ArcSite
ArcSite is a mobile CAD and sales automation tool that helps construction and field service professionals create precise floor plans, generate instant estimates, and close more deals on-site.
PV*SOL
PV*SOL is a dynamic simulation program for the design and optimization of photovoltaic systems, allowing you to calculate yields and perform high-precision financial analysis for solar energy projects.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | ArcSite | PV*SOL |
|---|---|---|
| Website | arcsite.com | valentin-software.com |
| Pricing Model | Subscription | One_time |
| Starting Price | $50/month | $??/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 14 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✘ No free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2013 | 1988 |
| Headquarters | Raleigh, USA | Berlin, Germany |
Overview
ArcSite
ArcSite transforms your iPad into a powerful design and sales tool, specifically built for field professionals in industries like fencing, roofing, and basement waterproofing. You can draw professional-grade, scaled floor plans with your finger or a stylus as easily as using a pencil and paper. The software automatically calculates measurements and material needs as you draw, eliminating the manual errors that often lead to costly project delays.
Beyond just drawing, you can generate professional proposals and estimates instantly while still standing in front of your customer. By integrating your price book directly into the app, you ensure every quote is accurate and consistent. This streamlined workflow helps you move from initial site visit to signed contract in a single meeting, significantly increasing your close rates and reducing administrative office work.
PV*SOL
PV*SOL provides you with a comprehensive environment for designing and simulating photovoltaic systems of all sizes. You can create detailed 3D models of buildings, visualize shading from nearby objects, and accurately predict energy yields based on global climate data. The software handles everything from small rooftop installations to large-scale solar farms, helping you determine the most efficient module coverage and inverter configurations for any site.
You can generate professional reports that include technical specifications and detailed economic forecasts to present to your clients. By simulating battery storage systems and electric vehicle charging integration, you can optimize self-consumption and prove the long-term viability of solar investments. It simplifies complex engineering calculations into a manageable workflow, ensuring your solar projects are both technically sound and financially profitable.
Overview
ArcSite Features
- Precision Mobile CAD Draw perfectly scaled site plans and floor plans on your iPad with intuitive tools that feel like natural sketching.
- Instant Estimating Generate accurate quotes automatically based on your drawing's dimensions and your pre-loaded material price book.
- Automated Takeoffs Calculate exact material lists and quantities the moment you finish your drawing to eliminate ordering guesswork.
- Professional Proposals Create branded, high-quality PDF proposals that you can show to clients and have them sign digitally on-site.
- Photo Integration Take site photos and pin them directly to specific locations on your drawing for better context and clarity.
- Cloud Collaboration Sync your field drawings instantly to the office so your team can start project planning without waiting.
PV*SOL Features
- 3D Visualization. Create detailed 3D models of buildings and terrain to visualize exactly how your solar modules will fit on any surface.
- Shading Analysis. Calculate the specific impact of shadows from trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings on your system's annual energy yield.
- Climate Data Integration. Access high-quality global climate data to ensure your simulations reflect the actual weather conditions of your project site.
- Battery Storage Simulation. Model lead-acid and lithium-ion battery systems to calculate how much solar energy you can store and use later.
- Electric Vehicle Charging. Integrate electric vehicles into your system design to see how solar power can meet modern transportation energy demands.
- Financial Forecasting. Generate detailed economic reports including pay-back periods, cash flow, and return on investment for your solar projects.
- Extensive Component Database. Choose from over 20,000 solar modules and 5,000 inverters that are updated regularly by the software manufacturers.
- BIM Export. Export your 3D models and technical data to BIM-compatible formats for seamless integration into larger construction projects.
Pricing Comparison
ArcSite Pricing
- Unlimited drawings
- Basic CAD drawing tools
- Export to PDF and PNG
- Cloud storage and syncing
- Standard shape libraries
- Everything in Core, plus:
- Advanced takeoff tools
- Custom price book integration
- On-site estimate generation
- Digital signature capture
- Customizable proposal templates
PV*SOL Pricing
- 2D design and simulation
- Climate data for any location
- Detailed economic efficiency analysis
- Battery storage system modeling
- Electric vehicle integration
- Professional project reports
- Everything in PV*SOL, plus:
- Full 3D visualization and modeling
- Detailed 3D shading analysis
- Import of 3D floor plans and maps
- BIM interface for data export
- Automatic module coverage on 3D objects
Pros & Cons
ArcSite
Pros
- Intuitive drawing interface feels like paper
- Significantly reduces time spent on estimates
- Professional output impresses potential customers
- Eliminates measurement errors in the field
Cons
- Optimized primarily for iPad users
- Steep learning curve for advanced CAD
- Higher price point than basic apps
PV*SOL
Pros
- Extremely accurate shading calculations for complex roofs
- Massive database of modules and inverters updated regularly
- Professional reports that help close sales with clients
- Reliable simulation of battery and EV charging systems
Cons
- Significant learning curve for the 3D modeling interface
- High upfront cost for the permanent license
- Requires a powerful computer for smooth 3D rendering