipment node
Spot load Spot load Spot load

at at at
From
node
or Middle
or To
Node
Capacitor Capacitor
Spot Loads and Distributed Loads are added after a section has been created. This
function is only available through the Properties dialog box of the section, and both options are
selected from the drop down menu of the Add button.
Once you have made your selection, the appropriate load parameters appear to the right
of the dialog box. The fields are the same for both options, with only the relevant ones being
active, as indicated below.

Number The unique identification label for the load. The label can contain up
to 31 alphanumeric characters, but no blank spaces.
To display the Failure History report related to the component
selected.
Location Grayed out for the Distributed Load option. Three locations for Spot
loads (‘At From Node’, ‘At Middle’ or ‘At To Node’).
Load Model Select your Load Model from the models available. These were
created using the Load Model Manager. The customer classes part of
the load model are created using the Customer Class Manager
button. This data is saved with the self-contained study See File >
Database > Customer Loads (section 4.2.11).
engines adjust all loads on the feeder(s) without changing the load
data; you may also define how the load power changes with respect
to the voltage. About this, see the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User
Manual (Analysis>Calculation, Load Model Tab).
Customer Select from four categories (Residential, Commercial, Industrial,
Type Other). Used in Load Growth and in Voltage Drop.
Click on the Manage Customer Type button to display the

Customer Class dialog box where you can edit the existing customer
types and create new ones. You can also access this function from
the menu Customize > Customer Classes (see section 11.8) or by
clicking on the Customer Class Manager button in the Load Model
toolbar (see 2.4.12).
Normal Used in the Contingency Analysis and Service Restoration Modules.
Priority (see 7.12 Contingency Analysis and 7.13 Service Restoration for
overviews of the modules)
Emergency Used in the Contingency Analysis and Service Restoration Modules.
Priority

Year Used in the Load Growth analysis, this the calendar year for which
the load indicated is applicable. Used in the Load Growth analysis
(see 7.6).
“Load Details” For Spot Load - This type of load is concentrated in one location.
Enter the known load (kW and kVAR) in the top two rows for each
phase.
For Distributed Load - This kind of load is spread uniformly along the
section. Enter the known load in the top two rows for each phase.
Note: Load Allocation
The command Analysis > Load Allocation (see 7.4) allows
you to estimate the known load as a portion of the metered
demand, based on the connected kVA or kW-h
consumption or number of consumers.
This data serves only for Load Allocation (i.e., to obtain the
known load). The known load (kW-kVAR, kVA-PF, kW-PF) is
necessary for the analyses.
Details Displays the Customer Load summary dialog box where you can
button specify the load per type of customers at the same load point.
Status Locked: If you use Load Allocation, but want to preserve the known
loads you have entered.
Disconnected: Click here to remove the load temporarily. (All setting
data are retained.)
Format You may express the known load as kW-kVAR, kVA-PF, or kW-PF.
Configuration To select the appropriate connection symbol. Three types of
connection are available: GY, Y, and Delta.

3.3.5 Section Contextual Menu
A right-click on a highlighted section will display the contextual menu that will comprise
only the commands relevant to the parameters of the section (i.e. all or only some of the following
commands will be available).
Disconnect Same as Edit > Disconnect (see 5.17) See also section 5.16
Connect.
Add Adds a breakpoint in the drawing of the section where the mouse
breakpoint cursor is positioned. A breakpoint allows hiding the section portion
downstream of the breakpoint. A tag is displayed at the breakpoint
indicating it. To display the complete section, click the Show All
Connection button in the Display toolbar (see section 2.4.5).
Add To create intermediate points (connectors) on the section. See
intermediate section 3.4.1 Node Settings to learn how to see the list.
node
Failure history To display the Failure History report related to the component.
Delete Same as Edit > Delete (section 5.18).
Tag To create and edit a tag, and to display or hide it from the display.
Properties Displays the section Properties dialog box.

3.4 Node Properties
To access the Node Properties dialog box, right click on a node and select “Properties”
from the pop up menu. You will be able to modify existing node properties, and to change a node
into a bus.
ID The unique identification label for the node. The label can contain up to
31 alphanumeric characters, but no blank spaces.
Voltage Nominal voltage of the upstream transformer or source.
X1 and Y1 The coordinates of the node, according to the coordinate system of the
network data.
Display as Changes the node into a bus.

a bus
Note: A bus cannot be changed back into a node once its connectivity
has changed. Use the Undo Modif command to revert your
changes.
X2 and Y2 Specifies the horizontal or vertical length of the bus.
Horizontal Creates a horizontal or a vertical bus.

or
Vertical

3.4.1 Node Settings
In the section’s properties dialog box, under Devices, click “Nodes” in the list to display
the parameters for the section’s upstream and downstream nodes.
ID The unique identification label for the node. The label can contain up to 31
alphanumeric characters, but no blank spaces.
X and Y The coordinates of the node, according to the coordinate system of the
network data.
Length and The relative position of the nodes based on the length of the section of the
angle section, the departure angle of the From node on the section and the arrival
angle of the To node. These values are set when adding a section in the OLD.
See Edit > Section > Add (section 5.9.1).
Intermediate To create intermediate points (connectors) on the section. This list does not
nodes include either the From-node or the To-node of the section.

Chapter 4 The File Menu
4.1 Overview
The File menu contains the commands that pertain to opening and saving studies,
exporting studies data, as well as printing graphics and reports. This menu also contains the
commands for setting up some general characteristics of the network, such as the system of
units for length, the frequency and average earth resistivity. (These parameters setting affects
the calculation / characteristics of your networks and should NOT be changed without due
consideration.)
4.2 Database
4.2.1 Select
Opens the Database Manager dialog box, where you can designate a database
configuration as the “active” or working database.
CHAPTER 4 –- THE FILE MENU 49

Database To make a database active, highlight an entry under the Database

Configuration(s) Configuration(s) list and click Select.
list
Database The name of the database configuration selected in the list will
Configuration appear here.
group box
Click New to create a new database configuration. This will display
the Database Configuration Wizard. See section 4.2.5 Create for
details.
Click Remove to delete the selected database configuration. This
action will delete the selected configuration and not the database
file(s) itself. A separate dialog box will ask if you would like to
delete the database itself from your system.
Hint: You can quickly rename the selected configuration by
changing its name via the Name field and clicking Select.
Study Directory The directory where the studies will be saved. You can assign a
group box different one specific to the database configuration; enable the
“Use specific study directory” checkbox to enable the Study
directory field to do so.
The default directory is indicated in the File > Preferences dialog
box, Custom Files tab, “Project/Report Directory” (see 4.17.2)
Database File Name indicates the database file or files that is associated to
group box the selected configuration. You can re-associate a configuration
to a different database by clicking on the browse button and
selecting a compatible database file or files.
4.2.2 Update Network
Applies to the Network database all modifications made in the opened study. Use this to:
1. Add a new feeder to the Network database.
2. Delete a feeder from the Network database.
3. Modify a feeder in the Network database.
For example, if you create a new feeder in a study and you use the Update Network
command, then the new feeder will be added to the Network database. Similarly, if you load an
existing feeder into your study, delete it, then use the Update Network command, that feeder will
be permanently deleted from the Network database.
Note that updating the modified networks will affect all studies using this database.
Note: It is recommended to delete the (*.XST) file containing your study after using
Update Network. Otherwise, opening that study will cause CYMDIST to load
possible outdated network information.
50 CHAPTER 4 –- THE FILE MENU

Note on CYMDIST will not permit you to Update the Network database if another
Database user is using the same network. When this occurs, CYMDIST will display
Security: the owner (or owners) of the read lock(s) on the network(s) you attempted
to update.
If someone updates the Network with his or her modifications, and your
studies use the same feeders, your studies will include the other user’s
modifications, even if you made your studies earlier.
If, for future reference, you wish to keep old studies based on an earlier version of the
Network database, then you should keep a back-up copy of the network database, along with the
old studies (in a separate and save location). Alternatively, you can save your study as a Self
Contained study (*.sxst) with the necessary Advance options enabled and store that file in a save
place.
4.2.3 Import
Displays the Import Data section of the CYMDIST Database Utilities Wizard with which
you can import data into a supported CYMDIST 4.7 database type (existing or new) from the
following supported data sources and formats. For each option, the wizard guides you through
the steps of selecting the source and the target databases.
When the source are ASCII files, then you also have the options to import the Equipment,
Network, Load, and or Maps data separately, which allows you to maintain seasonal load
information (Summer/ Winter, for example). For other database type, you can still import
equipment by type and networks, but the load is imported always.
Information about the steps for importing/exporting, and ASCII formats, are found in the
CYMDIST Database Guide. Additional details about the ASCII formats are found in the
CYMDIST Import/Export Manual.

Note: The import process does not delete or change your existing database files (the
data is imported into a new / separate database). However, 4.0 databases
(and previous) can be accessed using CYMDIST 4.0.
Note: A database wizard will launch automatically the first time you run CYMDIST
4.7. The wizard will guide you through the process of creating a new
database, and to populate it (import) with your existing database data. For
additional information on installing CYMDIST, refer to section 1.5 Installing
CYMDIST.
4.2.4 Export
Displays the Export Database section of the CYMDIST Database Utilities Wizard with
which you can export data can export CYMDIST database data to other formats as shown. For
each option, the wizard guides you through the steps of selecting the output database along with
the source and the target databases.
Hint: Another CYMDIST user can import such files for use on his/her computer.
This is one way to send your studies to CYME for technical support.
Additional details on the steps for importing/exporting, and ASCII formats, are found in
the CYMDIST Database Guide.

4.2.5 Create
Select the menu command File > Database > Create or click on the Create Database
Configuration icon of the Database toolbar or click on the “New” item in the Databases tab of the
Explorer bar.
This will display the Database Mode section of the CYMDIST Database Wizard with
which you will be able to create your equipment/network database either as a single database or
to store equipment data and network data in separate databases. The CYMDIST Database
Guide contains all the instructions on how to use the CYMDIST Database Wizard.
4.2.6 Delete
The Delete command operates in two stages. First, it deletes the currently active
database configuration. Second, a prompt will ask you if you want to delete the database itself.

4.2.7 Re-Index
Restores the index files for the databases if you have used third-party software to edit the
database directly and have not otherwise recreated the index. You have the choice of re-indexing
the equipment database and/or the network database.
4.2.8 Pack
Deletes any database records that are no longer necessary. Use this command if you
edit the databases with third-party software.
Hint: Use this command to reduce the size of your MS Access databases.

4.2.9 Update Switch Status
Allows you to reconfigure the feeder network, by changing the status of switching /
protective devices. The switch status file is a text file in the following format:
[SWITCH_STATUS]
<Switch No.>,<Status>
<Switch No.>,<Status>
where <Status> = OPEN, or CLOSE
When you use this command, you will be asked for the name of the file. The dialog box
lists the switches and their new status.
Click the Update button to open a new study, automatically load the affected feeder and
change the status of the selected switches within that new study.
Enable the Update network database checkbox to make the changes in the network
database. Doing this avoids having to re-import the network if the only changes are switch
positions (open/closed). Note that the description of Update Network applies. Every study
using the affected feeder(s) will have the status of the selected switches changed.

4.2.10 Convert Image DB
Converts old version images format from CYMDIST 4.1 and older into the CYMDIST 4.7
image format. The converted data is transferred into the active database.
Select File > Database > Convert image DB… to open the following dialog.
Select the image database file you want to convert and click on Open. The conversion is
made and the active database is updated with the image data. Insert your images using the Draw
Image button in the Drawing Tool toolbar (see 2.4.8).
4.2.11 Customer Loads
4.2.11.1 Load Model Manager
To create load models names. The names customer classes part of the load model are
created using the Customer Class Manager button in the Load Model toolbar (see 2.4.12). This
data is saved with the self-contained study.
The Load Model itself is built in the Analysis > Calculation dialog box, Load Model tab
window. See the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual. The Load Models will also be used
when setting the Customer Load in the Spot Load and Distributed Load Settings. (see 3.3.4).

4.2.11.2 Clean-up Customer Loads
The commands in this dialog box are most useful when importing new data, to reduce the
size of your database, or for cases where you need to clean-up Customer Loads data in
databases coming from previous versions of CYMDIST and that you need to import for use with
CYMDIST 4.7.
Database To select the database that you wish to clean up.

configuration
Options The first two options apply directly to the Customer Load data and are
most useful when using data coming from a previous version of
CYMDIST.
The last three options are more useful when changes had been made
directly in the database or for cases where data was imported from
third party systems.
4.3 New Study
Opens a new study in a window with a temporary title (e.g., "default.xst"). If you activate
this command when another study is open and contains modifications, CYMDIST will inform you
that there are modification and ask if you would like to save the open study. You may then load
existing feeders into the new study or start constructing a new feeder. CYMDIST will prompt you
for a study name when you save it.
Hint: To make sure that every new study starts with the same calculation parameters
(Voltage Drop, Short Circuit, etc.), open a new study, set all parameters and
save the study as DEFAULT.XST.

4.4 Open Study
Opens an existing study file (*.xst). The dialog box opens (pointing to the last directory
used), listing the names of any studies. Click on one to select it and click Open.
The One-Line diagrams of all feeders created or modified in that study will appear on
screen. (By default, feeders that have been loaded in the study but never modified before the
study was saved will not be reloaded when you re-open the study. To modify this default, refer to
File > Study Properties (See section 4.18).
If another study is already open when you activate this command, CYMDIST will ask you
to save the open study before it carrying out this command.
Hint: You can also re-open the last studies opened via the History List of Files (See
section 4.20) that appears at the bottom of the File menu.
Hint: You can arrange to start CYMDIST and load a study just by double-clicking on a
study file name in Windows Explorer. To do this, you need to associate files
with the extension *.XST (and *.SXST) to the program CYMDIST.EXE. In
Windows Explorer, right click on the study file and select File > Open With....
4.5 Merge Study
Displays a list of existing studies from the project directory. Double-click on the one you
want to open and merge with to the currently opened study. The resulting new study will have the
name of the last study read.
4.6 Close Study
Closes the file describing the study. If you have modified the study since you last saved
it, CYMDIST will ask you to save the study. If you close it without saving, you will lose any
modifications made since the study was last saved.
4.7 Save Study
Saves the currently opened study file (the name of the open study is identified in the
window title). If the study is new (default.xst), CYMDIST performs the Save Study As command
instead.
4.8 Save Study As
Allow the user to saves the currently opened study under a different name, (and/or at a
different location). It is useful for creating a copy of a study.

4.9 Save Study As Self Contained
Saves the currently opened study plus its associated equipment databases and settings
into a single XML file (*.sxst). Feeders that were loaded but were not modified are also saved. A
Self-Contained study can be opened without a connection to a network database (active
database).
File Name To indicate the name of your self-contained study and select the
directory where to save it.
Device(s) To select which equipment database (used by the feeders in the
group box study) to include into the self-contained file.
Optional Additional files that you can include in your self-contained study.
Extension(s) Failure events and calibration data are files generated when running a
Reliability analysis. The graphical elements are the components drawn
using the Drawing Tool toolbar commands (see 2.4.8).
Network(s) Provides the options to either save the final network configuration, or
the original configuration with the list of modifications. The option
selected becomes the default until you select the other one.
A self-contained study file is a snapshot of a user’s study plus its databases. It is a

particularly useful tool for creating complete copies of studies, and for transferring information. -
E.g. technical support.

4.10 Export One Line Diagram
Saves a snapshot of the One Line Diagram (visible portion only) to a graphic file; that can
be opened by other applications. The exported file can be imported into AutoCAD (*.DWG), and
into any *.SVG aware applications – e.g. web browsers.
File Name To indicate the name, format and location of your file to save. You have
the option to save your file as a DWG file (AutoCAD R13, R14 or 2000)
or as an SVG file. Each element retains a number of properties.
Graphical The elements of the display to include in the file.
Element
The Images & Text are the components drawn using the Drawing Tool
group box
toolbar commands (see 2.4.8).
Tooltip Allows selecting the tooltip information to be saved with the file and how
Information it will be accessed in the target program. This feature works for .SVG
group box files only.
4.11 Export Active View as an Image
To export the one-line view as a .BMP or .JPEG image.

4.12 Print Options
4.12.1 Print Setup
To select the printer to be used for all printing requests from CYMDIST. You can adjust
the available printer settings (e.g., Portrait or Landscape orientation, paper size, etc.).
4.12.2 Page Setup
4.12.2.1 Page Setup OLD printing
The Page Setup dialog boxes are used to set the Layout for the print out of the active
file, along with a number of Options.
Margins To define the margin size, measured using the Units selected. (Left,
Right, Top and Bottom).
Units Define the units of measurement (millimeters or inches). The unit of
measurement affects both the Margins and the Print Scale options.
Color To select black and white or color printout.
Print Scale Fit to Window: Check this option to dynamically size the printed
image based on what is shown on the screen (O.L.D).
To print your output to scale, un-check this option to manually define
the Plot Units and the Drawing Units. A Plot Unit is the actual
printed length equaling to either one millimeter or one inch,
depending on the Units of measurement selected. A Drawing Unit
is a ‘unit distance’ defined for the O.L.D. - It is equal to the system
unit selected in System Parameters tab of the File > Preferences
dialog (see 4.17).

For example, if:

System unit = 1 mile, Plot unit = 1 inch and Drawing unit = 10, then
CYMDIST will print 100 square miles of the feeders into 1 square
inch of paper.
Window origin Checking the Use Default origin option will position the printed
(drawing units) image according to what you see on screen.
Un-check User Default origin to manually define the coordinates of
the lower left corner of the printout.
Options To add on the printout the Study Name, the Legend or a Border.
User To indicate the author or details about the printout. This data is
Information saved with your study. You can select to print it or not.
4.12.2.2 Page Setup Worksheet-Style Reports

To display this dialog box, first click on the tab of the report you wish to print. The
commands available will depend if the report is worksheet-style or formatted.
4.12.3 Header / Footer
Display a dialog box where you can customize the header and footer of generated
reports.

4.13 Print
The File > Print command includes three options:

One Line Prints what you see in the active network window. You can adjust the
detail of the drawing by first zooming on the portion you wish to print and
positioning it in the window.
To preview the result before printing, use the Print Preview command.
See below.
Graphic To print the graphics generated. The window containing the graphic must
be ‘active’ before using this command. (To make a window active, click
anywhere inside it. The window title bar will change color to indicate it is
the active one.) For information about graphics, refer to the Basic
Analyses User manual at the Voltage Drop and Short Circuit chapters. For
more in-depth information about building the graphics, refer to the
Advanced Customization Manual.
Report Prints the tabular report seen in the report window. The report window
must be active before using this command. (Activate a window by clicking
anywhere inside it.)
4.14 Print Preview
Displays each page as it will look when printed (One Line, Graphic Plot, or Report).
4.15 Print Area
To select the area to be printed. When you select this option, the cursor will change to
. When done with your selection, select again the File > Print Area menu option or click on
the Print Area toolbar icon in the Main toolbar to return the cursor to its original state.
The Print Area shape whatever its size is proportional to letter-size page.

4.16 Send To
4.16.1 Technical Support
Opens a customer support e-mail form (dialog box). Same as Help > Technical
Support. Use this form to attach your opened study and supporting database, system setup
information to our customer support team.
To The default is the e-mail address of the CYME support team.
Cc To type in an alternate e-mail address (es). This is optional.
From To provide information about the sender. The sender’s e-mail

address, full name, and company are required as a minimum.
Note: The e-mail address indicated here will be used as the

return address by customer support.
Subject: Subject line that summarizes the support request.
Body of e-mail Enter your requests / comments.

Attach a file To select the attachment file(s) to be sent with the support e-mail.
Click on the Add button to select from your local drive(s) the file(s)
you want to attach to the message. To remove a file thus added,
highlight its name in the list and click Remove.
As a complement, enable the checkboxes besides the CYMDIST

files you wish to send. These will be automatically attached when
you will click the Send button:
y Cymdist.ini: application startup settings
y System Information: status of your PC’s configuration (hardware
and software) and resource usage
y Self-Contained Study: a ‘stand alone’ copy of the currently
loaded study. Note that the study filename will be renamed to
“network.sxst” for diagnostic purposes.
y Customization files: files defined in the File > Preferences
dialog box, Custom Files tab. (see 4.17.2).
Advanced>> To configure the local mail host settings (SMTP or MAPI).
To test your mail configuration setting, click Test Connection

Click OK to accept your changes or Cancel, to discard them.
Note: You may need to ask your network administrator for your
local mail host settings.

4.16.2 Mail Recipient
Opens a new mail message session with the attachment file selfstudy.zip.
Selfstudy.zip contains a compressed version of the currently opened study. If the current
study is a self-contained study, the compressed study file will be named after the current study
file. If it is not, CYMDIST will create a self-contained study named Network.sxst This file will be
compressed and added to selfstudy.zip. Selfstudy.zip will be saved in the temporary directory
indicated by your system environment variable TEMP.

4.17 Preferences
To define and customize general network parameters (that applies to ALL loaded
network) and application settings.
4.17.1 System Parameters
To set up the basic global characteristics of your network.
System Unit Choices are Metric (SI) or imperial (IMP) units. Then choose the
basic unit for expressing length (feet or mile for IMP, and meter or
kilometer for SI).
Conductor To select the unit with which the conductor impedance will be
Impedance expressed.

y System The System frequency, Average earth resistivity and Conductor

Frequency resistance setting all affect the impedance of lines and cables, and if
you change any of these three items you should recalculate the
y Average impedances of all lines and cables in the database (See 6.11 Cable,
Earth 6.12 Conductor and 6.10 Overhead Line)
Resistivity
y Conductor Note You can maintain two equipment databases (especially for
Resistance : lines and cables), like one for winter and one for summer for
example. The same equipment ID’s would be used in both
databases, but the impedances would be different for the
same equipment ID. To change between databases easier,
and define for each DB a unique “Database Configuration”.
See Database > Create (section 4.2.5) for details on how to
create a database configuration.
Base Voltage (e.g., 120V, 12,470V) is the voltage to which the base voltage results
will refer to. You may change it anytime.
Regulator/ Is the default setting for regulators. The value entered here must be
LTC set consistent with the Base Voltage entered.
voltage
MVA Base Defines the base for the per-unit impedance of the Substation
Equivalent and for the per-unit Thevenin impedance you can request
in the Short-circuit report. (CYMDIST calculates with ohm values, not
per-unit.)
Outside Defines the temperature setting for temperature-controlled capacitor.

Temperature
Default Default Section ID is the name CYMDIST suggests for each new
Section ID section you create via the commands Add, Insert, or Split. It may
group box contain as many as 31 characters, divided among three fields (No.,
Prefix, Suffix).
When a new section is created using the suggested default ID, the
value for the “No” portion will be increased by 1. The prefix and
suffix remain fixed. If you use a different prefix and/or suffix in each
feeder, you can use the same section numbers repeatedly without
assigning the same ID to two sections.

Example: You set up the default Section ID to be

“GREENLEE_1_WEST”, by setting the prefix =
“GREENLEE_”, the number = “1” and the suffix = “_WEST”.
You add a new section, accepting the default. You add
another section, and the default ID is GREENLEE_2_WEST.
If you accept that ID, the next section you create will be
called GREENLEE_3_WEST by default. In this way, you
can sequentially number the sections you connect, and
each Section ID is will be unique.
4.17.2 Custom Files
This dialog box is used to assign the supporting files and the working directories that are
mandatory to the operation of the application.
To edit an item, click to select it and click Browse or double-click on the desired item.
From the pop up dialog box, select the appropriate files or directory and then click Open.
The configuration name field is disabled. This parameter can be modified with the
CYMCONFIG application. More information about this in the Advanced Customization Manual.
The User Interface Mode provides two choices: balanced and unbalanced.
Ini File The folder where CYMDIST will look for the Cymdist.ini file.
Directory
Project/Report The folder where the study and the report files will be saved to and
Directory retrieved from.
Database The XML file that stores your database configurations settings.

Symbol Library The XML file that stores the symbol information used by CYMDIST
(user defined symbols).
Symbol Bar The XML file that stores the content of the Symbol Bar tab from the
Explorer Bar. Note that this content is user defined.
Validation The file that stores (user defined) rules used by CYMDIST for
Rules validating network databases. The file pointed to will be created
automatically the first time you create your own rule(s).
Failure Causes/ The XML file that stores the network failure causes and types.
Types These data will be used in RAM analysis.
Environment The XML file that stores environmental factors that could be taken
into account in the calculation of reliability indices in RAM analysis.
RAM Results The folder where the result files of the Reliability Assessment
Directory Module (CYMDIST-RAM) analyses will be saved.
User Defined The XML file that stores the user-defined report parameters.
Report
User Defined The XML file that stores the user defined keywords or modifications
Keywords to existing keywords.
Arc Flash The folder where CYMDIST will look for the formats of the labels to
Labels be tagged onto the field equipments to help lower the risk of
Directory electrical hazards.
Menu The XML file that stores the modifications you made to CYMDIST
menu.
Calculation The XML file that stores the calculation parameters for CYMDIST
Parameters modules.
Network The XML file that stores the parameters used by the node reduction
Reduction module.
Charts The XML file that contains the user-defined plotting profiles.
Filters The XML file that stores the user-defined filters created using the
Customize > Filters command (see 11.7)
Result Boxes The XML file that parameters of the result boxes defined using the
Customize > Result Box command (see 11.5).

Device view The XML file containing the user-defined device views defined using
configuration the View > Device View (see 9.4).
Display The XML file that stores the settings selected at the Show tab of the
configuration Display Options dialog box (see 9.13.1).
4.17.3 Study
To customize the general behavior of CYMDIST when working with a study.
Load Model Select your Load Model from the models available. These were created
group box using the Load Model Manager. The customer classes part of the load
model are created using the Customer Class Manager button. This
data is saved with the self-contained study See File > Database >
Customer Loads (section 4.2.11).
engines adjust all loads on the feeder(s) without changing the load
data; you may also define how the load power changes with respect to
the voltage. About this, see the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual
(Analysis>Calculation, Load Model Tab).

Study Prompt for a user description when creating a modification:

Options
Check this option to display a prompt allowing you to change the
group box
description of the modification generated when you make changes to
your study. This option is useful if you need to use your own
descriptive text in your study summary. (The description text is limited
to 256 characters.)
Clear the reports when closing a study:

Check this option to automatically close all report windows when you
close your study.
Clear the equipments loaded in memory when closing a study:

To speed up the process of loading the next study, the equipments
loaded in memory are not cleared automatically when closing a study
just in case they are still needed. Check this option if you think you
need more memory space available.
Fix phasing incompatibilities when loading a network:
If the option were activated when you were loading a network
containing phase incompatibilities, then those errors would be
corrected automatically.
Automatic rephasing of disconnected sections:
When this option is activated, connecting a connected-section to a
disconnected-section will re-phase (match) the phase(s) of the
disconnected-section to the phase(s) of the connected-section.

Error Display the error identification number when reporting a message:

Reporting
When this option is activated, the error number (Code ID) will be
Options
displayed in one column of the error message report.
group box
Display the error category when reporting a message:
When this option is activated, the error Category will be displayed in
one column of the error message report.
Display the error code when reporting a message:

When this option is activated, the error Code will be displayed in one
column of the error message report.
Display the error severity when reporting a message:
When this option is activated, the error Severity will be displayed in
one column of the error message report.
4.17.4 User Interface
The commands in this dialog box allow modifying a number of features of the CYMDIST
User Interface.
General Disable node selection:

group box
Check this option to disable node selection on a single click. With this
option checked, when you click on a node, the whole section will be
selected instead. You are still able to select the node by using the
region selection around the node.

Display the Section Properties Dialog when adding a section:

To display the Section Properties dialog box each time you add a
new section. Disable this option to add multiple sections rapidly.
Expand device tree in section properties dialog:

With this option check marked, the Device tree list in the Section
Properties dialog box will be shown already expanded upon the
display of the dialog box.
Phase Text Labels to be displayed for each of phases A, B and C.

group box
Network The Group 1 and the Group 2 fields are used to enter the text of the
Grouping field labels that indicate the grouping levels of the networks in the
group box Load/Unload/View Networks dialog box (see section 5.8.2). The
Sort by field and the Then by fields will determine the order into
which they should appear.
Network To display the devices by device ID or by section ID in the Detailed

Explorer Bar View tab the Explorer Bar. (see 2.3.4) Enabling the Split
group box Distributed and Spot Load item will show the distributed loads and
the spot load as two separate groups in the tree list.
Default Values Load Type and Regulator Control defaults to use when creating
group box new items.
Dialog Box To set the number of decimals for each type of units used in the
units dialog boxes. You can set the decimals independently for Low
Voltage, Medium Voltage and High Voltage.
Tooltip Time delay for the display of the tooltip upon hovering the mouse
Display over the command.
To disable the tooltip display, enter a large value in the tool tip delay
option (ex. 100000 ms)

Move Delay Number of milliseconds before being able to move an element on the
display.
Scaling Factor Defines the relationship between the X-Y coordinates of your One-
Line and the unit of length that you are using.
Example: If you are using feet as the unit of length and you want
every unit along the X- or Y- axis to represent 10 feet, set the scaling
factor to 10.
Autogen Defines the angle used by the command Edit > Geometry >
Angle Rearrange O.L.D.
4.17.5 Simulation
To customize the default parameters of various analyses available in CYMDIST.
Equipment To enter the label texts you want CYMDIST to use to describe the
Rating Text Equipment Rating values in the dialog boxes.
Capacity Enter the label texts you want CYMDIST to use to describe the
Flag Levels equipment Capacity Flag levels in the various dialog boxes where they
are used.

SRM To enter the texts of the column labels describing the type of periods
and the different crew types in the SRM (Service Restoration module)
dialog boxes.
Load To enter the range of years for which the growth factors may be applied
Growth in the Load Growth Editor dialog box.
Load To indicate the default values CYMDIST will use to run Load Allocation
Allocation analysis.
Voltage To enter the maximum allowable percentage difference between the

warnings system voltage and the equipment rated voltage before transmitting a
warning.
4.17.6 TCC
To defines the settings database, the default settings IDs and the short-circuit values that
will be used by the CYMTCC external application.
Default TCC For each listed device, you may select either the Equipment ID or the
Setting ID Device Number as the setting identifier to use by default in TCC.
Short-Circuit For each type of fault, you can select the values you want CYMDIST
Values to transfer to TCC.

TCC Settings The TCS file that stores the protective devices settings. This value will
Database be saved in TCC.INI file.
4.18 Properties
The General tab of the Study Properties dialog box allows you to enter a description
(e.g. purpose) of the study, along with the author and company name.
Save All Saves the displayed (loaded) feeders that were not modified with
Networks the study file.
Displayed
Save database Saves the path to the database configuration.

configuration
Save Saves the path to the background map so that the map is displayed
background when you open the study. See Window > Attach Map (section
map file name 12.8).
Save TCS file Saves the TCC settings database name and path so that this name
name is restored when you open the study; otherwise CYMDIST will use
the last name saved in the TCC.INI file. See the TCC Tab in the File
> Preferences dialog box (section 4.17.6).

The Summary tab shows the chronological list of modifications made to the study.
4.19 Exit
Closes the program after asking you to save your work (if required).
4.20 List of Files
Lists the path and filename of the four most recently studies accessed. You may open
any of them by selecting its name in the list.

Chapter 5 The Edit Menu
5.1 Overview
The Edit Menu contains all the commands to allow you loading and modifying your one
line data in preparation for your studies.
5.2 Selection
Five sub-commands help you to navigate the One Line Diagram. These commands are
enabled only when there is an open study with feeder information. E.g. Loading an existing
feeder from the network, or create a new one.
Find Places the active section (i.e. selected) at the center of the window. At the
Current same time, the magnification level is adjusted to show the whole section.
After using the other four options of the Selection options, you may need to
select the Find Current option afterwards to place the newly activated
section in view.
Next Selects the section immediately downstream from the active section to
become the new ‘active section’. ("Downstream" means further away from
the source.)
Keyboard shortcut: “Shift” “→”.
CHAPTER 5 –- THE EDIT MENU 79

Previous Selects the section immediately upstream from the active section to be the
new ‘active section’. ("Upstream" means closer to the source.) Keyboard
shortcut: “Shift” “←”.
First Selects the section connected to the source to become the ‘active section’.
Keyboard shortcut: “Shift” ↑”.
Last Selects the section furthest away from the source, along a route that
includes the current active section. Keyboard shortcut: “Shift” ↓”.
5.3 Search
Displays the Search toolbar. Only the History button is absent from the Search toolbar
that is invoked from the Edit > Search menu option. Refer to section 2.4.7 Search.
Clicking on the Properties button will expand the dialog box and display the
Search parameters fields. Click Close in the expanded dialog to hide the filter portion of the
dialog box.
Search To define a search by Device ID, Section ID, Device Number, or Node
Properties ID; or by using User-defined Filters or searching text that would appear
in Device Tags.
80 CHAPTER 5 –- THE EDIT MENU

Use Filters To activate the filter to list the sections that include at least one of the
selected equipment and or load types. This will also enable the Show
Circle Device option.
Devices This is where you set your search filters. The elements appear as an
expandable tree list. Expand the list by clicking on the “plus” signs and
make your selections.
When no element in the group is selected, the checkbox is empty with
a white background. When all elements in a group are selected, the
checkbox background will be white ( ); when only some elements are
selected, the checkmark background will be grey ( ).
5.4 Copy to Clipboard

Copies the One Line diagram, as a screen capture image, into the Windows clipboard, so
that you may paste it into another application, such as a report. Since it is a screen capture,
adjust the zoom level and panning to produce the result you want before using this command.
Note The background color of the pasted image will be WHITE. Therefore, items
: that are displayed in white in CYMDIST will not appear in the pasted image.
See View > Show Options, Symbols and Colors tab to find out how to change
colors.
If a background map is displayed, it will be included in the image.
5.5 Redo Modif

Starting from the most recent Undo Modif operation restores a modification that has
been cancelled by the Undo Modif command. To cancel a Redo Modif command, use the Undo
Modif command as described below.
Note: A modification is "redone" in the same place where it was done the first time,
no matter which section is currently the active one.

5.6 Undo Modif

Starting from the most resent modification, cancels modifications that you have made
since opening the study.
Note A modification is "Undone" in the same place where it was done the first time,
: no matter which section is currently the active one.
Hint: The Summary tab of the Properties dialog box (see section 4.18) features a
chronological list of modifications made to the study.
5.7 Geometry
5.7.1 Ortho Mode
Restricts the drawing or moving of sections to the horizontal and vertical directions only.
It has no effect on sections drawn before it was activated. Neither does it affect modifications
that were "redone" using the Redo Modif command. To deactivate this option, press the ESC
key.
5.7.2 Move
Relocates the active section and all sections connected to it. When you select this option,
the mouse will change to reflect the move mode . To use the move command, select a
section, then double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. A dashed line is drawn
between the original location and the location of the mouse pointer. Move the mouse to position
the section and then release the button. To revert to the normal mouse mode, press the ESC key.
Hints: 1. To re-locate a node and any section(s) connected to it, simply click and
drag the node.
2. To move a substation symbol relative to the first section in the feeder,
select the section connected to the substation before double-clicking the
mouse button.

5.7.3 Rotate
Changes the orientation of the active section without changing its length. When you
select this option, the mouse will change to reflect the rotate mode . To use, select a
section, then double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. A dashed line appears,
indicating the orientation of the section. (The length is fixed.) Move the mouse to position the
node of the section and then release the button. Downstream sections directly connected to the
active section will be stretched to remain connected. To revert to the normal mouse mode, press
the ESC key.
Note It is always the downstream node that changes coordinates when using this
: command.
5.7.4 Rearrange O.L.D.
Rearranges all downstream sections so that their angles of departure are uniform and
equal to the Autogen Angle. This angle applies where two or more sections depart from the
same section. Where only one section departs, it will be redrawn in the same direction as the
upstream section, regardless of the original angle of departure.
When you select this option, the mouse will change to reflect the Rearrange O.L.D. (or
Autogen) mode . To use, select the section immediately upstream of the sections you want
to rearrange. Double-click the left mouse button anywhere, and the downstream section will be
automatically re-arranged as a schematic diagram. To revert to the normal mouse mode, press
the ESC key.
Note This command is rarely used, since most users want the circuit diagram to look
: like a map, instead of a purely schematic diagram.
5.8 Feeder
This command governs the creation, loading, and displaying of feeders.
5.8.1 New
Creates a feeder head node, which is the starting point of a feeder. Each separate feeder
must originate from its own substation or equivalent substation model. When you select this
option, the mouse cursor will change to:
Double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. Move the mouse to position the
head node and release the button. The feeder Properties dialog box is displayed. It contains
three tabs: Network, Source and Equivalent.

Note: The new feeder exists only in the study at this point. To add it to the Network
database, select Files > Database > Update Network.
Network group box
Name Unique name of the feeder (no spaces).

Click to define a feeder specific Load Factor, and to add user
comments (4000 characters max.).
Environment To associate an environmental attribute to the feeder. Environmental

factors are taken into account in the calculation of reliability indices in
RAM analysis. See section 11.9 Environments on how to set the
attributes.
Color To select the color for the feeder. Note that all section belonging to the
feeder will inherit the same color.
Network Grouping group box
Area Enter a name here. This is the second level of filtering after Network
Types. Note that the available filters at that level will be the string
values you enter here and in the same field of the substation, feeder
or secondary network Properties dialog boxes.

Voltage Level Enter a name here. This is the third level of grouping. Note that the
available filters at that level will be the string values you enter here
and in the same field of the substation, feeder or secondary network
Properties dialog boxes.
Note: You can change the field labels “Area” and “Voltage Level” in
the Preferences > User Interface dialog box under Network
Grouping (see section 4.17.4). This way, you can select
meaningful name or characteristic under which to group
substations, feeders, or secondary networks.
Display group box
Display in a To display your feeder as a sub-network, in a separate window.

sub network
Source group box
Type Define the source of the feeder: equivalent source or a substation

model.
Name Click to select a substation model from the list. You may examine
the substation data in the Source Equivalent dialog box by clicking
. You cannot change that data when accessed through this
command. To modify it, Edit > Source (section 5.10).
Voltage The default voltage value of the source. You can define a different
value for each source in your study by replacing this value.

Source Node group box
Node Unique name of the feeder head node (square box) (31 characters
maximum, no spaces)
X,Y The absolute X and Y coordinates of the feeder symbol.
Voltage Nominal is the kV line-to-line reference voltage. Desired is the kV

line-to-line operating voltage.
Impedance Positive-sequence resistance and reactance, in Ohms at the

nominal voltage, or in per-unit on the system MVA base defined in
the System Parameters tab in File > Preference.
Zero-sequence resistance and reactance, in Ohms at the nominal
voltage, or in per-unit on the system MVA base defined in the
System Parameters tab in File > Preference.
Configuration Wye-Grounded or Delta. Note that the calculations and the behavior
of the network will take this data into account.
Load Equivalent load seen by the upstream circuit.

Equivalent
Load type Units for the display of the Load Equivalent values: kW & kVAR, kVA
and PF or kW and PF.

5.8.2 Load
Allows you to load copies of existing feeders into your study from the active network
database and lets you choose which feeders to display in the active OLD window. When you
open an existing study, CYMDIST automatically loads and displays the selected feeders.
Network To select the types of networks included in the database that you wish
Type(s) to make your selection from. Options available are: All networks,
Feeders, Substations and Secondary Networks.
Area To filter only the items pertaining to the Area selected. This is the
second level of filtering after Network Types. By default, ‘All’ is
selected each time this dialog box is opened.
The filters available at that level will be the string values you enter in
the second level network grouping field of the substation, feeder or
secondary network Properties dialog boxes.
Voltage Level To filter only the items pertaining to the Voltage Level selected. This
is the third level of filtering. By default, ‘All’ is selected each time this
dialog box is opened.
The filters available at that level will be the string values you enter in
the third level network grouping field of the substation, feeder or
the Preferences > User Interface dialog box under Network
Grouping (see section 4.17.4). This way, you can select
meaningful name or characteristic under which to group
substations, feeders, or secondary networks.

Tracing Mode Three tracing modes are available:

y Load selected network(s) and all dependencies: When you
check this option, if the network to load is connected to a
substation, all feeders connected to the substation and the
substation itself will be loaded in memory.
y Load selected network(s) and the minimum dependencies: If
the network to be loaded is connected to a substation, CYMDIST
will load the substation. Then it will look for the network direct
source. If other networks are connected to that source, it will load
them as well.
y Load selected network(s) only: Check this option to load only
the selected network. If the network is connected to a substation,
the latter will be replaced by an equivalent source.
Network(s) in Lists the networks that satisfy the three filters above, from which you
Database can make your selection for your study.
Network(s) Lists the networks that have been loaded into the study.
Loaded
Network(s) Lists the networks that will be displayed.

Shown
Left hand side Right hand side
To load selected feeders from the “Network(s) in Highlighted feeders appearing in the “Network(s)
Database” column into the study. Selected Loaded” will be displayed.
feeders will be “Shown” (displayed) as well, by
default.
To load all feeders (selected or not) from the All feeders listed (selected or not) in “Network(s)
“Network(s) in Database” column into the study. Loaded” will be displayed.
All feeders will be displayed as well, by default.
To unload selected feeder (GA04 in our To hide a feeder after selecting it under
example) from “Network(s) Loaded” list. You "Network(s) Shown". (A newly created feeder will
cannot unload a feeder that you have modified. still be part of the study, although it will not
appear on screen.)
To unload all feeders (selected or not) from To hide all feeders (selected or not) that were
"Network(s) Loaded". You cannot unload a listed in "Network(s) Shown".
feeder that you have modified.
Note By default, feeders loaded but not modified in a study are not saved with the
: study. They will not be displayed when the study is re-opened. To change this
default setting, refer to File > Study Properties (See section 4.18).

Hints: Select more than one feeder at a time by clicking and dragging the mouse, or
by holding down the <Ctrl> key and clicking on the desired feeders, or by
holding down the <Shift> key, once the first selection has been made, and
clicking on the Arrow Down/Up key.
In the One Line Diagram window, you can right-click on a feeder’s head node
and choose Unload or Hide from the Contextual Menus. (See section 2.5.4)
5.9 Section
This command governs commands specific to sections: Add, Insert, Split,
Reconductor/Rephase, Calculate Length and Automatic Renaming.
5.9.1 Add
To connect a new section to an active node (or to the ‘To node’ of the active section).
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . First, select a node or
a section. Double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. A dashed line appears,
connecting the cursor to the node previously selected. This dashed line shows you where the
new section will be drawn. Move the mouse to position the node of the new section, and release
the button. The Section Properties dialog box for the new section appears. You can edit the
data. See 3.3 Section Properties.
Hint: If the option ‘Show length’ is enabled, the approximate new section length will
be displayed as you move the cursor. (To enable this option, refer to
View > Display Options, Show tab (section 9.13.1), into the View group).

5.9.2 Insert
This command allows adding a new section between the active section and the previous
(upstream) section. The active section will 'stretch' to remain connected to the new section.
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . First, select a section.
Double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. Two dashed lines appear. The upstream
one is the new section and the downstream one is the existing one. Move the mouse to position
the connecting node between the new section and the existing section, and release the button.
When you release the mouse button, the Section Properties dialog box for the new section
appears. You can edit the data. See 3.3 Section Properties.
New Section
being inserted
Original section
being moved
5.9.3 Split
Similar to the Insert command, except that the new section takes for itself some of the
length of the active section. It will also assume part of the distributed load of the active section, in
proportion to the length.
Note To distribute the load proportionally between the sections, you must reduce
: the length of the new section BEFORE clicking OK, other wise, the new
section will inherit 100% of the load and length values.
Think of this command as a way to place a node somewhere along an existing section,
so you can connect a lateral to it. Circuit length is not changed.
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . First, select a section.
Double-click the left mouse button and hold it down. Two dashed lines appear. The upstream
one is the new section and the downstream one is the existing one. Move the mouse to position
the node of the new section and then release the button. Usually, you place the node
somewhere on a straight line between the two nodes on either side of it. When you release the
mouse button, the Section Properties dialog box for the new section appears. You can edit the
data. See 3.3 Section Properties.

5.9.4 Reconductor/Rephase
When you select this option, the mouse cursor will change to . First, select a
section. Double-click on it and hold the mouse button down. The network downstream of the
selected section will be highlighted and the Reconfiguration dialog box will be displayed.
The first stage is to select the area you wish to rephase/reconfigure. You can change the
starting section (From) and the ending section (To) by either selecting another one from the pull
down menu, or selecting a section in the One Line window using the mouse. The one line
diagram display will automatically highlight the zone delimited each time a selection is made in
the Reconfiguration dialog box. Check the Include laterals checkbox to include all branches
between the starting section and the ending section. Disable this option to restrict the selection to
the sections that lie on the path from the starting section to the ending section. This option will
be displayed only if laterals are involved.
Click on the Details button to display a tabular information report on the selected
sections. You can select to display the results by Number of Sections or by Length of
Sections. This report is available at each step of the reconfiguration process. Click on OK to
dismiss the report and return to the previous dialog box.
Click Next to display the list of actions you can perform. This includes: Add phase (s),
Remove phase (s), Rephase or Reconductor. The last step of the process will be different
depending on the Action selected here. Click Next, select your changes and click on Finish to
apply the changes.

Add phase(s)
Remove
phase(s)
Rephase
Reconductor
5.9.4.1 Note on Reconductoring
Choose the individual conductor type to be changed, or choose ALL conductors (From
Type & ID and the To Type & ID). Note that all selected sections must have the same number of
phases.
Note When replacing overhead lines using this command, you are replacing both the
: tower configuration and the conductor size. To change just the conductor size
or just the tower configuration, make sure you have created an appropriate line
in the equipment database ahead of time.
By default, the type “Overhead line” and the ID DEFAULT are selected. However you
can choose from the following:
y All
y Overhead Line
y Cable
y By phase
y Conductor
y Spacing
For ‘Overhead Line’ and ‘Cable’, except for ID, all fields will be disabled. - Select the
desired Id from the ID list and click Finish to reconductor the selected sections.
If you select the type “By phase” the phases (A, B, C) that correspond to the selected
sections will be enabled while the other(s) will be disabled. Also, Neutral and Spacing lists will be

enabled. Enter your choice in the available lists and click Finish to reconductor the selected
sections.
Note When using the reconductoring option in the reconfiguration command, the
: type of configuration and the ID of the configuration of the section selected as
from is now the default destination configuration.
5.9.5 Calculate Length
Re-calculates the length of the selected section, the selected section plus all downstream
sections, or all sections loaded into memory.
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . Select a section and
double click to open the Recalculate Section Length dialog box. Select your action and click
OK. You can see the results in the Status Bar (end of second line).
5.9.6 Automatic Renaming
To changes name / ID of the selected section (or multiple sections), including or

excluding nodes.
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . Select a section and
double click to open the Automatic Section Renaming dialog box.
You can:

y Rename only the selected section as indicated.
y Rename the selected section and all sections downstream from it.
y Rename all sections loaded into memory.
With any of the above options, you can also choose to rename the nodes of the
associated sections by enabling the Include Nodes checkbox.
5.10 Source
A source ( ) represents the impedance of the generation and transmission network that
supplies a substation or a feeder. (With pre 4.0 version of CYMDIST, a source is defined as the
‘substation equivalent’ in the Feeder Properties.)
Note To add a source, you must double-click inside an existing substation.

:
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . To open the substation
in a new window, click on its title. Position the cursor where you want to place the new source
and double click. The Source Properties dialog box opens for you to enter the required
information.
5.10.1 Source Tab

Type Define if the source will be an Equivalent (from the database) or a user-
defined equivalent. If the second option is selected, the next Name field will
be disabled.
Name
Select a source equivalent from the pull down menu. Click to display the
Source Equivalent dialog box and view the list of available source
equivalent model and their settings.
Voltage The default voltage value of the source. You can define a different value for
each source in your study by replacing this number.
Node The unique identification label for the source node. The label (ID) may
contain up to 31 letters and/or numbers, but no blank spaces.
X and Y The coordinates of the node.
fields or by moving the node graphically with the mouse (or via the
Move command). Additionally, these values are used when
importing feeder topology from a database.
Use When a node has been pre-selected, and if relevant, you will have the
selecte choice to determine that the highlighted node is your Source Node. When
d node the node selected is not electrically relevant for a source node, this field will
be disabled.
5.10.2 Equivalent Tab




Equivalent
5.11 Substation
A substation is an installation comprised of various devices such as transformers,
busbars, breakers, etc. In most cases the substation is used to convert from one voltage level to
another (such a 120KV to 13.8 KV) and/or to distribute power lines to a series of other installation
or networks. The substation is in effect a connection point between networks.
Substations can be added and modeled into your network data only if the CYMDIST-SUB
optional module is installed. Note that the commands will be disabled if you do not have the
proper key installed.
5.11.1 New
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . Instead, you can also
select the New Substation icon ( ) from the Editor Tools toolbar (see section 2.4.2). Position
the cursor on the O.L.D. (where you would like the new substation to be placed) and double click
the left mouse button. The Substation Properties dialog box will open.
Note: To learn how to build a substation with CYMDIST and how to edit it, refer to
the CYMDIST Tutorial.

5.11.1.1 Network tab
Name The unique identification label for the Substation. The label (ID) may
not contain blank spaces. Click to attach a user comment to the
substation.
Environment To associate an environmental attribute to the substation.

Environmental factors are taken into account in the calculation of
reliability indices in RAM analysis. See section 11.9 Environments on
how to set the attributes.
Color Choose a color for the substation. All sections belonging to the feeder
will inherit the same color.
Area Enter a name here. This is the second level of filtering after Network
Types. Note that the available filters at that level will be the string
values you enter here and in the same field of the substation, feeder or
Voltage Enter a name here. This is the third level of grouping. Note that the
Level available filters at that level will be the string values you enter here and
in the same field of the substation, feeder or secondary network
Properties dialog boxes.
the Preferences > User Interface dialog box under Network Grouping
(see section 4.17.4). This way, you can select meaningful name or
characteristic under which to group substations, feeders, or secondary
networks.

Use When a node has been pre-selected, and if relevant, you will have the
selected choice to determine that the highlighted node is your Substation Node.
node When the node selected is not electrically relevant, this field will be
disabled. When the node selected is appropriate, the option will be
checked and will not allow for changes.
5.11.1.2 Source tab
Type Define if the head node will be an Equivalent (from the database) or a
user-defined equivalent. If the second option is selected, the next Name
field will be disabled.
Name
Select the equivalent from the available sources IDs. Click on to
consult the related details.
Voltage
Select a source equivalent from the pull down menu. Click to display
the Source Equivalent dialog box and view the list of available source
equivalent model and their settings.
Node The unique identification label for the head node. The label (ID) may
contain up to 31 letters and/or numbers, but no blank spaces.

5.11.1.3 Equivalent tab



Equivalent
5.11.2 Load
Displays the Load / Unload / View Networks dialog box that allows you to select the
substations at the type of network to load and view from the active database into the window. See
description of the dialog box at Edit > Feeder > Load (section 5.8.2).

5.12 Secondary Network

The Secondary Network Analysis module simulates secondary grids. - To model
secondary network along primary distribution networks.
Secondary networks can be added and modeled into your network data only if the
CYMDIST-SNA optional module is installed. Note that the commands will be disabled if you do
not have the proper key installed.
5.12.1 New
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . You can also select
the New Secondary Network icon ( ) from the Editor Tools toolbar (see section 2.4.2).
Position the cursor on the O.L.D. (where you would like the new substation to be placed) and
double click the left mouse button. The Secondary Network Properties dialog box will open.
See Edit > Substation > New where all the fields of the Secondary Network Properties
dialog box are described. (section 5.11.1).
5.12.2 Load
secondary networks at the type of network to load and view from the active database into the
window. See description of the dialog box at Edit > Feeder > Load (section 5.8.2).
substations at the type of network to load and view from the active database into the window. See
description of the dialog box at Edit > Feeder > Load (section 5.8.2).
5.13 Sub Network
Sub networks are containers, or structured view, of a portion of a feeder. Sub networks
are shown on the O.L.D. as square symbols by default. A sub network is a continuation of an
existing feeder and cannot contain a source, substation, or another sub network.
Sub networks can be added and modeled into your network data only if the CYMDIST-
SUBNET optional module is installed. Note that the commands will be disabled if you do not have
the proper key installed.
5.13.1 New
When you select this option, the mouse cursor changes to . You can also select
the New Sub Network icon ( ) from the Editor Tools toolbar (see section 2.4.2). Position the
cursor on the O.L.D. (where you would like the new substation to be placed) and double click the
left mouse button. The Sub Network Properties dialog box will open.

Name Type in your user-defined name and type.

and
Type
User To display a symbol inside the sub network shape. Click the symbol area
symbol beneath the checkbox to open the Symbol Selection dialog box.
X and Y The display coordinates of the sub network.
fields (when creating the network) or by a drag and drop
operation with the corner handles of the symbol graphically with
the mouse (in the OLD).
Length, Display the length, height, and angle of the displayed symbol.
Height
You can change the length and height, either by typing in the fields, or by
and
a drag and drop operation with the corner handles of the symbol
Angle
graphically with the mouse (in the OLD). To change the angle, you must
change it via the mouse in the OLD, select the symbol and drag /
rotate the network symbol.

5.14 Zones
A Zone is a group of related contiguous sections that you can color-code. This feature
can be useful for various uses such as viewing the protection zones or into reports. Note that the
loads on all of the sections in a zone may be adjusted together. (See Load Growth in the
Analysis Menu.
5.14.1 Add
When you select this option, the cursor will change to . Double-click on a section;
this will display the Add Zone dialog box into which you will be able to set the delimiters for your
zone. You can also indicate a name for your zone, select the environment attribute (that will be
used with the Reliability Assessment module) and add a description.
Delimiters are devices that will limit the extent of the zone. Downstream sections that
include one of the specified devices will not be included in the zone and neither will any section
downstream from those devices.
Note: A zone cannot straddle ‘phase merge’ points – this delimiter is not de-
selectable.
A label attached to the node from which the active section departs indicates the
beginning of a new zone. The zone extends to the end of all downstream sections, until the
beginning of another zone, or until the first delimiting device.
To see the zones on the OLD display, go to the Network Explorer bar, at the Display tab,
and select “Zone color” in the Display Layers section (see section 2.3.5). To edit a zone, select
the Edit option in the contextual menu available when double-clicking on a zone label. You can

also access the Edit option in the Network Explorer bar, at the Detailed View tab (see section
2.3.4).
5.14.2 Delete
When you select this option, the cursor will change to . Double-click on a section
part of the zone you wish to delete. If the selected section is not associated with a zone, then the
confirmation dialog box will not appear.
5.14.3 Zone Properties
To edit the properties of existing zones, first enable the viewing layers Zone or Zone
(random), as explained above, in order to display the zone colors and the corresponding zone
labels. Double-click on the tag to display the Change Zone Properties dialog box. The fields
available are the same than the dialog box displayed at Edit > Zone > Add (see 5.14.1).
5.15 Open/Close
This command is used to operate the switching devices. When you select this option, the
cursor will change to . Select the section where the switching device is located, and then
double-click on it, the Toggle dialog box will be displayed. Select either the source-end or load-
end device via the pull down menu, (if there are two switch able devices on the section).
Alternatively, you may right-click on the operable device and select open (or close) from the
contextual menu.
When a device is switched open, this icon is displayed next to the symbol of the
device.
Note: You may not open or close a switching device if it is locked. To change the
state of a locked device, open its Properties dialog box and uncheck this
option. See 6.9.9 Protective Devices Settings.

5.16 Connect
Use this command to connect the active section via its nodes to another section in the
same or in a different feeder/network.
When you select this option, the cursor changes to . Click anywhere in the OLD
display. The Connect dialog box is displayed with the message: ”Please select the node to
connect”. Click once on a node. Its number will appear in the Selection field and the Next button
will be enabled, click on it. You will be prompted to select the node or subnetwork on which to
connect the selected node. Once you select (left click) that second point, its ID will be displayed
in the Selection field and the Connect button will be enabled. To complete the connection, click
on the Connect button.
Hint: While the Connect dialog boxes are opened, you can utilize the search function
to locate your nodes. The Connect dialog boxes remain opened while you
perform the searches.
Hint: You can alternately connect one section to another (or create an
interconnection), by dragging and dropping one node on to another and release
the mouse. (When the cursor is within range of another node, the node
changes color, and the arrows shown on the cursor point inwards).
You can shift the O.L.D. while holding down the mouse button by pressing the
arrow keys.

5.17 Disconnect
Used to disconnect a section. When you select this option, the cursor changes to .
Select a node or a section to disconnect. Then double-click anywhere in the display. The
Disconnect dialog box appears. Select from the Selection field the node or the section to
disconnect. Click on the Disconnect button.
Hint: Alternatively, you can select your node or section to disconnect and right-click
to display the contextual menu from which you can select the Disconnect
command; this will display the Disconnect dialog box.
5.18 Delete
This is a general delete command. Use it to remove an equipment, section, feeder,

substation, etc.
When you select this option, the cursor changes to . Select the element you wish to
delete and double-click on it (you may alternatively right-click and select Delete from the
contextual menu). The Delete dialog box will appear to confirm the deletion. You may also delete
all the downstream sections.
5.19 Properties
After selecting this menu option, highlight a symbol on the OLD display and double-click
to display its Properties dialog box. Refer to 3.3 Section Properties to find more information.
Alternatively, you may select an element in the display and right-click to display the
contextual menu; select Properties to display the related Properties dialog box. Double-clicking
on any symbol or line will have the same effect.

Chapter 6 The Equipment Menu
6.1 General
Every piece of equipment connected to a section in a feeder (network) represents an

individual unit of a type defined in the equipment database. You may think of the Equipment
database as a warehouse, or catalog, where each type of transformer is described.
Selecting an equipment type from this menu will display the appropriate equipment dialog
box, listing all available variants defined under that particular type, where you can add, edit or
delete equipment in the active equipment database.
6.2 Common Window Elements
6.2.1 Identification
ID Unique name of a variant of the equipment type (up to 31 characters)

Filter To find a component just by typing a series of characters that appear in
its ID (example: typing “CU” in the filter of the Cable database dialog
box might bring all copper conductors in the cable database).
New To add a new variant to an equipment type. Pops up the Equipment ID
dialog with the selected name highlighted to allow you to enter a new
name. The new name, if it is unique, will be added to the list of available
equipments.
CHAPTER 6 –- THE EQUIPMENT MENU 107

Remove To delete the selected component from the list of available ones.
Highlight the name in the list and click Remove.
Rename Pops up the Equipment ID dialog with the selected name highlighted to
allow you to enter a new name. This name, if it is unique, will replace
the old one in the list of available equipments.
OK Updates the Equipment database and exits the dialog box.
Reset To revert the parameter data to the values indicated before you made
any changes.
Cancel Exits the dialog box without saving any of the work you did since
opening it.
To edit an existing variant, highlight its name in the ID list and then change the data.
Note: Summer and Winter ratings may be defined for equipment. Choose which
rating to use for overload detection via Analysis > Calculation, Flag Level tab
before, or even after, running a Voltage Drop calculation.
To change the names of the two ratings (Summer/Winter), refer to File >
Preferences, Simulation tab (see 4.17.5)
6.3 Source
The source (substation equivalent) is the starting point of a network. It represents the
impedance of the generation and transmission network (including the substation transformers up
stream of the source). Use this command to create, modify, or delete the list of sources in your
database.
108 CHAPTER 6 –- THE EQUIPMENT MENU

Nominal Nominal capacity in MVA (summer and winter) used for overload
Capacity detection.
Voltage Nominal kV line-to-line reference voltage.
Desired kV line-to-line operating voltage.
Note: The Desired Voltage of each instance of a
substation equivalent (source) can be changed
individually by accessing its properties.
Source Positive-sequence resistance and reactance, in Ohms at the
Equivalent nominal voltage, or in per-unit on the system MVA base defined in
Calculate the equivalent impedances group box

1. Short-circuit MVA known
This option uses the short-circuit MVA to calculate the equivalent impedance of the
transmission network, including the substation.
Three phase MVA Is the magnitude of a 3-phase fault on the secondary side of
the substation transformer. It is computed from (current in
kA) x (line-line voltage in kV) x √3.
Single phase MVA: Is the magnitude of a line-to-ground fault on the secondary
side of the substation transformer. CYMDIST defines it the
same way as three-phase MVA.
Note: Do not enter single-phase MVA as (current in kA) x
(line-neutral voltage in kV).
Three phase X/R: Is the positive sequence ratio (X1/R1) of the equivalent fault
impedance. It is computed from tan (angle) if necessary.
Single phase X/R: Is the ratio (Xg/Rg), where:
Xg = X1 + X2 + X0 and Rg = R1 + R2 + R0.
kVLL: Is the line-to-line voltage in kV at the substation transformer
secondary.

2. Source Default known

This option calculates the equivalent impedance from the sum of the impedances of
the substation transformer(s) and the transmission network. Refer to the diagram
below for a definition of the substation equipment and configuration.
Typical substation as understood by CYMDIST

Rsrc : total resistance of the transmission network in ohms.
Xsrc : total reactance of the transmission network in ohms.
S1 : Optional protective device (primary side).
S2 : Optional protective device (secondary side).
XFO : Substation transformer.
Xs : Fault-limiting reactance connected in the branch (optional).
Xss : Fault-limiting reactance connected at the secondary bus (optional).
With this option, you begin by defining the primary side impedance (Rsrc, Xsrc) and
the (optional) downstream fault-limiting reactance (Xss).
Utility Equivalent (Primary) offers two ways to define the primary side impedance:
y Short-circuit power: enter the short-circuit MVA and X/R ratio and line-to-line
voltage (in kV) at the primary side of the substation. Refer to option #1 for a
definition of the short-circuit powers and X/R ratios.
y Primary Impedances: enter the equivalent sequence impedances (Z1, Z0).
Base MVA. Value set in the File > Preferences dialog box, System Parameters tab
(see 4.17.1).
Downstream fault-limiting reactance is given in Ohms. It is optional. When a value
of “0” is indicated, then CYMDIST considers there is none.

Transfo connections. Displays the Source Configuration dialog box to define the
substation transformers.
The substation consists of one or more "branches" each containing a transformer,

optional protective devices (S1, S2) and optional fault-limiting reactance (Xs). You
must define at least one branch in order to continue with the calculation. You may
create as many as 5 branches.
Fault-limiting Enter the impedance, if there is one.
reactance:
Primary Device ID / Define the protective devices on the transformer primary (S1)
Secondary Device and secondary (S2). Click on the browse button in order to
ID: assign a number to each device. This number will be used by
the interface to the CYMTCC program. See 6.9.7 Switch.
Add/Mod: Once you have defined a branch, click on Add/Mod. This will
add your branch to the list at the bottom of the dialog box. To
edit a branch, highlight the entry in the list, make your
changes in the fields of the dialog box and click Add/Mod.
Delete: Highlight the branch to delete in the list, click on the Delete
button. OK saves the changes to the configuration and
returns to the previous dialog box. Once you click OK in the
Source Details dialog box, CYMDIST computes the total
impedances and writes them in the spaces provided in the
initial dialog box.

6.4 Regulator
Regulator Select single-phase or three-phase.

Type
Rated current In kVA and Amps. Different Summer and Winter rated currents may
(Summer) and be defined.
(winter)
Rated Voltage Rated kV is line-to-neutral for Wye-ground connection, line-to-line
for open Delta.
Note: For the purpose of overload detection, the rated kVA will
be adjusted as a function of the actual regulation range
(See below). You can modify these default values via
the menu Analysis > Calculation, Flag Levels tab.
(see CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual)
• Range: 10.0% -> Rating: 100 % of nominal
Maximum Maximum range for which the regulator can lower the voltage.
buck
Maximum Maximum range for which the regulator can raise the voltage.
boost
Note: To model an auto-booster with CYMDIST, you can use a
regulator with maximum buck = 0% so that the regulator
can only raise the voltage.
Number of Number of possible positions for the regulator, excluding the
taps nominal position.

Bandwidth Tolerance (± bandwidth / 2) on the voltage to be maintained by the

regulator. It is expressed on the voltage reference (e.g. 121 V ± 1V).
CT primary Primary current rating of the current transformer used to provide a
rating current source for the line drop compensation and for metering
functions. For example, if the nameplate indicates a CT ratio of
250/0.2, 250 has to be entered.
PT ratio Overall potential transformer ratio of the regulator.
Reversible If reverse power flow is allowed, activate the Reversible option. If
not, then CYMDIST will prevent the opening or closing of regulator
that would lead to reverse power flow through the regulator.
6.4.1 Regulator Settings
Connection Is Wye-Gnd or Closed-Delta.

Maximum Buck Buck or Boost may be set to lesser values than what the regulator
Maximum Boost is rated for, increasing its current/power rating.
Bandwidth Tolerance (± bandwidth / 2) on the voltage to be maintained by the
regulator. It is expressed on the voltage reference.
CT primary Primary current rating of the current transformer used to provide a
rating current source for the line drop compensation and for metering
functions.
PT ratio Overall potential transformer ratio of the regulator.
The default voltage setting for regulators is set in the File > Preferences, System
Parameters tab dialog box. (see 4.17.1).
To ignore all regulators during a Capacitor Placement or Voltage Drop, refer to the
Equipment Status tab in Analysis > Calculation.

6.4.2 Regulator Control
Select Option There are four methods to obtain the settings for the regulator.
• The first is to treat the regulator as a Fixed-tap autotransformer.
• The second method is to set the regulator to control the voltage at
its own Regulator terminal.
• The third is to calculate the R-X settings to compensate for the
line impedance between the regulator and the load center where
the voltage is to be controlled.
• The fourth method is to simply specify the Load center where the
voltage is to be controlled by entering the section ID. CYMDIST
will evaluate automatically the impedance equivalent to the line
between the regulator and the load center.
Depending on the option selected, the relevant fields of this dialog
box will be enabled or disabled.
Load Center Enabled when the “Load Center” option is selected. Location for
ID which the regulator will control the voltage.
First House Enabled when the “Load Center” or “R-X Settings” option is selected.
Protection Voltage limits for which the regulator will not go under and over.
Reverse Bi- Operates in both directions. If the real component of the
Sensing Directiona current is above the threshold, the regulator operates in
Mode l the forward direction. If the real component of the
current is below the threshold, it operates in the reverse
direction. When the current is within the threshold, the
control stays at the last tap position.
Locked Always operates in the forward direction. When more
Forward than 2% reverse current is detected, the control stays
on the last tap position.
Locked Always operates in the reverse direction. If more than
Reverse 2% forward current is detected, the control stays on the
last tap position.

Neutral Only operates in the forward direction when the real

Idle component of the current is above the threshold. When
the real component of the current is reverse and is
below the threshold, the control will tap to the neutral
position (buck/boost within ±0.3%).
No Always operate in the forward direction. When the real
Reverse component of the current is reverse (>0), the control
stays at the last tap position.
Reverse Operates in the forward directions. When the real
Idle component of the current is above the threshold, the
regulator operates in the forward direction. When the
real component of the current is below the threshold, it
stays at the last tap position.
Reactive Operates in both directions depending on both the real
Bi- and reactive component of the current. When the
Directiona reactive component of the current in the reverse
l direction, it operates in the forward direction. When the
real component of the current in the forward direction is
above the threshold and that the reactive component is
within the threshold, it also operates in the forward
direction.
When the reactive component of the current in the
forward direction is above the threshold, it operates in
the reverse direction. When the real component of the
current in the forward direction is above the threshold
and that the reactive component of the current is within
the threshold, it also operates in the reverse direction.
Threshold Current threshold at which the control switches operation, either from
forward to reverse or vice-versa.
Status For a single-phase regulator, indication of the phase(s) on which the
regulator is installed. The user will have to enter the settings for all
phases selected.
For a 3-phase regulator, indication of the control phase. Only one
phase can be selected.
Tap If the option “Fixed Tap” is selected in the Select Option field, it is the
fixed tap position at which the regulator will be considered by
CYMDIST. Otherwise, present tap position of the regulator. During
any related load flow analysis, CYMDIST will determine automatically
the tap position depending on the status of the network and update
this number.
FORWARD/ Depending on the Reverse Sensing Mode selected, the forward and
REVERSE reverse settings will be enabled accordingly.
Voltage: Voltage to be maintained by the regulator.
Rset: Enabled when the “R-X Settings” option is selected, this is the
“R” setting of the regulator.
Xset: Enabled when the “R-X Settings” option is selected, this is the
“X” setting of the regulator.

Hint: If you already know the R-X Settings, simply select the R-X Settings option
and type the values in the appropriate spaces.
If you don’t know the R-X Settings, and want to use this control option, you
can use the following method:
• Under "Control/Option", select "Load Center " from the pull down menu.
• Click on the pull down menu of "Load Center ID" to list all sections
downstream from the regulator. Click on the one whose voltage is to be
regulated.
• Under "FORWARD/Voltage", enter the desired voltage (in terms of the
base voltage) at the regulated section. Do this for each phase selected.
• Under “First House Protection”, you can specify the High / Low voltage
limits.
• Click OK and run the Voltage Drop analysis. CYMDIST will compute the
R-X settings and indicate them in the regulator/control dialog box.
• Return to this dialog box and change the “Control/Option” to “R-X
Settings”.
This procedure can also be done for the reverse direction.

6.5 Transformer – Two Winding
Generally, these transformers are “in-line”, step-down power transformers. Customer

(i.e., load) transformers are generally not modeled explicitly.
6.5.1 General Tab
Nominal Rating Total kVA for 3-phase Type transformer or per phase for 1-
phase Type.
Primary Voltage kV line-to-line.
Secondary Voltage For any winding of a 1-phase transformer which is connected
line-to-ground, enter (line-ground voltage) x √3.
No load losses kW Total for 3-phase and kW per Phase for 1-phase.
Sequence Positive-sequence Impedance Z1 in percent on transformer
Impedances kVA base, Zero-sequence Impedance Z0 in percent on
transformer kVA base. X/R ratio.
If you click on the Default button, CYMDIST will suggest typical
values for Z1, Z0 and X/R based on the kVA and primary
voltage.
Grounding Grounding resistance and reactance for primary side and
Impedances grounding resistance and reactance for secondary side.
Reversible If Reversible is not active, then you will be prevented from
closing any switch that would direct power flow from the
transformer secondary side to its primary side.
Connection CYMDIST supports the four practical configurations for a
single-phase transformer: See section 6.5.6Transformer by
Phase Settings.

Note: If you connect a 1-phase unit to a 2-phase or 3-phase section, identical

transformers will be installed in each phase.
6.5.2 Load Tap Changer (LTC) Tab
The data for the on-Load Tap Changer (LTC) should be set to zero unless the
transformer is equipped with such a device.
Bandwidth Is the tolerance on the voltage that the LTC is to maintain (see
Transformer Settings.) For example: 2V means ± 1 V.
Taps Is the number of discrete tap positions in the LTC.
Range Is the range of voltage boost/buck covered by the taps.

6.5.3 Two-winding Transformer Settings
Fixed Tap To enter the primary tap setting of this particular transformer, either to
raise or lower the voltage.
Grounding To define the grounding impedance on both the primary and
Impedances secondary side.
Connection To define the configuration of this particular transformer.
Settings
System Base To define the primary and or secondary base voltage.
Voltage
6.5.4 Two-winding Transformer Load Tap Changer Settings
If you entered data for a Load Tap Changer when you created the transformer in the
equipment database, then the Load Tap Changer sub-layer will appear directly under the main
transformer layer. These are the same as defined for Regulators. Click on the sub-layer to set
the desired voltage, R-X settings or tap position.

When two LTC transformers are connected in parallel, one of them may be chosen
as Master and the control settings (fixed-tap, terminal, load center, R-X settings) defined for it.
The other transformer may be designated as Slave by:
1. Selecting the Is Slave option in the Parallel Operation group box (see illustration
above)
2. Specifying the Master transformer section ID
The Slave’s controls are locked with the Master control in a load flow calculation
(e.g., Voltage Drop).
6.5.5 Two-winding Transformer Meter Settings
New To enable the meter settings input.

Delete To dismiss the meter settings input.
Type Available options are: kVA and PF%, Amps and PF%, kW and PF%,
kW and kVAR.
You may enter a leading power factor by typing a negative value
(e.g., -98.0).
Total To allow entering combined demand for all three phases.
Disconnected To deactivate or activate the meter.

Downstream To display a summary of downstream load and capacitors, for

information. Use this information to help you enter relevant meter
data.
See also Analysis > Load Allocation (section 7.4).

Utilization To assign Utilization Factors and Power Factors for the different
Factors consumer categories.
6.5.6 Transformer by Phase Settings
The transformer by-phase settings dialog box is to model a configuration of single-phase

transformers of different ratings. It is also the only model that permits the modeling of center tap
connections. To add this type of transformer configuration in the network, click the Add button
and select the Transformer By-Phase in the Section Properties dialog box.
If you need to model loads connected to a center tap, you need to define a transformer
by-phase upstream of the load and enable the phases where a center tap connection is present.

6.5.7 Transformer, Single-phase Two-wire Configurations
CYMDIST supports the four practical configurations for a single-phase transformer:
Ygrd - Ygrd Ygrd - D
D - Ygrd D-D
• Ygrd (Wye-grounded) means “single-phase, two wires, grounded”.
• D (Delta) means “single-phase, two wires, ungrounded”.
Single-phase • The primary of this transformer must be connected to a single-

Ygrd – Ygrd phase section.
• Downstream sections are connected to the same phase as the
primary.
• The load configuration downstream from this transformer must be
set to Ygrd.
Single-phase The secondary of this transformer is a two-wire ungrounded system
Ygrd – D (single-phase Delta). CYMDIST reports the current on one wire only
since the other carries the same current.
• The primary of this transformer must be connected to a single-
phase section.
• Downstream sections are connected to the same phase as the
primary.
set to Delta (D).

Single-phase The primary of this transformer is connected between two phases (AB,
D – Ygrd BC or CA).
• The primary of this transformer must be connected to a two-phase
section.
• Downstream sections and loads must be single-phase. See table
below.
set to Ygrd.
Primary phases Secondary phase Load phase
AB A A
BC B B
CA C C
Example: If the primary side is connected between phases A and B,

any load or section connected to the secondary must be
connected to phase A.
Single-phase The secondary of this transformer is a two-wire ungrounded system

D–D (single-phase Delta). Although you connect the load to only one
phase, it is in fact connected between the two wires. CYMDIST
reports the current on one wire only since the other carries the same
current.
• The primary of this transformer is connected between two phases
(AB, BC or CA).
• The primary of this transformer must be connected to a two-phase
section.
• Downstream sections and loads must be single-phase. See table
below.
Primary phases Secondary phase Load phase
AB A A
BC B B
CA C C
Example: If the primary side is connected between phases A and B,

any load or section connected to the secondary must be
connected to phase A.
set to Delta (D).

The main feeder is a 3-phase

Example:
section (phase ABC). The
lateral starts with a two-phase
section (phase AB) and a
single-phase transformer D-D
is set at the end of this section.
The downstream section from
the transformer is a single-
phase section (phase A) and
the delta load is connected at
the end of this section on
phase A.
6.5.8 Transformer, Three phase Configurations
6.5.8.1 Transformer, Common Configurations

The common configurations for three phase transformations are Wye-Wye (Y-Y),
Wye-Delta (Y-D), Delta-Wye (D-Y) and Delta-Delta (D-D). The transformation could be
realized by placing three single-phase transformers or one three-phase transformer.
The phase shift is in reference with the primary side and is clockwise.
Three-Phase • The primary of this transformer must be connected to a three-

Ygrd – Y grd phase section.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Ygyg0)
Three-Phase • The primary and the secondary of this transformer must be

D–D connected to a three-phase section.
set to Delta (D) or Wye (Y). If load configuration is set to Wye
grounded (Ygrd), CYMDIST changes sees the load as Delta (D).
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Dd0)
Ygrd – D connected to a three-phase section.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down Transformer: 30° (Ygd1)
o Step-Up Transformer: -30° (Ygd11)
D–Y phase section.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down Transformer: 30° (Dy1)
o Step-Up Transformer: -30° (Dy11)


D – Ygrd phase section.
• This configuration should be use only with balanced network.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down Transformer: 30° (Dyg1)
o Step-Up Transformer: -30° (Dyg11)
6.5.8.2 Transformer, Other Configurations

Other configurations supported in CYMDIST:

phase section.
Ygrd – Y
• This configuration in valid only when running a Balanced Voltage
Drop.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Ygy0)
Ygrdo – Do connected to a three-phase section.
• CYMDIST will not calculate the current for a short-circuit on the
secondary of an open-wye transformer.
• CYMDIST will not use the third phase on the primary side and will
not report any current on it.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down Transformer: °30° (Yodo1)
o Step-Up Transformer: °-30° (Yodo11)
Three-Phase • The opened phase must be specified for Two-
Do – Do
• The downstream section on the secondary side must be three-
phase
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Dodo0)
Y–D connected to a three-phase section.
set to Delta (D) or Wye (Y). If load configuration is set to Wye
grounded (Ygrd), CYMDIST sees the load as Delta (D).
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down Transformer: 30° (Yd1)
o Step-Up Transformer: -30° (Yd11)


Y – Y and phase section.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Yy0)
Y – Ygrd phase section.
• This configuration in valid only when running a Balanced Voltage
Drop.
• Phase shift:
o Step-Down and Step-Up Transformer: 0° (Yyg0)
6.6 Transformer – Three Winding

A three-winding transformer is capable of tap changing under load, to try to maintain a
desired voltage at a particular bus.
6.6.1 General Tab
Rg, Xg Grounding impedances (in ohms) for the grounding connection of the
primary/secondary and the tertiary, respectively. (Applies to GY and D
winding connections only.)
Connection There are three types of winding connection: GY, Y, D
Prime mover The type of system the generator is driven by (Gas, Geothermic
turbine, Hydraulic, Internal combustion, Others, Steam).

Z1 Positive sequence impedance in %.

Z0 Zero-sequence impedance in %.
X0/R0, X1/R1 The ratio of the reactance to the resistance.
Phase Shift The angle by which one side leads the other.
(deg)
Note: PS means measure from Primary to Secondary. PT means measure from

Primary to Tertiary. ST means measure from Secondary to Tertiary.
6.6.2 Load Tap Changers Tabs
Load Tap Mark check to enable the parameters below.

Changer
Lower / Upper Lower and upper tolerance on the voltage that the LTC is to
Bandwidth maintain in %.
Minimum/ To define the tap range on the primary, in percent of the
Maximum range transformer primary base voltage (not the bus base voltage). To
fix the tap at a certain value, set Min = Max.
Number of taps The number of (equal) taps into which the voltage range is divided.
It is usually an odd number, to provide a center tap.

6.6.3 Three-Winding Transformers Settings
Primary Tap Tap setting of the transformer in %.

Primary The primary base voltage in kV.
Secondary The secondary base voltage in kV.
Tertiary The tertiary base voltage in kV.
User defined Mark check to enable and modify the corresponding system base
voltage.

6.6.4 First / Second Load Tap Changer
If you entered data for a Load Tap Changer when you created the three-windings
transformer in the equipment database, then the Load Tap Changer sub-layer will appear
directly under the Three-Winding Transformer – At Middle layer.
Location For the First Load Tap Changer, it is Primary or secondary.

For the Second Load Tap Changer, it is always tertiary.
Mode The different methods to obtain the settings for the transformer.
Use last To consider the last position of tap after a load flow analysis when the
load flow VCR was active.
Initial Enter the initial tap position if you are not using the “Use last load flow”
option.
Final Final tap position at the end of the simulation.
Buck/Boost Range of voltage covered.
Master Id When connected in parallel, mark check this option to enter a Master Id
for the three-windings transformer.

6.7 Generators
6.7.1 Generator – Synchronous
Notes 1. 3-phase synchronous generators only are allowed.

:
2. The reactive power output will be fixed by the power factor if the individual
generator is not set to control its voltage. If it is controlling its voltage, then
the Max and Min kVAR limits will apply, and the power factor will vary.
3. The Steady State, Transient, and Subtransient impedances will be used
for the short-circuit and fault flow analysis according to the short-circuit
parameters setting (Analysis > Calculation Parameters…).
Rated Voltage The generator nameplate voltage, in kV.

Active This is only a default value. The value that will be used is defined in
Generation the Synchronous Generator Settings.
Power factor It could be positive or negative. A positive power factor will indicate
that the generator generates both active and reactive power. A
negative power factor will imply that the generator generates active
power and consumes reactive power.
Config. There are three types of winding connection: GY, Y, D
Max Q, Min Q When the generator consumes reactive power these values can be
entered as positive in the dialog, but during load flow calculation, the
generator will absorb reactive power instead of generating it.
Prime mover The type of system the generator is driven by (Gas, Geothermic
turbine, Hydraulic, Internal combustion, Others, Steam).
R1, X1 Steady state impedance may be given in per-unit on the generator’s
kVA base or in Ohms.

R’, X’ Transient impedance may be given in per-unit on the generator’s kVA

base or in Ohms.
R’’, X’’ Subtransient impedance may be given in per-unit on the generator’s
R0, X0 Zero-sequence impedance may be given in per-unit on the generator’s
Rg, Xg The grounding impedance is always given in Ohms.
Estimate… Click on this button to open the Impedance Estimation dialog where
you can estimate the subtransient reactance (X’’), transient reactance
(X’), zero-sequence reactance (X0) and ratio X/R.

6.7.1.1 Synchronous Generator Settings
You may alter all of the settings for a generator, including its status (ON / OFF).
If the generator is ON, it produces active power equal to the amount specified in the
Active Generation field.
If Voltage Controlled is ON, the machine will adjust its reactive power to maintain the
Desired Voltage at its terminals (subject to the reactive power limits MAX and MIN).
If Voltage Controlled is OFF, then the reactive power generated during a voltage drop
calculation is a fixed amount determined by the stated active power and power factor:
2

 1 
kVAR = kW   −1

 PF 
Hint: Feeders supplied by generators only (no substation).

6.7.2 Generator – Induction
Notes 1. 1-phase, 2-phase and 3-phase induction generators are allowed.

:
2. In induction generator, only subtransient impedance will be involved and it
will be used in short-circuit and fault flow analyses when the generator
impedance setting is subtransient.
Rated Voltage Rated Voltage is the generator nameplate voltage, in kV.

Generation the Induction Generator Settings.
ANSI Motor Select Automatic to let CYMDIST estimate the group according to
Group other motor parameters or select one item from 2, 3, 4, or 5.
Prime mover The type of system the generator is driven by [Others, Wind Turbine
(DFIG), Wind turbine (IG)].
R’’, X’’ Subtransient impedance may be given in per-unit on the generator’s

Estimate… Click on this button to open the Impedance Estimation dialog box
where you can estimate the subtransient impedance (R’’, X’’).
6.7.2.1 Induction Generator Settings
Status The generator status (ON, OFF)

Active The active power produced by the generator.
Generation
Power It could be positive or negative. A positive power factor will indicate that
factor the generator generates both active and reactive power. A negative
power factor will imply that the generator generates active power and
consumes reactive power.
Note: Induction generator cannot have voltage control.

6.7.3 Generator – Electronically Coupled
Electronically coupled generators are units that are not directly connected to the system.
They are connected via inverter-based units such as HVDC links. For electronically coupled
generator, the inverter control mode is set such that, during short circuits, the source will continue to
contribute a percentage of its rated current.
Rated Voltage Rated Voltage is the generator nameplate voltage, in kV.

Generation the Electronically Coupled Generator Settings.
Fault Percentage of rated current the generator would contribute if a fault
Contribution occurred in the system. This is only a default value. The value that
will be used is defined in the Electronically Coupled Generator
Settings.
ANSI Motor Select Automatic to let CYMDIST estimate the group according to
Group other motor parameters or select one item from 2, 3, 4, or 5.
Prime mover The type of system the generator is driven by [Energy storage, Fuel
cells, Others, Photovoltaic].
Converter The inverter-based unit that connects the generator to the system
(HVDC, Others).

6.7.3.1 Electronically Coupled Generator Settings
Status The generator status (ON, OFF)

Active The active power produced by the generator.
Generation
Power factor It could be positive or negative. A positive power factor will indicate that
the generator generates both active and reactive power. A negative
power factor will imply that the generator generates active power and
consumes reactive power.
Fault Percentage of rated current the generator would contribute if a fault
Contribution occurred in the system.

6.8 Motors
With CYMDIST, you can simulate the effects of induction or synchronous motors starting
in distribution electric power systems (networks) and estimate the maximum motor size that can
be started on a given section.
6.8.1 Motor – Induction
Rated Power This value may be entered as kVA, Horsepower or kW. Enter one
value and the other two will be calculated, using the power factor and
efficiency.
Rated Voltage It is the motor nameplate voltage, in kV.
R’’, X’’ They represent the subtransient impedance and they are given in
per-unit on the motor’s own base power. They can be expressed in
Ohms if you select this option.
ANSI Group Select Automatic to let CYMDIST estimate the group according to
other motor parameters or select one item from 2, 3, 4, or 5.

Estimate Click on this button to estimate the subtransient impedance (R’’, X’’)
from the NEMA code letter and other (American) nameplate data.
(The NEMA letter identifies the ratio of inrush starting current to rated
full-load current.)
Locked Rotor The Locked Rotor data determines

Data the model for the motor when it is
group box starting. The starting power factor
may be estimated by clicking on
Default if necessary. The NEMA
code (from the motor nameplate)
represents a range of values for
starting kVA/HP ratio. (Click on
Table>> to view the Table of code
letters.) It is for information, since
only the value entered for kVA/HP
ratio will be used. A second option
is to define the locked rotor current
(typically about 6 times the full-load
current).

6.8.1.1 Induction Motor Settings
Status Choose the motor Status (OFF, RUNNING, or STARTING), and the
number of starts per day.
Starts
When RUNNING is selected, the normal motor load will be present at the
motor location. When motors are declared as running, the contribution of
these motors to the short circuit currents is neglected because it decays
quickly to zero.
Enable Load Mark check this option so you can enter the desired load factor, otherwise
Factor CYMDIST will assume 100% of full load.
Loading Percentage of full load.
Load PF The load power factor of the motor when it is operating at less than full
load.

6.8.1.2 Induction Motor Starter Settings
No Starter Means the motor starts direct across the line (full circuit voltage is
applied to its terminals). This is the usual method.
Resistor Places a resistor in series with the motor, to decrease the voltage
assistance available at the motor terminals, so that the motor impedance will draw
less current. (In reality, the resistor is short-circuited after some time
delay, but this is not simulated.)
Capacitor Places a capacitor in parallel with the motor, to supply some of the
Assistance VARs drawn by the motor, and hence reduce the voltage drop.
Auto- Reduced voltage start means an autotransformer steps the voltage
Transformer down. (The autotransformer is not explicitly modeled, only its voltage
(Reduced ratio.) This method is used to reduce the motor’s starting current, and
Voltage) is used to start very large motors on weak systems. (In reality, the
autotransformer tap is changed to 100% after some time delay, but
this is not simulated.)
Consider Auto- Mark check this option to take the transformer impedance into
Transformer account.
Impedance
Wye-Delta To switch from a Delta to a Wye connection in order to reduce the
starting current.
Variable To specify the starting current as a percentage of nominal current or
Frequency as a percentage of the motor locked rotor current.
Starter

6.8.2 Motor – Synchronous
Rated This value may be entered as kVA, Horsepower or kW. Enter one value
Power and the other two will be calculated, using the power factor and efficiency.
Rated Rated Voltage is the motor nameplate voltage, in kV.
Voltage
Z’’, Z0, Xd The subtransient impedance (Z’’), zero-sequence impedance (Z0) and
saturated internal impedance (Xd) can be expressed in Ohms or in per-unit on the
motor’s own base power
Zg The grounding impedance is always given in Ohms.
Estimate… Click on this button to open the Impedance Estimation dialog where you
can estimate the subtransient impedance (R’’, X’’) and the zero-sequence
impedance (R0, X0).

6.8.2.1 Synchronous Motor Settings
Status Choose the motor Status (OFF, RUNNING, or STARTING), and the
number of starts per day.
Starts
When RUNNING is selected, the normal motor load will be present at the
motor location. When motors are declared as running, the contribution of
these motors to the short circuit currents is neglected because it decays
quickly to zero.
Rg and Xg Represents the grounding impedance.
Enable Mark check this option so you can enter the desired load factor, otherwise
Load CYMDIST will assume 100% of full load.
Factor
Loading Percentage of full load.
Load PF The load power factor of the motor when it is operating at less than full load.
6.8.2.2 Synchronous Motor Starter Settings
No Starter Means the motor starts direct across the line (full circuit voltage is
applied to its terminals). This is the usual method.

Resistor Places a resistor in series with the motor, to decrease the voltage
assistance available at the motor terminals, so that the motor impedance will draw
less current. (In reality, the resistor is short-circuited after some time
delay, but this is not simulated.)
Capacitor Places a capacitor in parallel with the motor, to supply some of the
Assistance VARs drawn by the motor, and hence reduce the voltage drop.
Auto- Reduced voltage start means an autotransformer steps the voltage
Transformer down. (The autotransformer is not explicitly modeled, only its voltage
(Reduced ratio.) This method is used to reduce the motor’s starting current, and
Voltage) is used to start very large motors on weak systems. (In reality, the
autotransformer tap is changed to 100% after some time delay, but
this is not simulated.)
Consider Auto- Mark check this option to take the transformer impedance into
Transformer account.
Impedance
Wye-Delta To switch from a Delta to a Wye connection in order to reduce the
starting current.
6.9 Protective Devices

The Equipment menu provides for the definition of seven types of protective devices:
Fuse (section 6.9.2), LVCB (section 6.9.3), Recloser (section 6.9.4), Relay (section 6.9.5),
Sectionalizer (section 6.9.6), Switch (section 6.9.7), Breaker (section 6.9.8).
6.9.1 Protective Devices parameters
The parameters that can be set include the following ones. Some of the protective
devices may not include all characteristics listed below; see the specific sections.
General group box

Rated current In Amps. Different Summer and Winter rated currents may be
(Summer) and defined for equipment.
(winter)
Rated Voltage In kV.

Interrupting In the short-circuit results, CYMDIST will check the Withstand

rating Rating for the following cases:
y 3-phase fault: IWithstand – Kmax * VLN/Z1
y 3-phase grounded fault: IWithstand – Kmax * VLN/(Z1 +Zf)
y 2-phase fault: IWithstand – Kmax * VLL/(2*Z1 +Zf)
y 2-phase grounded fault: IWithstand – Kmax * VLL * Y
a 2 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) − a * Z 0 − Z1
where Y = , a = e j 2π / 3
Z1 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) + Z1 * Z 0
y 1-phase grounded fault: IWithstand – Kmax * (3*VLN)/(2*Z1 +
Z0+3*Zf)
If one of the above values is negative, the device is said to present
interrupting rating abnormal condition. However, you must enter
non-zero value for interrupting rating. If this value is zero no check
will be made.
Reliability parameters group box
The data entered in these fields is used only by the Reliability Assessment Module,
where the parameters will be factorized.
Failure rate Is the number of failures of a device per year that caused permanent
outages. Failures may be caused by: misoperation, lightning, animals,
trees and aging.
Temp. Is the number of failures of a device per year that caused temporary
failure rate outages.
Repair time Is the total time needed to locate the fault, send a crew and repair the
fault.
Stuck Is the probability of a protective device failing to operate properly for a
probability fault in its zone, forcing the upstream zone device to operate,
increasing the fault impact.
Switching Is the time needed to perform a switching maneuver (to restore
time service).
Operation mode group box
The list of Operation modes that are available for each device will vary depending on
the type. Many of these options are data that is used by the CAM, the RAM or the SRM
modules, as indicated below.
Reversible If reverse power flow is allowed, activate the Reversible option. If
not, then CYMDIST will prevent the opening or closing of device if
that maneuver would lead to reverse power flow through the
device.
Remote Used by the CYMDIST-CAM contingency analysis module and by
controlled the CYMDIST-SRM service restoration module in the preparation of
the switching plans.

Automated To indicate that the device is automated. It means that the device
can operate in a very short time, minutes or less. In reliability
indices calculation, no traveling time nor inspection time are
required to do the operation, only switching time. The Reliability
Assessment Module (RAM) uses this data.
Single-phase Will operate the same way single-phase trip does, except that
lockout permanent defaults only are involved in this case. The Reliability
Assessment Module (RAM) uses this data.
Single-Phase If single phase tripping is allowed, activate the Single-phase trip
trip. option. In this way, a temporary default detected on phase A by the
device will not affect customer on phase B or phase C in a three-
phase section. The Reliability Assessment Module (RAM) uses this
data.
CYMTCC Will activate CYMTCC and open the CYMTCC protection
button coordination program dialog box for the device, so that you may
inspect and adjust its settings as well as create a new ‘standard’
setting. (This feature is also accessible via the Section Properties /
Settings dialog box.)
When the CYMTCC button is disabled, Protective Device
Coordination is not available for that type of equipment.
See also Analysis > Protective Device Coordination > Reach
and Load Criteria (section 7.11).
6.9.2 Fuse
These devices allow you to (dis)connect sections. To manipulate these devices, use the
menu command Edit > Open/Close (section 5.15), or right click on the device and select the
desired command.

6.9.3 LVCB
menu command Edit > Open/Close, or right click on the device and select the relevant
command.
6.9.4 Recloser
command.

6.9.5 Relay
command.
6.9.6 Sectionalizer
command.

6.9.7 Switch
command.
6.9.8 Breaker
command.

6.9.9 Protective Devices Settings
The settings available for each of the Protective Devices equipment types are as follows:
Normal Infeed Normal Infeed identifies / defines the node normally feeding this
device. This value will be used to determine if the device is
reversed or not. Use “Undefined” to ignore this validation.
Locked closed If you click on Locked closed (or Locked open), you will not be
able to open (or close) the fuse with the Edit > Open/Close
command.
6.9.10 Protective Devices Operation Settings
The operation settings available include the following:

Fault Available for all protective device equipment types.
Indicator
To indicate via a signal that the fault is located downstream of the
current protective device. The Reliability Assessment Module (RAM)
uses this data.
Automation/ Available for all protective device equipment types, except for the fuse.
Remote
y Automated: To indicate that the device is automated. It means
control
that the device can operate in a very short time, minutes or less. In
reliability indices calculation, no traveling time nor inspection time
are required to do the operation, only switching time. The
Reliability Assessment Module (RAM) uses this data.
y Sensing Direction: To indicate in which direction the device can
detect a loss of power or a fault. This parameter can have the
following values: From node, To node, Both directions. To enable
this field, enable the Automated option checkbox.
Reclosing Available for the LVCB, the Recloser, the Relay and the Breaker.
Scheme
y Enable fuse saving from: The reclosing scheme fuse saving will
give all temporary faults a chance to automatically clear and
results in fewer sustained interruptions but more momentary
interruptions. The Reliability Assessment Module (RAM) uses this
data.

6.9.11 Protective Devices Meter Settings
For the purpose of Load Allocation, you can optionally attach meter readings to any
protective devices.
New To enable the meter settings input.

Delete To dismiss the meter settings input.
Type Available options are: kVA and PF%, Amps and PF%, kW and PF%,
kW and kVAR.
You may enter a leading power factor by typing a negative value
(e.g., -98.0).
Total To allow entering combined demand for all three phases.
Disconnecte To deactivate or activate the meter.
d
Downstream To display a summary of downstream load and capacitors, for
information. Use this information to help you enter relevant meter
data.

Utilization To assign Utilization Factors and Power Factors for the different
Factors consumer categories.
6.9.12 Protective Devices TCC Settings
A TCC setting describes the adjustments made to an individual protective device (fuse,
LVCB, relay or recloser) that is connected to a section of your network. Options will be enabled or
disabled depending on the equipment type.
TCC Id Identifies the TCC Settings in the time-current settings database

(which is managed by CYMTCC).
Description Description coming from the CYMTCC database that corresponds to
the TCC Id.
Rated Voltage From CYMDIST equipment database
and
Rated Current
Pickup To enter the pickup current.
Short Circuit can identify downstream sections where the fault level
is insufficient to activate the device. See Report > On calculation,
“Short-Circuit – Minimum Fault Protection” report.
Voltage Drop will use the Phase Pick-up value in place of the rated
current when detecting overload conditions. (See Analysis >
Calculation, Flag Levels Tab (see the CYMDIST Basic Analyses
User Manual)
Use Alternate Pickup currents different than the ones defined in CYMTCC can be
Pickups used for reclosers and relays.

6.10 Overhead Line
CYMDIST needs only the impedances (Z1 and Z0), susceptances (B1 and B0), and the
ampacities (summer and winter) to associate to each Line ID.
Enter these values directly if you know them. If you do not, CYMDIST can calculate them
from the conductor types and spacing arrangement on the pole.
Phase Select from the list of available conductors (see section 6.11.4 Cable
conductor Settings)
Neutral Choose “none” if there is no neutral conductor.
conductor
Spacing Select from list of available arrangements. (see section 6.13 Spacing
Table OH-Line)
Ampacity By default, the ampacity assigned to the phase conductor.
Phase Or positive-sequence Z1 if phase conductors are all the same
impedance
Neutral Or zero-sequence Z0 if phase conductors are all the same. This
impedance value may be calculated using the chosen conductors and spacing.
(Click Calculate)
Susceptance This value may be calculated using the chosen conductors and
(B) spacing. (Click Calculate)
You have the option to re-calculate for All Lines or just the Selected Line. You would
re-calculate for all lines if you have changed the earth resistivity.
Note: You have to remove the safeguard ("Block Impedance Update") before you
can calculate the impedances. It should be checked by default to protect
any impedance values, which you type in directly, from being replaced by
calculated values.

6.10.1 Overhead Line – Balanced
6.10.2 Overhead Line – Unbalanced

6.10.3 Overhead Lines Settings
Line ID : Select the conductor ID from the pull-down list of available choices.
Note: Depending on the Type selection, this heading will read Line ID or Cable ID.
Hints: Click on the question mark to view detail information on the selected
conductor and or spacing arrangement.
You can specify the default conductor (See reference manual THE
“CYMDIST.INI” FILE).
Equivalent impedance: Describes the impedance values for the overhead line.
6.11 Cable
CYMDIST allows you to specify the parameters, the impedance and the susceptance of
three types of cables: multi-wire concentric neutral, shielded and unshielded.
Z1 Positive-sequence impedance Z1 (Ω / km or Ω / ft)

Z0 Zero-sequence impedance Z0 (Ω / km or Ω / ft)
Susceptance (µS / km or µS / ft 1 µS = 1 µmho.)
Ampacity (summer and winter ratings)

Withstand In the short-circuit results, CYMDIST will check the Withstand

Rating Rating for the following cases:
a 2 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) − a * Z 0 − Z1
where Y = , a = e j 2π / 3
Z1 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) + Z1 * Z 0
y 1-phase grounded fault: IWithstand – Kmax * (3*VLN)/(2*Z1 + Z0+3*Zf)
withstand rating abnormal condition. However, you must enter non-
zero value for withstand rating. If this value is zero no check will be
made.
Reliability To specify characteristics that will solely be used by the Reliability
parameters Assessment Module (RAM) calculations.
Calculate Displays the Cable Impedance Calculator dialog box where you can
specify the type of cable you are defining and to calculate the
impedance and susceptance values based on the parameters you will
enter in this dialog box.
The contents of this dialog box will vary depending on the three
choices available:
y Multi-wire concentric neutral cable (section 6.11.1)
y Shielded cable (section 6.11.2)
y Unshielded cable (section 6.11.3)
CYMTCC Activates the CYMTCC application and displays the corresponding
CYMTCC cable curve dialog box, so that you may inspect and adjust
its settings in CYMTCC as well as create a new cable curve. (This
feature is not accessible via the Section Properties/Settings dialog
box)

6.11.1 Multi-wire concentric neutral cable
Select Circuit Options available include: 3-phases, 2-phases and 1-phase. Upon
Type selection of the option, its typical diagram is displayed below the
selection field to further assist in filling out the related parameter
fields. Note that the fields of parameters that you cannot edit will be
grayed out.
Indicate below the diagram the distances between the phases. This
distance is calculated from center to center.
Insulation Select the type of insulation from the drop down list. Upon selection,
Characteristic its dielectric constant will be displayed. Indicate the diameter over the
s insulation.
Phase Select the conductor type for the phases. Upon selection, its
Conductor characteristics will be displayed.
Characteristic
s
Neutral Select the conductor type for neutral. Upon selection, its
Characteristic
Note: The resistance (R) temperature value displayed for the phase
s
and the neutral conductor can be selected at File >
Preferences, System parameters tab. It is expressed in
Celsius (10°C = 18°F).
Equivalent Once the cable parameters have been specified, click on the
Impedances Calculate button to calculate and display the computed impedance
and susceptance values. If these values are satisfactory, Click OK
and CYMDIST will copy the values back to the original dialog box.
Note that the OK button will be disabled until you click on the
Calculate button.

6.11.2 Shielded cable
Select Circuit Options available include: 3-core and 3 single-core. Upon selection
Type of the option, its typical diagram is displayed below the selection field
to further assist in filling out the related parameter fields. Note that
the fields of parameters that you cannot edit will be grayed out.
Indicate below the diagram the distances between the phases. This
distance is calculated from center to center.
Insulation Select the type of insulation from the drop down list. Upon selection,
Characteristic its dielectric constant will be displayed.
s
Characteristic
s
Note: The resistance (R) temperature value displayed for the
phase conductor can be selected at File > Preferences,
System parameters tab. It is expressed in Celsius (10°C =
18°F).
Sheath Indicate the inner radius and the outer radius of the cable. Its
Characteristic geometric factor will be displayed.
s
Calculate button.

6.11.3 Unshielded cable
Select Circuit Options available include: 3-conductor triangular grouping, 3-

Type conductor cradled grouping, 6-conductor bunched grouping and
generic 1-conductor. Upon selection of the option, its typical diagram
is displayed below the selection field to further assist in filling out the
related parameter fields. Note that the fields of parameters that you
cannot edit will be grayed out.
Indicate the number of neutral cables; these will be automatically
represented on the typical diagram.
Indicate below the diagram the x,y coordinates of the phases and of
the neutral. The coordinates are calculated from center to center.
Characteristic
s
Neutral Select the conductor type for neutral. Upon selection, its
Characteristic
s
Note: The resistance (R) temperature value displayed for the
phase and the neutral conductor can be selected at File >
Preferences, System parameters tab. It is expressed in
Celsius (10°C = 18°F).

Calculate button.
6.11.4 Cable Settings
Cable ID Select the conductor ID from the pull-down list of available choices
and the number of cables in parallel.
Note: Depending on the Type selection, this heading will read
Line ID or Cable ID.
Hints: Click on the question mark to view detail information
on the selected conductor and or spacing arrangement.
You can specify the default conductor (See reference
manual THE “CYMDIST.INI” FILE).
Ampacity Summer and Winter ratings; enable the Override checkbox to enter
a different current rating for this particular section.
Equivalent Describes the impedance values for the cable(s) of the section.
impedance

6.12 Conductor
The conductor types used in the specification of the lines and cables parameters are
defined here.
Conductor Overall diameter of the conductor.

diameter
GMR (Geometric Mean Radius) may 2
usually be found in many2 reference
books. It is defined as the N root of the product of the N distances
between the N sub-conductors (strands) of the conductor if the
strands are identical. (Not applicable to ACSR.)
N N
∏∏ D
2
GMR = N km
k =1 m =1
where Dmm = e-1/4 ⋅ radius = 0.7788 ⋅ radius for a cylindrical strand.

R 25°C R 25°C and R 50°C are two different values for the resistance at
arbitrary temperatures (most commonly 25°C and 50°C). If the
and
values of the resistances that you have available do not correspond
R 50°C to 25°C and 50°C, then you can enter your values to be used further
in the CYMDIST calculations. (Note that the resistances of copper
and aluminum both increase with temperature at the rate of about 4%
for every 10°C rise. Recall that 10°C = 18°F.)
Note: The resistance (R) temperature value that is displayed in the
Cable dialog boxes (section 6.11) is selected in the File >
Preferences, System parameters tab dialog box.
In that same dialog box, appears an Outside Temperature
field that is NOT used by CYMDIST for the R calculation. It
does not calculate based on other temperatures than 25°C
and 50°C. It is up to you to select which one.

Hint: You would use the lower resistance value (that at lower
temperature) when calculating maximum short circuit
current, and the higher resistance value when calculating
the worst-case voltage drop.
Nominal Summer and winter ratings in Amps.
Rating
Withstand In the short-circuit results, CYMDIST will check the Withstand
Rating Rating for the following cases:
a 2 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) − a * Z 0 − Z1
where Y = , a = e j 2π / 3
Z1 * ( Z1 + Z 0 ) + Z1 * Z 0
y 1-phase grounded fault: IWithstand – Kmax * (3*VLN)/(2*Z1 + Z0+3*Zf)
withstand rating abnormal condition. However, you must enter non-
zero value for withstand rating. If this value is zero no check will be
made.
Reliability To specify characteristics that will solely be used by the Reliability
parameters Assessment Module (RAM) calculations.

6.13 Spacing Table OH-Line
This dialog box is used to specify arrangements of conductors on a pole.
GMD (Geometric Mean Distance) between phase conductors and between

phase and neutral conductors, in meters or feet.
Average Of conductors above ground, in meters or feet.
Height
Positions CYMDIST can compute the GMD and Average Height for you if you
of enter the conductor positions with respect to an arbitrary reference
conductors point (such as the foot of the Pole). Give the horizontal and vertical
distances in meters or feet and click on "GMD Calculation".
Note: Effect of Average Height on Voltage Drop results

If conductor spans have significant sag, you must decide whether to give the
conductor height at the pole (highest) or at the mid-point of the conductor
span (lowest). You may also use some value in between these extremes.
The lower the height, the higher is the line-to-neutral capacitance, and hence
the susceptance B0 = ωC.
The phase capacitance and the positive sequence B1 are increased by 1-2%
for a 10% reduction in Phase GMD (and decreased by 1-2% if the conductors
are spaced 10% further apart). Height has negligible effect on phase
capacitance.
The more capacitance in the circuit, the more kVAR support the lines give,
and the voltage will be slightly higher.

6.14 Shunt Capacitor
CYMDIST allows you to define standard sizes and voltage classes of capacitor banks.
When you connect a new capacitor bank on a section you do not have to select a model
from the equipment database; the “user-defined” type can be used to enter directly the desired
KVAR and voltage rating.
The cost of fixed and switched banks can be used by the Optimal Capacitor
Placement analysis module. Refer to the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual for all details.
To turn off capacitors according to their type of control (described in Section Properties),
select Analysis > Calculation, Equipment Status tab (see the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User
Manual).

6.14.1 Shunt Capacitor Settings
ID Choose a capacitor from the Equipment Database, or select

USERDEFINED and enter your own kVAR and kV ratings.
Location Select from three positions: ‘At From Node’, ‘At Middle’ or ‘At To
Node’ - same as for Spot Loads (see 3.3.4 Spot Load and Distributed
Load Settings).
Phase Click in the desired box or boxes to connect a capacitor to the

corresponding phase(s).
Rated power Enter the rated kVAR per phase.

KVAR/phase
Rated voltage Enter the rated line-to-neutral voltage, in kV.

KV

Control Type Click on the pull-down menu to view the types of capacitor control
available. For fixed capacitor banks, select Manual.
For switched capacitors, select one of these criteria for connecting
and disconnecting the capacitor: Voltage (in terms of base voltage),
Current (Amps), Reactive Current (Amps), Power Factor (%),
Temperature, Time or kVAR flow. This will enable the following
fields and checkboxes.

Status Click on the pull-down menu to view the options corresponding to the
control type selected above. E.g. For fixed (Manual) capacitors, you
may select either Disconnected or Connected. Switched
capacitors may be Disconnected, initially On, or initially Off.
Switch ON at Value at which the capacitor bank is switched ON during a Voltage

Drop calculation. CYMDIST will compare it to the average of the
values on the controlling phases at the capacitor location.
Switch OFF at Value at which the capacitor bank is switched OFF during a Voltage
Drop calculation. CYMDIST will compare it to the average of the
values on the controlling phases at the capacitor location.
6.15 Shunt Reactor

CYMDIST allows you to define standard sizes and voltage classes of reactor banks.
(You can still enter any rating you like when you edit a section) See Settings below.
Note The value for Rated Power must be positive.

:

6.15.1 Shunt Reactor Settings
When connecting on a section you do not have to select a model from the equipment
database; the “user-defined” type can be used to enter directly the desired KVAR and voltage
rating.
ID Choose a reactor from the Equipment Database, or select

USERDEFINED and enter your own kVAR and kV ratings.
Location Select from three positions: ‘At From Node’, ‘At Middle’ or ‘At To
Node’ - same as for Spot Loads (see 3.3.4 Spot Load and
Distributed Load Settings).
Phase Click in the desired box or boxes to connect a capacitor to the

corresponding phase(s).
Rated power Enter the rated kVAR per phase.

KVAR/phase
Rated voltage Enter the rated line-to-neutral voltage, in kV.

KV


6.16 Series Capacitor

Series capacitors are installed to reduce the line reactance, to aid power flow.
Note: The value for Rated Power must be positive.
6.16.1 Series Capacitor Settings
The available settings options for the Series Capacitor are its Status and the Fault
indicator.

6.17 Series Reactor
Series reactors are installed to limit short-circuit current.
Note: The value for Rated Power must be positive.

6.17.1 Series Reactor Settings
The available settings options for the Series Reactor are its Status and the Fault
indicator, along with a Comments box.
6.18 Miscellaneous
If you have unknown or unique equipments, you can mark their location on the network
by using Miscellaneous equipment markers. You can give each instance a meaningful ID and a
description. This type of device has only basic electrical characteristics. CYMDIST does not
consider that they can operate to protect the system against failures neither that they can open
nor close the circuit. Use this function to create your own database of specialized equipments
markers.
6.18.1 Miscellaneous Equipment Settings
The available settings options for the Miscellaneous Equipment are its Status and the
Fault indicator, along with a Description box.

6.19 Harmonic Devices
6.19.1 Arc Furnace
F pu Represents the frequency in per-unit of fundamental (i.e. harmonic order).

M [%] Is the current magnitude in % of the fundamental current drawn by the load.
You may enter currents for up to 100 frequencies.
6.19.1.1 Arc Furnace Settings
The Arc furnace must be installed on 3-phase sections. Note that in Load flow, CYMDIST
will model the arc furnace as a constant MVA/PF industrial spot load with Yg configuration and
that CYMDIST will ignore arc furnace in short circuit analysis.

S Represents the three-phase fundamental power in MVA.

Power Factor Is the fundamental power factor in %.
If the arc furnace is Balanced, CYMDIST will use the arc furnace model for harmonic
analysis in all three phases, taking into account the proper phase angles. If, on the other hand,
you opt for an Unbalanced source, you will be able to enter a Shunt Multi Frequency Source
(section 6.19.8) of your choice for each phase.
6.19.2 Ideal Converter
6.19.2.1 Ideal Converter Settings
The Ideal Converters must be installed on three-phase sections. Note that in Load flow,
CYMDIST will treat the ideal converter as a constant P/S industrial Yg spot load where S (kVA)
comes from the equipment and P (kW) comes from the equipment settings and that CYMDIST
will ignore ideal converters in short circuit analysis.
When you install an ideal converter on the network, you will need to specify the active
power P that is being absorbed by the converter. P will be used in load flow analysis.

6.19.3 Non Ideal Converter
The Commutating reactance field and the Estimate button will be enabled only for
Pulse number greater than 6. Note that the Pulse number must be at least six or a multiple of
six.
If the pulse number is greater than 6, you can click the Estimate button in order to
calculate the commutating reactance as shown below.
Enter the parameters Vp, Vs, S and X (reactance) then click on the Estimate button.
The computed value will be displayed in the Xc field. The meaning of the parameters is illustrated
in the diagram displayed on the left.

6.19.3.1 Non-Ideal Converter Settings
Non-Ideal Converters must be installed on 3-phase sections. Note that in load flow
analysis, CYMDIST will treat the non-ideal converter as a constant kW/kVA industrial Yg spot
load and that CYMDIST will ignore non-ideal converter in short-circuit analysis.
When you install a non-ideal converter on the network, specify the Output Power which
is being absorbed by the converter in kW, the three-phase fault level FL at the section in kVA and
the total commutating reactance Xc in Ohm.
Click on Estimate to calculate the total commutating reactance, given the transformer
and converter data as shown in the dialog below.

6.19.4 Single Tuned Filter
This filter is a series RLC circuit in which the L and C resonate at a specific frequency. At
the resonant frequency, the filter’s impedance is minimum and equal to R alone.
R Filter resistance in Ohm

L Filter inductance in mH
C Filter capacitance in uF
Q Capacitor nominal rating reactive power in kVAR
V Capacitor nominal rating voltage in kV
Tuned The tuned frequency in harmonic order.
Frequency
Connection To select the appropriate connection symbol. Three types of connection
are available: GY, Y, and Delta.
Compute Opens the Single Tuned Filter Parameters dialog box where you can
enter the capacitors’ rated power and voltage, the tuned frequency and
quality factor. By default, the fundamental frequency will be the system
frequency (the value entered in the System Parameters tab of the
Preferences dialog). Click on Compute to calculate the parameters R, L,
C from previous dialog.

Note: The quality factor is equal to the ratio of the reactance of the inductance at the
tuned frequency to the resistance.
6.19.4.1 Single Tuned Filter Settings

You can install single tuned filter on single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase sections.
Note that in short-circuit analysis, CYMDIST will ignore the single-tuned filter and that in load flow
analysis, CYMDIST will treat the single-tuned filter as a constant kVA load.
1
Z = R + jX = R + j (ϖL − )
ϖC
R2 + X 2
r=
R
R2 + X 2
x=
X
Vbase 2
P=
r
Vbase 2
Q=
x

Connection: This field will be disabled when the single tuned filter is installed on 1-
phase or 2-phase section. For 3-phase section, the connection can be GY, Y, or D. If the
connection is GY, you could input the Rg and Xg for grounded impedance. Otherwise, these
fields are disabled.
Balanced/Unbalanced: If the single-tuned filter is balanced, the equipment parameters

R, L, and C will be used for each phase. If the single-tuned filter is unbalanced, you may indicate
the unbalanced factor for R, L, and C for each phase. This factor can be positive or negative. The
final R, L, and C for each phase will be calculated as ( 1+ UnbalancedFactor / 100) *
nominalValue.
6.19.5 Double Tuned Filter
The R-L-C structure of the double-tuned filter is schematized in the diagram to the right of
the dialog box.

R1, R2, R3 Filter resistances in Ohm

L1, L2 Filter inductances in mH
C1, C2 Filter capacitances in uF
Tuned Freq #1 Filter tuned frequencies in harmonic order. All these parameters can
and be obtained with the aid of Compute… function.
Tuned Freq #2
Compute Opens the following dialog box where you can enter the capacitors’
powers and voltage ratings, the tuned frequencies and quality factors.
By default, the fundamental frequency will be the system frequency
(the value entered in the System Parameters tab of the Preferences
dialog). Click on Compute to calculate the parameters R1, L1, C1,
R2, L2, C2, and R3 from previous dialog.
Note: The quality factor is equal to the ratio of the reactance of the inductance at the
tuned frequency to the resistance.
6.19.5.1 Double Tuned Filter Settings
You can install double tuned filter on single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase sections.
Note that in short-circuit analysis, CYMDIST will ignore the Double Tuned Filter and that in load
flow analysis, CYMDIST will treat the double-tuned filter as a constant kVA load.
1
Z1 = R1 + jX 1 = R1 + j (ϖL1 − )
ϖC1
Z 2 = R 2 + jX 2 = R 2 + j (ϖL 2)
1
Z 3 = R3 + jX 3 = R3 + j (− )
ϖC 3

Z 2* Z3
Z = R + jX = Z1 +
Z 2 + Z3
R2 + X 2
r=
R
R2 + X 2
x=
X
Vbase 2
P=
r
Vbase 2
Q=
x
6.19.6 C-Type Filter
The C-type filter is designed to have lower losses at fundamental frequency than other
types, especially when the tuned frequency is low.
The R-L-C structure of the C-Type filter is schematized in the diagram to the right of the
dialog box.
R1, R2, R3 Filter resistances in Ohm
L1, L2 Filter inductances in mH
C1, C2 Filter capacitances in uF

6.19.6.1 C-Type Filter Settings
You can install C-Type filter on single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase sections. Note
that in short-circuit analysis, CYMDIST will ignore the C-Type Filter and that in load flow analysis,
CYMDIST will treat c-type filter as a constant kVA load.
1
Z1 = R1 + jX 1 = R1 + j (ϖL1 − )
ϖC1
1
Z 2 = R 2 + jX 2 = R 2 + j (ϖL 2 − )
ωC 2
1
Z 3 = R3 + jX 3 = R3 + j (ϖL3 − )
ϖC 3
Z 2* Z3
Z = R + jX = Z1 +
Z 2 + Z3
R2 + X 2
r=
R
R2 + X 2
x=
X
Vbase 2
P=
r
Vbase 2
Q=
x

6.19.7 High Pass Filter
The high pass filter is designed to absorb harmonic currents of high frequencies.
R, L and C represent the filter resistance, inductance and capacitance. Q and V are the
capacitor power and voltage ratings.
The high pass filter R-L-C structure is schematized in the diagram shown on the right of
the dialog box.
6.19.7.1 High Pass Filter Settings

You can install high-pass filter on single-phase, two-phase, and three-phase sections.
Note that in short-circuit analysis, CYMDIST will ignore high-pass filter and that in load flow
analysis, CYMDIST will treat high-pass filter as a constant kVA load.
1
Z1 = jX 1 = j (− )
ϖC
Z 2 = jX 2 = j (ϖL)
Z3 = R
Z 2* Z3
Z = R + jX = Z1 +
Z 2 + Z3
R2 + X 2
r=
R
R2 + X 2
x=
X

Vbase 2
P=
r
Vbase 2
Q=
x
6.19.8 Shunt Multi Frequency Source
This model is a general one. It requires the current magnitudes in A or in % of the

current magnitude at the fundamental frequency. You may enter currents for up to 100
frequencies.
F pu Represents the vector of frequencies in per-unit of fundamental (i.e.

harmonic order).
I [Amp] Is the vector of current magnitudes (in Amp or in % of the fundamental
current magnitude. To enter the current magnitude in % of the fundamental
current, select the appropriate option in the section Unit of the harmonic
current magnitude and then specify the value of the current magnitude in
Amp.
A[Deg] Is the vector of phase angles (in degrees).

6.19.8.1 Shunt Multi Frequency Current Source Settings
Note that in load flow analysis, CYMDIST will treat the shunt multi frequency current
source as a constant kW/kVAR industrial spot load and that CYMDIST will ignore shunt multi
frequency current source in short-circuit analysis.
Phase Shunt Multi frequency source can be installed on single-phase, two-

phase and three-phase sections.
Connection Two types of connection are available: Yg for single-phase, two-phase,
three-phase sections and Delta for three-phase sections only.
Q The reactive power absorbed by the source in kVAR.
P The active power absorbed by the source in kW.
Fundamenta This parameter can be user-defined or calculated from load flow. In the
l current former case, you should enter the fundamental current magnitude (in
Amp) and angle (in degrees). These values will be used for harmonic
model if the harmonic currents are based on % of fundamental current
magnitude.

6.19.9 Shunt Single Frequency Source
This model injects current at one frequency.
Frequency Frequency in per-unit of fundamental (i.e. harmonic order).

I Current magnitude in Amp.
Angle Phase angle with respect to LN voltage.
6.19.9.1 Shunt Single Frequency Current Source Settings
CYMDIST will ignore shunt single frequency current source for both load flow and short-
circuit.
Phase Shunt single frequency source can be installed on single-phase, two-

phase and three-phase sections.
Frequency Frequency in per-unit of fundamental (i.e. harmonic order).

I Current magnitude in Amp.

Angle Phase angle with respect to LN voltage.
6.20 Default Equipments
In older versions of CYMDIST, devices in the network whose Equipment ID couldn’t be

found in the equipment database were replaced by the Equipment DEFAULT of the same type.
In this version, the user can now decide with which equipment from the database the
missing device(s) will be replaced with.
Add Displays the Default Equipment Rule dialog box where you can define
a new default equipment rule.
Select a device type among the ones listed. Select the old equipment
Id from the list or type it in the Equipment Id field. Select the
equipment Id that will replace the missing one in the Replace by
Equipment Id field. Click OK to copy this record in the Default
Equipments dialog or Cancel to discard it.

Settings Clicking on the Settings hyperlink next to an entry displays the Default
Equipment Rule dialog box so you can modify the associated record
data.
Remove Position the cursor in a cell within the row to delete and click on the
button Remove.
OK To keep and save all modifications you have made in the Default
Equipments dialog.

Chapter 7 The Analysis Menu
7.1 Overview
The analysis menu provides access to the available calculation modules of CYMDIST,
both standard and optional modules. Access to optional calculation modules are enabled or
appended to this menu as soon as the required license keys are available installed. The basic
CYMDIST analyses and the optional analysis modules are described in separate manuals.
See in
this
Analysis/Simulation chapter Refer to:
Arc Flash Hazards 7.16 Arc Flash Hazard Analysis (Distribution) – User
Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYM-Arc Flash
Hazard module.
Capacitor Placement 7.7 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Contingency Analysis 7.12 CYMDIST-CAM – Contingency Analysis – User

Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYMDIST-CAM
module.
Fault Flow 7.8 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Harmonic 7.10 CYMHARMO (Distribution) – Harmonic Analysis –

User Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYMDIST-HARMO
module.
Load Allocation 7.4 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Load Balancing 7.5 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Load Growth 7.6 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Motor Start Locked 7.9 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual

Rotor
Motor Start Maximum 7.9 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual

Size
Network Reduction 7.19 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual
Protection and 7.11 CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual.

Coordination Requires the installation of CYMTCC.
CHAPTER 7 –- THE ANALYSIS MENU 187

See in
this
Analysis/Simulation chapter Refer to:
Reliability Assessment 7.15 CYMDIST-RAM – Reliability Assessment – User

Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYMDIST-RAM
module.
Service Restoration 7.13 CYMDIST-SRM – Service Restoration – User

Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYMDIST-SRM
module.
Short Circuit 7.2 and Accessed through the Calculation option of the
7.3 Analysis menu. CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User
Manual.
Switching Optimization 7.14 CYMDIST-SOM – Switching Optimization – User

Manual.
Requires the installation of the CYMDIST-SOM
module.
Voltage Drop 7.2 and Accessed through the Calculation option of the
7.3 Analysis menu. CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User
Manual
7.2 Calculation
This command displays the Network Calculation dialog box into which you can view
and edit the parameters of Voltage Drop and Short-Circuit analyses, and launch those
simulations.
The associated dialog boxes and more information on the analyses themselves can be
found in the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual.
7.3 Calculation Parameters
This menu command displays a dialog box that is a sub set of the “Calculation” dialog
box (from the previous command). You use this dialog box to modify the calculation parameters
only. It features the same tabs than the Calculation dialog box described. You cannot select the
feeder(s), or which analysis to run. To run the analysis, click on OK.
The associated dialog boxes can be found in the CYMDIST Basic Analyses User Manual.
188 CHAPTER 7 –- THE ANALYSIS MENU

7.4 Load Allocation
Load Allocation forces the connected load to match the metered demand.
You have two ways to define the metered demand:
1. Using this Load Allocation dialog box, you may give the metered feeder demand at
(or near) the substation.
2. Alternately, you may attach meters to switching devices on the feeder and define the
demand measured by each meter. Refer to various Switch Settings in the
Equipment Menu (see 6.9.7). You must attach and define the meter settings, before
performing a Load Allocation.
CYMDIST will assign a portion of the metered demand to each phase of each section
according to the KVA (connected or actual), KWH consumed, or number of consumers
connected there. Note that CYMDIST takes into account motors, generators, capacitors, line
susceptances and losses when it does this calculation. Checking the appropriate option can
ignore motors and shunt capacitors. The four methods are described below.
Hint: CYMDIST can take into account the utilization factor and power factor you
define for each load category (residential, commercial, industrial, other).
7.5 Load Balancing
Load balancing analysis shows how to reconnect loads from one phase to another to
meet user selectable objectives.
You can choose among three Objectives:
y Minimize the KW losses
y Balance the load (KVA)
y Balance the current (A)
Subject to the guidelines you provide, CYMDIST examines the effect of making one
change at a time. For each possible change, CYMDIST performs a voltage drop analysis. It then
retains the change that reduces kW losses (or Load unbalance factor or Current unbalance
factor) the most, and repeats the whole process to find the subsequent change that reduces the
remaining losses (load/current unbalance factor) the most, and so on. CYMDIST continues until
no change is found that can further reduce the losses (or load/current unbalance factor) by at
least the specified minimum reduction value.

7.6 Load Growth
Allows you to specify the percentage change for loads during specific years, and then
modify the loads to what they will be in some future year. Then you may perform analyses on the
feeder, as it will be at that time.
7.7 Capacitor Placement
This command shows you where to connect capacitors in order to reduce kW losses and
maintain a desired power factor. As well, it allows you to optimize based on costs.
You have control over the size and the number of capacitor banks to be recommended.
Also, you may choose whether (or not) to install the recommended capacitors Although
CYMDIST always suggests placing a capacitor at the load end of the section; you are free to
change the location before installing the capacitor.
7.8 Fault Flow
Calculates the load flow of a network system (looped or radial) when a fault is applied to
a specific section.
7.9 Motor Start Analysis
The Motor Starting Analysis module simulates the effects of induction or synchronous
motors starting in distribution electric power systems (networks) and estimate the maximum
motor size that can be started on a given section.
• Locked Rotor Analysis calculates the voltage dip starting motors will cause on a
network. This calculation assists the client in determining the proper motor size for
installation.
• Maximum Start Size Analysis estimates the maximum motor size that can be started
on a given section.

7.10 Harmonic Analysis
This command displays the Harmonic Analysis dialog box where you can set the
parameters to run phase or sequence analysis, driving point and transfer point frequency
scanning analysis, voltage and current harmonic distortion, calculation of telephonic indices, and
perform system detuning analysis. CYMHARMO (Distribution) is an optional additional module.
found in the CYMHARMO (Distribution) Harmonic Analysis User Manual.
7.11 Protective Device Coordination
Allows you to use the protection coordination program CYMTCC to coordinate protective
devices on a feeder without leaving CYMDIST. The procedure is outlined below:
1. You identify the circuit path along which you want to coordinate protective devices.
2. CYMDIST transmits to CYMTCC the list of devices it finds along that path.
3. You use CYMTCC to determine the appropriate settings for the devices.
4. You send the settings description (Setting ID) for each device back to CYMDIST.
5. The settings appear in the Report Tags and in the Switch Settings dialog box.
Note: You need to have installed CYMTCC, version 4.2 or higher, in order to use
these commands.
Note: If there is more than one version of CYMTCC installed, the last opened version
will be called by these commands. To avoid opening the wrong version, open
the desired version manually before using the commands.
7.12 Contingency Analysis
The CYMDIST-CAM Contingency Analysis optional module shows you what to do to

restore power to customers affected by a single damaged section or equipment. It finds the
optimal switching plan to restore electrical power to priority customers and to recover the
maximum possible load in the affected areas.
Contingencies may be set at the substation, circuit or component level, meaning that you
may study the impact of losing a transformer-bank in the substation or simply simulate a
damaged component on the main feeder.
Refer to the CYMDIST-CAM – Contingency Analysis – User Manual for the complete
description of the functions.

7.13 Service Restoration
The CYMDIST-SRM Multiple-contingency Service Restoration optional module is used to

plan what to do to restore service to as many customers (or to high-priority customers) in the
event that more than one section or equipment is damaged at the same time, as for example,
following a storm.
The description of its functions, related commands and required input data is the subject
of the CYMDIST-SRM – Service Restoration – User Manual.
7.14 Switching Optimization
The CYMDIST-SOM Switching Optimization optional module is used to close and / or

open existing switching devices to find the configuration of the feeders that will minimizes losses
(and hence lowers the operating cost), while still maintaining acceptable voltages and without
overloading equipment. It may also be used to transfer load from a heavily loaded substation to
one that has a lighter load, to reduce the number of alarm conditions, or even to reduce the
length of certain feeders by transferring some of their circuits to other feeders.
The description of the features and utilization of this module is covered in the CYMDIST-
SOM – Switching Optimization – User Manual.
7.15 Reliability Assessment
The purpose of the CYMDIST-RAM Reliability Assessment optional module is to aid

distribution engineers with predictive reliability assessment of electric distribution networks. The
program computes a set of predictive reliability indices for the overall system such as SAIFI,
SAIDI, CAIDI, MAIFI, ASAI, ENS (Energy Not Supplied). It also computes load point indices such
as the frequency of interruption, the duration, number of customers affected, average load and
energy not supplied at each load point.
It provides a high degree of flexibility for analyzing distribution system configurations

(“what-if” scenarios). You may make network modifications such as equipment
installation/relocation, tree-trimming etc., and measure the improvement in reliability indices.
CYMDIST-RAM is fully described in the CYMDIST-RAM – Reliability Assessment – User

Manual.
7.16 Arc Flash Hazards
This optional module was designed in an effort to analyze and promote electrical safety
for employees working on the field. By increasing understanding and awareness of electrical
hazards, it is possible to minimize the risk and the exposure to them. Consequently, helping
individuals who work on or near these equipments to avoid burns and injuries.
Integrating the industry generally recognized standards and methods, namely the
Electrical Safety Requirements for Employee Workplaces (NFPA-70E) and the Institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE-1584), this module computes the needed information
to assess the risk level and adopt the adequate safety procedures.

Foremost, using an already existing network, the user can add arc flash related
information to an equipment such as the surrounding environment and the working conditions.
Default values are readily available.
More information can be found in the Arc Flash Hazard Analysis (Distribution) – User
Manual.
7.17 Network Equivalent Calculation
The purpose of this module is to allow you to analyze part of a complex distribution
networks system without the intricacies of loading and managing all the implied networks. To
achieve this, CYMDIST calculates network equivalent for all networks in the database or in
memory only. The process is that for each network, CYMDIST computes an equivalent source
to represent the networks connected upstream and a load equivalent to represent the network
as seen by the upstream networks.
You will find more information about this capability in the CYMDIST Basic Analysis User
Manual.
7.18 Network Forecaster
Network Forecaster is an optional module of CYMDIST. It will be available with an

upcoming version of CYMDIST.
Network Forecaster comprises the functionality to view/modify/create time-dependent

projects in the selected period, that consist of any modifications such as the addition of any load
at a given date (year, month or day), change/ replacement of power transformers within the
substation, rephasing/reconductoring project, network switching or reconfiguration, etc.
7.19 Network Reduction
The Network Reduction function of CYMDIST allows reducing a large network (or any
part of it) into a much smaller equivalent network by keeping the area and equipments of interest,
and allows matching exactly the power flow and short-circuit results of the non-reduced network.
You can apply your modifications directly to your network or create a copy of it; as well,
you can customize the naming convention of the network and section.
You will find more information about this capability in the CYMDIST Basic Analysis User
Manual.

Chapter 8 The Report Menu
8.1 Overview
The Reports menu contains a variety of functions to allow creating and customizing
tabular reports for all the analyses in CYMDIST. The reports are generated based on values
obtained from the most recent analysis, and can be done in a variety of formats.
You will find more information about how to customize your own reports in the CYMDIST
Advanced Customization User Manual.
Note: Charts generated as a result of a certain number of analyses, such as

Frequency Scan (Harmonic Analysis), Fault Current Profile, KVA Profile, KVAR
Profile, and Voltage Profile are managed using CYMVIEW (see 10.2 Graphic
Viewer).
8.1.1 Reports Contextual Menus
Two contextual menus are available for further action on the reports generated, options
will be enabled if relevant to the type of report active. One is displayed when you right-click
anywhere in the report, and the second one on the tabs identifying the reports.
Undo To undo any formatting or modification made to the reports.
Redo To re-instate the just undone action.
Copy Copies your selection into the Windows clipboard for pasting in an
outside application.
Find To search a string within the active report.
CHAPTER 8 –- THE REPORT MENU 195

Bookmark To add/delete bookmarks on selected lines of text-style reports, and to

s navigate through the report from a bookmark to another.
Export/ To export the active worksheet-style report or reports to a Microsoft

Export All Excel worksheet or Internet Explorer. If you export all reports, the Excel
worksheet will be tabbed the same way than the CYMDIST reports.
Docking Enabling this option will dock the reports at the bottom of the screen as a
View resizable area. Disabling will display the tabbed reports in a
moveable/resizable floating window. Before being able to dock the
reports the Allow Docking function must be enabled.
Zoom To zoom in or out on the active report.
Format To select the font, border, cell sizes and colors and to display the related
Properties dialog box. The options enabled will differ depending on the
style of the report (text or worksheet). See sub-section 8.8 Properties,
for all details.
Save/ Saves the active, (or highlighted) report to a file. The file formats
Save all available are Comma Separated Variable Files (.csv) or dBase Database
files (.dbf). You can print the file or import it into a document using a
word processor. Before selecting this command, click on the tab of the
report you wish to save to make it the active one.
Save all will save all the reports generated together.
Close To close the active report.
Close All To close all reports.
Allow To allow the possibility to dock the reports at the bottom of the screen as
docking a resizable area.
Hide To hide the reports. To display them again, select the menu command
View > Reports.
Floating To display the reports in a separate window that can be resized and
moved anywhere in the display.
Dragging a floating window towards an edge (horizontal or vertical) of
the display will dock along that edge.
MDI Child To display the tabbed reports as an additional main window.
196 CHAPTER 8 –- THE REPORT MENU

8.2 On Calculation
Displays the Reports dialog box where you select the tabular reports you wish to
generate and set their properties in terms of components of the network to analyze.
Select Networks: To generate the reports for the networks selected in the tree
list. If you choose two or more networks, enabling the option “All
networks in the same report” in the Properties dialog box of the reports
selected will generate the reports in the same window, instead of in
separate windows.
Selected Area: to generate the reports for the sections selected on the
one-line display prior to selecting this option.
Branch Downstream or Branch Upstream: To generate reports
downstream or upstream starting from the currently selected (highlighted)
branch. This option is only selectable if a section (but not the feeder head
node) is selected before selecting the command.
Show Select the category of report(s) to be generated. The categories shown

(All reports, Simulation reports, My Favorite reports) are the default
categories from the CYMDIST installation but you can create new
categories. You cannot delete All reports and Simulation reports but
you may delete My Favorite reports as soon as you have defined a new
category. You must have at least one favorite report category.
Refer to the CYMDIST Advanced Customization User Manual to learn
how to create/modify/delete reports and report categories.

Properties To display the associated Report Properties dialog box where you can
links customize the contents of the report. When the report name is shown in
the list with a grey background, it means that you will not be able to
customize the report content, as those reports only contain pre-defined
options.
Each Report Properties dialog box for the reports you can customize is
composed of the same types of parameters:
General This section identifies the report by its Name and its
Information Category. The Title will appear on the tab of the report(s).
The Mode is the format of the report. Available formats
are: CYME spreadsheet, Microsoft Excel (xls), HTML,
CYME database (dbf), XML and Microsoft Access (mdb).
The Filename and Template fields will be enabled when
relevant.
Select To mark all the devices applicable to the report you want.
Devices You can select devices on all sections or by device types.
By default, the abnormal conditions are disabled. To
activate one of them, you must first mark check the option
Abnormal conditions only.

Select The section will be automatically filled with keywords from

Keywords that report otherwise, this field is blank. You may add new
keywords by clicking on the add button ( ) and then
using the Keyword Selection interface. You may delete
unwanted keywords. Just select the keyword and click on
the delete button ( ). You may also change the
keywords order in the list. Select the keyword and then
click once on ( ) or ( ) to move the keyword one
position up or down.
Options All networks in the same report: to generate all the

reports in the same window, instead of in separate
windows.
Isolated devices: to include the isolated devices in the
report.
Devices with a tag displayed: to include in the report the
devices with a tag displayed in the one-line diagram, even
if their type is not selected in the Select Devices list of
the dialog box.
The reports selected will be generated upon clicking OK in the Reports dialog box.
Multiple reports appear as separate tabs in the bottom of the report window. Click on the tab to
view that particular report.
Reports may be docked (fixed to the bottom edge of the screen, for example) or
maximized, as an independent window.
Reports may be hidden / displayed via the Show Reports icon located in the Main
toolbar (see section 2.4.1)

8.3 Equipments
This command gives a report of the equipment database, by equipment type. Click on the
equipment types of interest. Click OK to generate the report(s). A separate window will be
opened for each selected type.
8.4 General
This command displays the Reports dialog box where you can select and generate
reports for the selected set of input data (and Selected networks or Areas).
8.5 Study Summary

This command reports generates a report (complete listing) of the modifications made in
the study, whether they were made to the base case network(s) or to the newly created ones
within the study. The modifications are listed in the order in which they were made.
Hint: The modification descriptions (e.g., “properties modification on section...”) may

not be precise enough at times; if you wish, CYMDIST can be configured to
prompt you to enter your own descriptive text as you make modifications. To
enable this feature, go to File > Preferences. In the Study Tab window, select
the option “Prompt for a user description when creating a modification”.

8.6 Data Validation Rules
This command generates reports on validation rules for the selected set of equipment or
equipment setting data. Click to place a (;) next to the desired equipment or equipment setting.
You may report on the CYMDIST rules or the user-defined rules imposed on the data or you may
check Undefined Rules to list the data for which no rules have been defined. You may set the
report format to Cyme spreadsheet, Excel or Html.
8.7 Format
This menu option is available for worksheet-style reports only. With it, you can adjust the
size and the color of the font, the alignment of the text, and the style and color of the border of
any cell in the report.

8.8 Properties
To adjust the display settings of the active report. The commands available will differ
depending on the style of report displayed.
8.8.1 Text-style Report Properties
To adjust the font of the text and of the highlighted text on the display, along with the
color of the letters and of the background. Note that only the font and font size parameters will be
used when actually printing the report.
8.8.2 Worksheet-style Report Properties
To select properties that will be reflected on both the report displayed on screen and the
printed report. See in the Preview group box the effect of each selection. Note that the changes
you make here apply to the report into which your cursor is positioned.
8.9 Close
To close the active report. Click on the tab of the report you wish to close before
selecting this command.

8.10 Close All
Closes all the report windows at once.
Hint: You can configure CYMDIST to automatically close all reports when you close
your study. To enable this feature, go to File > Preferences. In the Study Tab
window, select the option “Clear the reports when closing a study”.
8.11 Save
Saves the active, (or highlighted) report to a file. The file formats available are Comma
Separated Variable Files (.csv) or dBase Database files (.dbf). You can print the file or import it
into a document using a word processor. Before selecting this command, click on the tab of the
report you wish to save to make it the active one.

Chapter 9 The View Menu
9.1 Toolbars
To display or hide a toolbar, select or de-select its name. All toolbars are described at
section 2.4 Toolbars.
9.2 Status Bar
To display or hide the Status Bar (the two lines of text at the bottom of the screen).
By default, the top line displays the currently selected database configuration and
database type. For information on how to customize the status bar, refer to Customize > Status
Bar (section 11.4).
The second line displays a predefined set of information about the active symbol
(selected item). Commas separate information.
y Section ID and Feeder name.
y Phases present (A, B, C). [Example: (Phase:B,C) if only phases B and C are
present.]
y From Node ID and To Node ID.
y Equipment connected at source end / load end, (if any) (if none, then only “/” will be
shown).
y Conductor type.
y Length (m or ft., km or mi.).
The coordinates of where the cursor is located are shown further to the right of that
second line.
9.3 Explorer Bar
To display or hide the Explorer Bar(s). See section 2.3 Explorer Bar for the description of
all Explorer Bar tabs.
9.3.1 Show
The program will display the Show Explorer Bar(s) dialog box where you will select from
the list the Explorer Bars you wish to display or hide. The list that will be proposed will be the
latest configuration you had displayed on your desktop. Once the Explorer Bar(s) are displayed,
you can add or remove tabs. Each arrangement of tabs is referred to as a Group, which you can
rename. To access to those commands, right-click on the tab area of the explorer bar(s)
displayed.
CHAPTER 9 –- THE VIEW MENU 205

9.3.2 New
To create new explorer bar views. Select this command to open the following dialog.
The seven possible explorer bar views are listed. You cannot have more than seven
views or groups because you can only create one instance (one tab) of each item in the list that
means one different item in each explorer bar view. Within that constraint, you can combine the
tabs, as you want, to create explorer bar views.
9.4 Device View
When performing specific studies on large networks, it is often difficult to quickly view the
devices of interest. The Device View has been implemented to help you quickly monitor and
modify specific devices. It allows you to create a simplified view containing only the devices of
interest. For example, when performing a study on distributed generation, you could create a new
view containing only the generators, regulators and transformers.
206 CHAPTER 9 –- THE VIEW MENU

Configuratio To select the configuration to be viewed. To create a new one, click

n Add.
Devices in List of devices part of the configuration. This area will be filled in with
view the tree list only with when a Configuration is selected in the
Configuration field.
Phasing To identify the phasing of each type of devices.
Restrictions To define restrictions utilizing the available keywords.
9.5 Overview Map

Overview Map is a thumbnail view of the whole network loaded. When you zoom into
your OLD display, the Overview Map will show a rectangle representing the area zoomed in. The
Overview Map window is always located on the right hand side of the OLD display and cannot be
moved. The command View > Overview Map displays the window.
You can also select the area to zoom from within the Overview Map.
9.6 Network Explorer
Provides an alternate interface to edit section data without having to find the sections on
the One-Line Diagram. Every section of every loaded feeder in the study appears in the tree-like
list. To edit one, first locate it in the list and then double-click on it. The Section Properties
dialog box will appear, where you can view or edit the data.

Note: You can minimize or even close the One Line window, but if it is open, then
as you select sections in the One Line window, they will be selected in the
Network Explorer window as well. Selecting sections using the Search
command will also cause the One Line window and the Network Explorer to
select (make active) the same section.
Several columns of information accompany each section ID in the list, for easy reference.
You can sort the list of sections according to each of these items, by clicking on the appropriate
column heading. Click on the heading one more time to list in reverse order.
To adjust the width of a column, click and drag the edge of the column heading.
Click the right mouse button inside the Network Explorer window to access the explorer
contextual menu.
Properties Opens the Section Properties dialog box of the section highlighted, as
if you had double-clicked.
Preference Allows you to include or exclude certain columns (by clicking to

s select/de-select them), and to change their order of appearance, left-to-
right, by selecting the column heading and clicking on the Move Up and
the Move Down buttons.
Note: Load indicates “Dist” for distributed and/or “Spot” for a spot
load. Loading indicates the (current / rated ampacity) x 100%,
but only if you have done a voltage drop calculation.
Refresh Restores the original order of sections in the list starting with the section
closest to the substation at the top.

9.7 Image And Text Layers
To select, display or hide drawn elements comprising images, shapes and text created
using the tools found in the Drawing Tool toolbar (see 2.4.8).
9.8 Reports
Displays or hides the various / available reports that you have requested at the position
and size they were last displayed (floating or docked). Right-click on the report window frame to
display the contextual menu that will allow you to make the reports window floating or docked.
9.9 Freeze
Prevents CYMDIST from automatically redrawing the One Line Diagram until you
perform one of the following operations: Pan, Zoom, and Zoom to Fit.
Note This command was designed for use on very slow computers. We do not
: recommend enabling this command unless you have a specific need.
The graphic editing commands (Add section, Move, etc.) will work, but you will not see
your changes on the display. Some of the panning and zooming commands are blocked.
Display changes made via View > Display Options will not take effect, until you perform one of
the above-mentioned operations.
Choose Freeze again to deactivate this command.
9.10 Zoom
The following commands are available from this menu item:
Fit Adjusts the view magnification so that everything (circuit and or

background map) is displayed.
Fit to Adjusts the view magnification so that all feeders with “shown” status
Feeder are displayed without having to scroll. Background map is not
considered and some map element may extend beyond the window.
In To increases the view magnification.
Out To decreases the view magnification.
Previous To restore to the last magnification level.

Next To go back to the zoom level you were prior to using the Previous
command.
Locate Displays the Zoom locate dialog box where you can enter the x,y
coordinates of the point you are looking for.
The size of the displayed area around the point (and hence the
magnification) is defined by dx and dy (distance from x and distance
from y). See illustration below. This is approximately true, since the
aspect ratio (the shape of the rectangle) always has to be maintained.
9.11 Pan
This command group moves the OLD view by one-half screen, right, left, up or down.
9.12 Result Box
Displays or hides commonly used results dialog boxes: Voltage Drop, Short Circuit and
Downstream. You can also include here up to two customized result boxes. See Customize >
Result Box (section 11.5) about this.

9.13 Display Options
This is the main interface for controlling and customizing the CYMDIST display. Use this
command to customize equipment symbol, symbol color, text size and font, line thickness and
type as well as displaying feeders (networks) in different modes, with or without analysis results.
Click the Display Options button located in the Display toolbar (section 2.4.5) to
rapidly access the Display Options dialog box.
9.13.1 Show
To display or hide the various categories of symbols at the group level or at the individual
symbol type level. Use this tab to display only the information you want in the One Line Diagram.
“Display To place a check mark next to the types of devices, categories of

Elements” devices, or other elements (such as tooltips, grid, map, etc.) the
tree list One Line Diagram display will show. (Uncheck to hide)
Note: When all elements in a group are selected, the checkbox

background will be white ( ), when not all elements are
selected, the checkmark background will be grey ( ).
Elements that cannot be turned off are indicated by a black
arrow ( ).

“Element To select the symbol associated to the Display Element selected,

Characteristics its color, line style and size. Click on the Symbol to display the
” Symbol Selection window associated with the element selected.
Left hand part of
the dialog box
Global Display Find the best display settings. To adjust the size of the
Options symbols in relation to one another.
Updates the symbols in memory by reading the symbol file

being used by CYMDIST. The Symbol Library file set in
the Preferences > Custom Files list (see 4.17.2).
To globally change the font type utilized in the one-line

display window.
Displays the Shortcut Keys dialog boxes to assign

keyboard shortcuts to the devices.
Find
Type in some text in the Find box, click the Find button
and the program will take you directly to the first element that
matches the text in the display elements tree list. Click on Find
again to go to the next match.

9.13.2 Layers
This window allows the color-coding of each element that is part of all the layers possible
in the program. It also allows adjusting the names and/or thresholds defining each element part
of the selected layer.
Layer Select a Category to filter out the layers part of the Category chosen in
the Selected Layer field.
To create a custom layer, click on the button, next to the

Selected Layer field, and type in the name and select if the new layer is
a Device Layer or a Keyword Layer.
Then create its properties in the Properties part of the Layers dialog
box.
Properties To enable or disable a level or category within the selected layer, enable
or disable the checkbox on the left of it. To change its color, click on the
colored rectangle. To change another property, double-click on the
appropriate cell.

9.13.3 Tags
This command is used to organize the display of tags into configured layers. To create a
new tag layer, click on the button Add and enter a name for the layer. Then select the device
types and keywords to display. For each element part of the selected configuration, you can
adjust the Format using keywords, the text alignment and color, display or not a border and a
background. You can also choose to display the tags horizontally or at the same angle than the
devices themselves, and to display tags for abnormal conditions only.
Hint: All IDs now serve as hyperlinks in tags. If you display the Equipment Id in a
tag, you can then click on the text to display the associated equipment
Properties dialog box. The Section Id will serve as a hyperlink to the Section
Properties dialog box.
Hint: To quickly view or modify the tag properties, simply right-click on the tag to
display the contextual menu then select Tag Æ Properties.

9.13.4 Tooltips
To organize the display of tooltips into configured layers. To create a new tooltip layer,
click on the button Add and enter a name for the configuration. Then select the device types and
create the format to be used in each related tooltip.

9.13.5 Equipment Symbol
To associate a symbol to an Equipment Id. Click on the hyperlink to display the Symbol
Selection Dialog box and select the symbol from the choice proposed.

Chapter 10 The Tools Menu
10.1 Symbol Editor
The Symbol Editor is an external application that is used to create, modify, or delete the
equipment symbols that are part of your symbol library. The application contains basic drawing
features along with standard file management commands (open, save, save as, cut, copy, paste,
etc.) The pane on the left of the window will show the contents of the symbol XML file that is
opened, in the form of a tree list. When you highlight the name of a device in that list, a thumbnail
will be shown at the bottom of the list. When you double click on the name of the device, its
drawing will appear on the right side of the window which is the drawing space.
Note CYMDIST comes with a standard symbol library (symbols.xml) containing a

: large number of equipment symbols. When opening that file into the Symbol
Editor, you will notice that each symbol’s name starts with a 5-digit number: this
indicates that it is a CYMDIST default symbol which cannot be edited.
If you want to use a default symbol to create a new one, right-click on its name
and select Copy from the contextual menu. A copy will be displayed in the
drawing space; you can completely edit this copy. You will notice in the Title
Bar of the new window a 3-digit number that is a unique identifier generated by
the program.
CHAPTER 10 –- THE TOOLS MENU 217

Note: The structure of the tree list of symbols is exactly the same than all the symbol
listings that you will find in other parts of CYMDIST. They are grouped by
equipment types. You cannot add other equipment types.
To create a new symbol select Edit > New Symbol. You will be prompted to select the
equipment type and to enter a description for your symbol.
Upon clicking OK, a new drawing canvas will be displayed. The drawing commands that
are available are as follows. When you right-click in any part of the drawing, the commands that
are available for that specific element will be made available in a contextual menu.
SELECT. To highlight the symbol part you want to edit.
EDIT VERTICES. To move the vertices of a line, a polyline, a polycurve or a

polygon. Note that you cannot delete or add a vertex to a shape that is already
drawn.
PROPERTIES. You can assign line properties (color, width) to each graphical
component; fill properties to the closed shapes (rectangle, closed curve, etc.).
You can also determine if the shape that is part of the symbol can be selected,
edited, moved, etc.
The text properties are limited to the content (text or keyword) and to the text
size.
LINE. Click the Line button and then click and hold the mouse button in the
canvas until the line is the appropriate length, then release the mouse button.
POLYLINE. Click the Polyline button and then left-click on the canvas to place
the first vertex. Release the mouse button and move the cursor to the location of
the next vertex. Click again to place a vertex. Double-click to place the last
vertex and finish the polyline. Click the right mouse button to cancel the action
(before placing the last vertex).
218 CHAPTER 10 –- THE TOOLS MENU

POLYGON. Click the Polygon button and then left-click on the canvas to place
the next vertex. Click again to place a vertex, and so on. Double-click to place
the last vertex and finish the drawing. Click the right mouse button to cancel the
action (before placing the last vertex).
POLYCURVE. Click the Polycurve button and then click in the canvas to place
the next vertex. Click again to place a vertex, and so on. As you place the
vertices, the program displays a dotted line that shows the shape of the finished
line. Double-click to place the last vertex and finish the drawing.
Click the right mouse button to cancel (before placing the last vertex).
ELLIPSE. Click the Ellipse button and then click and hold the mouse button in
the canvas until the ellipse or the circle has the shape and the size you want.
(Press SHIFT to draw a circle.)
Click the Text button and then click in the canvas to position the box. Right-click
on that box to access the Properties dialog box and type in your text the Text
field. You can include You can add dynamic text to a symbol by including
keywords. Click on the Keywords button to display the Keyword Selection
dialog box where you can make your selection.
Click OK when done. You can modify your text or adjust the text properties by
right-clicking on the text component to access again the Properties dialog box.
INPUT PORT. To place the node connected to the section, on the same side as
the section’s From Node.
OUTPUT PORT. To place the node connected to the section, on the same side
as the section’s To Node.
Note: With some device symbols like a motor or a spot load, the input node
and output node are located at the same coordinate. To see the hidden
node, you must move the visible node aside.
SEQUENTIAL PORT. The number of connection ports for non-device symbols.

Example: a substation symbol or a feeder symbol.

To place the selected item: to the FRONT, to the BACK, one

layer FORWARD or one layer BACKWARD.
NUDGE. To nudge the selected item up, down, left or right.
ZOOM. Once activated, left clicking on the drawing zooms in;

right clicking zooms out.
ZOOM TO FIT. To fit the whole drawing to the window size.
ZOOM TO SELECTION. To fit the selected item to the window
size.
PAN. Once selected, do a left click and hold the button down to
move the drawing.
FREE ROTATE; ROTATE 90o LEFT; ROTATE 90o RIGHT;

FLIP VERTICAL; FLIP HORIZONTAL.
UNDO. Cancels the last modification.

REDO. Reinstates the last undone modification.
GRID. Displays or hides the grid.

SNAP TO GRID. Snaps symbols to the drawing grid.
TOGGLE PAGE BOUNDS. Displays the borders of the individual sheets
on the canvas.
10.2 Graphic Viewer
Opens an external application (CYMVIEW), where you can view or customize the
CYMDIST generated plots and graphics. This section provides an overview to CYMVIEW. For
more information, refer to the CYMVIEW User Manual.
To get the data in CYMVIEW, first run your analyses in CYMDIST and generate the
chart(s) using the Chart Selection command found in the Simulation Toolbar (section 2.4.13)
select your charts and click Plot to generate them. You then have two options to make your data
available to CYMVIEW, both available through the contextual menu of the CYMDIST-generated
charts:
1. The command Send To > CYMVIEW will open CYMVIEW and display your chart,
ready to be customized. Saving will be done through the Save command in
CYMVIEW.
2. The command Save (or Save As) will allow you to save the data in the directory of
your choice.

10.2.1 CYMVIEW Window
Upon selecting this menu command, CYMVIEW will appear, showing a folder for each
study. A number of “viewers” can be displayed in the CYMVIEW window. You can select them in
the View Menu of CYMVIEW. These windows can be moved and resized.
Chart Browser The top left part shows a list of the studies run. Each study may
contain several data sets. To see them (listed according to the date
and time), double-click on one data set. This opens the Chart
Selector window to select the name of the results you wish to plot
from the selected data set.
Clicking the Plot button will display the associated graphic. The
Chart Selector remains displayed for you to select other data to be
plotted. Once done with creating charts, click Done to dismiss the
Chart Selector.
Curve Manager Displays the settings summary of the chart that is selected in the
Plot Area.

Plot Area Tabbed area where the plots are displayed. A number of
commands are available to adjust the graphics. Those commands
are available by right-clicking on the Plot Area or via the Chart
menu.
Tabular Report Tabbed area where the data related to the plots is displayed. Right-
clicking in this area will display a contextual menu from which you
can select commands to format the report, save it or export it to MS
Excel or as a web page.
10.2.2 Chart Settings
The first item in the Plot contextual menu is the Settings. These refer to the fonts, lines,
colors and tags utilized to display the chart. The left part of the Chart settings dialog box
provides you with the list of the chart components you can customize. The contents of right part
of the dialog box will change depending on the component selected, to display the options
available that can be customized for that component.
From this dialog box, you can define chart templates that you can save for future use. To
save your template, select “Chart” in the Components list, and enter and save the name of the
template (Theme) on the right pane of the window.

10.3 Validation Rules Editor
The data validation engine validates all network, equipment, & range of data currently
loaded in memory, to ensure all data are with-in operating limits.
Use the “Validation Rules Editor” to further refine the default CYMDIST data rules by
adding your own specific restrictions and data ranges. User defined data validation rules are
store in a *.xml file located on your system. To modify the location of this file and or to use
another set of rules, refer to File > Preferences, File tab.
Note: Data validation is a background process and is triggered by CYMDIST

automatically as you work (when importing, exporting, opening a study,
adding a section, etc). – No manual scanning or trigger is required.
Data Type Select the target data type to view / edit.
Validation At the right hand side of the dialog box the associated rule(s) and
Rules parameters are displayed. The rules appearing with a grey background
are the CYMDIST default data rules and cannot be edited.
Add To create a new rule entry (row) to test against the selected data type.
Click on the Rule column to select from the available operators. Define
the relevant value(s) under the Value column.
Remove Deletes the selected user defined rule.
A Validation Error Report is displayed automatically when the data do not respect the
limits imposed by the said rules (default or user-defined).
If an entry in the Location column starts with “EquipmentID...”. Then clicking on that entry
will display the relevant equipment dialog box with the focus on the identified ID. Furthermore, to

help you locate and correct identified errors, clicking an entry can also synchronize the focus of
the O.L.D. and the Explorer Bar (if its Auto Locate option is enabled).
10.4 Magnifying Lens
Activate Transforms the cursor into a magnifying lens. Hold down the left mouse
button while moving the cursor over the circuit. When you pause over the
OLD, the features inside the magnifier will move into focus.
To disable the magnifying lens command, select the same command
again: Tools > Magnifying Lens > Activate
Properties Adjust the size, shape and magnification level of the Magnifying Lens.
Hint: You can open the Properties dialog box simply by right clicking
when the magnifying lens is active. Note that while the
magnifying lens mode is active, all mouse operated function are
disabled.

Chapter 11 The Customize Menu
11.1 Overview
The commands available in this menu allow you to adjust many display features in
CYMDIST along with the creation of shortcuts, keywords and filters. An overview of each
command is provided here. Refer to the CYMDIST Advanced Customization User Manual to
learn more about them.
11.2 Toolbars
Allows you to controls the displaying, command set, and the attributes of the available
toolbars. As well, you can use this command to create your own toolbars containing any
combination of icons from the other toolbars.
11.2.1 Toolbar tab
To select the standard toolbars you want to display or to create your own.
Toolbars Enable the checkbox next to the name of the toolbars to display them.
These will be shown immediately on the display (as floating) as you tick
the checkboxes.
Custom toolbars will also be listed here.
CHAPTER 11 –- THE CUSTOMIZE MENU 225

Show To enable the display of the tooltips when the mouse is hovered over a
Tooltips toolbar icon.
To change the look of the tooltips, go to View > Display Options, Show
tab and select the Tooltip component in the list. (see section 9.13.1)
Cool Look With this option checked, separators are added in toolbars and changes
the look of icons when the mouse is hovered over them, enhancing the
visibility of the icons.
Large Enlarges the size of the icons in the toolbars.

Buttons
New To start creating a new toolbar. You will be presented with a New
Toolbar dialog box to enter the name of your new toolbar. When
clicking OK in that dialog box, an empty toolbar will be displayed; drag
and drop your icons from the Commands tab window.
Reset You can add icons to any of the toolbars, including the standard ones.
Clicking on Reset brings back the toolbar selected in the list to its
default icon content.
User-defined toolbars cannot be “reset”: when you highlight the name of
a custom toolbar in the list of toolbars, the Reset button changes to
Delete, which is an option available for custom toolbars only.
11.2.2 Commands tab
This window presents the sets of command icons that are available in the program. They
are classified by category. Select a category, and then click a button to see its description.
226 CHAPTER 11 –- THE CUSTOMIZE MENU

11.3 Shortcuts
Allows you to configure key combinations that will activate frequently used commands.
Select a Alphabetical list that comprises:

macro
• All equipment types.
• All menu and sub menu commands.
• Some display options.
Create Highlight your selection in the Select a macro list, click on this button to
Shortcut display the Assign Shortcut dialog box. Position the mouse cursor in
the Press new shortcut key field, and do the keystrokes you wish to
use for your macro.
If the selected keystrokes are already used in another macro, their

current assignment will be indicated at the bottom of the field.
If you click OK, this will re-assign the keystrokes to the currently
selected macro, removing it from the other macro.
Description A short description of what the component selected in the Select a

macro list does.
Assigned If a shortcut is already assigned to the macro selected, then it will

shortcuts appear here.

Reset all Resets all shortcut settings to the CYMDIST default (i.e. that is part of
the CYMDIST.INI file. Do note that this means that the Reset all
command erases ALL user-defined shortcuts.
11.4 Status Bar

Allows you to select the information that is displayed on the first line of the Status Bar.
For a description of the second line of the Status Bar, see View > Status Bar (section 9.2)
Hint: To quickly modify the status bar, left double-click on the upper line of the
status bar to open this dialog box.
Status bar Insert your text in this field. To insert keywords, position your cursor in
format: the field at where you want the keyword to be positioned, click the
Select key button. The Select Keywords dialog box is displayed.
Select your keyword and click OK in that dialog. You are returned to the
Status Bar Customization dialog box. The keywords will be replaced
with their numerical values in the Status Bar.
Select key Clicking on that button displays the Select Keywords dialog box.
Disable Mark this checkbox to disable the display of the information as set out in
the Status bar format field and display the CYMDIST default.
Hint: You can quickly access a keyword selection list by right-clicking in the Status
Bar format field anywhere but on a keyword. The dialog box that is displayed
shows the full list of keywords by alphabetical order only.
Hint: You can quickly change the description or format of a keyword in the Status
Bar format field by right-clicking on it. This displays the keyword’s Format
dialog box where you can make your changes.

11.5 Result Box
To select which results will appear in the result boxes.
Select the field where you want a result to appear by clicking in it and then click on the
Select key button. This displays the Keyword Selection dialog box. Choose a keyword from the
list and click OK.
To change the number of Columns and Rows (and the column and rows heading text)
to match the keywords you have selected, click on the respective arrows and enter the heading
text strings. Click OK to accept the changes. You can also change the Name of the result box.
There is five result boxes currently available: Voltage Drop Box, Short-Circuit Box,
Downstream, Result Box 4, and Result Box 5, that you can rename.
11.6 Keywords
This command displays the Keyword modification dialog box. With the commands
available here, you can adjust the format of the existing keywords and create new ones.

Available Lists by categories the keywords available with the program. The
Keywords keywords part of the category will be displayed in the right part of the
window. You can sort the keywords in the right part by clicking on the
column headings.
Find Text Type in a string to search for a keyword. Click Find. The program will
search for the first occurrence of the string in the category highlighted in
the Available Keyword list; click Find again to go to the next one. The
program searches through the contents of all the columns. The search
is case-insensitive.
Add These buttons will be enabled only when creating a new keyword. The
creation mode is available only for the category General:User Defined,
Delete which you can select in the Available Keyword list.
Properties Displays the Format dialog box associated to the keyword highlighted.
Key This is the string by which the keyword is recognized by

the system.
Description Brief explanation of what the value is.
Header Name used in the column header of the reports

generated.
Format When the format type is String, Length will indicate the
total number of characters allowed for the keyword
value. When it is Number or Real Width will indicate the
total number of digits (including the decimal point and
minus sign).
Precision is the number of digits after the decimal
point. This parameter is relevant only for format type
Real. It will not be shown for the other available format
types.
Keyword value can be left or right justified.

11.6.1 Create New Keywords
Highlight the category General:User Defined in the Available Keyword list of the
Keyword modification dialog box. This will enable the Add and the Delete buttons at the bottom
of the dialog box. Click Add to display the User Defined Keyword dialog box.
Keyword ID Unique name. Keyword name cannot be more than 64 characters

long.
Description Brief explanation of what the value is.
Width When the format type is String, Length will indicate the total number
of characters allowed for the keyword value. When it is Number or
Real Width will indicate the total number of digits (including the
decimal point and minus sign).
Precision Precision is the number of digits after the decimal point. This
parameter is relevant only for format type Real. It will not be shown
for the other available format types.
Expression Type a “$” anywhere in the field to display a list of keywords you can
use to define the expression whose value you want the keyword to
take.
Alternatively, you can right-click anywhere in that field and select

Insert Keyword in the contextual menu that will appear. This will
display the Keyword Selection dialog box for the list of keywords
with details. Highlight a keyword in that dialog box and click OK to
return to the User Defined Keyword dialog with the keyword
inserted.

Unit Enter here what is the unit type of the result of the keyword. (ex.:
centimeters, ohms, miles, etc.)
Header Name used in the column header of the reports generated.
Justification Keyword value can be left or right justified.
Format Type It can be Number, Real or String.
Refer to the CYMDIST Advanced Customization – Reference and User Manual for all
details about creating new keywords.
11.6.2 Keyword Expressions
You can use the following functions within an expression. Note that these functions are
not case sensitive”
y +, -, X, ÷
y LOG, LN
y MAX, MIN, AVG
y SQRT, SQRT3, ^ (power)
y SIN, ASIN, COS, ACOS, TAN, ATAN
Simple mathematical operations can be performed:

y Addition ( “+” )
y Subtraction ( “-“ )
y Multiplication ( “*” )
y Division ( “/” )
y Exponent ( “^” )
y Factorization ( “(“ “)” ).
Expressions must be placed in brackets ( “{“ “}” ). Example: {2+2}.
Here is a list of things you can do with expressions:

y Multiple levels of call of a function;
y Multiple expressions in succession (one after the other);
y Evaluation of negative expression;
y Specify the width and precision of the result;
y Report errors directly in the result;
y Use expressions in Status Bar, Result Box and Report Tag
Here are some examples to illustrate the various ways you can define expressions:
y Simple mathematical expression:
Entered string: The sum is {2+2}.
Result: The sum is 4.000000.

y Simple mathematical expression with priority:

Entered string: The value is {2+2*3 + (4+5)*2^2}.
Result: The value is 44.000000.
y Multiple expressions:
Entered string: The sum is {3+2+4} and the difference is {3-2}.
Result: The sum is 9.000000 and the difference is 1.000000.
y Expression with function:
Entered string: The average value is {avg(3,2)}.
Result: The average value is 2.500000.
y Expression with function embedded in function:
Entered string: The value is {2.5 + avg ( MIN ( 3,10 ),2 )}.
y Expression with specified width and precision (width = 5, precision = 1):
Entered string: The value is {-1 ^ -1 :5:1}.
Result: The value is -1.0.
y Expression returning error:
Entered string: The value is {1/0}.
Result: The value is #ERROR_DIVIDE_BY_ZERO.
y Expression containing keyword ($ProtkV$ = 2.5, $ProtAmps$ = 1.25)
Entered string: The value is { $ProtkV$ * $ProtAmps$:5:1}.
Note: The width and precision should be the last item in the expression (just before
the right bracket) and would apply to the whole result.

11.7 Filters
With this function, you can create user-defined filters using keywords. The filters can be
applied to reports, used in the Search function, in the Reports properties (Report > On
Calculation) and in the Network Explorer Bar (Detailed View).
Because of the utilization of keywords and operators to build the rules applied to filters,
these can be used to localize very precise elements based on their name, settings, ratings, type,
etc., or any combination of those.
The particulars of the Customize > Filters function are described in the CYMDIST
Advanced Customization User Manual.

11.8 Customer Classes

This command enables you to define and manage new customer classes or categories.
The four categories (Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Other) form the base classes and as
such cannot be deleted. Click on New to create new ones to be added to this list. You can also
access this function by clicking on the Customer Class Manager button in the Load Model toolbar
(see 2.4.12).
New To open the New Customer Class dialog and enter the customer class
name. Click on OK to add this name in the Name list or click Cancel to
quit the dialog without entering any name.
Delete To delete a customer class, select it from the Name list and then click
on the Delete button.
Description To add a description in the Description field. This is a memo data type
field.
Color To assign a color to a customer class. This color can be used to color-
code the load symbols on the OLD display.

11.9 Environments
Some environmental factors will affect the system reliability indices. The following dialogs
will allow you to specify those factors and to indicate in what extent they really influence system
reliability.
An environment attribute thus defined may be associated to a feeder. This means that all
sections on that feeder will inherit this attribute. In the same way, environment can be a section
property.
11.9.1 General
New To open the New Environment dialog and enter the environment
name, click on OK to add this name in the Name list or click Cancel to
quit the dialog without entering any name.
Delete To delete an environment, select it from the Name list and then click on
the Delete button.
Rename To rename an environment, select it from the Name list and click on the
Rename button to open the Rename dialog. Type in the new name and
click OK.
Description To add a description for the environment highlighted in the Name list.
Because the environment data is saved in an XML file, the description
can be as long as you want.
Color To associate a color attribute to the environment. This color will be

available at the environment layer level to allow you to color code the
loaded feeders by environment color.

Note: For color-coding purpose, if a section environment attribute is different than

the feeder environment attribute, the section environment attribute will have
precedence of the feeder attribute.
11.9.2 Reliability
You can adjust reliability parameters so they reflect more the effect of the environment.
The effect on the parameters can be additive, multiplicative or both.
A multiplier will affect the associated parameter by multiplying the multiplier value by the
value of the associated parameter.
An adder will add its value to the value of the associated parameter.

11.10 Menu
This command enables you to show/hide or to rename menu items. Click on the
symbol to expand a menu list and on to collapse it again.
To hide an item from the menu, uncheck the box next to it. To rename a menu item, click
on the name once to highlight it and then click again to enable editing. To apply the changes,
click OK.
To restore the menu items hidden with their original names, click on the Reset button.
Note: There is however one exception to the items you can hide: Menu (Tools >
Customize > Menu). If you hide this item, you will not have access to the menu
commands but the icon commands will work. To correct this problem, you must
modify the menu configuration file. First, find the item Menu and change its
Visible property from 0 to 1 as illustrated below.
<Name>Menu</Name>
<Command>IDM_CUSTOMIZE_MENU</Command>
<Visible>1</Visible>

11.11 Charts
To modify the display parameters of the charts generated using the Chart Selection
command found in the Simulation Toolbar (section 2.4.13).
The command displays the Charts dialog box. The left hand part lists the charts
available:
• Conductor Rating & Current
• Downstream Customer Profile
• Fault Current Profile
• KVA Profile
• KVAR Profile
• Short-Circuit LG & Pick Up
• Short-Circuit LLL –LL & Pick Up
• Voltage Profile
Highlight the chart you wish to modify. The right hand tab windows will change
dynamically depending on your selection and show the default selections. See General Tab and
Background Tab below.
You can also do further modification of your chart using the CYMVIEW application. To do
so, right-click on the chart to display the contextual menu. Select the Send To > CYMVIEW
command. This will open the CYMVIEW application along with your graph. See 10.2 Graphic
Viewer.
11.11.1 General Tab

Chart The Title of the chart that you can modify.

For the style, you have the choice between Line, Line by step, or Vertical
Bar.
X-Axis The usual Type is Distance from the source. When using the Network
Forecaster module, you can use the second option, which is Year.
Selection identifies the furthest point from the source that is being
plotted (the source being “0” distance, i.e. the leftmost point on the graph
and the “selection” being the rightmost point).
Y-Axis These represent the curves plotted. The Values field shows the
corresponding keywords.
Use Fixed range to set the minimum value and the maximum value of
the range of values to be shown on the graph.
Reference To create lines of reference on the graph. For example to illustrate your
Curves low voltage limits over a voltage profile.
11.11.2 Background Tab
To select the background colors of the Graph, the Chart and the Legend. Angle is
applied to the gradient fills. For a Solid Fill style, use the color palette on the left. For an angle fill,
you can select the two colors to degrade from and to.

Chapter 12 The Window Menu
12.1 New Window

Opens a new One Line view window. The new window will be empty until you ‘show’
some feeders via the command Edit > Feeder > Load (see 5.8.2).
Hint: Opening a second window allows you to display the whole feeder in one
window while you zoom in on a small area of the feeder in the other.
Clicking on the symbol of a Substation or a Secondary Network will open a single

network view window.
Hint: Closing a window does not automatically closes a study. CYMDIST prompts
for confirmation if you request closing a study without having saved it.
Thus, if you close all your windows, you can recover your circuit diagram by
using Window > New window, and then Edit > Feeder > Load to re-display
your network.
Alternatively, you could save your study, close it and open it again.
12.2 Close
Closes the active window. This command will not close a study.
If all windows are closed, you will need to open a new window via Window > New
Window, then ‘re-show’ the desire network(s) via Edit > Feeder > Load, or via the Explorer Bar
(Network tab, Show command).
12.3 Close All
Closes all windows, even if minimized to icons. This command will not close a study.
CHAPTER 12 –- THE WINDOW MENU 241

12.4 Close All Charts
To close all (but only) the chart windows.
12.5 Cascade
Makes the windows overlap, except for their title bars.
12.6 Tile Vertically
Arranges the windows side-by-side. The active window will appear on the left of the
other(s).
12.7 Tile Horizontally
Arranges the windows one above the other. The active window will appear above the
other(s).
12.8 Attach Map
Allow you to display a map behind the One Line Diagram. A map may consist of one or
more “layers” or “sheets” (individual map images). CYMDIST can display native AutoCAD file
formats (*.dwg, .dxf), or its own MapServer File format (.gds, with .gsf layers).
242 CHAPTER 12 –- THE WINDOW MENU

File Type To select either AutoCAD files (.dwg, .dxf) or MapServer files
(.gds with .gsf layers).
Hint: If this option is grayed out, make sure that the

Automatically load the map(s)… checkbox is
unchecked.
File Name To allow browsing through your folders to select your files/dataset.
For the next steps involved in selecting your files or dataset, you
will be presented with different dialog boxes depending on the File
Type selected. See section 12.8.1 for AutoCAD files and section
12.8.2 for MapServer files.
Select Layers The map layers imported will be listed here in the form of a tree
list. Enable or disable the check boxes to the left of the names to
select the layers that will be displayed.
Automatically Check this option to have CYMDIST queries through the database
load the map(s) to find all maps that intersect the feeder’s extent and display them.
… Checking this option will also unload all previously loaded maps;
therefore, if no information is added to the database, no map will
be displayed.

Import AutoCAD Before you can use the Automatically load the maps(s)…
files from a option, you must build a database containing a series of .dxf, .dwg
folder AutoCAD files and their corresponding extents.
Type in the name of your folder containing the .dxf/.dwg files or
browse to select them . Click Import.
Database Indicates the currently active database configuration.

Connection
12.8.1 AutoCAD files
After selecting “AutoCAD Files” as the File Type in the Setup Map dialog box, click on
the Browse button next to the File Name field. You will be presented with the Map
selection dialog box. Select the desired AutoCAD file format (*.dwg, or *.dxf), type in, or browse
to, the target file. Click Open. You can select multiple files using the mouse and Windows’
standard key combinations: Use the mouse and the auxiliary key ‘Ctrl’ to select individual files or
the mouse and the auxiliary key ‘Shift’ to select a continuous list of files).
Under the field Select Layers, the available layers are displayed. To show (or hide)
specific layers, click to place (or remove) the check mark next to it. Click OK to attach the map.
12.8.2 MapServer files
CYMDIST uses a software program (included) called MapServer from Geosoft Ltd. to
handle the maps.
After selecting “MapServer files” as the File Type in the Setup Map dialog box, click on
the Browse button next to the File Name field. You will be presented with the Map
selection dialog box.

Attach
dataset To set up an index to map images. Click on the Browse button to
select an existing dataset file, or create a new dataset file simply by typing
a new filename in the “File name:” field of the Select dataset dialog box.
Preview Enable the checkbox to see a thumbnail of the dataset selected.

contents
Sheet(s) List of the attached sheets.
Import MapServer supports several different formats for map information, but
these formats must be converted to an internal format via the Import
function. Accepted formats are listed here:
• Atlas GIS (.BNA)
• AutoCAD versions 1-12 (.DXF)
• Digital Chart of the World (.VPF)
• ESRI (.SHP)
• MapInfo (.MIF)
• Metafiles (.wmf, .emf)
• Microsoft Bitmap raster (.BMP)
• Tagged Image File (.tif)
• UK Ordnance Survey (.NTF)
• US Geological Survey (.OPT, .STD)
The Import function will make a copy of the file(s) and change the format
of the copy.
Input Files Click Add and select the appropriate file(s) from among
the directories in your computer.

Output Folder Identifies the directory where the converted files are to
be stored. By default, the output folder is the same as
the directory where the last file selected is stored. Click
on the Browse button to select a directory, if desired.
Import Vector For vector files, three options exist:

Files As single sheet imports the map information to a single
map sheet (file).
By object imports each point, line, polygon, etc. to a
separate map sheet (file). This would allow you to
exclude individual features of the map from the display,
by not including the map sheets in which they are
stored.
As defined imports each layer of a map drawing as a
separate map sheet (file). This would allow you to
display certain layers only by attaching them to the
dataset.
Note: All imported map sheets are attached to a
dataset by default.
Raster To indicate the compression algorithm if used.

Compression
Errors Options for the display/logging of the errors

encountered, if needed.
OK Will convert (import) the selected files.
Detach Removes unwanted map sheet from the dataset. Click Detach to open
the Detach Map Sheet(s) dialog box. Then click on the name of the
sheets you would like to remove and click Detach.
Attach Adds available map sheets (.gsf) to the dataset. Click Attach to open the
Attach dialog box, then click on the names of the sheets you want to
include and click Open.
Select To select the sheets that will be displayed (hold the CTRL key down for
multiple selection).
Same as selecting the layers in the Select Layers list of the Setup Map
dialog box.

Details Displays the coordinates of the boundaries of the sheet selected.
The Internal Extents define the size of the image stored in the file. The
World Extents define the space covered by the image in the CYMDIST
study window. To set the World Extents to the values of the Internal
Extents, click on the Copy Internal to World button.
Order Defines the order in which the map sheets will be drawn. By default, the
Sheets are listed in alphabetical order. Click on Order to access to Alter
sheet display order dialog box to re-order them the way you want. This is
important if map sheets are to be superimposed.

Chapter 13 The Help Menu
13.1 Contents
Displays the online version of the CYMDIST Reference Manual, with the Contents tab
selected by default, displaying the available major sections (chapters) of the manual. Click on
the section title to view its content.
13.2 Index
Displays the online version of the CYMDIST Reference Manual, with the Index tab
selected by default, displaying a list of available keywords (topics) of the reference. Double click
a topic to display its contents on the frame at the right hand side.
13.3 Read Me
Displays the current readme file. The Read Me file contains a listing and short description
of the updates since the last revision.
13.4 What’s new
Displays the What’s new file that briefly describes and illustrates the major modifications
and additions done since the issue of the last version of the software.
13.5 CYME on the Web
y CYME Home Page: Displays the CYME International Home Page in your web
browser.
y CYME Forum: Displays the CYME International Discussion Forum in your web
browser. Once registered to the Forum, you will have access to our knowledge
base, post your question(s) and read questions and answers compiled by our in-
house experts.
CHAPTER 13 – THE HELP MENU 249

13.6 Technical Support
Opens a customer support e-mail form (dialog box). Use this form to attach your opened
study and supporting database, system setup information to our customer support team. Same
as File > Send To > Technical Support (see section 4.16.1 for details)
13.7 About CYMDIST
Displays the program’s version number, revision level, and issued date.
250 CHAPTER 13 –- THE HELP MENU

INDEX
Abnormal Condition tab .............................20 Database Illustration ................................... 6

About CYMDIST ......................................250 Database Toolbar ..................................... 25
About this Manual........................................1 Databases tab........................................... 12
Add Databases used by CYMDIST.................... 5
Section ...................................................89 Delete................................................ 53, 105
Zones .................................................. 103
Zones ...................................................102
Detailed View tab ...................................... 17
Arc Flash Hazards ...................................192
Device View ............................................ 206
Attach Map...............................................242
Disconnect .............................................. 105
AutoCAD files ..........................................244
Display Options....................................... 211
Automatic Renaming .................................93
Display tab ................................................ 18
Calculate Length........................................93
Display Toolbar ......................................... 26
Calculation ...............................................188
Drawing Tool Toolbar ............................... 29
Calculation Parameters ...........................188
Editor Tools Toolbar ................................. 22
Capacitor Placement ...............................190
Environments .......................................... 236
Cascade...................................................242
Equipment
Chart Settings ..........................................222
Breaker................................................ 148
Charts ......................................................239
Close................................................202, 241 Cable ................................................... 154
Close All...........................................203, 241
Cable - Multi-wire concentric neutral... 156
Close All Charts .......................................242
Close Study ...............................................58 Cable - Shielded.................................. 157
Commands tab ........................................226
Cable - Unshielded.............................. 158
Component Selection ................................33
Computer System Requirements ................3 Common Window Elements................ 107
Connect ...................................................104
Contents ..................................................249 Conductor............................................ 160
Contextual Menu Default Equipments............................. 184
Section ...................................................45
Fuse .................................................... 145
Contextual Menus......................................34
Reports.................................................195 Generator – Electronically Coupled .... 135
Contingency Analysis ..............................191 Generator - Induction .......................... 133

Control Generator - Synchronous.................... 130
Regulator..............................................114
Generators .......................................... 130
Convert Image DB .....................................56
Copy to Clipboard......................................81 Harmonic – Arc Furnace ..................... 170
Create ........................................................53 Harmonic – C-Type Filter .................... 178
Create New Keywords.............................231
Custom Files..............................................69 Harmonic – Double Tuned Filter ......... 176
Customer Classes ...................................235 Harmonic – High Pass Filter ............... 180
CYMDIST Manuals Available ......................2
CYME on the Web...................................249 Harmonic – Ideal Converter ................ 171
CYMVIEW Window..................................221 Harmonic – Non Ideal Converter ........ 172
Data Validation Rules ..............................201
Database ...................................................49
INDEX 1
Harmonic – Shunt Multi Frequency Geometry .................................................. 82

Source ..............................................181 Getting Started............................................ 1
Graphic Viewer ....................................... 220
Harmonic – Shunt Single Frequency
Harmonic Devices................................... 170
Source ..............................................183
Header / Footer......................................... 62
Harmonic – Single Tuned Filter ...........174 Hyperlinks Navigation ............................... 34
Image And Text Layers........................... 209
LVCB....................................................146
Import........................................................ 51
Miscellaneous ......................................169 Index ....................................................... 249
Insert
Motor - Induction ..................................137 Section .................................................. 90
Motor - Synchronous............................141 Installing CYMDIST .................................... 3
Motors ..................................................137 Keyword Expressions ............................. 232
Keywords ................................................ 229
Overhead Line .....................................152 Layer Toolbar............................................ 30
Overhead Line - Balanced ...................153 Layers ..................................................... 213
List of Files................................................ 78
Overhead Line - Unbalanced...............153 Load
Recloser ...............................................146 Feeder ................................................... 87
Regulator..............................................112 Secondary Network............................. 100
Relay ....................................................147 Substation ............................................. 99
Sectionalizer ........................................147 Load Allocation ....................................... 189
Load Balancing ....................................... 189
Series Capacitor ..................................167 Load Growth ........................................... 190
Series Reactor .....................................168 Load Model Manager................................ 56
Load Model Toolbar.................................. 31
Shunt Capacitor ...................................163 Magnifying Lens...................................... 224
Shunt Reactor ......................................165 Mail Recipient ........................................... 66
Main Toolbar ............................................. 20
Source..................................................108 Map Formats Supported ............................. 7
Spacing Table OH-Line........................162 MapServer files ....................................... 244
Menu ....................................................... 238
Switch...................................................148 Menus ....................................................... 10
Transformer – Three Winding..............126 Merge Study.............................................. 58
Motor Start Analysis................................ 190
Transformer – Two Winding ................117 Mouse commands .................................... 33
Equipment Database ...................................6 Mouse Modes ........................................... 33
Equipment Symbol ..................................216 Move ......................................................... 82
Equipments..............................................200 Multiple Selection Toolbar ........................ 27
Equivalent Tab...........................................95 Network (feeder) Database ........................ 5
Exit.............................................................78 Network Equivalent Calculation.............. 193
Explorer Bar.......................................12, 205 Network Explorer .................................... 207
Export ........................................................52 Network Reduction ................................. 193
Export Active View as an Image................60 Network tab............................................... 16
Export One Line Diagram ..........................60 New......................................................... 206
Fault Flow ................................................190 Feeder ................................................... 83
Feeder .......................................................83 Secondary Network............................. 100
Filters .......................................................234
First / Second Load Tap Changer ...........129 Sub Network........................................ 100
Format .....................................................201 Substation ............................................. 96
Freeze......................................................209
General ....................................................200 New Study................................................. 57
New Window ........................................... 241
2 INDEX
Node Properties.........................................46 Arc Furnace......................................... 170

On Calculation .........................................197
By Phase Configuration ........................ 41
Open Study................................................58
Open/Close..............................................103 Cable ................................................... 159
Ortho Mode................................................82
C-Type Filter........................................ 179
Overview Map..........................................207
Overview of CYMDIST ................................1 Double Tuned Filter............................. 177
Overview of the Graphical User Interface
(GUI) ........................................................9 Equipment (Overview)........................... 38
Pack...........................................................54 Generator – Electronically Coupled .... 136
Page Setup ................................................61
Pan ..........................................................210 Generator - Induction .......................... 134
Panning and Zooming with the Mouse ......33 Generator - Synchronous.................... 132
Preferences ...............................................67
Print ...........................................................63 High Pass Filter................................... 180
Print Area...................................................63 Ideal Converter.................................... 171
Print Options ..............................................61
Print Preview..............................................63 Induction Motor ................................... 139
Print Setup .................................................61 Induction Motor Starter........................ 140
Properties ..........................................77, 105
Reports.................................................202 Lines and Cables (General) .................. 40
Text-style Report..................................202 Miscellaneous Equipment ................... 169
Worksheet-style Report .......................202 Node...................................................... 47
Properties and Settings .............................35 Non-Ideal Converter............................ 173

Protective Device Coordination ...............191 Overhead Lines................................... 154
Protective Devices...................................143
Protective Devices parameters ...............143 Protective Devices .............................. 149
Read Me ..................................................249 Protective Devices Meter .................... 150
Rearrange O.L.D. ......................................83
Reconductor/Rephase...............................91 Protective Devices Operation ............. 149
Redo Modif ................................................81 Protective Devices TCC ...................... 151
Re-Index ....................................................54
Reliability .................................................237 Regulator............................................. 113
Reliability Assessment.............................192 Series Capacitor.................................. 167
Reports ....................................................209
Result Box .......................................210, 229 Series Reactor .................................... 169
Rotate ........................................................83
Shunt Capacitor .................................. 164
Running CYMDIST ......................................4
Save.........................................................203 Shunt Multi Frequency Current Source182
Save Study ................................................58
Shunt Reactor ..................................... 166
Save Study As ...........................................58
Save Study As Self Contained ..................59 Shunt Single Frequency Current Source
Search .......................................................80 ......................................................... 183
Search Toolbar ..........................................28
Single Tuned Filter .............................. 175
Secondary Network .................................100
Section.......................................................89 Spot Load and Distributed Load ........... 41
Section Properties .....................................36
Section Structure .......................................35 Synchronous Motor ............................. 142
Select.........................................................49 Synchronous Motor Starter ................. 142
Selection ....................................................79
Send To .....................................................64 Three-Winding Transformer................ 128
Service Restoration .................................192 Transformer by Phase......................... 121
Settings
Two-winding Transformer ................... 119
INDEX 3
Two-winding Transformer Load Tap The Edit Menu........................................... 79

Changer............................................119 The Equipment Menu ............................. 107
The File Menu ........................................... 49
Two-winding Transformer Meter..........120
The Help Menu ....................................... 249
Shortcuts..................................................227 The Report Menu.................................... 195
Show................................................205, 211 The Tools Menu ...................................... 217
Simulation ..................................................75 The View Menu ....................................... 205
Simulation Toolbar.....................................32 The Window Menu.................................. 241
Source .......................................................94 Tile Horizontally ...................................... 242
Source Tab ................................................94 Tile Vertically........................................... 242
Split Toolbar tab.............................................. 225
Section ...................................................90 Toolbars .................................... 20, 205, 225
Tooltip Layer Toolbar................................ 31
Status Bar ........................................205, 228
Tooltips ................................................... 215
Steps in a Typical Study ..............................5
Transformer, Common Configurations ... 124
Study..........................................................71
Transformer, Other Configurations......... 125
Study Summary .......................................200
Transformer, Single-phase Two-wire
Sub Network ............................................100
Configurations ..................................... 122
Substation..................................................96
Transformer, Three-phase Configurations
Switch Monitoring tab ................................19
............................................................ 124
Switching Optimization ............................192
Undo Modif................................................ 82
Symbol Bar tab ..........................................14
Update Network ........................................ 50
Symbol Editor ..........................................217
Update Switch Status ............................... 55
System Parameters ...................................67
User Interface ........................................... 73
Tag Layer Toolbar .....................................30
Validation Rules Editor ........................... 223
Tags.........................................................214
What’s new ............................................. 249
TCC ...........................................................76
Zone Properties ...................................... 103
Technical Support..............................64, 250
Zones ...................................................... 102
Terms Definition ..........................................4
Zoom....................................................... 209
The Analysis Menu ..................................187
Zoom Toolbar............................................ 24
The Customize Menu ..............................225
The CYMDIST Interface ..............................9
4 INDEX

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CYMDIST 4.

All Rights Reserved

CYME International T&D makes no warranty, either expressed or implied,

In no event shall CYME International T&D be liable to anyone for special,

The software described in this document is furnished under a license

International and Canada:

Chapter 1 Getting Started............................................................................................1

3.3.1 Overview of the Equipment Settings ..............................................38

5.4 Copy to Clipboard .......................................................................................81

TABLE OF CONTENTS III

6.5.8 Transformer, Three phase Configurations ...................................124

6.19.8 Shunt Multi Frequency Source.....................................................181

9.13 Display Options.........................................................................................211

Chapter 1 Getting Started

1.1 Overview of CYMDIST

The optional packages such as Reliability Assessment, Contingency Analysis, Service

1.2 About this Manual

CHAPTER 1 –- GETTING STARTED 1

1.3 CYMDIST Manuals Available

• The CYMDIST Basic Analyses – User Manual complements it by explaining how to

• CYMHARMO (Distribution) – Harmonic Analysis.

• CYMDIST-RAM – Reliability Assessment.

• CYMDIST-CAM – Contingency Analysis.

• CYMDIST-SOM – Switching Optimization

• Arc Flash Hazard Analysis (Distribution)

• CYMDIST-SRM – Service Restoration

• CYMSTAB (Distribution) – Transient Stability Analysis

2 CHAPTER 1 – GETTING STARTED

1.4 Computer System Requirements

CYMDIST requires an IBM PC or compatible computer using Microsoft Windows NT,

• A Pentium IV-based computer.

• A minimum of 512 MB of extended memory.

• 1 GB of hard disk space.

• Any mouse, monitor and printer or plotter supported by Windows.

1.5 Installing CYMDIST

1. Start Microsoft Windows.

CHAPTER 1 –- GETTING STARTED 3

1.6 Running CYMDIST

Note: The path to the cymdist.exe on your computer may be different.

1.7 Terms Definition

4 CHAPTER 1 – GETTING STARTED

1.8 Steps in a Typical Study

1.9 Databases used by CYMDIST

• Database compatibility – A database created in version 4.0, or earlier, can be

1.9.1 Network (feeder) Database

CHAPTER 1 –- GETTING STARTED 5

1.9.2 Equipment Database

1.9.3 Database Illustration

1. Display the one-line diagram of the feeder(s),

6 CHAPTER 1 – GETTING STARTED

• USER1 is conducting studies on the group of feeders stored together

• USER2 is working with a different set of feeders stored in NET2. She

• USER3 is working on a third set of feeders, in NET3, which uses a

1.10 Map Formats Supported

• Atlas GIS (.BNA)

• Digital Chart of the World (.VPF)

• Metafiles (.wmf, .emf)

• Microsoft Bitmap raster (.BMP)

CHAPTER 1 –- GETTING STARTED 7

• Tagged Image File (.tif)

• UK Ordnance Survey (.NTF)

• US Geological Survey (.OPT, .STD)

8 CHAPTER 1 – GETTING STARTED