Changes.htm  - Recent HydroCAD Software Changes

This document describes the software changes that have occurred in recent HydroCAD releases.  These changes are usually self-evident when using the software, but this document provides a detailed list of changes for those who wish to derive the maximum benefit from the new features.  For the latest version of this document, including any recent updates, please see www.hydrocad.net/versions/changes.htm

For installation details, start the SETUP program and click the Readme button.  If you need further assistance, please visit www.hydrocad.net/support.htm

Note: Each major HydroCAD release (7.0, 8.0 etc) requires a new HydroCAD serial number, which is issued with the software when required.  The first time you run a major update, you will be prompted to enter the new serial number.  Enter the new s/n in place of the old number.  (If you want to run the old and new versions concurrently on different computers that use license pooling, then you should add the new serial number to the end of the list without removing the old value.)

The HydroCAD CD includes a bonus reference library, including the complete HydroCAD Owner's Manual in PDF format, sample training slides, plus other useful materials.  The library can be opened from the automatic CD menu.  To open the library manually, right-click your CD drive and select "Open".  Next, open the "Library" folder and the "Contents" file inside it.

HydroCAD 10.0

HydroCAD-10.0 provides many enhancements over the previous 9.1 release.  If you are upgrading from 9.0 or earlier, please see the additional list of 9.1 enhancements below.

* Indicates features originally added in a later build of 9.10.

1) Calculation Enhancements

Rainfall capabilities:
    Rainfall distributions and events can be automatically imported from a TR-20 or WinTR-20 file
    NOAA and NRCC rainfall files can be used as a HydroCAD IDF file
    Synthetic rainfall distributions can be created from any IDF file, including NOAA data
    Multi-event rainfall files are supported (such as converted NOAA files)
    Rainfall events can be automatically created from multi-event rainfall files
    Event depths can be automatically calculated from an IDF file

Rainfall data:
    Added 1-hour rainfall distributions for Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky
    Consolidated separate event rainfalls into multi-event files (applies to Austin, Charlotte, & Thurston)
    Incorporated revised NJ & RI event data into NRCS event lookup table
    Added LA County DPW rainfall distributions (24-hour and 96-hour)
    Added rainfall distributions for San Luis Obispo WMP (for upper & lower watersheds)
    Renamed "San Diego" rainfall distributions to "San_Diego" for better reporting
    Added gamma unit hydrographs for peak factors of 200 to 600
    Added "Michigan-369" triangular unit hydrograph file
    Added 2-100 year Calgary storms
    Obsolete rainfall definitions are hidden unless "show all storms" is selected in Settings|General screen

Calculation enhancements:
    Added outlet option for "Tube/Siphon/Float Valve" (including Contech Stormfilter)
    Added "Constant Flow" outlet option for floating skimmers and similar devices
    Added "Dam Breach" outlet for modeling a progressive dam breach starting at any time or elevation
    Added "Asymmetrical weir" outlet for modeling weirs with a non-symmetrical crest
    Added Gravel roads without right-of-way to CN lookup table  (CN=96)
    Added special-outlet rating curves for Chicago vortex valves
    Added special-outlet rating curves for Mosbaek CEV vortex valves
    Allow pump rating curves starting with zero flow (to model gravity-operated devices such as siphons)
    Improved pump routing accuracy (causes minor changes in pump results in specific situations)
    Added sample pump rating curves

Prefabricated storage chambers:
    Automatic "row length adjustment" for start/end chambers in each row
    Automatic inclusion of headers and end-cap storage for applicable chambers
    Support for nested and offset chambers
    Chamber wizard adjusts layout for these new parameters
    Obsolete chamber definitions are hidden unless "show all chambers" is selected on Settings|General screen)

New chamber definitions added for:
    LRM HydroDome-300 and HydroDome-610 chambers
    Triton S-22 chamber plus support for end caps
    Cultec Recharger V8 heavy duty chambers (V8IHD, V8SHD, V8EHD)
    StormTech MC-3500b* (revised), MC-3500b+Cap and MC-4500+Cap  (includes cap storage)
    StormTech DC-780*, RC-210, RC-750
    Hydro International Stormbloc chambers*
    Multi-layer Stormbloc chambers*
    Triton M-6 and C-10*
    CUDO stormwater chambers*
    ecoChamber*
    DeepRoot Silva Cell *

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
New "Text/Image" node allows arbitrary text and/or images to be placed on the routing diagram
Diagram background image now supports any installed OLE image format including DWG, PDF, DOC, etc.

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Hysteresis is displayed on stage-discharge curve when applicable, including pumps, siphons, and dam breach

4) Report Enhancements
Software usage can be logged to a file (new option of Settings|Serial Number screen)
New Ground Cover report added to Project Report screen
Project reports screen can be left open for live updates (like node reports)
Multiple project reports can be open at once (if enabled on Settings|General screen)
Updated IDF report to display NOAA rainfall data
Changed "Drainage Diagram" caption to "Routing Diagram"
Changed pipe "fill" to "inside fill"
Display pipe losses for gravity "pump" outlet
Display reach flow area at bank-full and flood depths
Display flow area for culvert outlet
Set company name automatically from Windows*
Area listing supports customized CN or C parameters with extra decimal places*
Average CN or C value are now shown on area listing*

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Automatic watershed data import can be configured on the new Settings|Watershed screen
Automatic import of subarea data from an AutoCAD® drawing (AutoCAD is a registered trademark of AutoDesk, Inc.)
Added new Project|Export and Project|Import commands for Subcatchments,  Sub-Areas, and Flow Segments
Added new Settings|Export option for automatic Watershed data export
Added command line options for new import and export commands  (details here)
Individual nodes can be "Locked" to protect against unwanted update or deletion during merge or import
Added option to "Remove unlocked disused nodes" to Settings|Merge screen
Added "Show Commands" option to Settings|General and Settings|Merge screens
Added "Settings" button to merge notification screen
When loading input tables from a CSV file, HydroCAD will attempt to convert any dissimilar units (e.g. feet to meters)
Pump and vortex rating tables are now cross-compatible with Metric and English projects
Link can import CSV files with multi-line column headings*

6) Data Entry Enhancements
Active ground-covers can be specified on the new Settings|Watershed screen
Default units for new projects may be set on the Setting|Units screen
Lookup table added for standard sizes of elliptical and arch pipe
Pipe area and perimeter displayed during entry of arch-pipe reach or Tc segment
Slope parameters can now be customized on the Settings|Units screen (e.g. percent vs. decimal slope)
Enhancements to Rainfall tab of Calculation Settings screen:
    Button added to "Delete All" rainfall events
    "More storms" button added for assistance with rainfall downloads and conversions
    "Import Events" menu provides access to multiple event sources

7) Messages and Documentation
Active ground-covers can be specified on the new Settings|Watershed screen
Error messages can be copied to the clipboard with the new "Copy" button
Error message captions now include the HydroCAD version and serial number
Pop-up warning added when editing pond with outlet invert above storage
Distribute HSG list as separate text file instead of help file
Context-sensitive help added for out-of-range numeric values
Check for "rise exceeded" condition for special outlet without extrapolation
Added broad-crested weir illustrations to help system*

8) Special Editions
Implement new "Triton Edition"
Include latest version of Cetrus Dashboard installer

9) Corrections
Curve editor prompts before discarding changes
Negative elevations are now included in tabular storage and discharge reports (see  SSB0118)
Culvert outlet invert of zero is preserved, rather than using inlet elevation (see  SSB0119)
Automatic pipe description is automatically reset if user modifies any of the preset dimensions
Improved sorting of Ground Cover report when index value(s) are missing
Rainfall list is automatically updated to reflect new rainfall file created by TR-20 event import
Changed "Open" button to "Delete" on Project|Delete form
Corrected water level display for custom reach cross-section with multiple bays (see  SSB0117)
Corrected false "rise exceeded" warning for custom weir with non-zero first head
Prevent horizontal scrolling of CN lookup table when HSG D is selected
Removed extraneous "Net Flows" message from pond summary
Ungroup storage elements when they are deleted
Issue warning if command line is too long
Corrected splash screen formatting when using custom DPI settings
Prevent Windows from changing HydroCAD's numeric formatting
Corrected tree size in IDF and storm reports for custom DPI settings
Corrected button placement on reach edit screen  (see SSB0113)*
Corrected button placement with custom DPI settings (see SSB0116)*
Corrected divide-by-zero error with certain pipe fill depths  (see SSB0114)*
Corrected displacement for "milk crate" stormwater chambers  (see SSB0115)*
Prevent false oscillation warnings during normal pump cycling*
Prevent false "excess embedding" message for square chambers is a matching field*

10) Installation and Compatibility
Setup program makes sure HydroCAD is not already running
Default license folder changed to "Shared Application Data" to allow fully-secured installation folder
Sample projects moved to "Shared Documents" folder for improved Windows compatibility
Setup program updated for Vista and Windows-7*
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" are not used
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)

HydroCAD 10.0 Build History (Scroll down for latest build)

Build 1 (released 8/8/11)
Initial CD release

Build 2 (released 11/4/11)
Add 100-year event to FL DOT IDF files
Avoid false error 259 during setup
Correct chamber wizard top width label
Accept NOAA rainfall files other than "Version 3"  (see SSB0120)
Accept NOAA rainfall files with quoted lines
Add chamber definitions for Cultec R-900HD and R-150XLHD
Remove ".0" in AutoCAD release selection list
Increase zoom-out limit for smaller node size
Add rainfall distributions for SJRWMD and Orange County, FL
Storm report can show actual event depths or current depth, in addition to dimensionless depth
Show Error 447 for missing units definition
Make files backwards-compatible when no import options are used

Build 3 (released 2/7/12)
Chambers:
    Add PaveDrain chamber definition
    Chamber wizard report now omits any unused (zero) parameters
Pumps:
    Require storage definition when using pump outlet
    Require pump off elevation to be above bottom of storage
Serial numbers and license setup:
    License path can be entered directly, allowing direct entry of  hidden folders
    Add option to silently skip serial numbers for other versions
AutoCAD Import:
    Subareas can be sorted and/or combined by ground cover
    Default node names are automatically assigned using the node number
    Ground cover override files can be used to add custom grounder covers to end of table
    CN values can be automatically updated when a new ground cover file is selected
    Subareas are flashed on the drawing as they are selected on the edit screen
    "Find Subarea" command added to area edit screen
    AutoView expands to extents of selected entities, instead of full drawing extents
    Support entity ID with more than 4 characters
    Correct missing ground covers during layer processing
    Correct zero sub-areas positioned at origin
    Make sure at least one ground cover is selected
Other:
    Add button to "Import" custom units from another project
    Show parameter name for out-of-range values
    Link supports multi-event import from CSV file
    Area listing sorted alphabetically by ground cover, instead of CN value
    Ground cover listing sorted alphabetically by ground cover, instead of index value

Build 4 (released 3/12/12)
Chambers:
    Chamber definitions added for Prinsco dual-wall pipe
    Chamber definitions added for single-wall Corrugated Plastic Pipe (CPP)
    Renamed "Hydrologic Stormchamber" to "Hydrologic Solutions Stormchamber"
    "Allow Exfiltration" box added to chamber wizard (to prevent duplicate exfiltration in stacked systems)
    "Typical Spacing" box in chamber wizard is automatically checked when all typical values are preset
    Implemented PaveDrain express edition
Other:
    Added Type B 6-hr rainfall distribution
    "Check for Update" button added to Help|About screen.
    Added Metric/SI version of sample project
    Added trial capability to Cetrus edition

Build 5 (released 6/8/12)
Added Stormtech MC-3500 rev "c" chamber definition with increased row spacing
Add support for AutoCAD 2013-2014 (32-bit only)
Setup program uses REGASM 4.0 if present (instead of 2.0)
Added Owner's Manual shortcut to Start menu
Add unconnected impervious CN calculations to help system

Build 6 (released 7/20/12)
Add chamber definitions for CityGreen StrataCell
Rename Stormtech chamber definitions to ADS-Stormtech
Add chamber definitions for 66" and 78" diameter CMP
Fix hidden cursor and expand column widths for high DPI settings  (see SSB0121)

Build 7  (released 10/3/12)
Correct comment text for StrataCell x3 chamber definition
Enable Help button on chamber select form for custom weir
Skip duplicate serial numbers when combining license files
When resetting license folder, only move one serial number
Rename "Hydrologic Solutions Stormchamber" to "Stormchamber Stormchamber"
Revise license agreement (clarify permitted usage and add provision for personal laptop use)
Corrections to NRCS event lookup table (ND should be Type II, not Type I)
Add hidden or missing storm to drop-down list if used by event definition
Add storage and elevation graphs to node comparison report
Reduce sensitivity of Qout>Qin warnings
Display severity rating for oscillation warnings
Accept NOAA rainfall files with "millimeters" instead of "mm"
General revisions to help system content
Allow exfiltration by conductivity with impervious volume below groundwater
Check for pervious storage volume below exfiltration groundwater elevation

Build 8  (released 3/1/13)
Add arch conduits (i.e. box with semi-circular roof) Details here.
Add true ellipse pipe shape (which allows vertical orientation of major axis)
Add "weighted-Q" runoff option (on Advanced tab of Calculation Settings) Details here.
Add chamber definitions for ACF Environmental R-Tank
Add chamber definitions for retain-it
Add rainfall distributions for Edmonton, Canada (Huff and Chicago-style storms)
Increase maximum number of hydrograph export points from 2001 to 20001
Enlarge CN lookup form so all columns are visible on systems with high DPI setting
Add new security options on serial number screen  (Lock license to volume number and volume label)
Add Help button and "Do not show this message again" to BC weir coefficient message
Suppress routing detail in pond and reach summary when no inflow is present
Suppress stone volume in chamber wizard when no stone is present
Add "All" and "None" buttons to event selection on Print|Report screen
Include latest Cetrus update

Build 9 (released 3/6/13)
Correct "Access Violation" on node comparison report
Add ® to Retain-it chamber comments

Build 10  (released 8/5/13)
Add 1-inch storm to Charlotte 6-hour rainfall file
Detect negative depth or intensity values in NOAA and NRCC IDF files
Detect invalid characters in (downloaded) IDF files
Remove duplicate event display in rainfall report
Add StormTrap chamber definitions
Include comment line on chamber wizard report
Don't report row spacing in chamber wizard with only one row
Update Cultec product names (no changes to storage values)
Hide feed connectors, filters, headers, and end-caps in chamber wizard
For Express editions, don't show other chamber brands when "Show all chambers" is selected
If hidden chamber is displayed, show [hidden] in comment line
Revise wetted-area calculation for multi-row manual chambers (no change with wizard or single row)
Omit top of milk-crate chambers from wetted-area calculation
   ACF R-Tank, Atlantis D-RainTank, CityGreen StrataCell, Cudo, DeepRoot SilvaCell, Hydro International StormBloc, Invisible Structures RainStore
Change default stone border for Atlantis RainTank  from 1 meter to 1 foot
Increase size of most drop-down trees
Add help topic for no default printer
Revise warning messages 85-89 and associated help topics
Display message during pump edit if dynamic routing not selected
Display node count in status bar

Build 11  (released 2/7/14)
Display build number on screen and page headings next to version number (e.g. 10.00-11 for version 10.00 build 11)
Use distinct names for setup files (e.g. HydroCAD-Standard-setup.exe, HydroCAD-Sampler-setup.exe, etc)
Add new WinTR-55 rainfall tables for Nevada, NOAA, and NRCC
Add 25-year, 50-year, and 100-year storms to Charlotte 6-hour rainfall file
Correct spelling of "San Luis Obispo" rainfall distributions (add new files and hide old ones)
Ignore Byte-Order-Marker contained in certain files (e.g.  IE NOAA downloads)
Add NOAA file information to IDF.txt file
If NRCC rainfall data is pre-smoothed, prevent further smoothing or mark file as "S1P"
Detect decreasing rainfall depth when generating synthetic rainfall and issue error 586
Increase maximum metric rainfall depth from 1000mm to 2500mm
If hidden rainfall is displayed, show [hidden] in comment line
Preserve main event selector when no changes occur on Settings|Calculation screen
Add Oldcastle Storm Capture chamber definitions
Change CONTECH chamber comments to "Contech" and hide discontinued ConStorm chambers
Don't hide Terre Arch headers and end-caps so they are available in chamber wizard
Increase width of chamber selection fields to accommodate longer names
Show chamber row count in pond summary report
Clarify labels on orifice/grate entry screen
Clarify warning messages 78-81 regarding water surface elevation
Add "license" button and floating license note to license folder selection screen
Prevent "Invalid Geometry" error during summary report for undescribed reach.
Allow use of "100% imp" to classify a subarea as impervious regardless of C or CN value
Allow fractional impervious percentages for individual subareas (e.g. 33.33% imp)

Build 12 (released 4/3/14)
Add support for AutoCAD 2013-2015  (now supports 2008-2015, 32-bit and 64-bit)
Correct error 183 on computers with multiple AutoCAD installations
Update Brentwood StormTank definitions to show latest models and storage values
Reduce StormTech MC-3500 end cap volume from 15.6CF to 14.9CF
Display actual inside dimensions for Terre Arch headers (no change to calculated volumes)
Display inside height of Terre Hill end caps as zero (not <0)
 

Build 13 (released 9/8/14)
Add rating curves for Hydrovex SFK and BW weirs
Add chamber definitions for Haviland Smooth Flow pipe
Add special outlet rating curves for Thirsty Duck TDP flow control devices
Support custom rainfalls using incremental rainfall depth
Add "Sample E" rainfall file using incremental depths
Display percentage of open space for grate outlet
When entering a grate, verify that open area is less than total grate area
Add data conversion factors for in, ft, mm, mgd, l/sec, lps
Improve setup detection of 64-bit AutoCAD installations
Add option to "Show all supported versions" on AutoCAD setup screen
Display AutoCAD year in engine selection list
Include AutoCAD assembly name with error 181, 183, and 185
Remove "fictional" comment from WinTR-55 rainfall tables (Nevada, NRCC, NOAA)
Add "Multi-Site" to message on license folder section screen
Update Cetrus OnDemand dashboard
 

Build 14  (released 2/20/15)
Add View Events button to Rainfall tab for tabular event viewing and editing
Add Atlas-14-Rain event lookup table, including references to new NRCS rainfall distributions (see next item)
Add NRCS rainfall distributions for  NOAA_A/B/C/D, NRCC_A/B/C/D, MSE_3/4, and Nevada.
Hide previous "WinTR-55" rainfall distributions (now available under new names - see previous item)
Rename previous NRCS-Rain event lookup table to TP-40-Rain
Add SEWRPC rainfall file containing 90th percentile and 2006 distributions (replaces previous SEWRPC-90 file, now hidden)
Add Gamma-284 unit hydrograph table (for comparisons with original Delmarva tabular unit hydrograph)
Add chamber definitions for Prinsco HydroStor HS75 and HS180 chambers.
Add special outlet rating curves for Marlee Float skimmer
Add extra decimal place to "low flow" units for special outlet devices
Expand Help|About screen to show additional program parameters
Don't display weighted CN values when using weighted-Q runoff option
Correct IDF report units (some systems display hours instead of minutes, OldCreateOrder was True)
Correct divide-by-zero for true ellipse pipes.  Details here.

Build 15 (released 6/16/15)
Add Cultec Recharger 902HD chamber definition (supersedes 900HD, now hidden)
Add chamber definitions for Lane Enterprises StormKeeper chambers and HDPE pipe
Implement additional "WallThick" parameter for double-wall pipe storeage.
Update Minnesota rainfall data in Atlas-14 lookup table
Add Rainstore3 chamber definitions for heights of 16 and 20 units
Add Geostorage placeholder to chamber library
Add options to Settings|General screen to control operation of the default project folder
Add support for AutoCAD 2016

Build 16 (released 10/30/15)
Add Salt Lake County 3-hour rainfall distributions
Display default project folder on Help|About screen
Update Cetrus Dashboard to version 4.1.10.0
Cleanup Atlas-14 lookup table (fix typos, remove extraneous spaces)
Require non-zero groundwater elevation for exfiltration
Show "overall system size" in chamber wizard report
Add chamber placeholder for Pipe-R storage system
Verify prefab chamber row count (must be sub-multiple of storage multiplier)

Build 17 (released 4/22/16)
Links now support multi-event manual hydrographs and elevation tables
Add ABT Permavoid chamber definitions
Add ACO StormBrixx chamber definitions
Add PTI Pipe-R chamber definitions
Add retain-it 1ft and 1.5ft modules
Add ADS StormTech SC-160LP chamber definition
Add length of end-caps for ADS StormTech 310, 740, 750, 780.
Update Triton chamber definitions to reflect latest Triton data
Implement 15-day Sampler enhancements (no time limit, 20-nodes)
Reduce Sampler runtime from 2 year to 1.5 years
Add "Buy now" button to Sampler startup screens
Convert Cetrus edition from flat-rate to node-based pricing
Update Cetrus dashboard to v.4.1.11.0 (DLL v.1.1.2090.1515)
Setup program gives all users full access to default license folder (usually C:\ProgramData\HydroCAD)
Default license folder for all users may be specified in HKLM\Software\HydroCAD\LicPath
Add support for AutoCAD 2017 (R21)

Build 18 (released 6/8/16)
Add chamber definitions for PaverGuide
Allow storage multiplier up to 9999 for large chamber installations
Prevent entry of maximum elevation with constant-flow exfiltration (does not apply)
Remove software and help references to "license certificate" (now discontinued)
Corrections to node-based metered edition (build 17 metered users must update)

Build 19 (released 10/19/16)
Support latest changes to NOAA data format (ARI units now in parentheses instead of at end of line)
Update IDF comment line for latest NOAA data format
Add chamber definitions for Graf EcoBloc maxx, Light, and Inspect
Add chamber definitions for DeepRoot Silva Cell 2 (updated design)
Add chamber definitions for StormTrap ST1 chambers
Add "ST2" comment to current StormTrap chamber definitions to distinguish from ST1 chambers
Update PTI Pipe-R chamber definitions for 424 and 1890, add definitions for models 90, 11W, and 15W
Support stacked chamber definitions (currently used only for PTI Pipe-R and Graf EcoBloc)
Change Contech ChamberMaxx default spacing to 5.6" (to match standard header spacing)
Add 100-year event to FDOT IDF curves for all zones
Correct Atlas-14 event look table for CT from Type II to Type III
Correct Atlas-14 and TP-40 lookup tables for 14 counties in SE Oklahoma from Type II to Type III
Change references to Sampler "Access Code" to "Activation Code"
Clarify startup message regarding default printer (Optional, but required for any printing)
Display instruction files using internal text viewer (instead of notepad)
Place HydroCAD icon directly on Start menu (not in a sub-folder)
Move remaining contents of HydroCAD Start folder to HydroCAD Help menu
Minor changes and clarifications to License Agreement (no new requirements or conditions have been added)
Change code signing "digest algorithm" from md5 to sha1
Update to DeployMaster 5.3.1
  Add Windows manifest
  Check for %temp% access
  Sign internal installer files
  Support /silent option for Cetrus edition

Build 20 (released 4/21/17)
Support multiple chamber definitions in a single file
Expand stacked chamber capability to allow custom stack heights
Add chamber definitions for Baughman Tile Poly Smooth-Line pipe storage
Add chamber definitions for ACF Environmental R-Tank LD, SD, and XD
Add chamber definitions for StormChamber SC-34 and SC-44, hide previous "StormChamber" definition
Rename PTI Pipe-R to ECS Pipe-R, increase maximum stack size to 10 units
Add Contech ChamberMaxx 2016 with reduced storage to allow for trapped air
Rename CONSPAN to Contech CONSPAN, CONSTORM to Contech CONSTROM
Rename CPP chambers to CPP single-wall, add 4" size
New CMP_Arch chambers use radii for all sizes (existing projects will continue to use previous tabular chamber data)
New CMP_Round chambers use diameter for all sizes (existing projects will continue to use previous tabular chamber data)
Rename Crown_Span chambers to RCP Crown-Span, D-RainTank to Atlantis D-RainTank,  StromTank to Brentwood StromTank, Rainstore3 to ISI Rainstore3
Rename Dry Well to Concrete Dry Well and Galley to Concrete Galley (grouping these items together under "Concrete")
Update chamber comment for Prinsco dual-wall pipe to include "GoldPro Storm"  (no change to chamber data)
Hide LRM HydroDome chamber definitions (product is not longer available)
Consolidate all multi-size chamber files and remove original files
Old chamber names are automatically translated to reference new consolidated chamber files
Move all hidden chambers to "Legacy Chambers" component to allow manual removal during setup
Prevent rounding of default row length adjustment when chamber is initially selected
For all curve reports, re-display comment when a checked item is reselected
Automatically save rainfall settings to a "Custom" event if not saved to a specific event
Sort rainfall events by event name or rainfall depth
Add NRCS New Mexico rainfall distributions (Type NM 60,65,70,75)
Chicago-style rainfall distributions now allow coefficient B to be zero
Add View|Folder menu to open HydroCAD folders for direct viewing
Add support for AutoCAD 2018 (R22)

Build 21 (released 2/6/18)
Add Rotondo StormPod stormwater chambers
Add GreenBlue RootSpace RS400 and RS600 stormwater chambers
Add chamber definition for Stormchamber SC-34W (for west-coast production)
Cultec Recharger R-180HD is now available in the chamber lists (file was previously hidden)
Atlantis D-Raintank has been renamed to Flo-Tank
Chamber multiplier doesn't have to be evenly divisible by row count (allows uneven row lengths)
Show rainfall depth on "Events" tab of node report
Rainfall events can be sequenced manually (see Rainfall tab, View All screen)
Add new "NRCS-Rain" event lookup table
Add  MSE 1, 2, 5, 6 rainfall distributions  (MSE 3 and 4 were previously added in build 14)
Add NRCS rainfall distributions for California (CA_1 to CA_6) American Samoa (AmSamoa), and North Pacific (NoPacific)
Add rainfall distributions for Indy Huff 2011, plus Evansville and Fort Wayne
Add Texas TCEQ PMP rainfall distributions
Add PR_VI rainfall data (1/6/12/24-hour,  1Q/4Q)
Consolidate all Fayette 2001 rainfall files into single "Fayette-01" file
Consolidate all Fayette 2005  rainfall files into single "Fayette-05" file
Add new "Fayette-16" rainfall file containing all current storms including 2006 event
Accept simple expressions in Coef1 data for Chicago-style storms
Depth values may now be used in HCI (IDF) files instead of intensity
Add "Corrugated PP, smooth interior" to Manning's lookup table
Allow copy/paste (Ctrl-C, Ctrl-V) in data entry tables
Add option to disable click-for-help on summary report
Prevent horizontal scrolling when selecting "max" value from Manning's lookup table
When drawing file cannot be opened, display AutoCAD year instead of R-number in error message
Fixed problem with changes in layer set not taking effect until after restart
Remove blank lines from LinkTest4.csv to maintain compatibility after re-save with Excel
Setup program sets "Content Type" in registry for principal HydroCAD file types (.hcp .hcr .hci .hcu .hcc)
Setup program now gives all users write-access to Rainfall and IDF folders
License storage ID now displayed on Help | About screen

 

HydroCAD 9.1

HydroCAD-9.1 provides several enhancements over the previous 9.0 release, including extraction of watershed data using Carlson Hydrology,.  If you are upgrading from 8.5 or earlier, please see the additional list of 9.0 enhancements below.

1) Calculation Enhancements

Allow filled-in pipe inverts (for culverts, pipe reaches, and Tc pipe segments)
Manual link can be associated with a specific rainfall event
Rainfall smoothing can be controlled on a project basis

New chamber definitions added for:
    Terre Hill stormwater chambers
    ADS N-12 pipe storage definitions
    StormTech MC-3500 chamber and end-cap
    Triton S-29H revised chamber
    Cultec Recharger V8I intermediate header and V8S/V8E start/end chamber

Rating curves added for Mosbaek vortex valves (modeled as special outlet device)

New rainfalls added:
     6-hour and 12-hour versions of the Type II and III storms (polynomial based)

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
Automatically increase very small node size so diagram is readable
Automatically position nodes with missing (zero) position values

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
no changes

4) Report Enhancements
Show Tc pipe segments in project-wide pipe listing
Display multi-span chambers in chamber report and wizard
Extra page heading is now saved when "Save Settings" is selected

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Support watershed data extraction with Carlson Hydrology
Project|Merge handles additional items including reach, link, and rainfall data, plus node name, notes, position and routing
Implement Settings|Merge screen to control merge process
Install custom HydroCAD.RCL and HydroCAD.DTA files for use with Carlson Hydrology
Project|Export|Ground-Covers creates compatible lookup tables for Carlson Hydrology
When opening file with CN of 0 or 1, lookup actual CN value based on description
Match upper/lower case event names on link import

6) Data Entry Enhancements
"Lookup" button on rainfall screen automatically defines rainfall events for most US counties
Automatically change custom storage from prismatic to conic when wetted area is required
Maximum node diameter now controlled by "SymbolSize" unit

7) Messages and Documentation
Report Project|Add/Merge results to message window
Warning [62] has been reclassified as a "Hint"

8) Special Editions
Add Carlson Edition

9) Corrections
Correct line overflow on certain reports
Avoid possible error message when Sampler time limit expires
Avoid floating point error on extreme diagram close-up
Fix rare "invalid pointer" error when inflow is zero  (see SSB0112)

10) Installation and Compatibility
Added "CAD Data Extraction" link to CD auto-start menu
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" are not used
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
 

HydroCAD 9.1 Build History

Build 14 (Download & CD)
Initial CD release

Build 15 (Download only)
Corrections to Carlson license manager

Build 16 (Download only)
Addition of Hydro International Stormbloc chambers
Remove extraneous messages during setup

Build 17 (Download only)
Correct button placement on reach edit screen  (see SSB0113)
Add broad-crested weir profiles to help system
Add multi-layer Stormbloc chamber definitions
Allow link import of CSV files with multi-line column headings
Corrections to Carlson license manager
Setup program now includes manifest for Vista and Windows 7

Build 18 (Download)
Add chamber definitions for new Triton M-6 and C-10
Allow Carlson demo to be extended
Display third portion of Carlson serial number as HydroCAD s/n

Build 19 (Download only)
Revise License Agreement to clarify floating license
Implement Cetrus On-Demand dashboard

Build 20  (Download only)
Set company name automatically from Windows
Add CUDO stormwater chambers
Include "pump off" elevation in routing table
Allow negative pump heads (for siphoning)
Increase decimal places for pump flow
Add "pump" rating curves for Contech StormFilter

Build 21  (Download & CD)
Correct divide-by-zero error with certain pipe fill depths  (see SSB0114)

Build 22 (Download only)
Add chamber definitions for StormTech DC-780 and revised MC-3500b
Add chamber definitions for ecoChamber
Add chamber definitions for DeepRoot Silva Cell
Corrected displacement for "milk crate" stormwater chambers  (see SSB0115)
Corrections to Carlson network licensing (updated sclock.dll)
Corrected button placement with custom DPI settings (see SSB0116)
Prevent false oscillation warnings during normal pump cycling
Prevent false "excess embedding" message for square chambers is a matching field
Display chamber length in summary only if significantly different than default length
Avoid rounding of default length during standard chamber entry
Area listing supports customized CN or C parameters with extra decimal places
Average CN or C value are now shown on area listing
Edition.txt file now indicates which edition is installed
 

HydroCAD 9.0

HydroCAD-9.0 provides many enhancements over the previous 8.5 release.  If you are upgrading from 8.0 or earlier, please see the additional list of 8.5 enhancements below.

1) Calculation Enhancements
Implement CN adjustment for unconnected impervious areas (see CN lookup table)
Implement land-use reporting (see Settings|Land-Use screen.  Details here)
Implement pollutant loading by Simple Method or actual runoff (see Settings|Land-Use screen)
Pump calculations  (available as new pond outlet device)
    Enter pump rating curve or fixed discharge
    Separate on/off elevations (hysteresis)
    Fixed discharge elevation and/or pump to tailwater elevation
    Friction losses by Hazen-Williams equation
Exfiltration can be calculated based on Darcy's Law and distance to groundwater
Exfiltration "phase-in depth" added to resolve oscillations with flat-bottom ponds
Upper area of pond can be excluded from exfiltration by setting maximum elevation
Horizontal grate dimensions can be specified for possible perimeter flow control
Elliptical and arch-pipe options added to culvert outlet screen
Box, elliptical and arch-pipe options added to pipe reach screen
Box, elliptical and arch-pipe options added to pipe Tc screen
"Horizontal cylinder" storage has been generalized to "pipe storage"
Pipe storage handles box, elliptical, arch, and round geometries (flat or sloped)
New chamber definitions added for:
    Contech ChamberMaxx
    Reinforced Concrete Pipe (Round, elliptical, and arch shapes)
    Reinforced concrete Crown-Span
    Cultec 330XL (new model)
    Concrete Galley 8x8x1.5
    Concrete Galley 4x8x1.7 and 8x14x5.7
    Concrete Dry Wells 150, 500, and 1000 gallon
    LandSaver LS-1633 & LS-3052 (comparable to Stormtech)
    Contech CON/STORM and CON/SPAN concrete chambers (all models)
    Round CMP from 12" to 144" diameter and CMP pipe-arch from 13" to 57" high
    Brentwood StormTank (all standard heights)
    Triton Stormwater Solutions (all models)
    Invisible Structures, Inc. Rainstore3  (any height)
    Atlantis RainTank  (any height)
Added Florida DOT IDF curves
Added Unit Hydrograph definitions for Georgia and SWFWMD
Added coefficient-based rainfall distributions for Republic of South Africa (RSA)

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
Tertiary device routing for 4-way flow splits

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Chamber report automatically sets isometric scaling
Chamber report displays exact chamber shape without using elevation step

4) Report Enhancements
Wizards displayed in node report window
Land-use reporting added to subcatchment summary and project reports window
Notes listing added to project reports window
Pipe listing added to project reports window
Standardized reporting for culvert outlet and pipe reach
Show overall dimensions for thin-walled prefab chambers
HSG is reported for impervious surfaces (CN=98) as well as pervious
Pond summary shows inlet and outlet inverts for reverse-slope culvert
Node comparison report recognizes underscore _ as label word separator
Show zero-storage as first line of tabular pond sizing report and zero-discharge as last line

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Perform automatic lookup of CN data if  LookupCN=True or any CN=0
Allow simple math in IDF intensity values
Add command-line switches for programmed Add, Merge, Close, and Exit

6) Data Entry Enhancements
Settings tool-bar added to right side of main window
Added underground storage wizard with pricing capability
Added price list screen for editing, printing, and price import
Chamber definition files now define overall dimensions, plus recommended bedding, cover & spacing
Use expandable tree structure for all chamber, rainfall, IDF, and entrance selections
Added "Instructions" button to curve edit screens
Custom weir/orifice screen includes "Add Chamber" option for modeling weir plates inside a chamber
Alternate Curve-Number lookup tables can be selected on the Settings|Calculation screen
Add connected impervious option to Curve-Number lookup table
Up/Down (spin) buttons added to most data entry fields
Box culvert dimensions changed from feet to inches (to match round and arch-pipe units)
Rectangular orifice dimensions changed from feet to inches (to match round orifice units)
Require first stage voids value be set to zero (to clarify that first value is not used)

7) Messages and Documentation
Changed help system from Win-Help to HTML-Help (for out-of-the-box Vista compatibility)
License Agreement updated in regard to transfers and new license options

8) Special Editions
Add hourly (metered) edition  details here
Add Express editions  details here

9) Corrections
Default CMP chamber length changed from 10 to 20 feet
Fix hidden buttons on curve edit screen
Fix line overflow on Area Listing and and Soil Listing
Fix hotkey for CN Look button (changed from Alt-L to Alt-C)
Discharge & area graphs now exclude all devices below pond bottom
Fix "index out of range" error when loading data entry tables from certain CSV files  See SSB0111
Rename sample "Acme" chambers to "Sample"
Reduce overall height of Cultec R-150 from 19.0" to 18.5"
Reduce overall height of StormChamber from 34.80" to 34.04"
Rename "StormChamber" to "HydroLogic StormChamber"
FDOT 8-hour rainfall revised to correct depth at 2 hours
Change impervious reporting threshold for Rational Method from 0.98 to 0.95

10) Installation and Compatibility
Changed help system from Win-Help to HTML-Help (for out-of-the-box Vista compatibility)
Installation and program files are now "signed" to ensure authenticity
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" are not used
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
 

HydroCAD 9.0 Build History

Build 1: Initial release

Corrections in Build 2:
Anchor "Show Costs" checkbox to bottom of Price List form
Anchor drop-down selector to non-scrolling area of wizard report window
Avoid false rejection of embedded chambers with zero cover
Correct position of settings toolbar on some systems

Corrections in Build 3:
Prevent "Invalid Floating Point Operation" when displaying summary for custom reach cross section
Correct position of report window buttons in some systems

Corrections in Build 4:
Restore buttons on project report screen (broken in build 3)

Changes in Build 5:
Add Triton S-29H revised chamber

Changes in Build 6:  (CD release)
Add StormTech MC-3500 chamber and end-cap

Changes in Build 7:
Add support for Carlson license manager

Changes in Build 8:
Add Terre Hill stormwater chambers
Add ADS N-12 pipe storage definitions

Changes in Build 9:
Correct spelling of "Soil Group"
Match upper/lower case event names on link import
Extra page heading is now saved when "Save Settings" is selected
Move license agreement from Start menu to Help|License screen
Accept license agreement at runtime (for Carlson Edition only)
Display multi-span chambers in chamber report and wizard
Add Cultec Field Drain FD-4 chamber (now displayed as multi-span)
Avoid possible error message when Sampler time limit expires

Changes in Build 10:
Report project Add/Merge results to message window
Avoid floating point error on extreme diagram close-up
Maximum node diameter now controlled by "SymbolSize" unit

Changes in Build 11:
Automatically change custom storage from prismatic to conic when wetted area is required
Add 6-hour and 12-hour versions of Type II and Type III rainfalls
Automatically increase very small node size so diagram is readable
Fix rare "invalid pointer" error when inflow is zero  (see SSB0113)

Changes in Build 12:
Replace Cultec HVLV V8 chamber definition with V8I and V8S-V8E

HydroCAD 8.5

HydroCAD-8.5 provides many enhancements over the previous 8.0 release.  If you are upgrading from 7.1 or earlier, please see the additional list of  8.0 enhancements below.

1) Calculation Enhancements
Wall thickness may be specified when embedding standard storage volumes
Prefab chamber .HCC files extended to handle displacement due to (concrete) wall thickness
Prefab chamber library expanded to include several common concrete stormwater galleys
Inflow area for a pond or link can be apportioned between primary and secondary outflow
Water surfaces may be classified as pervious or impervious, as required (see new entries in CN table)
The portion of impervious area can be specified for a manual link
Peak time can be specified for "Chicago" storms based on IDF coefficients
Added Indianapolis 1st/2nd/3rd/4th quartile rainfalls (from SQU Guide)
Added 24-hour rainfall table for City of Seattle
Rational Method frequency factor may be set manually or defined for each event of an IDF file
Option to "Anticipate initial tailwater" added to Advanced tab of calculation settings.

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
Selecting a node (single-click) brings any report windows to foreground

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Chart curve sequence can be adjusted with Bring-to-front and Send-to-back commands on context menu
Hydrograph peak labels (marks) can be repositioned with raise/lower commands on context menu

4) Report Enhancements
Project revision date can be set on the Project|Notes screen for inclusion in page headings
New "Events" tab added to report windows
Multi-node Comparison Report added to report menu, tool bar, and context menu
New Project Report added to report menu and tool bar
New Soil Listing (in Project Report window) shows HSG breakdown by subcatchment
Area Listing report excludes duplicate subcat numbers and values with zero area
Outflow volume vs. time can be displayed on tabular hydrographs using context menu
Only one report window is opened per node (multiple windows can be re-enabled on Settings|General screen)
Reporting of pervious/impervious areas can be disabled on Settings|Calculation screen
"Inflow Area" now shows the percentage impervious area  (when impervious reporting is enabled)
Pervious/impervious reporting option is now available with Rational Method
Manual curve number entries are marked with * in the subcat summary report
Device flow analysis can be de-selected from pond summary on context menu
Context menus added to IDF, UH, rainfall, and chamber reports, including Delete and copy-to-clipboard
Tabular reports can be scrolled with mouse wheel under Windows XP
"Time" column no longer displayed for pond sizing table
Starting elevation and flood elevation are labeled on stage-storage plots.
Initial tailwater elevation is labeled on stage-discharge plots.

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Project|Import|TR-20 provides automatic conversion of TR-20 data files
Opening a project from a command-line or Windows (Explorer) sets default project folder
File link can import CSV data with uneven time step
File link can import tabular CSV hydrograph data or basic TXT file
Automatic export tables now show AMC, frequency factor, and pervious/impervious options

6) Data Entry Enhancements
Rainfall, Unit Hydrograph, IDF, and Chamber files can be opened directly from Windows
Pond & lake water surfaces added to CN lookup table, with pervious/impervious option
The portion of impervious area can be specified for a manual link
Subcatchment name can be entered without area or Tc data
Culvert entrance loss (Ke) values can be greater than one

7) Messages and Documentation
Right-clicking an item in the message window provides direct access to reports, editing, settings, etc
Clicking an item in the message window opens the help topic and selects the corresponding node
Reach messages 61, 62 and 63 have been revised and simplified (click each message for details)
ID numbers added to most error messages as listed here.

8) Serial Number Refinements
(no changes)

9) Corrections
"Logarithmic" box on IDF report is no longer blacked-out   See SSB0107
Curve Number entries with zero area and "% imp" no longer cause "Invalid Floating Point Operation"  See SSB0108
Fixed vertical axis of View|Chamber report
All background images now print correctly with Adobe PDF writer.  See SSB0109
Fixed false loop-detection with certain cross-over flows
Muskingum-Cunge routing of a zero flow hydrograph no longer causes "Divide by Zero"
Removed version number "7" from logo in sample project.  See SSB0107
Fixed minor memory leak with file link

10) Installation and Compatibility
Setup program updated to fully support Windows Vista
Windows no longer appear off-screen after reconfiguring a multi-monitor setup
"Incomplete installation" no longer occurs under Windows XP when using Win95/98 "compatibility mode"
Write access to palette.hcp file is no longer required (allows installation folder to be write-protected)
License agreement added to HydroCAD Start menu
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" are not used
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
 

HydroCAD 8.0

HydroCAD-8.0 provides many enhancements over the previous 7.1 release.  If you are upgrading from 7.0 or earlier, please see the additional list of  7.1 enhancements below.

1) Calculation Enhancements
Reaches
A reach can be described using a custom cross-section, which is drawn while editing
Reach cross-section can have a constant or variable Manning's number
Composite Manning's values can be calculated by the Horton, Pavlovskii, or Lotter methods
Variable Manning's flow can be subdivided by segment or Manning's value
Custom rating tables can be interpolated using multi-point, parabolic, or logarithmic methods
Muskingum-Cunge reach routing procedure has been added
Fractional reach multipliers no longer affect the cross-section and storage (this is a calculation change!)
Runoff
New option for "separate pervious/impervious runoff calculations" (as used for some SBUH and HEC-1 studies)
Added unit hydrograph for SW Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD-256)
Rainfall mass curves can be defined by using IDF-type coefficients (see rainfall.txt for details)
Rounding of Tc, CN, and C values can be disabled on Settings|Calculation screen
(To round to a specific number of decimal places, click the Custom button on the Settings|Units screen.)
AMC adjustment adapted for fractional CN values (when extra decimal places are selected)
Other
Link can be used to set an explicit time lag (for specialized routing applications)
A manual link can be used to define a constant flow by entering a single flow value in the table
An external hydrograph .HCE file can be used to define a constant flow by omitting the dt value
New option to "Calculate net flows" for reverse outlets (eliminates any simultaneous opposite flows)
New Cultec storage chamber definitions added (Recharger V8, HVLV V8 and F-110)

2) Main Screen & Routing Diagram Enhancements
New reports added to View menu for IDF, unit hydrograph, rainfall, and chamber definitions
Save All command added to Project menu
Pasting a node with a duplicate number will generate a new number (rather than skipping the node)
Project|Import window can be resized to view long project names
Oversized background images are cropped to diagram area when printed

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Background color of invert label is lighter for better readability and printing

4) Report Enhancements
Reach cross-section is drawn on summary reports (see options on Settings|General screen)
Reach reports have been rearranged for better readability
Reach perimeter and end-area are shown on storage and discharge tables (see right-click menu)
Reach celerity (wave velocity) is shown on discharge table and plot (for Muskingum-Cunge routing)
New "Area Listing" option added to Print|Report screen
Pervious and Impervious area are now reported on the subcatchment summary and node listing
Node Listing includes subcatchment slope (when all flow segments have same slope)
Pond summary is revised to clarify reporting of weir rise and crest height parameters
Detention time is reported only for ponds with storage (zero-storage ponds can never detain water)
Multi-page reports automatically skip any empty tables or charts
Critical duration analysis is restricted to maximum duration defined by IDF curve
"Minimize Reports on Project Switch" can be disabled on the Settings|General screen

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Pervious and Impervious areas are included in the subcatchment .CSV export file

6) Data Entry Enhancements
"Custom" button added to Settings|Units screen for creation of custom project units
"Edit" button added to Settings|Units screen for creation of custom units file
Reach cross-section sketch is drawn while editing any type of reach
Reach edit window can be enlarged to show longer table and/or larger sketch
Available events are automatically displayed when editing a file link
When importing rainfall events, can chose to replace or merge with current events
New "Curve editor" simplifies creation of custom IDF, UH, rainfall, and chamber definitions
Lag/CN method is disallowed when using Rational method (since the CN value is undefined)
"Lock" button added to outlet elevation on reach and culvert entry screens
Minimum allowed storm duration reduced to 0.1 hours
Maximum allowed infiltration velocity increased to 999 in/hr (9999 mm/hr)

7) Messages and Documentation
File link error messages now include expected event name
Opening a project already in use will select that project, rather than displaying "file in use"

8) Serial Number Refinements
Displays message if invalid serial number is present

9) Corrections
Pond routing problem corrected when anticipated elevation range is exceeded (see SSB0106)
Empty tabular reports no longer cause "Invalid Floating Point Operation"  (see SSB0104)
Sampler activation procedure modified to work on all computers

10) Installation and Compatibility
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" are not used
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
 

HydroCAD 7.1

HydroCAD-7.1 provides many enhancements over the previous 7.0 release.  If you are upgrading from 6.x, please see the additional list of  7.0 enhancements below.

1) Calculation Enhancements
Runoff and Rainfall:
Minimum allowed Tc value may be specified on the Calculations Settings screen
New Tc procedure added for travel time through lakes and reservoirs
The default Ia/S ratio of 0.2 (used to calculate the Initial Abstraction) can be adjusted on the Calculation Settings screen
Implemented polynomial-based IDF curves (as used by FL-DOT)
Rational method can maintain full runoff volume for short durations (see Rise/Fall tab)
New rainfalls added:  NJ DEP 2-hr,  Eastern-Washington State (Short, plus Long duration regions 1-4)
Pond Storage:
Horizontal cylinder storage (tanks and pipes) can be sloped as well as level
Add storage chamber definition for CULTEC Recharger 150 (Cultec R-150)
Add storage chamber definitions for StormTech LLC and HydroLogic Solutions Inc.
Custom pond storage can "Recalculate storage at any elevation" instead of traditional linear interpolation
Pond storage will accept voids=0 for embedding solid objects
Pond Outlets:
Custom Weir/Orifice device allows creation of arbitrary weir and orifice profiles, such as stepped weirs
Implemented weir "rise" parameter to prevent overlap of compound weirs (e.g. v-notch in a rectangular weir)
A single orifice device can be used to model an array of vertical openings, such as a grate or perforated riser
Special outlet device may specify a head-loss table (allows for tailwater-sensitive special outlets)
Complete library of special-outlet rating tables provided for Hydro International vortex valves
Allow constant coefficient for sharp-crested rectangular weir (by leaving crest height blank)
Misc:
A link can be used to define an elevation vs. time table for simulating off-site tailwater effects
Expanded diagnostic messages are provided if detention time results are unavailable
Center-of-mass detention time calculation is attempted even if plug-flow method fails

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
Multiple nodes can be automatically renumbered (increase/decrease value or add/remove prefix)
Extended tool-tips also show flow volume for each node
Routing diagram image can be copied to Windows clipboard with Print|Diagram-to-Clipboard
Background image now supports JPEG format as well as EMF, WMF, and BMP
Diagram can be exported in JPEG format as well as EMF, WMF, and BMP

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Time span of hydrograph plots and tables may be adjusted on the Reports tab of Calculation Settings
New features added to context menu for all report windows
    Size of report window can be saved for ongoing use (instead of using Settings|General screen)
    Column and line selections (such as elevation or inflow breakdown) can be saved for ongoing use
    Hydrograph full-scale can be set manually for each node
    Saved settings will also apply to printed reports

4) Report Enhancements
Context-sensitive help is available for the node summary by clicking any item in the report
A specific "Shrink table" increment may be set on the Reports tab of Calculation Settings
New "Project Notes" can be used to create report cover page (see Project|Notes)
Show top-width of trapezoidal channel on reach summary and subcat Tc table
Flow segment and reach reports include surface descriptions from Manning's lookup table
Culvert device summary indicates "Outlet Control" when max flow is tailwater-dependent
    ("Barrel Control" indicates discharge based on energy loss with no tailwater dependency)
Multi-page report settings can be automatically retained from one report to the next
Custom page heading text may be added to multi-page reports
The name of the project folder can be included in page heading (see Page Settings screen)
Width and height dimensions are labeled for a box culvert or vertical rectangular orifice
For velocity-based exfiltration with an invert, the excluded area is listed in the pond summary
Change metric exfiltration velocity units from mm/min to mm/hr (more commonly used units)
Change English exfiltration velocity units from FPM to in/hr (more commonly used units)
New units definitions added for "Low Flow" modeling, such as water quality studies
Add one decimal place to reported metric rainfall intensity (now reports to 0.1 mm/hr)
Maximum dimension for metric prismatoid pond storage increased to 999 meters
"View Messages" button also brings any open report windows to the front
"Keep Reports On Top" option added to Settings|General screen

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Project|Merge function provides selective data update from terrain models or other sources
Graphs can be exported in JPEG format as well as EMF, WMF, and BMP
"Copy to clipboard" added to report context menu

6) Data Entry Enhancements
Automatic lookup table provided for all Manning's value fields
Nodes can be automatically raised or lowered by any distance (see context menu)
Automatic timed backup has been implemented (see Settings|General screen)
All data files (rainfall tables, IDF curves, etc) can be shared over a network (see Settings|Network)
Pipe reach can be automatically converted to a pond-with-culvert-outlet (see Node|Convert on context menu)
Weir coefficients from Appendix D2 can be loaded automatically by entering the profile ID number
New functions added to data entry table context menu:
    "Insert Duplicate line" allows duplication of Tc segments, storage volumes, outlet devices, etc.
    "Save-To-File" allows export to CSV spreadsheet file

7) Messages and Documentation
Reduced runoff and inflow depths are reported as Depth>x.xx instead of Depth=x.xx
New Hint [37] is generated if longer time span is needed to include full hydrograph volumes
New hint [48] issued if Rational runoff is being reduced by short rainfall duration
New warning [77] displayed if manual tailwater submerges a tailwater-insensitive device
Warning [80] now displays the potential reverse-flow volume
Suppress reverse-flow warning [80] when reverse outlet exists
Display pop-up message if Finer Routing >3
Display Pop-up message if full-screen diagram is selected
Verify required units file as project is opened (prevents abnormal exit later)
View|Properties now shows project file history
Improved error message when attempting to open a read-only project
Illustrations have been added to the help system for all storage and outlet calculations

8) Serial Number Refinements
When all serial numbers are in use, show list of active users
Hide password and verify when changed.  Add Help button to password box
Enhanced license sharing between Win98 and XP (Registry patch is no longer required.)
Warning is issued when moving shared serial numbers

9) Corrections
Prevented abnormal program exit on printer error or if no printer is present
Corrected failure in duration analysis report when pond elevation exceeded 6000 feet.
IDF event selection is retained when opening a project with an IDF file in the project folder.
Renamed Type IIa 24-hr storm (for Colorado Springs) to Type IIa CS 24-hr storm and added source information
Use of 6-character project names no longer causes deletion of unrelated files (see SSB0103 for details)
Tabular hydrograph is properly displayed when first sub-inflow is blank
Device flow report is properly reset to zero when inflow is removed
Starting second instance of HydroCAD under Windows XP no longer opens random file
Apostrophe removed from "Owner's Manual.pdf" to ensure access with all browsers

10) Installation and Compatibility
New CD Autorun menu allows easy selection of HydroCAD setup, Reference Library, or web support
CD includes sample selections from the new Stormwater Training DVD
Web registration is offered when HydroCAD is started
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as newer "Calculation Enhancements" aren't selected
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
 

HydroCAD 7.0

HydroCAD-7 provides many enhancements over the previous 6.1 release.  If you are upgrading from 6.0, please see the additional list of 6.1 enhancements below.

The primary enhancements in HydroCAD-7 include:

Additional details on the new features are provided below.

1) Calculation Enhancements
User-defined rainfall events provide instant access to any desired storm (10-year, 25-year, etc.)
( For details, see the Rainfall tab of the Calculation|Settings screen or "Rainfall Events" in HydroCAD Help.)
Rainfall events may be imported from any other project, or inherited from a default project
Multi-event IDF curves may be used with Rational Method (See IDF in HydroCAD help)
IDF curves may be defined with direct intensity values or with two coefficient-based equations
Rational method critical duration can be automatically calculated for each node
Setting the AMC=4 adjusts all CN values up to 98, for modeling frozen ground conditions
Added several local rainfall distributions and a constant intensity storm
Custom rainfall, UH, IDF, and chamber files may be stored in any project folder as well as in the master folders

Pond storage may be defined using many common shapes (see Storage tab of pond edit screen):
    Custom: for raw stage-storage or stage-area data
    Cone: for circular graded ponds
    Cylinder: for circular dry-wells
    Prismatoid: for square or rectangular shapes with vertical or sloping sides
    Arched chamber: for generic parabolic arch chambers
    Prefab chamber: for specific prefabricated storage chambers
A number of prefab chamber definitions are installed in the HydroCAD\Chambers folders
Additional prefab chambers may be defined as described at www.hydrocad.net/chambers.htm
Storage definitions may be embedded within each other (allows chambers within a gravel-filled bed)
Each pond may use any number of storage definitions to define its overall storage

Dynamic Storage-Indication routing has been added for tailwater-dependent pond routing
A link may be used to define a fixed or tidal tailwater elevation
"Zero storage ponds" may be used for simplified catch basin modeling
Exfiltration can use horizontal area instead of surface area (for in-sloping exfiltration chambers)
Pond summary identifies the governing equation for each controlling outlet device,
-and- the maximum discharge velocity for each controlling device (See "Device Velocity" in help)
The detention time is calculated by the center-of-mass method as well as the plug flow method
The number of elevation increments may be adjusted for each reach and pond (see Advanced tab)
Internal routing tables may use more points, causing slight changes (improvements) in routing results
Ponds will automatically include outlet devices above the defined storage range
Pipes and culverts can be automatically sized (see the Resize tab when Storage-Indication method is selected)

2) Routing Diagram Enhancements
The mouse wheel can be used to zoom in and out on the routing diagram
Diagram can be panned by dragging with the middle mouse button (or wheel)
A background image or logo can be displayed and/or printed with the routing diagram (see Settings|Diagram screen)
A rectangular grid can be superimposed on the routing diagram display (see Settings|Diagram screen)
Mouse operations can snap-to-grid for accurate diagram layout (see Settings|Diagram screen)
Node names now appear on the routing diagram below each node
Size of node-name labels may be adjusted on the new Settings|Diagram screen
Double-clicking a named blank node opens the report window, instead of the edit screen

3) Hydrograph/Graphing Enhancements
Hydrograph plots include detailed notations (area, Tc, depth, etc) similar to content of node listings
Hydrograph notations may be resized (or disabled) on the Settings|General screen
Peak flows can be included with notations beside each hydrograph (see Settings|General screen)
Peak flow labels (above each peak) can be removed from hydrographs (see Settings|General screen)
Graphs can default to 2D or 3D mode, as selected on the Settings|General screen
"Fast Hydrograph Plots" (on the Time Span tab of Calculation Settings) improve plot speed and appearance
Pond stage-storage plot shows invert for each storage chamber
Pond stage-storage plot includes horizontal area when applicable

4) Report Enhancements
Reports can be automatically printed for multiple events (see Print|Report screen)
The current event name is identified in the page heading and "Inflow Area" line of each node summary
The total runoff area may be excluded from the node listing (See Print|Report)
New "Duration Analysis" report is available when using the Rational Method with IDF curves.
Pond and reach summaries show the time at which the peak elevation occurs
Pond stage-discharge and stage-storage data can be shown on the same table (right-click table to select columns)
Extra-long node names no longer overlap on the node listing
Improved stage-discharge graph labeling for outlet devices at the same invert
Individual inflows may be tabulated by right-clicking any tabular hydrograph
Each node may have unlimited user-defined notes (Edit node and select the "Notes" tab)
Node-notes (if present) are normally printed at the top of each node summary
Node-notes may include private text that is printed only upon request
Default selections for printing Notes and Private Notes may be set on the Settings|General screen
Routing diagram can be automatically printed at the beginning of a multi-page report
Partial routing diagrams can be printed with Print|Report when "Selected Nodes" is checked
Entire area of background image can be included for printing or Zoom-Full (See Settings|Diagram)

5) Data Import/Export Enhancements
Most data entry tables may be loaded from a CSV file using the right-click menu
Tab characters are now accepted in most data files, including rainfall and UH definitions
When linking projects, data is automatically transferred for all rainfall events.
CSV spreadsheet data can be automatically exported for multiple rainfall events (see Settings|Export screen)
Node-notes, event names, and rainfall values are included in all node CSV export tables
The center-of-mass detention time is included in the pond CSV export tables
Tabular data may be exported to CSV format with or without rounding (see Settings|Export screen)
Export button "remembers" last folder and file format used to export each report

6) Data Entry Enhancements
New nodes may use sequential numbering rather than the lowest available number (See Settings|General)
The selection screens for new Tc segments and outlet devices have been streamlined
The Direct Tc entry screen allows entry of flow length and velocity -or- the total Tc
Sheet-flow method may use a common P2 value that is shared throughout the project
Additional Ke factors for corrugated plastic pipe (CPP) have been added to the lookup table
Most data entry tables may be loaded from a CSV file using the right-click menu
Canceling a Tc or outlet device edit will always restore all previous values
Minimum allowed orifice size has been reduced from 0.5" to 0.2" (5mm)
Up/Down buttons have been added to many input fields
Reach and culvert slope may be "locked" during entry, allowing automatic recalc of inlet invert instead of slope
Special data files (rainfall, UH, IDF, units, hydrographs, etc) are automatically opened in Notepad when double-clicked

7) Message Enhancements
A progress bar has been added to the bottom of the message window
Qout>Qin message is suppressed if difference is less than 0.001 CFS
Message [81] added to distinguish tailwater dependencies from potential reverse-flow
New warning message [78] issued if a tailwater condition occurs for a non-tailwater-sensitive device (special outlet)
Two extra peaks are allowed for a pond or pipe reach outflow without warnings (previously allowed 1 extra)
Peak-count sensitivity reduced from 1/10,000 of main peak to 1/1,000.

8) Serial Number Refinements
Serial number help screen updated regarding the use of shared license files
Serial number(s) are retained when switching between drive letter and UNC name
License folder may be automatically reset if the old folder is removed or unavailable
When combining multiple s/n files, all old files are properly removed
License file ID string may be viewed by double-clicking the path on the serial number screen
New installations can select (but not view) an existing serial serial number file without needing the password

9) Corrections
Corrected excess Sim-Route outflow for a pipe reach with inlet detention (for details see SSB0100)
Inflow area appears consistently when using SimRoute procedure (was sometimes suppressed in 6.1)
Finer routing for ponds is always saved (reverted to 1 when automatic base-flow was selected in 6.0-6.1)
Summary and tabular report windows have been enlarged to fill the entire form
Reach with no inflow will not report a negative depth (actual routing is not affected)
Allows automatic export of node tables with undescribed reach (caused "Invalid Length" message in 6.10)
Allows automatic export of node tables with undescribed pond (caused "List index out of bounds" message in 6.10)
Can open a report for an undescribed subcatchment with zero rainfall (caused program exit in 6.0 and 6.1)

10) Installation and Compatibility
This version can read all previous HydroCAD project files
Project files are backward compatible with HydroCAD 6.0 and later, as long as new features aren't selected
This version can be installed directly over HydroCAD 6.1 and later (Uninstall is recommended only when upgrading from 6.0)
HydroCAD is now placed in the start menu for all users under Win 2K and XP
Additional checks are performed for adequate setup rights to prevent incomplete installations
File extensions for auxiliary HydroCAD files are declared to Windows for easy identification and editing

 

Additional notes for users of HydroCAD 6.4

If you are upgrading from the HydroCAD 6.4 early release, the following changes have occurred.

Additional Cultec storage chambers have been added (R-400 and SF-400)
Coefficient-based IDF curves are now supported (see Start | HydroCAD | IDF info)
IDF file durations now default to minutes instead of hours - Any custom files must be revised
Embedding in custom storage with "stage voids" is now properly prevented
Logic for placing hydrograph annotations to the right or left of hydrograph plots has been enhanced

HydroCAD 6.1

 HydroCAD 6.1 provides many enhancements over the 6.0 release.  The most significant new features include:

1) General comments
This release contains many enhancements to the user interface and reports. Extensive data export capabilities have been added in several areas. There have been no changes to any runoff or routing calculations, although many new parameters are included in the reports as listed below. The help system has been revised and expanded to cover the new features.  The printed HydroCAD-6 manual remains current and has not been revised for this release.

2) Compatibility with prior versions
    2.1 When upgrading from HydroCAD 6.00 only, it is recommended that 6.00 be uninstalled before installing this release.  (See the Readme file for installation and upgrade details)
    2.2 Projects are fully interchangeable with HydroCAD 6.0 as long as the following default settings are not altered:
        - Projects must be set to "Large Units"
        - New automatic-export options must not be enabled

3) Calculation enhancements
    3.1 The total inflow area (catchment area) is reported in each node summary
    3.2 Runoff and inflow volumes are reported as an equivalent depth as well as an actual volume
    3.3 Added Type IIA 24-hr storm (For Colorado Springs area)
    3.4 Corrected CN text for "1/3 acre lots" (CN was OK, but displayed 1/4 acre)
    3.5 Prevent "FP Overflow" message during extreme oscillations

4) Enhancements to units system
    4.1 Can select large (AC,AF) or small (SF,CF) units on Settings|Units screen
    4.2 Hydrograph volumes are now displayed in specified large/small units
    4.3 Data entry for new nodes defaults to the specified large/small units

5) General report enhancements
    5.1. Pond summary includes details for each Pri/Sec/Discarded outflow.  (See Outlet,Report in help):
        5.1.2 Maximum flow, time of maximum, & associated headwater and tailwater
        5.1.3 Maximum flow through each individual outlet device
        5.1.4 Potential flow capacity for each individual outlet device
        5.1.5 Whether each device "controls" or "passes" its maximum flow
    5.2 Pond summary now shows surface area at start, peak & flood elevations
    5.3 Pond outlet parameters now wrap to new line when required
    5.4 Reach velocity vs. depth is now listed in stage-discharge table -and- can be plotted by right-clicking stage-discharge plot

6) Other enhancements to report windows
    6.1 Can select summary or hydrograph as initial report (See Settings|General)
    6.2 Can include time-of-peak in all peak labels (see Settings|General)
    6.3 Line width for 2D graphs is adjustable on Settings|General screen
    6.4 Default report window enlarged from 367x274 to 400x300 pixels
    6.5 Added periodic reminder to use report generator instead of "Print" button (Can be disabled on Settings|General screen)
    6.6 Edit and calc windows remain on top after clicking "Apply"

7) "Export" button added to report windows
    7.1 Can be used to export any report to a file
    7.2 Summaries are exported to EMF or WMF format (for use in MS Word, etc.)
    7.3 Graphs are exported to EMF, WMF, or BMP format
    7.4 Tables are exported to EMF, WMF, TXT, or CSV (for spreadsheet or database)

8) New automatic data export options: (See Settings|Export screen)
    8.1 Can export inflow/outflow/unrouted hydrographs to HCE files (Replaces "Export Mode" on the Advanced tab of Calculation Settings)
    8.2 Can export node tables to CSV files for spreadsheet or database use
    8.3 Can export hydrograph tables to CSV files for spreadsheet or database use
    8.4 Can export routing diagram to EMF file (for use in MS Word, etc.)
    8.5 Invalid file-name characters are now allowed in node numbers

9) Printed report enhancements
    9.1 Can adjust report font and font size (See Print|Page Settings)
    9.2 Can remove date from all report headings (See Print|Page Settings)
    9.3 Can add time-of-day to all report headings (See Print|Page Settings)
    9.4 Allow consecutive page numbering for multiple reports -or- Reset page number for each report (See Print|Page Settings)
    9.5 Page numbering removed from single-page reports produced with "Print" button
    9.6 Captions added to all tabular reports
    9.7 Node Listing is pre-selected only when multiple nodes are selected

10) Enhancements to "Node Listing"
    10.1 Subcatchment listing now includes flow length and runoff depth
    10.2 Reach listing now includes slope, n, diameter, and peak depth
    10.3 Pond listing now includes peak elevation
    10.4 Can export Node Listing to CSV spreadsheet format (See Settings|Export)

11) Routing Diagram enhancements
    11.1 Can Export diagram to EMF, WMF or BMP file using "Print|Diagram to file"
    11.2 Node tool-tips can include peak inflow & outflow (see Settings|General screen)
    11.3 Palette can be customized for special applications (see "Palette" in help)

12) Message and Interface enhancements
    12.1 Display information box when first warning occurs (see Settings|General screen)
    12.2 Added warning message [92] for outlets at or above highest defined stage
    12.3 Added Sim-Route warning message [89] (variation of message [88])
    12.4 Suppress pond oscillation warning if only one "extra" outflow peak
    12.5 Suppress reach Qout>Qin warning when peak occurs at start of time span
    12.6 Suppress warnings [79] and [80] when elevation difference would display as zero
    12.7 Refined messages for "Cannot open/load/lock file"
    12.8 Display "Length" rather than "Height" for horizontal orifice
    12.9 Pre-focus first edit field on tabbed dialogs (see Settings|General screen)

13) Serial-Number enhancements
    13.1 To ensure confidentiality, serial numbers are encrypted for storage
    13.2 A password may be assigned to prevent unauthorized access to serial numbers (See Settings|Serial Number screen for details)