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PSCAD

pscad.com

Free plan WindowsAPI
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Spec score 7.5 #24 of 41 in Electrical Design Software

Spec sheet

Purpose
PSCAD is a graphical interface to the EMTDC electromagnetic transient simulation engine for constructing circuits, running simulations, analyzing results, and managing data.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Trial
A temporary trial license for Professional or Educational can be requested from the sales desk to evaluate the software before purchase.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Support
The PSCAD technical team provides consulting, expert advice, in-depth training, and technical support for electromagnetic transient studies.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Headquarters
Winnipeg, Manitoba, CanadaRead 28 Sep 2026 · pscad.com
Maker
PSCAD is developed by the software development and engineering department within Manitoba Hydro International Ltd., a subsidiary of Manitoba Hydro.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Automation
PSCAD V5 embeds Python scripting to automate application and project operations, including running simulations and changing parameters.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Co-simulation
PSCAD V5 provides a C-language Co-Simulation API for linking EMTDC with external applications, with users responsible for programming the external application interface.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Data conversion
The PRSIM application in the Enhanced package converts PSS/E or PowerFactory network data to PSCAD.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Free edition exclusions
The Free Edition does not include the MATLAB interface, Python Automation UI/library, Blackbox, or Co-Simulation Interface.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Free edition scope
The Free Edition has limits of 15 electrical nodes, 5 modules, 256 output channels, and 4 simultaneous parallel simulations.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Licensing
The Free Edition license is permanent; its activated certificate can be retained for a four-week period and refreshed when PSCAD launches with internet access.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Live plotting
Online plotting, controls, and meters let users alter system parameters during a simulation and view the effects while it runs.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Operating system
The PSCAD V5 Free Edition setup instructions specify Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11 64-bit and an internet connection.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Security and access
The setup documentation says the Free Edition requires internet access for its Windows 10/11 setup and uses certificate licensing through a MyCentre account.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Simulation models
Its master library includes models such as passive elements, machines, transmission lines and cables, protection, relaying, and FACTS controllers.Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com

Plans and prices

PSCAD Free Edition Free Free Limited by network size · 4 simultaneous parallel simulations · 15 electrical nodes · No MATLAB interface or Python automation Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Educational Edition Priced on request Purchase or lease; contact sales for a quotation Available only to educational facilities · Same features as Professional with limitations Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com
Professional Edition Priced on request Purchase or lease; contact sales for a quotation Fully featured edition · Available to commercial users and educational facilities for teaching and research Read 10 Oct 2026 · pscad.com

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