pcb software – Advanced Circuits | PCB Manufacturing & PCB Assembly https://www.4pcb.com/blog Printed Circuit Boards and PCB Assembly Manufacturer Blog Wed, 17 Nov 2021 21:57:53 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Benefits of PCB Layout Software /blog/benefits-of-pcb-layout-software/ Wed, 30 Sep 2020 18:59:23 +0000 https://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=2247 Continue reading ]]> In the past, it could take a lot of time to design a printed circuit board even before the first prototype was made. The design process, which is where much of the work is done, is complex. There are many factors to consider when designing PCBs, but technology has started to make some aspects of this easier. PCB layout software, in particular, has the potential to help save time, money, and frustration on the parts of the designers.

Let’s look at some of the biggest benefits of using high-quality PCB layout software for your designs.

Reduce the Complications of Design

As mentioned, designing a printed circuit board is not easy. There are many elements that need to be considered during the construction of the board and it gets complex rather quickly. Using quality PCB layout software helps to strip away those complications. Everything is digital and can be changed, updated, and manipulated quickly and easily. It becomes easier to keep track of everything you are doing during the design process. Many find that using PCB layout software helps them to work faster because they know that they can change things so easily if needed.

Find and Fix Errors Early

When you are using PCB software, you will likely find that you are making fewer errors. This is because it is easier to keep track of what you are doing, and software can look for compatibility problems and errors. It can point out those errors and, in some cases, even offer fixes. By finding these issues early and fixing them, it means that you will be able to move on to production faster than you would have otherwise. It also means that you are not going to be spending money making prototypes, or a run of thousands of PCBs, that have errors.

Save Time and Money

Because you are working in a digital space, it also means that you are saving money on your own materials. You can create the board virtually, test it in the virtual space and have it double-checked, and then order a prototype to use. Because the software helps to reduce complications, it means you are not spending as much time with back and forth on the design process. You can fix the errors faster, which means you can move ahead with an order to create the products you need. You are saving time and money by using PCB layout software.

Try New Ideas

Working with PCB layout software also means you are capable of thinking outside of the box with your design ideas without any risk. You can create a design and test it virtually to see whether it will work or not. This gives designers more freedom than they might have had otherwise.

What Should You Look for When Choosing PCB Layout Software?

  • Cost: Today, there are many options on the market for this type of software, but you need to be sure you are choosing an option that will provide you with the results you need. One of the first things that you are likely to think about when it comes to choosing software will be the cost. This is natural. Whether you are a solo hobbyist creating your own PCBs or you are a large company that is in need of PCBs for new devices you are making, price is important.

The truth of the matter is that the prices for software can vary. There are some options that are quite expensive, and most people do not want to spend $1,000 or more on software. Fortunately, there are free options, as well, such as PCB Artist. Keep in mind that cost does not mean quality. An expensive piece of CAD software will not have the capabilities of free software that was designed specifically for PCBs.

  • Features: Regardless of which type of software you opt for, you will want to be sure that you are choosing an option that has all of the features you need. Compare the software you are considering to the other choices on the market to see that it has what you require. Does it offer Gerber format files? Does the software provide design rule checks and support? Does it offer integrated schematics? Will it have a library manager? How large is the library? Can you create the types of PCBs that you need with the software or not?
  • Ease of Use: Additionally, you will want to have software that is easy to use. Some software will have a steeper learning curve than others, but it should not be so complicated that you have to spend weeks trying to figure out how to use it correctly. The software should offer a guide to help you get started. If the company offers video tutorials, it is even better.

Once you have the software, you will want to familiarize yourself with it by using the guide or the tutorials previously mentioned. Do this before diving in and trying to create an important PCB design. This ensures that you will have a good understanding of how to use the software and where to find various features when you start using it for PCB design.

Make PCB Artist Your PCB Layout Software Choice

There are many options on the market for CAD software that could be used for PCB design, and there are some specifically made PCB layout software choices available. With all of those options, why should you choose PCB Artist from Advanced Circuits? One of the major reasons is the fact that the software will not cost you a thing. We offer free software, so you can easily design quality PCBs that will work well once they are manufactured.

Take the time to check out the features of our free PCB software including more than half a million parts in the library and the free technical support we offer. Whether you are new to the field or you have been creating printed circuit board designs for years, this will soon become the first piece of software you consider when you are designing a new PCB.

 

]]>
PCB Design Software Can Save on Costly Manufacturing Mistakes /blog/pcb-design-software-can-save-on-costly-manufacturing-mistakes/ Fri, 06 Dec 2019 19:36:53 +0000 https://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=2059 Continue reading ]]> Take a look at the manufacturing process used to create PCBs (printed circuit boards) and it is likely to cause a bit of a shock; few consumers understand the complexity of the PCB components hidden inside most of their electronic devices. Whether it is the simplest of calculators or the most advanced household appliance, a PCB (or two, or more) is at work inside. And while some PCB designs are more complex than others, it is still best to have access to the very best in PCB design software and resources.

Gerber Files and PCB Design Software

Gerber or IX274X files (they are the same) are the end products from the most commonly used PCB design software options. They are what can be called “step one” in the production or manufacturing process; they are the digital or physical blueprints for the completed printed circuit board. In the past, experts generated layers of transparent film overlays that used color coding to delineate the different areas of the board, and offer some help with identifying design flaws.

The advent of advanced PCB design software, however, has allowed manufacturers or design teams to cut down on the steps and use the software to display and adjust the layers. The initial designs generated from the PCB design software focus on the design and maybe the process used for assembly. They do not highlight any areas of concern or error.

This means that even a blueprint generated by the finest PCB design software, and used by a skilled expert, may contain errors in the Gerber (or other file types) that lead to a batch of useless boards. This is especially true in our modern age of outsourcing and production-only services.

Consider that one undetected problem in the Gerber file for a printed circuit board may pass unnoticed through the hands of the subcontractor. They are likely to be overseas or what is deemed a “no touch” producer that just uses the files and makes the boards, and this means that an entire batch of PCBs can be made, and create a financial, production, or scheduling nightmare.

That is why it is imperative for any companies using printed circuit boards to identify the best PCB design software and resources intended to avoid those issues. It is also important for any team to understand where flaws in Gerber files might prove their downfall, and how to overcome such risks. While it is putting the cart before the horse to offer the solutions before itemizing the problems, it is helpful to understand that there are options for PCB design software and evaluation tools that can eliminate all the risks present.

Free PCB Design Software and Analytics

Advanced Circuits rates as one of the most trusted and popular domestic producers of PCBs and prototypes. Offering full design to shipping services, and assembly, we also help our clients  avoid the costly errors just itemized above through the use of free design tools. Whether using Gerber files or another design program, the Advanced Circuit site has an option for exporting design files into the site’s free PCB file check software, known as FreeDFM, and getting a comprehensive analysis on the design. By uploading the files, entering contact information, and sending it into the analysis engine, a client gets a full analysis of the design. The software quickly evaluates and repairs problematic issues in the printed circuit board design files, and also generates a report of any questionable issues left uncorrected. Labeling them as potential showstoppers, it ensures that a customer does not waste time or money on flawed or entirely useless production jobs. And even more exciting is that those who run the Gerber files before submission enjoy a discount from Advanced Circuits on the project.

In addition to the troubleshooting software, Advanced Circuits also makes industry-best design software available entirely free for clients to use. The free PCB Layout Software known as PCB Artist is provided in an unrestricted format (along with a library of more than 500k common parts and components) and can be used to design PCBs of up to 28 layers. With such functions as controlled auto routing design tools, digital schematics, and much more, it also cuts down on the risks of a flawed design. Files generated through this program can also be run through the file check to ensure the best outcomes and a discount on the work.

And just what sorts of problems will these tools help erase from Gerber files? The most common include:

  • Flawed file names– It is not at all unusual for Gerber files to be created via a flawed naming protocol. This causes confusion within the process, and can only be detected by file checking or troubleshooting ahead of the game.
  • Empty files – In addition to flawed names are empty files. Designers frequently move, erase, or negate data and this inserts zero data files into the process, and which runs the risk of causing issues in the design and fabrication process.
  • Missing data – While an empty file is one thing, a file with incomplete data is another. Our free PCB design software and checking services show when details don’t line up with specifications or when there is mismatched information. Gerber files must not be void of key data, so any opportunity to eliminate such a glitch will save a lot of time, money and headaches.
  • Conflicting layers – Gerber files feature design specifications at every layer. The designer has to ensure that the specs function synchronously, or there will be errors at every subsequent layer.

Correctly Designed & Manufactured Printed Circuit Boards

There is no real reason for any glitches to occur in the design process, but there are many reasons that they can and do. Using free resources like those from Advanced Circuits cuts down on any potential risks plus helps a company keep design, fabrication and manufacturing moving smoothly.

Upload PCB design files to FreeDFM here.

 

]]>
PCB Artist: PCB Design Software Backed By Industry Leading PCB Manufacturer /blog/pcb-artist-pcb-design-software-backed-by-industry-leading-pcb-manufacturer/ Fri, 25 Jan 2019 19:00:46 +0000 https://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=1859 Continue reading ]]> There are many choices for PCB design software online, but not all are created equal.  PCB Artist is Advanced Circuits’ own PCB design software that was created with the sole purpose of making it easier for our customers to design and submit their custom printed circuit board files for manufacturing.  The PCB design software streamlines the design process with its user-friendly interface and layout tools, including a components library of 500,000 parts.

Using the industry leader’s PCB design software comes with its perks.  PCB Artist users enjoy live technical support and integrated PCB manufacturing quoting for instant pricing within the software.

Unrestricted & Free PCB Design Software

Advanced Circuits’ PCB Artist is truly unrestricted and packed with powerful features.  While some free software may limit features with options to purchase or with paid subscriptions, PCB Artist allows its users full access to all features, giving the user more freedom to create printed circuit boards to meet their requirements.  Once the PCB design is completed, the software makes it easy to place an order for manufacturing with Advanced Circuits directly through the application; this takes away the uncertainties that come along with exporting the required files from EDA packages that manufacturers may not support.

PCB Artist Features

The professional-grade features that our free PCB design software offers include:

  • Free component library of over 500k parts
  • Create up to 28 layer boards
  • Part Creation Wizard (Easy custom symbol/part/footprint creation)
  • Multi-page Schematic
  • Controlled Autorouter
  • Native Eagle Import
  • Components/BOM/Positions CSV Export
  • Moved Component Tracks Stay Connected
  • Free Gerber files upon request after first order

Click here to download the unlimited software package and contact our PCB Artist live tech support (8:00am – 5:30pm MST) 1-800-979-4722 x.1025 or email Layouthelp@4pcb.com with any questions.

 

 

]]>
Tips On Exporting The Right Files From Your PCB Design Software /blog/tips-on-exporting-the-right-files-from-your-pcb-design-software/ Sat, 29 Dec 2018 00:02:07 +0000 https://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=1846 Continue reading ]]> In order for most PCB manufacturers to be able to fabricate your PCB design, Gerber files are required. Below we have listed some tips on the types of files that need to be exported from your PCB design software.

Keep in mind that Advanced Circuits offers a free PCB design software that simplifies this process with its integrated ordering system.

Another free PCB design tool we offer to help you identify issues with your design files is FreeDFM.  You can upload your design files to FreeDFM to verify that all required files have been exported.  Consider using Advanced Circuits’ free PCB design software to help you streamline the design and file preparation process.

This is what one of our software users had to say after using PCB Artist:

I am so thrilled that my prototype boards were inexpensive, they came back working the first time, and I didn’t have to fuss with figuring out how to get all the right design files together in the right format. For my next prototype, I’m going to start in PCB Artist first”.

Download PCB Artist →

Gerbers Files From Your PCB Design Software

Making sure that you have exported the Gerber files that accurately reflect your PCB design from your layout software can sometimes be a challenge.   One thing to keep in mind is to generate Gerber image file for each of the conductor layers, soldermask layers, and legend.

Our preferred file format is Gerber 274-x, but if your PCB design software only exports Gerber 274-d, we will also accept this format if a comprehensive aperture report is also generated (one that can be used for all files).  We may also be able to support other formats, so please contact your sales representative for more information.

Be sure to include your board outline.  Preferably, this will be included in your soldermask images and drill drawing only.

PCB Design Drill/Print Drawing

It is always beneficial to provide your PCB manufacturer a fabrication print/drill drawing with your design package.  We can accept this as a Gerber file (preferably), PDF, or DXF file.  This can be an important piece to include as it contains a dimensioned board outline, a graphical representation of the hole locations with legend identifying finished hole size, and pertinent fabrication notes.

NC Drill File of Your PCB Design

An Excellon NC Drill file is required for your PCB design (EIA, ASCII Odd formats are also acceptable).  Please provide a single drill file for both plated and non-plated holes if possible.

Include Your PCB Design ReadMe Text File

Including a “Read.Me” text file (ASCII text information file) that contains the following information can be very helpful:

  • List of every file name with a brief description as to what it is.
  • List all non-Gerber specs for this job, if not included in a fab print.
  • Your contact information (include evening phone if you like).

 

]]>
PCB Artist™: The Best Free PCB Design Software from Advanced Circuits™ /blog/free-pcb-design-software/ Wed, 31 May 2017 21:32:17 +0000 http://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=1324 Continue reading ]]> Advanced Circuits offers the best free PCB design software available, PCB Artist™.  Since its release in 2007, the free software became highly popular among electronic design hobbyists and professional engineers because of its easy to learn and easy to use interface for simple layouts, but also its powerful capabilities for more advanced PCB designs.  PCB Artist™ quickly became the most active PCB design software on Downloads.com with over 265,000 downloads and counting.

Latest Updates for PCB Artist™ Design Software

The free PCB design software has always had impressive comprehensive tools and advanced capabilities, along with a large library of components.  Today, the latest version of PCB Artist™ 3.2 has an even large library of over 500,000 parts – that is free to use and has many hard to find parts.  The latest version also includes upgrades to the parts Library Manager that has improved the way users search and identify components from the extensive library.

Another new option that has been recently added to the design software is called “Fetch Component” on the Schematic and PCB Context menu that allows for much quicker component placement to the users current cursor position with just a few clicks.  The “Color by Net” feature on the latest 3.2 version has also been upgraded to include a “Color by Net Class” feature on both the Schematic and PCB Drawing modes that makes it easier for users to sort and visualize the nets and net classes in their circuit board design.

Being able to design your printed circuit boards with very few restrictions or limits gives you the flexibility to think outside of the box.

PCB Design Software

PCB Design Software

 

PCB Artist™ Design Software Free Live Support

Advanced Circuits™ is the third largest printed circuit board manufacturer in the North America with the largest support team in the industry and largest customer database.  You can rest assured that your project is in good hands, especially when you are designing your printed circuit boards using our PCB Artist™ software.  The software ensures that your projects can be manufactured by Advanced Circuits™ and the easy ordering interface within the software makes ordering your boards simple and quick.

We have set up a phone line for your PCB artist support questions.  Free live support that is available from 8 AM to 5:30 PM MST by calling 1-800-979-4722 x.1025.  You can also email your PCB Artist™ support questions to layoutHelp@4pcb.com.  Click here to view the PCB Artist™ User Guide

Free PCB Design Software That Supports Gerber Output

Unlike many of the other free PCB design software available, Advanced Circuits™’ PCB Artist™ supports Gerber output.  Once your design is completed, you may place your Advanced Circuits™ order via the software where it will be received for manufacturing in Gerber format.  You may request your free set of Gerber files after your order has been placed with Advanced Circuits™.

 

 

]]>
PCB Design Advancements | Blog /blog/pcb-design-advancements-blog/ Sun, 14 May 2017 18:38:54 +0000 http://dev.4pcb.com/blog/?p=1306 Continue reading ]]> Today’s printed circuit boards (PCBs) are packed with components and functionality that has quickly made manual designs and construction a practice nearly relegated to the Stone Age. Even hobbyists and beginners can now very easily access complex software that makes quick work of simple projects, and promotes reliability and efficiency in design.

PCB design is a highly technical endeavor, and increasingly so with the advancements in board functionality and manufacturing capabilities:

  • High-Density Interconnect (HDI) boards that support incredibly large numbers of components in compact, lightweight packages.
  • Multilayer PCBs – this is a technology almost in itself, with many considerations for design, layout, and manufacturability.
  • Specialized attributes including flexible PCBs and industry-specific requirements for healthcare, military, and aerospace applications.
  • The Internet of Things (IoT) that demands increasingly compact circuits with high-performance characteristics to power devices such as laptop computers, smartphones, and home automation.

As PCB technology and manufacturing techniques change, designers are challenged to keep pace with circuits that make the most of available methods, and turn designs into functional boards even more quickly.

PCB design software is the tool that enables engineers to maximize productivity, reduce errors, and produce working products in the shortest timelines.

Benefits of PCB Design Software

Simply put, PCB design software facilitates a faster, more accurate design, and catches many errors or problems that may have gone undetected with older methods. The earlier in the process that errors are uncovered, the less costly they are to remedy.

No one likes rework, and going back to the “drawing board” after manufacturing can be time-consuming and expensive. Fortunately, there are effective solutions in the form of PCB design software that is available at reasonable prices – or at no cost.

Features Provided by the Best PCB Design Software

Narrowing the search for the best PCB design software is relatively simple, once it’s determined what features truly apply for the designs to be generated. Factors for the decision:

  • How complex the PCBs designs will be – starting with very basic software when HDI/multilayer designs will be forthcoming is not in the designer’s best interest.
  • Learning curve required for the software – designers need to get up and running with software quickly and without a high level of frustration.
  • How often the software is updated – as methods and technology change, regular updates are essential.
  • Architecture – some software is designed specifically for Windows environments, while others are limited to MAC or Linux computers. Be sure to select one that applies to the existing infrastructure.
  • Experience – how long has the software been available? Newer may not be better.
  • What is the software vendor’s background? Those with knowledge of PCB manufacturing capabilities and constraints may provide the best solution.
  • Licensing – does it require annual or other periodic renewal, at additional expense?
  • Sharing – can multiple engineers share the software and designs created?
  • Support available – if help is not responsive, look elsewhere.

PCB designers can make the best choice in design software when armed with a list of features that are most applicable to the work at hand – and for the future:

  • Component library – with periodic updates – this is a must-have feature, allowing the designer to pick and place components as needed.
  • Custom components – there may be specific components unique to the designer’s environment and industry. This will allow creation, saving, and reuse of custom items.
  • Reporting – need to create a parts usage list, and save for reference.
  • Creation of Gerber files when ready for manufacturing.
  • Design rules – create ad hoc design rules for validation of finished or in-process designs.
  • Help text that guides designers through questions in real time.
  • Automatic repositioning of connections when components are moved.
  • Simple drag-and-drop positioning of components and traces.
  • Standard templates available for quick-start use of the program.

Reporting is another important element to be considered. Besides generating and printing schematics, other documentation such as design status reports, component lists, and error reports can help entire design teams become more effective in collaborating on designs, improving efficiency and reducing cost throughout the PCB lifecycle.

Making the Most of PCB Design Software

Naturally, the goal of selecting the best PCB design software is to complete the design in the least time, with the best possible results for successful manufacturing of the working prototype or finished product.

It’s important to determine that the software selected fits within budgetary constraints (“free” will always do that), and provides all the features that will be needed for the existing project, as well as for the long haul.

 

 

]]>