Introduction to Caustics Software

Overview

• Caustics: Software used for quantity measurements and cost management
• Used by multinational companies for:
  • Quantity takeoff
  • Rate analysis
  • Overall cost management

Getting Started with Caustics

Initial Setup

• Interface overview
• Creating a new project:
  • Click on New and give a building name (e.g., Tower A, B, C)
  • Assign a project name (e.g., Test)
  • Default project settings can be used
• Insert to start the project

Adding Drawings

• Various types of drawings supported:
  • PDF
  • AutoCAD
  • 3D models (Revit, DWFx)
  • JPEG
• Steps to upload a drawing:
  • Go to Drawings tab
  • Click Add Drawing

Scaling Drawings

Automatic and Manual Scaling

• AutoCAD drawings are often scaled automatically
• Other drawings (PDF, etc.) need manual scaling

Manual Scaling Steps

1. Check given scale (e.g., 1:50)
2. Edit drawing properties:

• Right-click on the drawing
• Input horizontal and vertical scales

3. Cross-check the scaling

Without Given Scale

• Use known measurements within the drawing for calibration
• Steps:
  1. Identify a known measurement
  2. Use Calibrate function to set scale based on known measurements

Quantity Takeoff

Dimension Groups & Measurements

• Create dimension groups under the Dimensions tab

Measurement Types

1. Counting

• Example: Counting FCUs (Fan Coil Units)
• Create a dimension group with Count as the type
• Use Point mode for accuracy

2. Length Measurement

• Example: Measuring duct length
• Create a dimension group with Length as the type
• Measurement is done using Line or Point mode

3. Area Measurement

• Example: Calculating room area
• Create a dimension group with Area as the type
• Complete the area by connecting measurement points

Conclusion

• This video covers basic functions of Caustics
• Future videos will include:
  • Advanced measurement techniques
  • Workbook creation
• Reminder to subscribe and keep learning