Primedia Inc. last week announced that EquipmentWatch, a leading producer of business-to-business information about heavy equipment for the construction industry, launched a new research tool, SpecFinder, to round out its suite of comprehensive online products offered on its Web site, EquipmentWatch.com.

Drawing on EquipmentWatch's 45 years of experience and authority in the construction industry, the SpecFinder tool allows prospective equipment buyers to find and compare detailed specifications for more than 4,000 models of heavy equipment from hundreds of manufacturers. Powerful search capabilities let users research up to 45 key machine specifications — such as engine details, transmission and performance — and perform side-by-side comparisons of up to five models.

"Contractors and equipment buyers were clamoring for a single source that could deliver detailed, comparative information to determine which models best meets their needs, stay competitive and enable smart purchasing decisions," said Hugh Byrne, group publisher of EquipmentWatch. "SpecFinder was built expressly with the buyer's challenges and needs in mind."

SpecFinder integrates with all of EquipmentWatch's products to serve prospective buyers with the most comprehensive package of information, metrics and analysis. Users can incorporate machine specifications when evaluating ownership and operating costs (Custom Cost Evaluator), government reimbursement rates (Rental Rate Blue Book), market valuation data (Green Guides), verification of year of manufacture (Serial Number Guide), and reviewing recent auction results data (Last Bid). This level of exposure arms decision makers with a complete view of the machine, integrating specifications, current value, cost of use, and opportunity for sales of the construction equipment they own, use, insure or finance.

SpecFinder can be accessed by registering online at EquipmentWatch.com. Individuals seeking additional information may contact Hugh Byrne at 408-467-6722 or e-mail hbyrne@primediabusiness.com.