This myCableEngineering software FAQ answers common questions about using our software.
Cable Sizing
When should I use User Defined Rating (UDR)?
Use User Defined Rating when the cable’s sustained current capacity has been determined outside the standard sizing tables available in myCableEngineering. This may be appropriate where the rating comes from a manufacturer’s datasheet, a project-specific calculation, a specialist installation method, or another recognized engineering assessment.
When using UDR, enter the current rating, the conductor operating temperature and the conditions that apply to that rating. The software then uses this value for downstream checks such as voltage drop, impedance, and fault-rating calculations.
For most cases, you will want to select a sizing standard from the dropdown box. This will allow you to size and determine the correct CSA for your cable.
Can I calculate cables buried in soil?
Yes, you can calculate cables buried in soil if the selected sizing standard allows it. For example, BS 7671 provides calculation methods for multicore armoured cable buried in soil, but not for single-core. ERA 69-30 and IEC 60502 also allow calculations for buried high-voltage cables.
If you are using a low-voltage single-core AWA cable, BS 7671 does not cover this. Use ERA 69-30 for this cable.
If you intend to use any unarmored cable buried with the appropriate mechanical protection, a safe approach is to use the manufacturer’s rating and enter it as a user-defined rating (UDR). This would allow voltage drop and fault calculations to proceed and document this cable with the rest of your cables.
Earthing
Earth Return Paths
The earth return paths include all (armour, screen, etc.) but not any path through the earth or ground. This is extremely complicated to calculate, would require additional information and any resultant value would be significantly large compared to any other return path.
If you notice high values of R2 or Z2, ensure you have specified a metallic earth return path.
Pricing & Credits
For information about plans, credits, budgets and payments, see Pricing & Credits.
Reports
Our reports are generated as PDF files and downloaded to your browser and/or computer.
Depending on your browser, its settings, and any other PDF software you may have installed, the report may open in a new window, a notification may appear in your browser, or your report may simply be saved in your Downloads folder.
Troubleshooting – DIY
If you experience any issues with the application, you can try the following:
- Try a hard refresh of the browser to ensure files are up to date (Ctrl+F5)
- Try in an incognito browser window to eliminate an add-on or customer settings causing issues.
- Pressing F12 opens the developer tools; if “Console” is selected, you may be able to capture any error messages.
We support and fully test on the latest versions of Chrome and Edge. Our development framework additionally lists Firefox, Safari, iOS, and Android as being supported. If you are using a different or older browser, please try the latest Chrome or Edge to see if it is a browser issue.
Sign-in links. If you haven’t received your sign-in link, please check your spam folder and make sure the email address you entered is correct. Sign-in links are single-user and have a limited duration.