Practical Programs, a pioneer of large-format product document management (PDM) solutions, enables organisations to share massively large graphic files via the Internet while protecting them with high-level security. DataViewer combines Web convenience with the documentary rigours of corporate workflow systems.

DataViewer X is an advanced Document and Drawing Management solution that can interface with leading CAD products to produce advanced technical and product document solutions. The launch of DataViewer X coincides with CeBIT 2003. Practical Programs founder and CEO, Richard Bates, said DataViewer was widely used to manage large format technical documents by commercial, government, utility and military organisations. "We are attending CeBIT 2003 to demonstrate the enhanced potential of DataViewer X to prospects identified through our international distributor channels," he said. "With many new international accounts and a strong distributor network globally, DataViewer will continue to develop to meet user demands," he said.

DataViewer is used by the New Zealand Royal Air Force to manage complex technical documentation in the space-confined environments of aeroplanes. It replaced the need to carry as much as two tonnes of technical documentation on each flight. DataViewer is designed to allow the secure archiving and retrieval of any document across a network or the Internet. It simplifies the management tasks usually associated with a wide variety of documents, such as access control, storage, version control, viewing, retrieval, mark-up and printing.

DataViewer X makes file workflow easy by integrating tightly with an application, making the integration seamless. DataViewer has a dedicated menu within and the documents' information and database contents can be linked to minimise data entry and improve accuracy. This means many fields are completed automatically. External references contained within CAD files can be easily and efficiently managed and all references can be checked automatically whenever a CAD drawing is added to the database. If needed, one can cross-check the database to see where else the reference is used, either manually or by scheduling and automating reference checking. Whenever drawings are edited, checked in or checked out, DataViewer will check the references automatically, and if any editing affects other drawings DataViewer will warn before the Check Out is permitted.

Web interfacing

Like most technology driven companies, DataViewer has a Web interface allowing it to work inside the Internet browser. One does not have to install client software, and remote locations can be provided with controlled access to see the drawings and database information. Furthermore, software updates can take place for all users without the need to change anything on their computers, which reduces the load on company IT staff. For companies working with large colour files across the Internet, DataViewer offers comprehensive colour streaming and compression.

For project workflow, one can visually plan and implement the path a project takes by simply drawing lines and DataViewer will do the rest, streamlining your workflow for greater efficiency. Once established, the work flows automatically without the need for human intervention. DataViewer has the ability to automatically generate lists of the materials or parts used on a project. This means one can quickly cost out a new design and provide fast, accurate production lists. Some of the new viewing file formats include ACIS/SAT, IGES, STEP, VRML, VDA-FA, Stereolithograph Drawing, Unigraphics/SolidEdge, ProEngineer, Catia and Inventor file formats.

For more information contact Kinetic Distribution, 031 266 7027.