Read the Step by Step:
Step 1. Click into Magnifying Glass to open up Product Finder
Product Finder now prioritizes model number attributes over general datasheet specs.
All attributes shown are strict matches—results must align exactly.
Once Product Finder opens, the source datasheet will automatically attach based on the model number and manufacturer name entered and automatically the technical attributes will populate below
Step 2. Edit Technical Attribute Fields
Remove attributes by clicking the X.
Edit attributes by double-clicking dropdowns to adjust or add information.
Step 3. Select Acceptable Manufacturers
Click into the Acceptable Manufacturers field.
Choose from:
Company Manufacturers
All Other Parspec-Supported Manufacturers
To create custom manufacturer lists:
Go to User Settings > Manufacturers and create lists to filter search scope.
Step 4. Begin the Search
Click Search after selecting manufacturers.
Results will appear in a layout similar to an e-commerce interface.
Use hover preview to view product details and datasheets.
Step 5. Compare Products and View Results
Use the Compare feature to view:
Source datasheet side-by-side with alternate suggestions.
Indicators like “Past Selection” showing how often teammates have selected a product.
💡Tip: Use additional filters if enabled:
"Lowest Cost" (if quoting and cost data is available)
"Image Similarity" between the source product and suggested alternates.
Also compare images by clicking into "Image" view
💡Tip: Adjust attributes (e.g., remove voltage)
Results will auto-refresh based on the updated criteria.
Click between Refined Requirements and Suggested Results as needed.
Step 6. Select an Alternate
Click Select on a suggested product.
You'll be taken to a side-by-side datasheet comparison view.
💡Tip If enabled, you'll also see:
Pricing
Inventory
Quantity
Inventory history
Step 7. Add the Alternate to Your BOM
Enter a Model Number for the alternate.
Choose from the following options:
Pull in as Alternate (adds under Basis of Design)
New Option (adds to the Options Table)
Overwrite (replaces Basis of Design entirely)
Click Add to BOM.
Step 10. Review in BOM
If a line (e.g., original manufacturer) is hidden:
Click into the line.
Select Unhide to view it within the BOM.
Step 11. Export the Alternate List
Export the updated BOM or suggested alternate list as an Excel/CSV file for external sharing.
Step 12. Repeat for Additional Items
Use the magnifying glass icon to restart the workflow for another product.