Nextensor Lite
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Nextensor Lite
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Nextensor iStart

About

Welcome to Nextensor iStart, the innovative solution and the ultimate collaboration tool for technical teams. Backed by the concept of digital modeling of physical assets with multiple integrated tools, Nextensor iStart is designed to boost efficiency and help you achieve your asset goals.

Nextensor iStart is a standalone product that provides the necessary tools and features to create and complete projects hassle-free and reach global markets cost-effectively. It enables the creation and management of digital models of physical objects by simplifying the utilization of LEAN maintenance practices.

A digital model in Nextensor is a representation of how your asset operates, including relevant inputs and outputs, both static and dynamic visualization, bill of materials, consumables, total cost of ownership calculation, individual and project documentation, built-in video conferencing with tag-centric chat linked to shared workspace, and much more. These digital models streamline project development from idea to full-scale implementation, all collaboratively and in real time.
Nextensor iStart is designed for users who want to leverage the power of digital modeling without requiring extensive technical skills. Pre-created digital libraries of models allow immediate deployment, customization, and extension while enabling real-time collaboration with remote teams.

Free Collaboration with Nextensor Lite

With the Free version, Nextensor Lite, real-time collaboration is possible even at no cost. Invite colleagues, partners, and customers to join your digital models and work together in shared workspaces, enhancing productivity, innovation, and competitiveness.

Nextensor iStart is easy to use and learn, with digital twins created in minutes using an intuitive and user-friendly interface. Comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and support resources are available to help you get the most out of Nextensor iStart.

Installation

Installing Nextensor iStart is straightforward. Users can visit Nextensor.com or Nextensor.net to create an account and download either the free or paid version.

Account Creation

To create an account, go to nextensor.net and click the Create Account button. Fill out all the required fields, and then click Create.

  • Name: Enter the first name.
  • Surname: Enter the last name.
  • Company: Add the company name.
  • Email: Enter a valid email
  • Password: Use a strong combination of numbers, letters, and symbols to secure account.
  • Repeat Password: Confirm the password by re-entering it.
  • License Agreement: Select to agree with the terms.
  • Create: Create an account.

After creating an account, the user needs to verify their email by clicking the verification link sent to the provided email address. Users can now log into the Lite version of the program. Now, to make the most of Nextensor, buy the iStart version.

After logging into the account, pay for iStart and click the Download iStart button to get started

Login

Users will land on the login window once the iStart has been installed successfully.

  • Email address: Provide the verified email address.
  • Password: Enter the correct password.
  • Show password: Reveal the password.
  • Remember: Keeps user logged in even after the program is closed.
  • Login: Access the program.
  • Forgot password: Reset password.

Main Menu

It contains different tabs with options for controlling and using iStart.

  • File: Settings related to handling Nextensor projects (such as Open, Save, New, Print, Logout, etc).
  • Edit: Options to modify a Nextensor project (Undo, Redo, Cut, Copy, Paste, Delete, etc).
  • View: Settings related to Nextensor interface (View Gridlines, Rulers, Title block).
  • Teamwork: Options to manage teamwork (Start/stop session, Join se
  • ssion, Invite, History, etc.).
  • Help: Contains helping material such as Tutorials, website links, About Nextensor, etc.

File Menu

It contains the options to manage the current file. Users can also open an existing or recent project.

  • New: Create a new project.
  • Open: Open an existing project in Nextensor.
  • Recent Projects: List of most recently created projects.
  • Save: Save changes.
  • Save As: Save the modified project on a new location.
  • Print: Print the project with its properties.
  • Export: Lists options for exporting the project in different formats.
    • PDF: Choose to export the project as PDF.
    • Image: Choose to create an image out of the project and save it.
  • Theme: Choose from Dark or Light mode.
  • Font size: Select the font size (Small, Medium, Large).
  • Log out: Sign out.
  • Close: Close the current Nextensor window.

Edit Menu

It contains the general options to make changes to the current project.

  • Undo: Undo the last modification.
  • Redo: Redo the undone work.
  • Copy: Copy the selected item to create duplicates.
  • Cut: Copy the selected item and move it to a different place.
  • Paste: Paste the copies or cut items.
  • Delete: Deletes the selected item.
  • Zoom 100%: Resets the zoom to 100%.
  • Select All: Select everything under the working area.

View Menu

Adjust the workspace according to the requirement.

  • Rulers: Display the rulers on the horizontal and vertical edges of the workspace.
  • Project Grid: Displays gridlines on the workspace for more precision.
  • Title block: Show or hide the project title.

Teamwork Menu

This menu has the options to create or join sessions, send session invitations to team members, and view session history. Users can also continue a session from history.

  • Start session: Create a new session and choose a project to share.
  • Join session: Join an ongoing session.
  • Stop session: Halt a session. Only available if you started the session.
  • Invite participants: Send the session ID to add participants via email.
  • History: Shows the log of a selected session. Also allows users to continue a selected session.
  • Buy Teamwork: Avail advanced collaboration features by buying Teamwork.
  • Teamwork Free Trial: Activate a free trial of Teamwork.

Help Menu

Access tutorials and other supportive content to understand how to make the most of iStart. Any available updates can also be installed from this menu.

  • Tutorials: Navigate users to user guides or tutorial materials.
  • Help contents: Shows the official help.
  • Update: Enabled whenever an update is available.
  • Nextensor Community: A link to the online community where users can find help and solve problems (coming soon).
  • About Nextensor: Basic information about the program, version, activation date, etc.
  • Visit Nextensor.com: Takes the user to the official website.

Digital Models

Digital models represent a physically existing system in a digital format. For example, a pump may have various types, but its function remains consistent across all scenarios. This feature streamlines the digital model creation process, providing a user-friendly experience for efficient system representation. Users will be able to create their own libraries and digital models for any type and industry.

The iStart offers a range of pre-built models for convenience in creating digital models. Every digital model has ISA-standard symbols (Models panel) and individual cross-referencing visual representation (Visuals panel). Access these models via the right-side panel of your screen.

These Models and Visuals consist of 2D and visualized  libraries for different equipment.

Models
Visuals

Users can add a model or a visual by dragging and dropping it into the workspace. Both libraries have the same properties and options.

Properties of Models

Panel properties are present on the left side of the screen. These properties are used for cost and resource calculations. iStart facilitates collaboration on these factors for better alignment.

Note: The panel properties are visible only when a model is selected.

  1. CTCO (Consumables and Total Cost of Ownership)- Contains options for calculating consumables and the TCO.
  2. Docs – Add any model-related documents.
  3. Controls – Options to add advanced functionalities to the models.
1. CTCO (Consumables and Total Cost of Ownership)

CTCO includes the costs of different project elements and resources required to build and operate the system.

  • Consumables – Lists all the consumables needed to operate a system annually. All consumables are measured in universally accepted units.
  • TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) – Sums all the expenses for maintaining and operating a system for a selected time period. The total cost is calculated by multiplying the per unit cost with the quantity and the lifetime and is reflected in front of TCO.
    Under TCO, the user first enters the value in Total field and the quantity of assets. The cost is then automatically calculated according to the years specified in the Lifetime. 
  • Lifetime: Specify the period for which the TCO must be calculated (should be at least 1y (Default)).
  • Dimensions (L, W, H, Weight, and Volume)– Specifies the length, width, height, weight, and volume of the selected model required for the system.
2. Docs

Add any selected model-related documents that are helpful for system stakeholders.

  1. Add new document (+) – Shows options to upload new documents.
  2. Folder path – Appends the path in project settings with a file link.
  3. Individual path – Clarifies the FilePath.
  4. Browse – Upload the existing documents from the computer.
  5. Document – Displays the document’s name.
  6. Submit – Add the document to selected category.
  7. Edit – Edit the existing document.
  8. Delete (x) – Delete document.
  9. Expand category (<) – Shows the uploaded documents.
  10. Add new Folder – Add a new folder under Docs.
3. Controls

Controls include advanced elements that enhance system visualization in digital models. They demonstrate how specific models in the system operate to different users.

Animations – Add interactivity to the models to make them more clear.

  1. Shape and rotation: Choose the shape of the progress bar (circular or rectangular) and rotate it.
  2. Variable: A signal (condition) that initiates the animation.
  3. Value: Current value and color.
  4. Size and Position: Set width (W), height (H), horizontal position (X), and vertical position (Y) for animation.
  5. Animate Elements On Different Values: Choose a color for each element (denoted by C1) when the signal (variable) reaches a certain value.

Switch –  Add a switch to operate the model according to a logical signal.

  1. Switch Name: Name the switch.
  2. Trigger: Variable/signal that turns the switch on or off.
  3. Show/Hide: Make the switch visible and invisible.
  4. Font size and Color: Font size and color for switch name.
  5. Size, Position, and Colors: Set the width (W), height (H), horizontal position (X), and vertical position (Y). Select different colors for when the switch is on or off.

Audio – Add an audio to make the visualizations more realistic.

  1. Filename: Displays audio file name.
  2. Upload Audio: Browse and upload audio.
  3. Hide/Show Audio: Hide and show audio files on the workspace.
  4. Volume: Adjust volume.
  5. Play/Stop: Play and stop audio.
  6. Play Audio on Condition: Set a logical condition to play audio partially.

Video – Add a video for further demonstration.

  1. Rotate Video: Rotate video display to a certain degree.
  2. Upload Video: Browse and upload video files.
  3. Size, Position, Volume, and Play: Set the width (W), height (H), and horizontal and vertical positions (X & Y). Adjust the volume and play or stop the video.

Hotspot – Add links to the elements to spot them in the workspace. A hotspot can also be external to the project.

  1. Shape, Color, Font Size, Name: Select a shape (circle or rectangle), color, font size, and hotspot name.
  2. Show/Hide Hotspot: Display or hide the hotspot on the workspace.
  3. Size and Position: Set Width (W) and height (Y). Adjust position (X and Y).
  4. Tag: The tag name of the element to link to the hotspot.
  5. Internal/External: Specify whether the hotspot is within or external to the project.

Alerts – Set alerts on different elements when they reach a particular value.

  • Color: Turns the selected element to the chosen color when the condition is met.
  • Enable/Disable Alerts: Use the checkbox to turn alerts on or off.
  • Trigger (C1): Element to apply alert on.
  • Variable: The signal triggers the alert when it reaches the given value.

Audio and Video: Play and control added audio and video.

Panel Data

Panel data lets users specify the required input, outputs, or other data to run the system smoothly. This includes specifying the maximum and minimum ranges.

  1. Add New Input (+): Add a new input field.
  2. Add New Output (+): Add new output field.
  3. Rename Input/Output: Double-click the input/output field to rename.
  4. Ranges: Specify the system’s minimum, current, and maximum input/output ranges.
  5. Model name: Selected model name and description (click to add a custom description)
  6. Lock: Locks the current settings.
  7. Format: Format the description (Font style, size, color, etc).
  8. Visual: The visual representation of the selected model.

Analytics

The Analytics panel shows the total TCO and consumables for all models in the project for a default period of 5 years. This gives an estimate of the budget and expenses for building a project. The cost of consumables is reflected from the Project Dashboard.

Teamwork

iStart allows users to collaborate on projects with real-time teamwork. Users can initiate sessions to collaborate on models, sharing data and information through notes and messages.

Panel Tools

Adjust Edit, Search, Create, Hide/Show libraries and Tags.

  1. Adjustments: Adjust the size of a model.
  2. Libraries: Shows the list of available model libraries. Filters let select and deselect the libraries to appear in the list.
  3. Search: Search for a specific model.
  4. Tags: Label each model with a number.

Click the Tag icon to view the current label. Double-click the tag number or Tag (besides the library name) to change it. The next model of similar library will have the number next to it with a tag name. To change the number or tag name associated with an existing model, double-click on the number below it and modify it.

  1. Hide/Show: Hides or shows names of models.
  2. Add new library (+): Adds new library under Models and Visuals.

Adjust Model Size

Increases and decreases the model size.

  1. Select Model: Choose the model to resize.
  2. Adjustment: Displays the slider.
  3. Background Color: Set model’s background color.
  4. Slider: Drag the slider to increase or decrease model size.

Libraries

This icon hides and shows the model libraries based on user selection. It displays a list of all the available libraries when clicked.

  1. Libraries: Shows available model libraries.
  2. Select/Deselect: Show or hide model libraries by selecting or deselecting the checkbox.

Hide/Show Model Names

The Eye icon hides and displays model names.

Editing an Existing Library

If the user expands a library and right-clicks over models, a popup menu appears with options to edit the current library:

  1. Add: Add a new model of the same kind. It shows the same dialog as that in the previous section.
  2. Delete: Delete an existing model.
  3. Edit: Modify a pre-built model.

When selected, the Edit window appears with the following options:

  1. Name: Renames the model to a user-defined name.
  2. Current Library: Shows current library. Users can link the selected model to another library.
  3. Model: Upload a custom model image.
  4. Model Library: Available models of the selected library.
  5. Visual: Upload the corresponding visual.
  6. Visual Library: Available visuals of the selected library.
  7. Reset: Resets the model to the default name, image, and library.
  8. Submit: Saves the changes.
  9. Cancel: Undo all changes.

Adding a New Library

Adds user-defined libraries and models.

  1. (+): Add a new library.
  2. Rename Library: Rename a library by double-clicking on it.
  3. Add: Add the custom models in the custom library.
  4. Name: Specify the name of the library.
  5. Linked Library: Change the library to which a model is associated.
  6. Model: Add custom models by clicking on the upload icon.
  7. Libraries: Select Models library.
  8. Visual: Add corresponding visual.
  9. Libraries: Choose the Visuals library.
  10. Submit: Add the custom models in the new library.
  11. Cancel: Reset all settings.

Users can right-click on the library for more options:

  • Hide: Hides a library.
  • Save: Saves any changes made to the library.
  • Upload new: Let the user upload new models and visuals.
  • Delete: Deletes the selected library.

Shortcut Menus

The popup menus that appear after right-clicking on the workspace are termed shortcut menus. In iStart, different menus appear depending on whether a model is selected.

1. Shortcut menu for selected models

When the user right-clicks on the model after selecting it, a pop-up menu appears with additional options.

  • Rotate: Rotates the selected model to a certain degree.
  • Visualize: Convert the model to its corresponding visual.
  • Copy: Copy the model.
  • Cut: Delete the model from the current file/position while copying it.
  • Delete: Delete the model.
  • Bring: Move the model to the front or forward (for overlapping elements).
  • Send: Move the model back or backward (for overlapping elements).
  • Hide: Hide the model from the workspace.
  • Lock position: Make the model unmovable.
  • Tag: Show/hide tag.
  • LOTO (Lock Out Tag Out): Adds a marking letting the user know not to touch something.
  • Save to library: Adds the model with all the data to the selected library.
2. Shortcut menu for cursor-pointed models

This shortcut menu appears when the user right-clicks on a model without selecting it.

  • Rotate: Rotate the model to a certain degree.
  • Visualize: Add a corresponding visual for the model.
  • Delete: Delete the model.
  • Insert: Add animation, visuals, switches, audio, and video.
  • Bring: To front or forward.
  • Send: To back or backward.
  • Add input: Add input requirements (min, max, and current).
  • Add output: Add output requirements (min, max, and current).
  • Hide: Hide model.
  • Lock position: Fix the model position.
  • Tag: Show/hide tag.
  • LOTO (Lock Out Tag Out): Mark the model for caution.
  • Save to Library: Add the model to a library with data.

Project

All the digital models’ different elements are collectively called a project. iStart provides its users with an intuitive interface to manage projects and collaborate on them.

Project Workspace

The Project Workspace refers to the different tools and options available to easily build digital modesls. It includes panels, work area, toolbox, menu bars, and other interface parts.

  • Main Menu: Navigate the menu items to manage and edit the project.
  • Quick Access Toolbar: Perform frequent tasks in a single click.
  • Project Panel (Left): Access project-related information and add documents.
  • Project Title: Current project name.
  • Workspace: Create systems by dragging and dropping models and other elements.
  • Project Shortcuts (I need to know what to call this panel): Initiate the session, access the project dashboard, and visualize the project.
  • Right Project Panel: Access models, visuals, and project analytics.
  • Project Toolbox: Enhance the project by adding elements such as text boxes, images, shapes, etc.
1. Main Menu

The main menu includes options to manage the project.

2. Quick Access Toolbar
  • New: Create a new project.
  • Open: Open and edit an existing project.
  • Save: Save the current project.
  • Copy: Copy the selected items.
  • Cut: Copies and deletes the selected item.
  • Paste: Paste the copied item.
  • Undo: Revert to the previous state.
  • Redo: Restore to the state before undo.
3. Project Panel (Left)
  • Project Properties: Manage project information such as documentation, specifications, and
  • Project Data: Add required inputs and outputs to run the system.
4. Project Title

Save the project so you can view the project title. The red dot shows an unsaved project.

5. Workspace

This is the work area where users can drag and drop models and create digital ones.

6. Project Shortcuts
  • Initiate Session: Start a session by entering the session ID or creating one.
  • Project Dashboard: Get a project overview.
  • Visualize: See how the system will work in the real world.
7. Project Panel (Right)
  • Models: Model libraries with standard symbols for different equipment.
  • Visuals: 3D models.
  • Analytics: Project’s total cost estimations.
8. Project Toolbox
  • TextBlock: Draw a text box in the workspace.
  • Image: Import an image to the workspace.
  • Video: Add a video to the workspace.
  • Connections: Draw solid-wavy, pointed connections.
  • Draw: Free-hand drawing.
  • Frame: Add boundaries around elements.
  • Shapes: Add squares, rectangles, and circles.
  • Annotations: Annotate different elements with text.
  • Lines: Add solid, dashed, and dotted lines.
  • Thickness: Increase or decrease border thickness.
  • Color: Change and choose colors for elements.
  • Hide/Show Model: Displays and hides the model with a single click.
  • Hide/Show Author: Displays or hides the name of the team member who made changes to the project. This feature is used explicitly with teamwork.
  • Lock Position: Finalize the position of the selected element on the screen. The element cannot be relocated once locked.
  • Visualize: Play and visualize how the system will work in the real world.
  • Zoom: Drag the slider to adjust zooming.
  • Page Width: Resets the zoom to page width.
  • Zoom 100%: Resets the zoom to 100%.

Panel Menus

Panel menus are located on the left and right sides of the screen, containing different properties and tools to create and manipulate digital models and associated data.

Project Properties

This panel contains the options for users to specify project details. These options are divided into the following two sub-panels:

  1. Docs: Add project specifications and other project-level information.
  2. Controls: Add interactivity to the projects.
1. Docs

Any documented details about the project can be uploaded here. These documents will be shared among the team members.

  1. Add Document (+): Add the project-related document.
  2. Folder Path: Add folder path in project settings.
  3. Individual Path: Add individual file path in project settings.
  4. Browse: Search and upload documents from your computer.
  5. Document: Shows the document name.
  6. Submit: Save the document.
  7. Edit: Edit the uploaded document.
  8. Delete Document (x): Remove the document from the project.
  9. Add Folder: Add a new custom folder.
2. Controls

The controls are not available on the project level. These work only with the models for animating and enhancing the simulation. However, users can find certain options under Project controls after adding the elements from the project toolbox as depicted in the following image:

  1. Elements to be added in the project.
  2. Project controls to manage elements.

Project Data

This is used to specify the entire system’s maximum, minimum, current input, and output ranges. Users can add as many input and output elements as needed.

  1. Add Data (+): Allows users to add a new data field.
  2. Input: Add minimum, maximum, and current input requirements for the project.
  3. Output: Add minimum, maximum, and current output ranges for the project.
  4. Rename Field: Double-click on the field name to rename it.

Models, Visuals, Analytics

Models, visuals and analytics panels allow users to add the standard digital models and view the project data.

Models

This panel lets users add digital models from the standard libraries. Users can add, edit, or delete models and libraries from this panel. To add a model to the project, drag and drop it in the workspace.

Visuals

This panel contains the 3D demonstration of the digital models to make the system more realistic. Users can switch between models and visuals by clicking the Visualize icon in the project toolbox.

Analytics

The Analytics panel shows the project estimates for the selected period. It has project costs, consumables, and total ownership costs that a project owner must incur when using the system. It accumulates each model’s individual CTCO.

  1. Project: The sum of the total amount needed for the assets in the system.
  2. Consumables: Collective cost of all the consumables needed to run the system for 5 years.
  3. TCO: Total cost of ownership to own a system for 5 years. This section shows the cost/year and the total cost for the system for 5 years.

Project Dashboard

The Project Dashboard gives the project overview at a glance. This dashboard contains all major details about the project, including Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), consumables, and project costs, breaking down the cost into different assets.

  1. Project Dashboard Icon: Displays the project dashboard.
  2. Project Title: The name of the project.
  3. Project Cost: The cost of building the project. It includes the actual and estimated costs of assets, engineering, and other things needed to complete the project.
  4. TCO: The total cost of ownership a project owner needs to run the system for a selected period.
  5. Consumables: The resources and the amount needed to operate the system.
  6. Breakdown: The project cost broken down into each project element.
  • Engineering: The cost needed for all the labor and engineering.
  • Assets: The cost of all the equipment.
  • Commissioning: (to be added soon)
  • Others: Other costs that might contribute to project costs.

Teamwork

During the Teamwork session initiation, the project owner can select which project to share. The team members can collaborate, make audio and video calls, share screens, and send messages and notes to each other.

  1. Teamwork Icon: Start teamwork.
  2. Password: Set a password for the session.
  3. Project: Select a project to share.
  4. Submit: Save session settings.
Real-time collaboration

Teamwork is the core feature of iStart that brings different technical teams together and provides them a platform to collaborate on different project aspects. It allows teams to share digital models along with the data and properties so everyone gets on the same page without the need to meet physically.

  1. Teamwork Controls:
  • Nextcon(Call): Initiate a video call with team members.
  • Microphone: Enable or disable the microphone.
  • Video: Enable or disable video.
  • Share Screen: Share the current screen with participants.
  • Teamwork: Create and start a session.
  1. TeamW: This panel shows information about the current session and exchanged messages.
  2. Session ID: The current session ID and username.
  3. Project: Shared project name.
  4. Save changes: Approves the changes made by the participants. The changes are not added to the change log unless accepted by the project owner.
  5. Changes: View changelog.
  6. Search: Search messages.
  7. Message Log: Messages with username and timestamp.
  8. Messages: Send new messages.
Start a Session

Initiate a teamwork session in iStart to collaborate on a project.

  1. Teamwork Icon: Initiates a new session.
  2. ID: Generated automatically.
  3. Password: Choose a password.
  4. Projects: Select which project to share.
  5. Submit: Create a session.

Note: A project does not appear in the list unless it is saved.

Share a Workspace

Sharing a session can be done in either of two ways, as demonstrated below:

1. Copy and share session credentials

The user can copy and share the session credentials with other users to collaborate.

Right-click the project name, and choose an option:

  • Copy ID: Copies the session ID to the clipboard.
  • Copy Password: Copies the session password to the clipboard.
  • Copy ID and Password: Copy the session ID and password.
  • Export Chat to Excel: Saves the chat in .xlxs format locally.

After copying, the credentials can be sent to the recipients via email or message.

2. Invitation of participants

The session initiator can send the session invitation directly to the participants via email.

When a list of recipients is available, participants can be invited directly from iStart:

  1. Invite participants: Shows a list of contacts.
  2. Choose Recipients: Select whom to invite to the session.
  3. Invite: Send session invitation.
Join Session

Connect to an ongoing session as a teammate to collaborate on a project. Users can view and edit the digital model, enter a video or audio call, and send and receive messages by joining a session. 

  1. Join Session: Open session ID and password window received from the session initiator.
  2. ID: Enter session ID.
  3. Password: Enter the correct session password.
  4. Submit: Join the session.
Stop Session

The session can be stopped from the Teamwork menu or the Teamwork icon.

Change Log

The change log contains the timestamped record of all the changes made to the model during teamwork.

This logo displays changes made by each user after the project owner has accepted them.

  1. Changes: Displays the changelog denoting all the changes made to the model by different team members with a timestamp.
  2. ChangeLog: List of all the changes made by users with timestamps.
Nextcon: group videoconferencing

Nextcon is an iStart feature facilitating video call meetings for teams without the need for a third-party software.

  1. Nextcon icon: Initiate call.
  2. Microphone: Toggle the mic on and off.
  3. Video: Turn the camera on and off.
  4. Cast screen: Share the screen.
  5. End call: Discontinue call.
  6. Settings: Show call settings.
  7. Minimize Nextcon: Show Nextcon controls in a compact view.
  8. Maximize Nextcon: Show Nextcon in full view.
Notes

Notes associated with the shared project can also be shared through Teamwork. These are not shared by default; the user controls what notes to share with team members.

  1. Notes: Displays the project notes.
  2. Sent to Teamwork: By right-clicking on a note, the user can send it to Teamwork via messages.

Nextensor Lite

About

Nextensor LITE is a free collaboration tool for technical teams to help them complete their projects hassle-free. It gives a competitive advantage in today’s complex and dynamic marketplace. It equips cross-industry, multi-disciplined engineers and technical teams with the latest yet most innovative tools for all kinds of projects.

With Nextensor LITE, teams can create digital models (digital twins), indistinguishable digital counterparts of physical objects. It gives the technical teams an idea about what they will achieve at the end of the project. It also mentions the specific details about the equipment needed to build that object physically. It also replicates the system’s various processes and introduces teams to the underlying premise of Product Lifecycle Management.

Using Nextensor LITE, users can not only create digital twins but also simulate, visualize, and collaborate on them remotely.

Free real-time collaboration is another Nextensor LITE feature worth mentioning. This feature allows team members to join a session created by an iStart user so they can collaborate and share information in real-time. It saves users much time and requires no other tools to be installed. Users can comment, add notes, and communicate with each other within the platform.

To download and for more information, visit the website: https://www.nextensor.com/

Limitations of Nextensor Lite

Although it seems quite similar to iStart, Nextensor Lite has certain limitations which are mentioned in the following table:

  1. No Save and Save As options.
  2. Bills of Materials cannot be exported.
  3. Lite users cannot initiate a session.
  4. Model description cannot be created.
  5. Documents cannot be added.
  6. No linking for models and projects.
  7. Models creation and editing are restricted.

Getting Started

Installation

Installing Nextensor LITE is straightforward. Users can visit Nextensor.com or Nextensor.net, create an account, and download it for free.

Once downloaded, follow these steps:

  • Click Next.

·         Accept the license terms and hit Next.

  • Select a location, choose appropriate options, and hit Install.
  1. Browse: Choose a location to install the Lite.
  2. Icons: Choose whether to create icons or not.
  3. Install: Install the program in selected location.
  • Wait for the program to install.
Account Creation

To create an account, go to nextensor.net and click the Create Account button. Then, fill out all the fields and click on the Create button.

  • Name: Enter the first name.
  • Surname: Enter the last name.
  • Company: Add the company name.
  • Email: Enter a valid email.
  • Password: Use a strong combination of numbers, letters, and symbols to secure the account
  • Repeat Password: Confirm the password by re-entering it.
  • License Agreement: Select to agree with the terms.
  • Create: Create an account. 

After creating an account, the user needs to verify the email by clicking the verification link sent to the provided email. Users can now log into the LITE version of the program. 

Login

Users will land on the login window once the Nextensor LITE has been successfully installed.

Alternatively, the user can click the Register link on the Login screen.

  • Email address: Provide the verified email address.
  • Password: Enter the valid password.
  • Show password: Toggle the password visibility.
  • Remember: Keeps user logged in even after the program is closed.
  • Forgot password: Reset password.
  • Login: Get into the program.
Uninstall

User can uninstall the program from their Windows Settings.

Main Menu

The Main menu contains various tabs with options to control and use the Lite.

  • File: Settings related to handling Nextensor projects (Open, Save, New, Print, Logout, etc).
  • Edit: Options to modify a Nextensor project (Undo, Redo, Cut, Copy, Paste, Delete, etc).
  • Teamwork: Options to manage teamwork (Start/stop session, Join session, Invite, History, etc.).
  • Help: Contains helping material such as Tutorials, website links, About Nextensor, etc.

File Menu

It contains the options to manage the current file. Users can also open an existing or recent project. The Lite users cannot save a project.

  • New: Create a new project.
  • Open: Open an existing project in Nextensor.
  • Recent Projects: List of most recently created projects.
  • Save: Save changes (Only available in iStart).
  • Save As: Save the modified project on a new location or with a new name (Only for iStart).
  • Print: Print the project with its properties.
  • Export: Lists the options for exporting the project in different formats.
    • PDF: Choose to export the project as PDF.
    • Image: Choose to create an image out of the project and save it.
  • Theme: Choose from Dark or Light
  • Font size: Choose the font size (Small, Medium, Large).
  • Log out: Sign out.
  • Close: Close the current Nextensor window.

Edit Menu

It contains the general options to make changes to the current project.

  • Undo: Undo the last modification.
  • Redo: Redo the undone work.
  • Copy: Copy the selected item to create duplicates.
  • Cut: Copy the selected item and move it to a different place.
  • Paste: Paste the copies or cut items.
  • Delete: Deletes the selected item.
  • Zoom 100%: Resets the zoom to 100%.
  • Select All: Select everything under the working area.

Teamwork Menu

The Teamwork Menu in Lite has only the option to join a collaborative session created by iStart, iBuild, or iTrain users.

  • Join session: Join an ongoing session.
  • Stop session: End a session. Only available if you initiated it.

Help Menu

Access tutorials and other supportive content to understand how to make the most of Lite. Any available updates can also be installed from this menu.

  • Tutorials: Direct users to user guides or tutorial materials.
  • Help contents: Shows the official help.
  • Update: Enabled whenever an update is available.
  • Nextensor Community: A link to the online community where users can find help and solve problems.
  • About Nextensor: Basic information about the program, version, activation date, etc.
  • Visit Nextensor.com: Takes the user to the official website.
Quick Access Toolbar

This toolbar contains the shortcuts for frequently used tools.

  • New: Create a new project.
  • Open: Open an existing project.
  • Save (Unavailable): Save the current file.
  • Copy: Copy the selected item.
  • Cut: Copy and remove the selected item from the current position.
  • Paste: Paste the copied item.
  • Undo: Revert the last action.
  • Redo: Revert the undoed action.
Common features

This section demonstrates common features between iStart and Lite.

  1. Data: Model and project data.
  2. Properties: Individual model properties.
  3. BoM (Bill of Material): Downloads the list of raw materials, components, instructions, and data required for building a system in .xlsx format.
  4. Project Title: Specify the project title, saving location, and other information.
  5. Description: Toggle model description box.
  6. Edit model: Locks the model with the current settings. To add individual TCOs, Consumables, Docs, and Controls, the Models must be dropped into the workspace, and the Lock has to be opened. After making changes, the Lock must be closed to update the library model automatically.
  7. Link: Links the selected model to variables for dynamic functionality.
  8. Models: 2D ISA-standard symbols for creating digital models.
  9. Visuals: 3D representation of corresponding models.
  10. Analytics: Aggregated data for the complete system. It shows consumables, TCO, and project costs.

Project Title

Under Project Title, users can name the project and set parameters like saving location, tags, page size, etc.

  • Name: Project name.
  • Number: Project number.
  • Code: Project code.
  • Section: Project section that a user is building in the current file.
  • Tag: Any related tags.
  • Document: Documentation for the project.
  • Browse: Location to save the project.
  • Size: Select the size and units for the project.
  • Grid spacing: Choose how far the grid should be placed from each other.

Description

The Description icon is used to show or hide the model description box. Users can add custom desctiptions for each model and save them.

Models Panel

After adding the model in the workspace, the user can manipulate it using model panels.

Model Data

Model data lets users specify the required input, outputs, or other data to run the system smoothly. This includes specifying the maximum and minimum ranges.

  1. Input 1 (+): Add all the inputs needed to operate the model. Specify minimum, current, and maximum ranges as well as the unit.
  2. Output (+): Add all the outputs that a model will generate. Specify minimum, current, and maximum ranges as well as the unit.
  3. Rename: Double-click the field to rename it.
  4. Delete: Right-click on the field to delete.
  5. Description: Add a description of the model.
  6. Edit Description: Edit font size, color, and other settings.

Model Properties

Model properties are located on the left side of the screen. These properties are used to do cost and resource calculations. LITE helps teams collaborate on these factors so everyone can be on the same page.

Note: Model properties are visible only when a model is selected.

  1. CTCO (Consumables and Total Cost of Ownership)- Contains options for calculating consumables and the TCO.
  2. Docs – Add any model-related documents.
  3. Controls – Options to add advanced functionalities to the models.
1. CTCO (Consumables and Total Cost of Ownership)

CTCO includes the costs of different project elements and resources required to build and operate the system.

  • Consumables – Lists all the consumables needed to operate a system annually. All consumables are measured in universally accepted units.
  • TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) – Sums all the expenses for maintaining and operating a system for a selected time period. The total cost is calculated by multiplying the per unit cost by the quantity and the lifetime, and it is reflected in front of TCO.
    Under TCO, the user first enters the value in Total field and the quantity of assets. The cost is then automatically calculated according to the years specified in the Lifetime. 
  • Lifetime: Specify the period for which the TCO must be calculated (should be at least 1y (Default)).
  • Dimensions (L, W, H, Weight, and Volume)– Specifies the length, width, height, weight, and volume of the selected model required for the system.
2. Docs

Under the Docs panel, a Light user can view the documents related to the model. However, they need to upgrade to iStart to add any new documents or edit the existing ones.

  • Expand: Shows the available documents under a category.
  • Document Name – Shows the name of the document.
3. Controls

Controls include the advanced elements that could be added to a digital model for enhanced system visualization. They are used to show users how specific models in the system will work.

Animations – Add interactivity to the models to make them more clear.

  1. Shape and rotation: Choose the shape of the progress bar (circular or rectangular) and rotate it.
  2. Variable: A signal (condition) that initiates the animation.
  3. Value: Current value and color.
  4. Size and Position: Set width (W), height (H), horizontal position (X), and vertical position (Y) for animation.
  5. Animate Elements On Different Values: Choose a color for each element (denoted by C1) when the signal (variable) reaches a certain value.

Switch –  Add a switch to operate the model according to a logical signal.

  1. Switch Name: Name the switch.
  2. Trigger: Variable/signal that turns the switch on or off.
  3. Show/Hide: Make the switch visible and invisible.
  4. Font size and Color: Font size and color for switch name.
  5. Size, Position, and Colors: Set the width (W), height (H), horizontal position (X), and vertical position (Y). Select different colors for when the switch is on or off.

Audio – Add an audio to make the visualizations more realistic.

  1. Filename: Displays audio file name.
  2. Upload Audio: Browse and upload audio.
  3. Hide/Show Audio: Hide and show audio files on the workspace.
  4. Volume: Adjust volume.
  5. Play/Stop: Play and stop audio.
  6. Play Audio on Condition: Set a logical condition to play audio partially.

Video – Add a video for further demonstration.

  1. Rotate Video: Rotate video display to a certain degree.
  2. Upload Video: Browse and upload video files.
  3. Size, Position, Volume, and Play: Set the width (W), height (H), and horizontal and vertical positions (X & Y). Adjust the volume and play or stop the video.

Hotspot – Add links to the elements to spot them in the workspace. A hotspot can also be external to the project.

  1. Shape, Color, Font Size, Name: Select a shape (circle or rectangle), color, font size, and hotspot name.
  2. Show/Hide Hotspot: Display or hide the hotspot on the workspace.
  3. Size and Position: Set Width (W) and height (Y). Adjust position (X and Y).
  4. Tag: The tag name of the element to link to the hotspot.
  5. Internal/External: Specify whether the hotspot is within or external to the project.

Alerts – Set alerts on different elements when they reach a particular value.

  • Color: Turns the selected element to the chosen color when the condition is met.
  • Enable/Disable Alerts: Use the checkbox to turn alerts on or off.
  • Trigger (C1): Element to apply alert on.
  • Variable: The signal triggers the alert when it reaches the given value.

Audio and Video – Play and control added audio and video.

Models, Visuals, Analytics

Models, visuals and analytics panels allow users to add the standard digital models and view the project data.

Models

The models include the standard symbols for all the equipment used in building a digital model. The user can drag and drop a model from libraries and edit and filter them.

Visuals

The visuals are the 3D depiction of each model. It can be used to make the model look more realistic. The user can switch between 2D and 3D models using the toolbox.

Analytics

The Analytics panel reflects the total TCO and consumables for all the models in the project for 5 years by default. This gives an estimate of the budget and expenses for building a project. The cost of consumables is reflected from the Project Dashboard.

Projects Panel

Projects panel contains the project-level properties and data.

Project Properties

It contains the options for users to specify project details. It has the following two sub-panels:

  1. Docs: View project specifications and other project-level information.
  2. Controls: Add interactivity to the projects.
Docs

There are no project-level documents in the Lite version. If the user wants to add documents, they must upgrade to iStart.

Controls

The controls are not available on the project level. These work only with the models for animating and enhancing the simulation. However, users can find certain options under Project controls after adding the elements from the project toolbox as depicted in the following image:

  1. Elements to be added in the project.
  2. Project controls to manage elements.
Project Data

This is used to specify the entire system’s maximum, minimum, current input, and output ranges. Users can add as many input and output elements as needed.

  1. Add Output (+): Let users add a new output field specifying current, minimum, and maximum values and units.
  2. Rename Field: Renames the input and output fields by double-clicking.

Models, Visuals, Analytics

Models, visuals and analytics panels allow users to add the standard digital models and view the project data.

Models

This panel lets users add digital models from the standard libraries. Users can add, edit, or delete models and libraries from this panel. To add a model to the project, drag and drop it in the workspace.

Visuals

This panel contains the 3D demonstration of the digital models to make the system more realistic. Users can switch between models and visuals by clicking the Visualize icon in the project toolbox.

Analytics

The Analytics panel shows the project estimates for the selected period. It has project costs, consumables, and total ownership costs that a project owner must incur when using the system. It accumulates each model’s individual CTCO.

  1. Project: The sum of the total amount needed for the assets in the system.
  2. Consumables: Collective cost of all the consumables needed to run the system for 5 years.
  3. TCO: Total cost of ownership to own a system for 5 years. This section shows the cost/year and the total cost for the system for 5 years.

Project Dashboard

The Project Dashboard gives the project overview at a glance. It contains all the major details about the project, including TCO, consumables, and project costs. Additionally, it breaks the cost down into different assets.

  1. Project Dashboard Icon: Displays project dashboard window.
  2. Project Title: The name of the project.
  3. Customer: Name of the customer.
  4. Currency: Available currencies for cost estimations.
  5. Project Cost: The cost of building the project. It includes the actual and estimated costs of assets, engineering, and other things needed to complete the project.
  6. TCO: The total cost of ownership a project owner needs to run the system for a selected period.
  7. Consumables: The resources and the amount needed to operate the system. Users can specify the costs for consumables here. These costs are also reflected under the Analytics panel.
  8. Breakdown: The project cost broken down into each project element.
  • Engineering: The cost needed for all the labor and engineering.
  • Assets: The cost of all the equipment.
  • Commissioning: (Please tell me what this represents)
  • Others: Other costs that might contribute to project costs.

Settings

These settings include various project-related options, such as saving path, page sizes, export settings.

  1. Project Settings Icon: It is found in the control box.
  2. Profile Settings: Includes information like company name, email, country, address and currency.
  3. Project Settings: Set up the page size and grid settings.
  • Page size: Select from the standard page sizes.
  • Custom size: Specify custom page dimensions.
  • Units: Select a unit for page sizes.
  • Grid spacing: The distance between two grid lines.
  1. Export Settings: The user can export a project to a PDF or image. These settings affect when exporting to PDF.
  • Auto expand page size: Select to auto-adjust the page size.
  • Sizes: Choose the standard or custom page sizing.
  • Orientation: Choose the preferred orientation for exportation, i.e., Landscape or portrait.
  • Unit: Select the unit of measurement for page size.
  1. Save Settings: The settings for saving the project file.
  • Project: Browse and select the default save path for the project.
  • Project Documentation: Browse and select the default save path for project documents.
  1. Notification settings: Specify what to do when a message, call, or chat is sent or received.
  2. Cache: Clears the cache memory.

Teamwork

Teamwork is the core feature of Nextensor Lite that brings different technical teams together and provides them a platform to collaborate on different project aspects. It allows teams to share digital models along with the data and properties so everyone gets on the same page without the need to meet physically.

In Nextensor Lite, users can only join ongoing sessions. To create or terminate a session, users must upgrade to iStart.

  1. Teamwork controls:
  • Nextcon(Call): Initiate a video call with team members.
  • Microphone: Enable or turn off the microphone.
  • Video: Enable or disable video.
  • Share Screen: Share the current screen with participants.
  • Teamwork: Join a session.
  1. TeamW: This panel shows information about the current session and exchanged messages.
  2. Session ID: The current session ID and username.
  3. Project: Shared project name.
  4. Save changes: Approves the changes made by the participants. The changes are not added to the change log unless accepted by the project owner.
  5. Changes: Displays the changelog denoting all the changes made to the model by different team members with a timestamp.
  6. Search: Search messages.
  7. Message Log: Messages with username and timestamp.
  8. Messages: Send new messages.
Join Session

The Lite users can join a session by clicking the Teamwork icon or from the Teamwork menu. By joining a session, users can collaborate, share information, initiate video calls, and share their screens in real-time.

  1. Join Session: Open session ID and password window received from the session initiator.
  2. ID: Enter session ID.
  3. Password: Enter the correct session password.
  4. Submit: Join the session.
Stop Session

The session can be stopped from the Teamwork menu or the Teamwork icon.

Change Log

The change log contains the timestamped record of all the changes made to the model during teamwork.

Displays the changes made by each user after the project owner has accepted the changes.

  1. Changes: Displays the change log window.
  2. ChangeLog: List of all the changes made by users with timestamps.
Nextcon: built-in group videoconferencing

Nextcon is an iStart feature that facilitates video call meetings for teams without the need for third-party software.

  1. Nextcon icon: Initiate call.
  2. Microphone: Toggle the mic on and off.
  3. Video: Turn the camera on and off.
  4. Cast screen: Share the screen.
  5. End call: Discontinue call.
  6. Settings: Show call settings.
  7. Minimize Nextcon: Show Nextcon controls in a compact view.
  8. Maximize Nextcon: Show Nextcon in full view.
Notes

The notes associated with the shared project can also be shared through Teamwork. Notes are not shared by default; users control what notes to share with team members through Notes window.

  1. Notes: Displays the project notes.
  2. Send to Teamwork: By right-clicking on a note, the user can send it to Teamwork via messages.