Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Aspen Plus VS Blockpad.net

Compare Aspen Plus VS Blockpad.net and see what are their differences

Aspen Plus logo Aspen Plus

Maximize profits using a plant-wide simulation solution that combines unparalleled accuracy and engineering collaboration with time-saving workflows.

Blockpad.net logo Blockpad.net

Blockpad is spreadsheet software re-imagined for engineering. It gives engineers a better way to create, manage, and share critical calculations.
  • Aspen Plus Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-30
Not present

Blockpad is spreadsheet software re-imagined for engineering calculations. It enables engineers to create professional calculation deliverables in an intuitive and familiar way.

The primary interface feels like a traditional word processor, but pressing the equals sign opens up a formula like in a spreadsheet. This formula is then calculated and presented in clear math notation so that the math is readable and not hidden behind a cell. Also like a spreadsheet, these formulas update whenever numbers change.

The formulas also employ many engineering friendly features: - units intelligence - variable names - matrix math - custom functions

The documents themselves are more than just word processors, and include tools that make engineering calculations easier: - spreadsheet-style tables - actual spreadsheets - point snap drawings - solver sections

Also, the various parts of a document can all connect together using spreadsheet-style formulas and references, so that a whole document can update when the numbers change.

Because Blockpad feels like the office and calculation tools you already know, the learning curve can be pretty short. The math is just like spreadsheet math, and the functions are the same too. So it's easy to get started and creating calculation documents you're proud to share.

Aspen Plus features and specs

  • Comprehensive Process Modeling
    Aspen Plus offers a robust suite of tools for simulating a wide range of chemical processes, making it ideal for detailed process modeling and optimization.
  • Advanced Thermodynamic Models
    The software includes a wide array of thermodynamic models that accurately represent the physical and chemical properties of substances involved in diverse processes.
  • Integration Capabilities
    Aspen Plus can be integrated with other tools and databases, facilitating seamless data exchange and comprehensive analysis across multiple industrial functions.
  • Large User Community
    Aspen Plus is widely used in the industry, providing a vast community for support, resource sharing, and collaboration.
  • High Customizability
    Users can customize their simulations using scripting and user-added functionality to address specific needs.

Possible disadvantages of Aspen Plus

  • Expensive Licensing
    Aspen Plus comes with a high licensing cost, which may be prohibitive for smaller companies or academic institutions.
  • Steep Learning Curve
    Due to its complexity and vast features, new users may find it challenging to learn and effectively use without significant training.
  • Complex Interface
    The user interface can be overwhelming for beginners due to its complexity and the number of available options.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running simulations on Aspen Plus can be resource-intensive, requiring powerful computer hardware to ensure efficient operation.
  • Annual Maintenance Fees
    In addition to the initial cost, there are ongoing maintenance fees for software updates and support.

Blockpad.net features and specs

  • User-Friendly Interface
    Blockpad.net offers an intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible for users at all skill levels.
  • Efficient Collaboration
    The platform allows seamless collaboration among team members, enhancing productivity and ensuring transparency in project management.
  • Data Security
    Blockpad.net provides robust security features to protect user data and ensure privacy, giving users peace of mind while using the platform.
  • Customizable Templates
    Users have access to a variety of customizable templates, allowing for tailored solutions to meet specific project needs and requirements.

Possible disadvantages of Blockpad.net

  • Limited Integrations
    Blockpad.net offers fewer integrations with third-party applications compared to some of its competitors, which may limit its usability for certain users.
  • Subscription Costs
    While there is a free version available, access to premium features requires a subscription, which might not be suitable for small businesses or individuals on a tight budget.
  • Learning Curve for Advanced Features
    Although the basic features are user-friendly, mastering some of the more advanced functionalities can be challenging for new users.
  • Mobile App Limitations
    The mobile version of the platform doesn't offer the full functionality available on the desktop, potentially hindering on-the-go project management.

Aspen Plus videos

Quick Review of Aspen Plus Simulation Software

More videos:

  • Review - Unboxing and Assembly of NCM Aspen Plus

Blockpad.net videos

No Blockpad.net videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

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Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Aspen Plus and Blockpad.net)
Technical Computing
72 72%
28% 28
Engineering Calculator
0 0%
100% 100
Numerical Computation
69 69%
31% 31
Spreadsheets
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Blockpad.net seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 10 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Aspen Plus mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Aspen Plus yet. Tracking of Aspen Plus recommendations started around Mar 2021.

Blockpad.net mentions (10)

  • Ask HN: Help me find spreadsheet software I found on HN
    I remember seeing an app that has a canvas, and on it you put individual 'sheets' or tables. You can reference between them as normal, drag and drop them around. The screenshots _may_ have shown math being entered too, I can't recall. Because my calculations are made up of many mini-calculations this seems a much better idea than the normal Excel style of multiple tables on one sheet, as adding a row doesn't... - Source: Hacker News / 11 months ago
  • Ask HN: Software to Write Engineering Calculations?
    I don't personally use it, but you might find Blockpad interesting https://blockpad.net/. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Mathics: A free, open-source alternative to Mathematica
    In that space, https://blockpad.net/ is interesting also. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Hand Calculations - What works best for you?
    I work at Blockpad, and we have a lot of structural engineering customers that love it. It's sort of like Mathcad+Excel, inside of Word. Source: over 2 years ago
  • How to Excel in Tech Without Learning to Code
    For engineers Blockpad (http://blockpad.net) is making a good case for itself as an Excel replacement. - Source: Hacker News / over 3 years ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Aspen Plus and Blockpad.net, you can also consider the following products

DWSIM - DWSIM is an open-source CAPE-OPEN compliant chemical process simulator for Windows and Linux.

SMath Studio - Tiny, powerful, free mathematical program with WYSIWYG editor and complete units of measurements support.

COCO Simulator - COCO (CAPE-OPEN to CAPE-OPEN) is a free-of-charge CAPE-OPEN compliant steady-state simulation...

PTC Mathcad - PTC Mathcad PTC Mathcad is Engineering Math Software That Allows You to Perform, Analyze, and Share Your Most Vital Calculations.

CHEMCAD - We equip chemical engineers with integrated and intuitive process simulation software to tackle projects large and small. Discover how CHEMCAD can help you design, analyze and measure simple and complex processes like never before.

Mathcad - Mathcad is engineering calculation software that drives innovation and offers significant process...