Abstract:
Based on the information provided by developers and distributors, selection of widely used commercial and non commercial software packages for designing and analyzing piped water distribution systems is presented in a uniform and easily accessible format. Appropriate and commonly encountered computer programs for the design and upkeep of drinking water distribution networks are then selected. Investigations are extended towards non-commercial software and the information, covering a revised listing of 15 programs, is categorized according to the sophistication of application under review. The aim of this study is to provide a general overview of these software. It provides comprehensive but concise facts, presented in a homogeneous format. The facts are compiled from the information given by software developers, distributors as well as users. The overview allows the reader to rapidly gain an overall insight into the existing software. It provides a general comparison among a multitude of common and famous software. The document therefore delves into elaborate details of software design; for quick reference a very brief comparison is provided. For further information on a specific program, relevant data are provided in tabular format.
