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PCB Artist™ printed circuit board (PCB) layout software is a key tool in the designer's toolbox. Through the functions provided by complex software, PCB design can quickly design basic schematics and prototypes, especially when the template already exists and can be reused for new projects.
The development of more complex circuits, such as multilayers and when using layout software specifically designed for this purpose, high-density interconnect (HDI) circuit boards can achieve a higher level of success and reliability.
PCB layout can be completed with a lower error tendency. By using layout software for final circuit board design, it saves design costs and improves manufacturing turnover.
Choosing PCB layout software-matters needing attention
Cost This is usually a major consideration when considering the purchase of any software package. Fortunately, for electronic layout engineers, there are multiple options available for free PCB layout software-but not all options are the same. The problem is to determine which software option best suits your needs, as well as feature evaluation and other factors such as ease of use.
Factors that should affect the choice of layout software:
Free is obviously a good price, but this might be a perfect example of "you get what you pay" with some software available online. Investigate the features thoroughly and check current user comments on the system. Evaluate criticisms to determine whether they apply to your situation or needs.
Ease of Use-This is highly technical software, but it should include an easy-to-use graphical interface and comply with engineering standards for component selection and name. Placement methods include automatic placement and drag-and-drop methods.
Productivity enhancement-A good free PCB layout software provides designers with the first opportunity for any design project. By sharing templates and successful projects, saving and reusing previous designs as a basis can increase personal productivity and the efficiency of other design teams.
In the development process, collaboration between designers can also share difficult designs. Version control or change tracking are also valuable features that need to be considered during the selection process.
Support-Even free software should provide reasonable support when you need it. If you need training to use the software, can it be used online or even within the company? When the designer encounters a function or encounters a software problem, is there a support technician available at any time? The integrated help function is also a key attribute for achieving the latest speed with the new software.
Features-If the free software is a condensed version (with a significant price tag) of the vendor's complete software product, you may need to upgrade at some point. If this is part of the design plan, then it may be an acceptable choice. Otherwise, looking elsewhere may be a better choice.
Document creation-Designers usually need to print designs and schematics. The lack of this feature may be enough to eliminate potential products. Other reporting tools should include a list of designed components, reports or file formats.
Standard content and output-The effective use of layout design software requires a large selection of components to be included in the layout. As new components enter the market, they should be added to the product. The completed design should generate files for the manufacturer (eg Gerber files).
Update-The rapidly evolving technology in PCB development means that the software must meet the needs of designers and manufacturers. Verify that any programs under consideration are regularly enhanced to provide future functionality.
Additional components-some free PCB layout software may require the purchase of certain components, which are required by many design businesses. It pays to know the terms and conditions of these options in advance. Once other options are added, all "free" software may not be so free.
Choose free PCB layout software
The main reason for choosing PCB layout software is the function. If certain products are indeed a streamlined version of the supplier’s more powerful and expensive product packages, then there are also knowledgeable, full-featured, free-for-board software vendors.
PCB manufacturers provide some layout software to ensure that the final design will meet the requirements of their manufacturing process. In many cases, this can benefit designers by reducing the familiar back and forth communication process between designers and manufacturers.
