HON update!

We posted a blog with information about the new HON updates yesterday.  We have posted new web updates today to fix a price issue in Zone 4.  This information is NOT on the December DVD, so please make sure you are running the update from the website and do not overwrite the information from the DVD.

Catalogs Link  Updated 12-16-10

Symbols Link Updated 12-15-10

December Webinar Videos

If you missed one of the webinars for December please click one of the links below to view the recorded sessions.  If you have not been getting an email for invitations, and would like to be added to the list, please email webinar@projectmatrix.com so we can add you for future sessions.

HAWORTH
Wednesday, December 15th 2010

• Morning Session
  Approximate Time- 46 Min

• Afternoon Session
  Approximate Time- 42 Min

TEKNION
Thursday, December 16th 2010

• Morning Session
  Approximate Time- 44 Min

• Afternoon Session
  Approximate Time- 45 Min

HON Catalog update

The following libraries will be expiring on 12-31-2010. Please use the NEW HON SIF libraries for any project that will be ordered after 12-31-2010. Please contact HON Customer Support with questions at 800.833.3964.

Information on the download supercedes the December DVD. After downloading from the website, do not update HON Catalogs from your Dec DVD.

List of libraries expiring on 12-31-2010
Library
Code       HON Libraries
HBN         HBN Abound
HD2         HD2 Daily 2
HD5         HD5 Daily 5
HDD         HDD Daily-On Demand
HDX         HDX Daily 10
HED         HED Education
HIN          HIN Initiate Panel System
HPE         HPE Perpetual
HS2         HS2 Simplicity II
HSC         HSC Group Steel Casegoods
HSG         HSG Group Seating
HTA         HTA Tables
HVC         HVC Vicinity
HWC        HWC Group Wood Casegoods
HX1          HX1 HON Trxn SP Richards
                Basyx Libraries
BSX          Exp 12-31-10 BSX Basyx
                 Exp 12-31-10 BX2 Basyx Transactional
BX2          United

List of NEW libraries effective 1-1-2011
Library
Code       HON Libraries
BAS          Basyx by HON
HCG         HON Desking
HDA          HON Daily Chairs Direct
HDE          HON Daily Expedite
HDO         HON Daily-On Demand
HDP          HON Daily Project Ready
HEN          HON Education
HIT            HON Initiate
HND          HON Abound
HSF          HON Storage & Files
HSI           HON Simplicity II
HSN          HON Seating
HTL          HON Tables
HVN          HON Vicinity

License Running Out Message

Well, it is that time of year again.  The weather turns cold, and the holidays are near.  That also means that most of your license codes are expiring.  Our techincal support department usually hears from a lot of you about now.  If you see this message box, and you do not have your codes for next year yet, please make sure you are pressing "CONTINUE" and not "Install New Code".  If you also click the red X or press Escape, the code will be removed, and will force you to re-enter a code.  

If you do accidentally hit the "Install New Code" button, and do not have the new codes, you can still type in your current license codes that will be expiring soon. 

If you need to check on the process of your codes, you can email accounting@projectmatrix.com

Teknion Webinar video now available

This is the link for the first Teknion Webinar hosted on Thursday, November 18th, 2010.  This video is from the morning session.

Click HERE to watch video.

The following are the Q & A from the morning and afternoon sessions.

Q: Will the sif files output from Configura be able to be opened in Project Matrix?
A: The new fields that we are adding we are thinking will help in the import functions.


Q: Are there any plans to provide panel builders for those of us working in Storyboard?
A: Yes, we are working on that with Configura.

Q: How far away are we from having Altos & Optos catalogs for Project Matrix?
A: We are almost at the testing phase of the project.  We will let you know when we are looking for Beta users.

Q: This render program.....does it require that the 3D is created in Project Matrix or can we use any 3D?
A: The 3D can be created using any 3d program.  Design Express, Cap, or just user drawn.


Q: Will we be able to pick line items to order within the spec?
A: We are also working on that, so you can filter the exported line items.  The printing will so do that.



Q: Will the spreadsheet column headers be customizable so we can rename them?
A: Not at this time. Tag fields may be the first to be customized.........

Q: Is there a way to condense the info on a full financial so it's not such a paper waster? Do any of the new formats address this?
A: Yes, there are several types of reports that Rob made to resemble Design Express. You can also make your own. You can use what we call a "horizontal" option report where the option descriptions are omitted.


Q: Can you switch easially to metric figures in ProjectRender?
A: Whatever you have in Autocad 3D will render ProjectRender. If you have metric blocks in the drawing, the blocks can be rendered, regardless if size.  There is also a toggle in ProjectRender to scale the walls and room environments to metric.

Haworth Webinar Video available

This is the link for the first Haworth Webinar hosted on Wednesday, November 17th, 2010.  This video is from the afternoon session.

Click HERE to watch video

The following are the Q & A from the morning and afternoon sessions.

Q: Is Enclose available in AutoCAD
A: Enclose is currently only available through CET and CANVAS.  ProjectMatrix is working on developing a “Wall Builder” program for products like Enclose and other manufacturer wall systems.

Q: Are the Haworth finishes available to use? Can you apply rules for finishes? (ex: mesh is only on zody back)
A: Not today we are adding them in the next two weeks.  Some of the generic are Haworth.  Sorry today the user has to select the layer.  We are working on setting by options later.

Q: Is project render free with project spec?
A: $395 for a seat or $795 for three and a site is $1595.

Q: Where are line notes added?
A: Notes can be added in the Edit Options.

Q: Will the Compose Panel Builder be updated to include the "benching" 29"H panel?
A: Haworth has requested that we not add them at this time.

Q: Are your finishes scaled or do we have to scale them?
A: Yes the ones we add are scaled.

Q: If I make a special in cad and create the attributes of the new symbol - will it render?
A: Iif the block is created in 3d then yes.

Q: Are the fees an annual commitment? Or a onetime purchase?
A: Annual this allows us to maintain and update the fabrics.

Q: system requirements for this software?
A: Less than AutoCAD.  But is uses the processor not the video card like CET and some other rendering systems.

Q: Will there be a recording of this presentation available for those who could not make it today?
A: We will on this afternoon, which should be the same.

Q: Is there a sketch ability to provide?
A: at this time no.  I would recommend Google Sketchup for that look.

Q: Are you planning on adding Enclose & live space to both catalogs and rendering capabilites?
A: We are working on a wall program, Haworth has spoke to us about a AutoCAD version so someday we believe we will.

Q: How does the blocking work with tagging
A: If you tag a part in a typical the sif out will add that tag.  Currently you cannot change the tag unless you edit the typical.

Q: What is the difference between ProjectRender and CET Configura? What would I choose one over the other? We already have CET that works with Haworth, would we still need ProjectRender?
A: If you are only using CET for renderings, then there is no need for both.  CET and CANVAS are great configuration tools for systems furniture and currently the only way to spec Enclose.

Q: 64 bit for Patterns?
A: Patterns has been put on hold per Haworth.

Q: What is different from Make Special Assembly?
A: Assembly uses a sif file to pull in parts.

Q: Will you be sharing your material library with Haworth or Configura? Are you yourselves doing it or are you contracting an outside company to come up with the tiled materials?
A: The materials are coming from Haworth, Haworth is assisting us.

Teknion Toolpak Updated

The Teknion Toolpak was updated for download on our website today.  This has a new version of the Leverage Panel Builder.

Corrected issues:

• New 3D graphics to correctly represent all Elements and Frame types.
• Updated "Make Special" on elements within a panel type.
• New smaller 2D text size.

In association with ProjectSymbols, the Leverage Panel Builder, and ProjectRender, we are showing a few screenshots of the new 3D elements.

October Updates

The October DVD was mailed this week.  You should be receiving them later this week or early next week.

Look for these updates:

ProjectSpec- Updated to Version 4.4.6
ProjectSymbols- Updated  (DVD only had 32-bit install) (64-bit install available on website)

Catalogs
Allsteel
Artopex
Basyx
DarRan
Geiger
Groupe Lacasse
Gunlocke
Haworth
Haworth AP
Haworth GSA
Herman Miller
HON
Jofco
JSI
Knoll
Maxon
National Office Furniture
Paoli
Steelcase
Steelcase Asia
Teknion Universal
Teknion Canada
Teknion US
Trendway

Symbols

Allsteel
Artopex
Groupe Lacasse
Haworth
Haworth AP
National
Trendway

August Updates

The August DVD's should be arriving this week if you haven't already seen it.

Updated Symbols:

• Allsteel
• Global Contract
• Groupe Lacasse
• Haworth
• Haworth AP
• JSI
• Kimball
• Knoll
• Maxon
• National
• Paoli

Updated Catalogs:

• Allsteel
• Artopex
• Basyx
• Geiger
• Global Contract
• Global Total Office
• Groupe Lacasse
• Gunlocke
• Haworth
• Haworth AP
• Haworth GSA
• Herman Miller
• HON
• JSI
• Kimball
• Maxon
• National Office Furniture
• Paoli
• Steelcase
• Steelcase Asia

New ProjectSpec Print Templates Available

We have received a lot of questions about creating print templates.  ProjectMatrix is in the process of creating a new ProjectSpec Print program.  Until then we wanted to update our "default" print templates.  This install contains 6 new templates.  As always you are encouraged to add your own company name, logo, and contact information.  These templates can be used as is, or be customized in any way to make them more accommodating for your needs.

Included Templates are:

• Concise
• Customer Sell
• Customer Sell with Image
• Full Financials
• Installation Print
• Spec Check 

CLICK HERE to download and install.

***NOTE***

Please see the PDF ReadMe file included with the install.  A few changes are necessary to use the new Print Templates as they were designed.

• Page Setup Margins were adjusted for the new Print Templates.
• Field Code Length and Labels were Customized.

ProjectRender- New Generic Materials Library Available

ProjectMatrix just includes a new Materials library for ProjectRender.

You can find it on the Downloads page under ProjectRender, or CLICK HERE.


This install includes:
171 Carpet styles and colors!
42   New Generic Fabrics!
11   Wall Coverings!

ProjectRender is HERE!

ProjectMatrix is pleased to announce the arrival of ProjectRender.

The affordable ProjectRender is now available for DOWNLOAD.

We are offering a 10-day free trial with the download*.

Try our new Google Shopping Cart to order ProjectRender with a Credit Card or contact us at sales@projectmatrix.com or 513-554-1665 for a standard invoice.

Cost is affordable and simple

     1 Seat is $395.00

     3 Seats is $795.00

     Full Site is $1,595.00

With ProjectRender, you can select from 6 different standard room types, or create thousands of different rooms by customizing wall/window types, backgrounds, lighting, and materials.   Add materials from the default libraries or create your own.  Additional material libraries will be available for download on the website soon.

Create This:

From This:

*The 10-day trial is 10 continuous calendar days from the first day installed.  Extended trial codes will not be given.

** ProjectRender requires the latest version of PSPlace and is supported on AutoCAD 2007-2011 both 32-bit & 64-bit.

ProjectMatrix is dropping support for AutoCAD 2006 and earlier

We would like to remind our users that ProjectMatrix will be discontinuing support for all AutoDesk products prior to 2007 versions as of September 1^st 2010.  Why are we doing this?  There are several reasons we have to do this.  First, AutoDesk has already discontinued support on their own products from 2007 and prior.  They will be dropping support for 2008 shortly.  Secondly, in order for ProjectMatrix to prepare for the new 64-bit support, we had to discontinue the use of Sylads for compressing the symbol libraries for distribution.  The new PSM format was designed with 2007 and higher, though in some cases the PSM format does work for previous versions.  Lastly, ProjectMatrix wants to focus our programming on maintenance and enhancements for the latest versions of AutoCAD from 2007-2011 and future releases.

We have always supported the latest two “R” versions of AutoDesk products. 

What is an “R” version?

AutoCAD R16 = 2004, 2005, and 2006

AutoCAD R17 = 2007, 2008, and 2009

AutoCAD R18 = 2010 and 2011

Should AutoDesk follow the same patterns, we will continue support for 2007-2009 until AutoCAD releases 2013 in R19. 

In ProjectSymbols there are lots of reasons to upgrade your AutoCAD.  Included in ProjectSymbols for 2007 and higher are features such as:

• Enhanced Tag by Selection
• Find and Highlight
• Option Copy
• Enhanced Quick Count
• Option View
• Place Symbol in 3D and convert to 2D
• 3D features such as “Thru View” for ghosting items
• Typical Manager
• Architectural Tools
• SIF and Drawing Schedules
• User Text
• The Newest Addition to the ProjectMatrix family- ProjectRender
• And more to come!

ProjectMatrix is a Authorized Reseller of AutoCAD products to our current customers.  Should you need to upgrade your AutoCAD, you may contact us or your nearest AutoCAD Reseller for pricing.  AutoDesk is now encouraging the participation of their Subscription package, which for a low cost per year gets you each updated version of AutoCAD.

If you have any questions, comments, or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact our Support Staff at

support@projectmatrix.com or 513-554-1665

Teknion Toolpak Updated

We have just updated the Teknion Toolpak on the website for download.

Click HERE for the link.

Fixes and Enhancements:

• New Install Text on Leverage Panel Graphics
• Print All Panel Types is now working
• Panel Print out lists elements in the order shown on the panel.
• Import PanelType from DesignExpress automatically renames panels with "invalid" characters such as / \ & etc.
• Import PanelType from DesignExpress imports stack-on correctly.

PSPlace Update

There is a newer version of PSPlace for ProjectSymbols on the website from the one on the July DVD distribution.  We have had reports that the Copy/Rotate and Move/Rotate commands were not working after updating from the DVD.  If you experience this issue, please update from the website.  Click this LINK for the update.

ProjectSpec Update

We have just updated ProjectSpec to version 4.4.5.0

You can click HERE to download.

This update mainly fixes issue with Teknion dealers.

• Price from Catalog or Price Line does not update or overwrite the list price once you have made it a Special.
• If you "Make Special", the Save button is enabled.
• Opening a SIF file with Specials keeps the Yellow Special Flag on the line items.

Maxon August Update

The Maxon August 2010 release will contain these 7 new libraries:


MFD - MAXON FREESTANDING DESKING
MPL - MAXON PARALLEL
MPW - MAXON EMPOWER
MSG - MAXON SEATING
MSR - MAXON FREESTANDING STORAGE
MTB - MAXON TEAMING, TASKING & CONFERENCE TABLES
MWT - MAXON WORKSURFACES


These have been added to the existing product and will remain that way until orders for old product ceases on Sept 30, 2010.  Notice from manufacturer that projects cannot combine old and new products.  Please refer to manufacturer published documentation for specifics.

Allsteel August Updates

The Allsteel August 2010 Electronic Catalog release will contain the following Price Zones:
Zone 1 - Pricing Effective 8/29/2010
Zone 2 - GSA
Zone 3 - IPPEC Contract
Zone 4 - Pricing prior to 8/29/2010 release
Zone 5 - Pricing from two releases

Happy 4th of July

ProjectMatrix would like to wish everyone a safe and happy 4th of July weekend.

Our office will be closed on Monday, July 5th.  Should you still need tech support, please contact our answering service through our main phone number at 513-554-1665 and one of our tech support will be happy to return your call.

NeoCon2010 Was A Success! Missed it? Check out our video!

A glimpse into the world of ProjectMatrix software
Direct Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ruo4pmoF7w

We hope to see you next year! 

For more information on our new program, ProjectRender, check out our website http://www.projectmatrix.com/!

ProjectSymbols for 64-Bit

ProjectMatrix is pleased to announce the release of the ProjectSymbols Beta for 64-bit Operating Systems.  We are still considering this a Beta copy, and are still testing.  If you would like to install a copy, please click HERE FOR DOWNLOAD.

Known Issues:

Part Preview is not available in the Catalog Viewer
PanelBuilders are not yet supported

Supports only AutoCAD 2010-2011

Important HON Information

HON SIF data now supports Zone Pricing as follows:

PRICE ZONE 1 = NEW JULY 1, 2010 LIST PRICING

PRICE ZONE 4 = OCTOBER 1, 2009 LIST PRICING

Teknion US Symbols UPDATE

Any issue was found with the Teknion US symbols from the May DVD.  Please click here to download the updated version:

www.projectmatrix.com/updates/TeknionUS_Update.exe

ISSUE:

Some quantities and installation texts were incorrect.

Hon Part Number Converter

ProjectMatrix and HON are pleased to announce the release of the HON Part Number Converter.

This tool will allow you to update an existing SIF file with old HON part numbers to current part numbers.

Clink the link below to navigate to the download page.

http://projectmatrix.com/honpnconverter.HTML


Instructions:

1. Open HON PN Converter
2. Browse and select the SIF file or files to convert. Converter will create a new SIF file with the same name as before but with (Converted) added at the end of the name.
3. Press "Convert"
4. Close Convert if done converting files.
5. Open Newly created files in ProjectSpec and re-option where needed. Notes from the converter will be shown in the Option Notes fields.


All converted catalog numbers must be reviewed for aesthetic and functional product attributes. The converter will input programmed data for comparable product. However, there may be a more appropriate choice for your specific application. To ensure the best product solution review all converted catalog numbers thoroughly prior to entering order.

PSPlace from March 2010 DVD

Unfortunately we have found an issue with the PSPlace update on the March 2010 DVD.  You may notice an error when trying to place from the Catalog Viewer in PSPlace for AutoCAD.  If you receive this error which states "that a file that catalogreaderdll.dll need to run", please follow one of these solutions.

1. Reinstall PSPlace from the downloads page on our website or use this link...

PSPlace Installation

2. Download THIS FILE and unzip it into your C:\ProgramFiles\ProjectMatrix\ProjectSymbols\R17 folder  (R18 if you are using 2010 ACAD)

We apologize for the inconvenience.  Please contact support at 513-554-1665 or support@projectmatrix.com if you have any questions or problems.

Updated catalogs for HON

Attention ProjectMatrix Customers:

Updated catalogs for HON are available now for immediate download.

The HON Company has had some recent modifications and pricing corrections to the March electronic catalog. Customers who have installed the March DVD update will need to update their catalogs. Here is a link to the update:


http://projectmatrix.com/downloads/catalogs_and_symbols/catalogs/hon/honcats4.exe

ProjectTools for Teknion Update

ProjectTools for Teknion Update

The ProjectTools for Teknion have been updated to include the 2010 additions and updates. This includes new Leverage panel types and elements, along with corrections and updates to other systems in Teknion.




ProjectTools for Teknion.
http://projectmatrix.com/downloads/software/TeknionToolpak.exe

Live Chat

This week we are testing a Live Chat feature on our website.  On the main page you will see a click here to chat icon.  These chats are still handled by the same people you are used to talking to or emailing.  We are just trying to give you one more way to contact us.  It could save you a phone call, or prevent multiple emails from going back and forth.  Test it out and let us know what you think!

Global Contract

Release Notice for March 2010:

The catalog EFG - Evolve Canadian has been renamed to EVC - Evolve Canadian by request of the manufacturer.


CLICK HERE for catalog download.  Symbol updates will be coming soon.

This is available now on the web site including the new catalogs:

DCR - Descor Reception, Conference and Accessories
DDS - Descor Dufferin Series
DFS - Descor Foundations Series
DIN - Descor Versailles IN15 Series
DJS - Descor Juno Series
DKS - Descor Kingston Series
DMS - Descor Markham Series
DPS - Descor Philadelphia Series
DVS - Descor Versailles Series

Teknion and Steelcase (January Data)

The official January 18th updates for both Teknion and Steelcase have been posted on the downloads page.


TEKNION
Please Note: This update contains the Teknion Catalog installation for the January 18, 2010 price releases.

STEELCASE