Overview
Catalog parts can be imported into ARES Electrical using a simple .csv file. This method allows you to create multiple catalog entries simultaneously, making it faster and easier to populate your database.
Preparing the .CSV File
The concept is straightforward:
The first row of the
.csvfile defines the fields (column headers).From the second row onward, you provide the values corresponding to each field.
Supported Fields
When creating catalog parts through a .csv import, you can use:
Name (Catalog part name)
Layout Block (.dwg file) – the drawing block representing the part layout
Custom Properties defined in your database (for example:
TP_MANUFACTURER)
You may include as many custom properties as needed.
For example:
TP_MANUFACTURER(Manufacturer)TP_CURRENT(Rated current)TP_VOLTAGE(Rated voltage)TP_AREA(Duct area)TP_KG(Weight in kg)
This flexibility allows you to import not only the basic part definition but also detailed technical data relevant to your project.
Importing the Catalog Parts
Place your
.csvfile in a local folder.(Optional but recommended) If you are also importing custom DWG layout blocks, put them in the same folder as the
.csvfile.During import, ARES Electrical will automatically copy these DWG files into the database along with the catalog parts.
Open the Catalog Parts Palette.
Click on the Import... icon located at the top of the palette.
Select your
.csvfile.ARES Electrical will create all catalog parts listed in the file and add them (and the related DWG blocks) to your catalog.
Example
Imagine you need to add several circuit breakers with different ratings from the same manufacturer:
In the
.csv, define fields likeName,Layout,TP_MANUFACTURER,TP_CURRENT, andTP_VOLTAGE.In each subsequent row, add the specific values for each breaker.
Place the DWG blocks in the same folder as the
.csv.After importing, all circuit breakers will appear in the Catalog Parts Palette, each with their correct properties and layout.
💡TIP: You can create as many catalog parts as you need in a single .csv file. Including DWG blocks in the same folder ensures a smooth import process, reducing manual work and keeping your data consistent.
Still have questions?
Feel free to contact our support team at [email protected].