Technical Features

• Two- and three-dimensional frames and trusses
• Second order analysis for P-D effects and tension-only members
• Inclined supports
• Linear and rotational springs
• Hinged, fixed, and semi-rigid member ends
• Shear deformations
• Member rigid-end offsets
• Rigid diaphragms
• Non-prismatic members
• Point, uniform, triangular, concentrated, and temperature loads
• Local, global, or projected application of loads
• Cracked section properties

Program Features

• Practically unlimited number of joints, members, loads, load cases, load combinations, and other entries
• User-selected units for every input and output parameter. Units can be changed at any time while inputting data or after solving a problem
• Member grouping
• Input and output kept in memory for speed; option of saving all data on disk
• All program options and commands have equivalent push-buttons for fast and easy access
• All entries, including joints and members, permit alphanumeric labels (instead of numbers)
• Automatic generation of joints and members
• Input dialog boxes have clear labels and all relevant units displayed at all times
• Stiffness matrix method of solution
• Ability to save the stiffness matrices
• Internal automatic model optimization
• Checking of input errors, inconsistencies, and structural stability
• Local processing: segmental forces, moments, and displacements at 100 segments per member
• Local processing for user-selected members
• Local processing for user-selected load combinations
• True multitasking while running solver
• Ability to pause or abort solver at any time

File Features

• Ability to import and export AutoCAD files (DXF)
• Automatic file saving (AutoSave) while inputting data
• Ability to save input files in binary and text format
• Ability to copy graphics to the Windows clipboard
• Ability to save material properties, section properties, nonprismatic member properties, and load entries in library files that can be shared by all PCA-Frame input files
• Built-in file compression utility

Graphical Interface Features

• Fast graphical interface that displays the model geometry at all times for verification
• Graphic image displaying joints, members and their labels, member rigid-end offsets, joint fixities (supports), and member orientation
• Ability to superimpose applied loads, deflected shape, and resulting shear and moment diagrams on the modeled structure
• Ability to zoom, translate (pan), or rotate the graphical image
• Ability to display portions of the graphical image for a clearer presentation
• Ability to obtain member information by simply clicking on the member

General Features

• English (in.-lb) or SI (metric) units
• Online help
• User-controlled screen color settings
• Ability to save defaults and settings for future input sessions
• Auto-input feature that "walks" you through the input process