| Product(s): | WaterGEMS, WaterCAD |
| Version(s): | 08.11.XX.XX and higher |
| Area: | Help and Documentation |
The purpose of this article is to provide a list of learning resources for new users to WaterCAD or WaterGEMS. Please use these links to gain a better understanding of the WaterGEMS/WaterCAD software. If you have any questions, please post on the OpenFlows Forum.
Welcome Kit - a one page document clarifying common sources of initial confusion: downloading, licensing, training, and support. Here is the Link (you must be signed in to download)
What's New in the latest version? - As new versions are released, an article is published with details of the new features. You can find these articles, and other links on WAterGEMS and WaterCAD features, here: WaterGEMS and WaterCAD TechNotes and FAQs
Getting Started with the CONNECT Edition - If you have used the software before but are new to the CONNECT Edition, check out: Get to know WaterGEMS, WaterCAD and HAMMER CONNECT Edition
Downloading and installing - For information on how to download the latest version, see this link: Downloading OpenFlows / Hydraulics and Hydrology Software
Quick Start Lessons - The Quick Start lessons give you hands-on experience with many of the features and capabilities of WaterGEMS and WaterCAD. These detailed lessons will help you get started exploring and using the software. To access the Quick Start Lessons within WaterCAD or WaterGEMS, go to File > Help > Quick Start Lessons. Note that the files referenced in the quick start lessons (like background images) can be found in the "Lessons" subfolder within the product installation folder.
Formal Bentley Training
Free Webinars - Video webinars on various features in WaterGEMS and WaterCAD (and other products): Bentley Webinars
YouTube Channel - Videos that showcase useful functionality: WaterGEMS/WaterCAD Playlist on the Bentley OpenFlows Channel
Example Models - Another way to become acquainted with the software is to run and experiment with the included sample files, located in the "Samples" folder within the product installation folder (typically C:\Program Files\Bentley\<productname>\Samples).
Journal paper on water modeling (preview - see AWWA site to purchase) - Computer Modeling of Water Distribution Systems (AWWA, 2017)
Scenarios and Alternatives - Learn how to use the powerful Scenario management capabilities: Scenario and Alternative Management
WaterGEMS and WaterCAD General FAQs
WaterGEMS For ArcGIS Pro and WaterGEMS for ArcMap FAQ
Other Related Articles - Additional comprehensive technical articles for WaterCAD and WaterGEMS: WaterGEMS and WaterCAD TechNotes and FAQs
OpenFlows Community Wiki - A comprehensive collection of wiki articles is available to search through, for specific questions, topics and problems. Using the search bar from within the wiki will search for all articles for OpenFlows products, including WaterGEMS and WaterCAD. - OpenFlows Wiki
Help documentation - The context-sensitive, in-program Help is a good first step to finding answers to questions or information on how to use features. Use the Help button within the feature, or the main help button at the top of the application (or under the Help menu in older versions)
OpenFlows Forum - This forum provides a place to ask questions and contribute to discussions on OpenFlows products: OpenFlows | Hydraulics and Hydrology Forum
Alerts on new releases and updates- Subscribe to our blog or check the CONNECTION Client for new release alerts. Read more here: How to receive alerts on new version availability
Bentley Software Tutorials for Engineers Without Borders USA: Intro to Bentley Software Tutorials for Engineers Without Borders USA
Reference Books:
1) Advanced Water Distribution Modeling and Management (AWDM) - This 800-page book walks the user through the water modeling process from start to finish – from data collection to practical application – and explores transient analysis, GIS technology applications, and water system vulnerability and security along the way. It provides extensive expert material from around the world.
2) Computer Applications in Hydraulic Engineering (CAiHE) - this book is an all-inclusive ater resources guide for practicing engineers and students in the hydraulics and hydrology fields. It links theory with real-world applications through exercises and examples of the technology, theory, and analysis methods at the forefront of hydraulic engineering. The examples cover everything from water quality analysis and hydraulic theory to detention pond design, dynamic modeling, culvert hydraulics, and more.
3) Water Loss Reduction - In today's world, water is our planet's most precious natural resource, and it must be preserved wherever it can. This book describes important advances in technology that will play an integral role in leakage management and water loss reduction strategies.