ORLANDO, Fla. - Computer software and programs designed to increase speed, information sharing, and profitability were big hits for attendees of the 2005 International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition (AHR Expo).

Accubid Systems Ltd. (www.accubid.com) introduced Accubid Enterprise Estimating, a spec-driven estimating solution designed for mechanical contractors. The software, which can be customized to meet estimating needs, runs on Microsoft's SQL Server 2000.

Aligo/H2 Technologies (www.h2tech.com) rolled out its Servicom Job Manager service management solution. Job Manager is said to improve quote preparation and job cost tracking to maximize efficiencies and reduce business costs. The software breaks down multiple job phases, job cost codes, predefined kits, and includes item catalog data. Prior to the expo, Aligo announced it had completed the acquisition of H2 Technologies.

Autodesk (www.autodesk.com) announced two new members of the Autodesk® Building Systems Alliance Program: EastCoast CAD/CAM and Wendes Systems Inc. The companies are integrating their software with Autodesk Building Systems and join Autodesk and existing alliance members Trane, GeoPraxis, and Elite Software.

Best Software (www.bestsoftware.com) showed its MAS 90 and MAS 200 Version 4.05. The products' enhancements are in three key areas: job costing, payroll, and accounts payable.

"Many of our MAS 90 and MAS 200 customers operate businesses that require careful tracking by engagement or job, and these customers especially will find great value in Version 4.05," said Himanshu Palsule, general manager, mid-market accounting solutions, Best Software.

FieldServer Technologies (www.fieldserver.com) introduced several new products at the expo, including the FS-B3510 Protocol Gateway. The company describes the product as a "proven, powerful FieldServer driver library with the latest in gateway design."

Simutech Systems Inc. (www.simutechsystems.com) demonstrated its newest computer-based HVACR training simulator, Simu-Hydro. This hot water boiler simulator provides "hands-on" service training by emulating common mechanical and electrical faults. Simulated instruments provide realistic measurement of pressures, temperatures, and electrical values. On-screen diagnostic charts are included.

Timberline Office (www.timberline.com) highlighted its new Timberline Office Desktop, which provides a central location to access software and information.

The desktop acts as a personal home page to help users organize common tasks, the company explained. Users can also position shortcuts to frequently used applications or specific tasks, highlight important inquiries and reports, and access non-Timberline Office resources such as Word, Excel, and favorite Web sites.

Wrightsoft (www.wrightsoft.com) rolled out new products including Right-Sales, an in-home sales presentation software system that has the ability to help

a company automate its entire sales process. The system is geared to the replacement market and designed to improve a company's sales efforts, improve closing ratios, and increase the company's revenue.

Sidebar: Echelon Goes European

Echelon (www.echelon.com) used the expo to announce that its communications protocol underlying the company's technology has been incorporated into the European prEN 14908 building control standard. The European prEN 14908 building control standard formally acknowledges the role of LonWorks® networks in the European building market, providing a "harmonized standard across the region," the company said.

Publication date: 02/28/2005