ProntoCAD-CONNECT is the importer engine featured in all Unisoft software modules and allows the importing of virtually any CAD, Gerber, Bill of Materials (BOM), CNC and mechanical drawing formats.
- Gerbv is a dedicated free open source Gerber viewer for Windows, BSD, and Linux. It is clean and featured software that let you view PCB designs stored in Gerber files. Along with providing multiple tools, another added advantage of this Gerber file viewer is that it comes in a portable package.
- Right-click on any PCB file and then click 'Open with' 'Choose another app'. Now select another program and check the box 'Always use this app to open.PCB files'. Update your software that should actually open or Protel Printed Circuit Board Files.
PADS Layout/Router supports a complete PCB design process, covering a full range of functions from schematic netlist import to final production file (Gerber), assembly file, and bill of materials (BOM) output. ORCAD is the EDA software developed by ORCAD in the late 1980s. It is as old as protel,but it is worse even than Protel. PCB design software from gEDA is a cross platform software, and has rats nest features, schematic/netlist import, design rule checking and provide Industry standard RS-274X (Gerber), photorealistic design review images and lot more.(gEDA PCB software). FreePCB is a free, open-source PCB editor for Microsoft Windows, released under.
VIDEO: Click the video above for product overview.
Free Software To Open .pcb File
BOM IMPORTING
SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD: A quick way to learn about the software is to download it by clicking this link.
The software has HELP for most menu items by hovering over the menu item for a second then click any of the videos, manual or website links to learn about the software. For example the SMART OPEN menu has help on importing CAD and Gerber files.
Free PCB CAD Viewer &
Gerber Viewer Software
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Importing Your CAD Files
Importing your CAD files is easy with the Unisoft software! The 'SMART OPEN' feature is your CAD EXPERT that does all the work for you finding and sorting out all the proper files in your project folder!
TO USE 'SMART OPEN': From the Unisoft software click FILE from the main menu, click SMART OPEN and a new window opens. In the new window browse to and select the directory that your project CAD or Gerber files are located in. A new window opens and select one of the files presented and your PC Board will be displayed.
The SMART OPEN feature looks at all the files for your project in the folder you select and then presents you with only the correct PC Board, CAD and Gerber files that can be imported into the Unisoft software with the most desirable CAD files at the top of the list.
MORE ABOUT CAD FILE IMPORTING:
The Unisoft software can import the wide assortment of CAD, Gerber, BOM and XY rotation files that EMS/CEM and OEM electronic manufactures encounter. Unisoft has a set of the best ECAD, Gerber and BOM importers in the world today. This software developed over the last 30 years imports all types of ECAD, MCAD and BOM formats.
Unisoft imports the ASCII text files created by CAD systems and supports revision levels dating back to the 1980's and this can be important because older versions of CAD systems are still in use and need to be supported. For example the PADS ASCII output .ASC file format dates back to the 1980's and Unisoft supports virtually all the variations PADS created through the years within that format.
Unisoft SMART OPEN feature outlined previously above, will scan all files in a folder and will automatically detect the CAD files which have correct content for importing into the Unisoft software. So for example if you have a folder containing 40 assorted CAD, Gerber, BOM and Drawing files for a PC Board project use the Unisoft SMART OPEN feature by clicking FILE from the main menu then click SMART OPEN and point to the directory folder with the files and click OK and you will be presented with a list of the CAD files you can import. In general look for at a minimum 'PCB pin x-y' in the field 'Contains this type of data'. If the file contains 'PCB pin x-y' data then usually with the Unisoft software this will be sufficient data to program your Assembly, AOI inspection and selective Soldering equipment; and also create process assembly sheets, kitting labels, costing reports, do first article and general inspection.
If you are having trouble finding the right type of CAD file to import into the Unisoft software then the table below lists PC Board CAD, Gerber and mechanical CAD file formats that maybe imported into the Unisoft software. You can use this table to match up the correct CAD file required to be imported. After you have installed the Unisoft software full samples of most of the CAD formats listed in the table below can be found by default in the directory c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etc or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etc . In that directory the sample files start with SAMPLE_ and the CAD System is in the name of the file, for example the file SAMPLE_PADS.ASC is a full sample of the PADS CAD system ASCII file. If you are having trouble finding the right type of CAD file then use these samples to match them to the CAD files your CAD department or your clients may have available for processing with the Unisoft software. For example if your company or client uses the OrCAD CAD system to design their PC Boards and they have not sent you the correct files then use the table below to have them send you the desired files. From the table below under the field 'CAD system' look for OrCAD and you will find two listings. Next under the field 'File label or type' you will find 'Min File' and 'GENCAD'. Under the field 'Contains this type of data' you will find that both have the same listing of 'PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace data'. The field 'Contains this type of data' indicates the PC Board data types contained in the file and usually the more types listed the better. In the case of OrCAD both the 'Min File' and 'GENCAD' files have full 'Contains this type of data' listings of 'PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace data' and either one will work fine for importing into the Unisoft software. Next look at the field 'Standard extension' and in the case of OrCAD they are .MIN and .CAD and if you have either of these files available you are ready to go; if not then request them from your client or your CAD department and do this by forwarding them the samples of the file formats you need and these samples are available by default in the directory c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etc or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etc . In the case of OrCAD the two files you would send them would be sample_orcad.min and sample_GENCAD.cad and these files should aid them in matching the correct file type you need.
STANDARD CAD FILES: Note that many CAD systems in addition to exporting their native format may export industry standard CAD formats such as GENCAD, GENCAM, FABMASTER, IPC-D-356, IPC-2581, etc. In most cases these files can be used in place of the native CAD files and are importable into the Unisoft software.
GERBER FILES: When CAD files are not available then Gerber files are often the only files available to Contract Manufacturers and OEM's. The Unisoft software can quickly translate these files into your required manufacturing files (see note 2 below).
X/Y CENTER & ROTATION FILES: When CAD files are not available then X/Y center & rotation files are often the only files available to Contract Manufacturers and OEM's. The Unisoft software can quickly translate these files into your required manufacturing files (see note 7 below).
CAD & Gerber File Listings
The information below helps to find the best data files for importing to the Unisoft software.
We are available anytime to assist you directly online.
| CAD system or standards file | File label or type | Standard extension | Contains this type of data / rotation type | Sample |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accel P-CAD (see note 12) | PDIF | .pdf (see note 12) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 12 / 1a) | y |
| Accel P-CAD (see note 18) | IPC-D-356 | .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) | y |
| Accel P-CAD (see note 13) | ASCII output | .PCB (see note 13) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 13 / 1a) | y |
| Accel P-CAD (see note 2) Altium Designer(see note 5) | Gerber Protel output | varies (see note 2) .pro (see note 5) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 5 / 1a) | y y |
| Altium Designer (see note 21) Altium Designer (see note 22) Altium Designer (see note 5) | ODB++ IPC-2581 pin x-y list | varies .cvg .PCB (see note 5) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 21 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 22 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 5 / 1a) | y y y |
| Altium Designer (see note 5) Altium Designer (see note 2) | Data Gerber | .PCBdoc (see note 5) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 5 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | n y |
| AutoCAD (see note 20 below) | Design Exchange | .dxf (see note 20) | drawing file (see note 20) | y |
| Autodesk Eagle (see Eagle PCB) AutoCAD Electrical (see note 31) AutoTRAX DEX (see note 19) AutoTRAX DEX (see note 2) Bartels Auto Engineer(note 18) | (see Eagle PCB) x-y centroid (see note 19) Gerber IPC-D-356 | (see Eagle PCB) varies (see note 31) (see note 19) varies (see note 2) .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) | (see Eagle PCB) PCB x-y center (see note 31) (see note 19) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) | - y n y y |
| Bartels Auto Engineer | GENCAD | .cad | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) | y |
| Bartels Auto Engineer (note 2) Cadence-Valid Allegro(note 3) | Gerber pin x-y list | varies (see note 2) varies (see note 3) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 3 / 1b) | y y |
| Cadence-Valid Allegro (note 3) Cadence-Valid Allegro (note 2) | IPC-D-356 Gerber | .ipc/.356 (see note 3) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 3 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| CADint CADint (note 18) CADint (see note 26) CADint (note 2) CADSTAR (see note 17 below) | GENCAD IPC-D-356 pin x-y list Gerber CADIF | .cad .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) .fat/.fatf - FATF file (note 26) varies (see note 2) .paf (see note 17) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 26 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) | y y y y y |
| CADSTAR CADSTAR (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | .cdi varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| CIRCAD | GENCAD | .cad | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) | y |
| CIRCAD (see note 4 below) CIRCAD (see note 2) | IPC-D-356 Gerber | .ipc/.356 (see note 4) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 4 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| ComputerVision ComputerVision (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | .cvi varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | n y |
| Copper Connection (see note 2) CR5000 (see note 17 below) CR5000 (see note 6 below) CR5000 (see note 2) CR8000 (see note 17 below) CR8000 (see note 6 below) CR8000 (see note 2) DesignSpark (see note 27) DesignSpark (see note 2) Diptrace Diptrace Diptrace Diptrace Diptrace Diptrace (see note 7) Diptrace (see note 2) Douglas CAD/CAM Pro(note 7) Douglas CAD/CAM Pro (note 2) Draftview(see note 23 below) Draftware(see note 23 below) Eagle PCB(see note 4 below) | Gerber CADIF ODB++ Gerber CADIF ODB++ Gerber ODB++ Gerber IPC-D-356 ODB++ PADS type ASCII PCAD PCB Min OrCAD file x-y centroid Gerber x-y centroid Gerber drawing file drawing file IPC-D-356 | varies (see note 2) .paf (see note 17) varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) .paf (see note 17) varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) varies (see note 27) varies (see note 2) .ipc/.356 varies (see note 6) .asc .pcb .min varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) varies (see note 23) varies (see note 23) .ipc/.356 (see note 4) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 17 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 17 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) drawing file drawing file PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 4 / 1a) | y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y y |
| Eagle PCB (see note 4 below) | GENCAD | .cad (see note 4) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 4 / 1b) | y |
| Eagle PCB (see note 4 below) | pin x-y list | .fatf - FATF file (see note 4) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 4 / 1b) | y |
| Eagle PCB (see note 4 below) Eagle PCB (see note 2) Easy-PC(see note 8 below) Easy-PC (see note 32 below) Easy-PC (see note 2) | other Gerber GENCAD ODB++ Gerber | scripts (see note 4) varies (see note 2) cad (see note 8) varies (see note 32) varies (see note 2) | PCB exports using scripts (see note 4) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 21 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 32 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y y y |
| EasyEDA EasyEDA EasyEDA EasyEDA EE Designer EE Designer (see note 2) | PADS-PCB Protel output x-y centroid Gerber ASCII output Gerber | .asc .pro varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) .ala varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB Ascii PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y y n y |
| Fabmaster (see note 26) | pin x-y list | .fatf - FATF file (note 26) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 26 / 1b) | y |
| Fabmaster Fabmaster (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | varies varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| FastCAD (see note 2 below) | Gerber | varies (see note 2) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y |
| FreePCB (see note 2 below) FreePCB Fuji PCB assembly file GENA PxxxPCB(see note 7 below) GENA PxxxPCB (see note 2) | Gerber PADS-PCB Flexa .pgo x-y centroid Gerber | varies (see note 2) .asc .pgo varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB netlist (pin x-y?, trace?) PCB x-y center PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y y y |
| GENCAD | GENCAD | .cad | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) | y |
| GENCAM | GENCAM | .gcm | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace | y |
| Gerber (see note 2 below) | Gerber | varies (see note 2) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y |
| HPGL (see note 23 below) | Internet | .hpg | drawing file | y |
| Incases Incases (see note 2) | TL CAD Gerber | .tl varies (see note 2) | PCB Ascii PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | n y |
| Intergraph Intergraph (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | .lst varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| IPC-2581 (see note 24) IPC-2581A(xml) (see note 25) IPC-D-356(see note 18) | IPC-2581 IPC-2581A IPC-D-356 | .cvg (see note 24) .xml (see note 25) varies (see note 18) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 24 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 25 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) | y y y |
| Keysight ADS (see note 7) Keysight ADS (see note 2) KiCAD KiCAD (see note 7) KiCAD (see note 2) | x-y centroid Gerber GENCAD x-y centroid Gerber | varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) cad varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) | PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y y y |
| McCAD | IPC-D-356 | .ipc/.356 | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 1a) | y |
| McCAD | GENCAD | .cad | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) | y |
| McCAD McCAD (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | .tbs varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | n y |
| MentorBoardStation (see note 29) | Mentor Neutral pin x-y | .neu/varies | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 1a) | y |
| MentorBoardStation | Mentor Route (traces) | .txt/varies | PCB trace | y |
| MentorBoardStation (note 6) MentorBoardStaion (note 2) | ODB++ Gerber | varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Mentor Expedition (see note 9) | GENCAD | .cad (see note 9) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 9 / 1b) | y |
| Mentor Expedition (see note 9) | IPC-D-356 | .ipc/.356 (see note 9) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 9 / 1a) | y |
| Mentor Expedition (notes 6, 9) Mentor Expedition (see note 2) | ODB++ Gerber | varies (see notes 6, 9) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (notes 6, 9 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| ODB++ (see note 6 below) | pin x-y list | varies (see note 6) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) | y |
| OrCAD PCB Designer (note 30) OrCAD PCB Designer (note 6) OrCAD PCB Designer (note 28) OrCAD PCB Designer (note 2) OrCAD Masstek | GENCAD ODB++ IPC-2581 Gerber Min file | .cad varies (see note 6) .cvg varies (see note 2) .min | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 22 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1a) | y y y y y |
| OrCAD Masstek OrCAD Masstek (note 18) OrCAD Masstek (see note 2) | GENCAD IPC-D-356 Gerber | .cad .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y |
| OrCAD 386+ (see note 7) OrCAD 386+ (see note 2) | x-y centroid Gerber | varies (see note 7) varies (see note 2) | PCB x-y center (see note 7) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| PADS (see note 11 below) | ASCII output | .asc (see note 11) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 11 / 1a) | y |
| PADS (see note 6 below) PADS (see note 2) | ODB++ Gerber | varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Panasonic PCB assembly file Pantheon/Intercept Pantheon/Intercept (note 2) Pantheon/Intercept (note 18) Pantheon/Intercept Pantheon/Intercept (note 6) Pantheon/Intercept P-CAD(see note 12 below) | Panasonic .crb GENCAD Gerber IPC-D-356 Mentor ODB++ Visual PDIF | .crb .cad varies (see note 2) .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) .neu varies (see note 6) varies .pdf (see note 12) | PCB x-y center PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 12 / 1a) | n y y y y y y y |
| P-CAD (see note 18 below) | IPC-D-356 | .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) | y |
| P-CAD (see note 13 below) P-CAD (see note 2) | ASCII output Gerber | .PCB (see note 13) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 13 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Pulsonix Pulsonix (note 33) Pulsonix (see note 2) | GENCAD ODB++ Gerber | .cad varies (see note 33) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 33 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y |
| Protel (see note 14 below) | Protel output | .PCB/.pro (see note 14) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 14 / 1a) | y |
| Protel (see note 18 below) Protel (see note 2) | Protel output Gerber | .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Proteus (see note 6 below) Proteus (see note 2) SCI Card SCI Card (see note 2) | ODB++ Gerber Neutral file Gerber | varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) .cii varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB Ascii (see note 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y n y |
| Seetrax Ranger Seetrax Ranger (see note 2) | GENCAD Gerber | .cad varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| SuperMax ECAD (see note 18) SuperMax ECAD (see note 2) | IPC-D-356 Netlist Gerber | .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Tango (Protel) (see note 15) Tango (Protel) (see note 2) | pin x-y list Gerber | .PCB (see note 15) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 15 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Theda Theda (see note 2) | TL Gerber | .tl varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | n y |
| ULTIboard (see note 16 below) | GENCAD | .cad (see note 16) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 16 / 1b) | y |
| ULTIboard (see note 18 below) ULTIboard (see note 2) | IPC-D-356 Netlist Gerber | .ipc/.356/varies (see note 18) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist (see note 18 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Veribest | pin x-y list | .vrb | PCB pin x-y,netlist | y |
| Veribest (see note 10 below) Veribest (see note 2) Valor (see note 6 below) | GENCAD Gerber ODB++ | .cad (see note 10) varies (see note 2) varies (see note 6) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 10 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) | y y y |
| Visula (see note 17 below) Visula (see note 2) | CADIF Gerber | .paf (see note 17) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 17 / 1a) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y |
| Vutrax (see note 2) X-Y Component Center (note 7) | Gerber X-Y centers | varies (see note 2) .xyr (see note 7) | PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) PCB X-Y Components centers (see note 7) | y y |
| Zuken (see note 17 below) Zuken(see note 6 below) Zuken (see note 2) | CADIF ODB++ Gerber | .paf (see note 17) varies (see note 6) varies (see note 2) | PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 17 / 1a) PCB pin x-y,netlist,trace (see note 6 / 1b) PCB drawing file (see note 2 / 1a) | y y y |
The CAD and Gerber file listings above are provided for informational purposes only. Unisoft is not responsible for any problems encountered with the usage of this information.
Full samples of most of the CAD formats in the table above can be downloaded by clicking this link https://www.unisoft-cim.com/download/cad_samples.zip. After the download is complete you will find the CAD samples in the file CAD_SAMPLES.ZIP.
BINARY FILES: The Unisoft software imports the ASCII files the ECAD systems export but it does not import their binary files. Binary PCB database files are the ECAD companies own proprietary binary format. These binary file formats are normally not public or documented and my violate copyrights. Also as an ECAD company releases new versions of it's software their binary format may change and it would be virtually impossible to modify the Unisoft software to accommodate these changes in a timely manner. For these reasons the Unisoft software does not import the binary files directly and only imports the standard ASCII files these ECAD systems export. TIP: If you try to open your CAD file with a TEXT editor and the characters are not standard ASCII text characters then it is most likely a binary file and not the ASCII CAD file and the Unisoft software will not be able to import it!
Note 1a:CAD files without explicitly defined component rotations: This CAD file does not have explicitly defined component rotations.
This CAD file has component pin information but no usable data about component rotations and in these cases Unisoft automatically calculates component rotations using standard zero degree package orientations.
Note 1b:CAD files with explicitly defined component rotations: This CAD file has explicitly defined component rotations.
This CAD file contains rotation information. When a CAD file is imported into the Unisoft software were the component rotations are explicitly defined in the CAD file then Unisoft assigns these explicitly defined rotations to the components.
In some cases it may be desirable to modify these explicilty defined component rotations. If this is the case then the RESET ROTATION feature can be used to change the rotation of the component package shapes in CAD files that have explicitly defined rotations. When the RESET ROTATION feature is used then the Unisoft software automatically calculates component rotations using standard zero degree package orientations.
Note 2:Gerber: Gerber data is basically a drawing file of the PC Boards pad information. Most of the systems listed above gerber data files. Gerber does not contain component, pin or netlist information. Wherever possible, from the table above, try to obtain CAD files with pin x-y,netlist,trace data. However as is the case with virtually all Contract Electronics Manufacturers [EMS/CEM] often the only data their clients provide are the gerber files. In this case the Unisoft GERBER-CONNECTION menu is used to quickly turn these raw Gerber files into intelligent data to program your Assembly, AOI inspection, ATE Test and selective Soldering equipment; and also create process assembly sheets, kitting labels, costing reports, do first article and general inspection.
Gerber files are exported by hundreds of different CAD and software systems. The first few lines of the GERBER file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of a GERBER file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample-gerber.ger or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample-gerber.ger.
Note 3:Importing Cadence Allegro CAD files into the Unisoft software: Cadence Allegro is usually less straight forward then the other CAD systems in generating the necessary ASCII file that is then imported into the Unisoft software. The Allegro CAD system requires an extraction program in order to get the data out of the system. The extraction script exports ASCII files and therefore anyone needing PCB data from the Allegro database needs to use the Cadence Extraction program. Outlined below are two options to create the ASCII file.
Please note that the main Allegro binary database has a .BRD extension. The .BRD is in Allegro's own proprietary binary format that is not public or documented and Unisoft does not import this file directly. The Unisoft software imports the standard ASCII files this database can export.
Option #1 - Some Allegro systems (NT version for example) will allow you to export out an IPC-D356 ASCII file. IPC-D356 is created directly from the export menu on the Allegro CAD system and the Unisoft software can then import the IPC-D356 file.
To export IPC-D356 from the Allegro software click the EXPORT MENU then click IPC-D356 and the resultant .IPC file created can be imported into the Unisoft software. To import the .IPC file into the Unisoft software first start the Unisoft software and click the main FILE menu then select SMART OPEN and select the directory where the .IPC file is located, then select the .IPC file and click OK. A window will open, click OK and the PCB will be displayed.
Option #2 - Some customers that use ALLEGRO have been able to export the standard file format from ALLEGRO known as the Fabmaster 'extraction script'. We recommend this file format because it contains a large amount of the PC Board detail (pins, netlist, traces, etc.).
To export Fabmaster 'extraction script' from the Allegro software you need to download and run the skill file script to extract the Fabmaster 'extraction script' CAD data. The licensed Cadence Allegro user can go to 'Sourcelink' on the Cadence website and download the Fabmaster skill file to extract Fabmaster 'extraction script' CAD data. The skill file should contain information on how it should be run. The resultant Fabmaster 'extraction script' CAD file created can be imported into the Unisoft software. To import the file you can use the SMART OPEN feature in the Unisoft software and the PCB will be displayed. The other option to import the file is to make sure the file name is .FAB then start the Unisoft software and click the main FILE menu then select OPEN and select the directory where the .FAB file is located. Next click the pull down menu next to 'LIST FILE TYPES' and select 'FabMaster Files (*.FAB)' then select the .FAB file and click OPEN and the PCB will be displayed.
The first few lines of the file will look something like this:
Note if you are using an older version of Unisoft before year 2016 the following may apply. Newer versions will detect these differences automatically: If you have an ASCII file similar in format to the one above 'A!XXX!YYY!ZZZ!' but it does not import into the Unisoft software with the above mentioned methods then first change the file extension to .VAL and try to import it into the Unisoft software. If that does not work then change the file extension to .VA2 and try to import it into the Unisoft software. The format above 'A!XXX!YYY!ZZZ!' comes in many variations so if you still have issues then please contact Unisoft.
Note 4:Importing EAGLE PCB files into the Unisoft software:
Note that Eagle (CadSoft) was acquired by Autodesk in 2016 and so the export information below may change as the product is integrated into Autodesk..
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EAGLE PCB system users can export GenCAD, IPCD356 and Fabmaster files that can then be imported into the Unisoft software. The Eagle PCB system uses 'User Language Programs' scripts to export data out. To download these user contributed scripts for GenCAD, IPCD356 and Fabmaster go to the Eagle website then click DOWNLOAD, then click ULP's — USER LANGUAGE PROGRAMS — and select the GenCAD, IPCD356 or Fabmaster download. Please follow any instructions provided on the Eagle website.
From either the schematic or board editor type the word 'run' (No quotation marks) and then press enter. A dialog will appear that will allow you to browse for the ULP you want to run, select the desired ULP and then click open. EAGLE will now execute the ULP.
Note 5:Altium Designer .PCBdoc / .PCB / .PRO: The .PCBdoc and the .PCB files from Altium Designer / Protel are normally file formats that the Unisoft software can import. Also other formats from Altium Designer that the Unisoft software can import is the Protel PCB 2.8 ASCII format.
PCBdoc/PCB: The .PCBdoc or .PRO file formats typically can be imported. To export these files from the CAD system click FILE then SAVE AS or FILE then SAVE COPY AS.
The .PCBdoc or .PRO top of the file header should look like the following:
Protel PCB 2.8: The Unisoft software can import from Altium Designer the Protel PCB 2.8 ASCII format. To export the Protel PCB 2.8 ASCII format from the SAVE AS menu on the Altium Designer CAD system choose the Protel PCB 2.8 ASCII format. This file will import correctly into the Unisoft software. The Protel file exported should have a .PRO extension but may have a .PCB file extension. If you use the preferred Unisoft SMART OPEN menu then it does not matter what the extension is. If you wish to open it with the Unisoft standard OPEN menu then the file should have a .PRO extension.
The Protel PCB 2.8 top of the file header will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_protel.pro or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_protel.pro.
'PIN COORDINATE IS TOO LARGE' BOUNDARY LIMIT ERROR: If you are using Unisoft software version 5.11.11 or newer skip the following note because these newer versions of the software automatically adjust for the boundary limit error outlined here: If on importing the Protel PCB ASCII file into the Unisoft software you get the message 'Nothing to display!! Most likely a pin coordinate is too large. Failed.' then the PC board you are trying to import is usually outside the Unisoft software display size limits which is 65.536 inches by 65.536 inches (X=+32.767 to -32.767 and Y=+32.767 to -32.767). Usually the issue is that the PC Board when it was being designed on the CAD system was positioned towards the extreme corner of the CAD system display. So to fix this the CAD Designer simply needs to reposition the PC Board more towards the 0,0 origin of the CAD display and then regenerate the Protel PCB ASCII file. You should then be able to import this newly generated Protel PCB ASCII file into the Unisoft software. If you were to open the failing Protel PCB ASCII in a text editor you could actually see the coordinates that are too large. For example in the following file below on the fifth line we see the coordinate 36120000 and on rescaling this coordinate is 36.12 inches which is greater than our maximum limit of 32.767 inches.
Note 6:ODB++ (standard file format - Mentor Graphics/Valor ):
Importing into Unisoft: The Unisoft software can import the ODB++ format. ODB++ is not a single file format as most CAD type files but an array of files in multiple directories that usually have several levels of files. These files may or may not be in a single compressed file format such as .TGZ, .ZIP or .TAR . If compressed then to import the ODB++ file into the Unisoft software first make sure the single .TGZ, .ZIP or .TAR file that the ODB++ files are in is unzipped. Then when uncompressed you should see subdirectories with the names MATRIX, STEPS, FONTS, SYMBOLS, etc. Next from the Unisoft software click FILE from the main menu then click SMART OPEN and select the root directory where the ODB++ files are located then click OPEN and click OK. Click OK to close the Costing window and your PC Board is displayed.
About .TGZ and .TAR files: A file with the TGZ file extension is usually a GZIP Compressed Tar Archive file. TGZ files can be opened with most popular zip/unzip programs. Compressed archives are typically created by assembling collections of files into a single TAR archive, and then compressing that archive with gzip which then creates a .TGZ file. So basically most popular zip/unzip programs will work for opening .TGZ, .TAR and .ZIP files.
Note 7:X-Y Component center and rotation file: An X Y Center and rotation (XYR) file is any file containing component X Y center and rotation information. This type of file in most any format can be imported into the Unisoft software and is useful in creating Assembly and AOI machine programs. Our customers may find a file with similar data to that found in the XYR in their project CAD and BOM data folder. They can then use that file to import into the Unisoft software.
For example it may look like any variation of the following: Below are examples of files that contain reference designator, X/Y center and rotation formation in various formats. All of these files and more can be imported into the Unisoft software.
Please note that it is always preferable to use the other full CAD files listed above and not a XYR file as your first choice for importing into the Unisoft software.
For more details on XYR importing click here FEATURES and see 'Importing your X/Y Center, Rotation files'.
Note 8:OPTIONAL EXPORT OUTPUT: Generating this output may be an optional feature. Please check with the software provider for details.
Note 9:CAD Extraction Procedure: From Mentor Expedition select File, then Export then General Interface and then select the export type GenCAD. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the GenCAD file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad.
Note 10:CAD Extraction Procedure: Use Report Writer (Veribest) and export the Mitron option to create the GenCAD file. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the GenCAD file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad.
Note 11:CAD Extraction Procedure: In PADS on the In/Out menu select ASCII Out and select the ALL option so that the full PADS ASCII file is created then output the .ASC file. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the PADS .ASC file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_PADS.asc or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_PADS.asc.
Note 12:CAD Extraction Procedure: From the P-CAD File Menu select Export and select PDIF to create the .PDF file. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the P-CAD .PDF file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_PCAD.pdf or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_PCAD.pdf.
Note 13:CAD Extraction Procedure: From the P-CAD File Menu select Save As and select the option ASCII .PCB . You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the .PCB file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB.
Note 14:CAD Extraction Procedure: From the PROTEL file menu select Save As and select ASCII .PCB . You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
Note: For Protel 99 SE (service pack 6) should be able to export to a PCAD 2000 .PCB which is actually a TANGO .PCB file and the Unisoft software can import that file. Also other Protel 99 formats can be imported.
Please examine the first few lines of the .PCB file created and they will look something like the sample below and must be in this format.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB.
Also an example of another Protel 99 format that can be imported follows:
Note 15:CAD Extraction Procedure: From the TANGO DOS File Menu select Save As and select the option ASCII .PCB . You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the TANGO DOS .PCB file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_ACCEL TANGO.PCB .
Note 16:CAD Extraction Procedure: Use DDF2GenCAD (Ultiboard) to export the GenCAD file. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the GenCAD file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_GENCAD.cad.
Note 17:CAD Extraction Procedure: From the CAD system select the Interface option in the Job menu and select CADIF output to create the .PAF file. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
The first few lines of the CADIF .PAF file will look something like the sample below.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_cadif.paf or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_cadif.paf.
Note 18: The first few lines of the IPC-D-356 file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
There is also a full sample of this CAD file on your installation directory of the Unisoft software and by default it would be c:program filesunisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_IPCD356.356 or c:program files(x86)unisoftcad-import-file-samples-etcsample_IPCD356.356.
Note 19: Unisoft is not aware of any full ASCII CAD file or any X,Y center rotation file export capabilities from this CAD system that can be used for import into the Unisoft software.
Since these data files are not available one other option is this CAD system can export Gerber's that the bareboard is made with. These Gerber files can then be imported into the Unisoft software and used to MAKE the component shapes on the PC board and at that point the files needed to program for your assembly, AOI and test equipment can be created. Also you can create assembly process documentation, kitting labels, do First Article Inspection, quoting, etc.
Refer to Note 2 above for additional information on Gerber files.
Note 20:AutoCAD DXF: AutoCAD DXF (Drawing Interchange Format, or Drawing Exchange Format) is a CAD data file format developed by Autodesk for enabling data interoperability between AutoCAD and other programs. AutoCAD .dxf files are a 'Design eXchange Format' files. This file type is only a drawing file. Unisoft can import and display these drawing files but they have little other value within the Unisoft software. For example you can not extract component, pin, x/y, netlist data, etc. from this type of file.
Note 21:ODB++ (Valor/Mentor Graphics software):
Exporting from the CAD System: From the Altium CAD system on the FILE menu select FABRICATION OUTPUT and select ODB++ FILE. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software. Note: Depending on the version of the Altium software, etc. this option may not be available.
Importing into Unisoft: The Unisoft software can import the ODB++ format. ODB++ is not a single file format as most CAD type files but an array of files in multiple directories that usually have several levels of files. These files may or may not be in a single compressed file format such as .TGZ, .ZIP or .TAR . If compressed then to import the ODB++ file into the Unisoft software first make sure the single .TGZ, .ZIP or .TAR file that the ODB++ files are in is unzipped. Then when uncompressed you should see subdirectories with the names MATRIX, STEPS, FONTS, SYMBOLS, etc. Next from the Unisoft software click FILE from the main menu then click SMART OPEN and select the root directory where the ODB++ files are located then click OPEN and click OK. Click OK to close the Costing window and your PC Board is displayed.
About .TGZ and .TAR files: A file with the TGZ file extension is usually a GZIP Compressed Tar Archive file. TGZ files can be opened with most popular zip/unzip programs. Compressed archives are typically created by assembling collections of files into a single TAR archive, and then compressing that archive with gzip which then creates a .TGZ file. So basically most popular zip/unzip programs will work for opening .TGZ, .TAR and .ZIP files.
When uncompressed you should see subdirectories looking something like those below.
Note 22: An export that maybe available from the Altium Designer CAD system is the IPC-2581 cvg file format. The first few lines of the IPC-2581 .cvg file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
Link to download a sample IPC-2581 .cvg file
Link to download a sample IPC-2581A .xml file
Note 23:CAD tool: This CAD tool exports drawing type files. For example some of the drawing file types that maybe created by this CAD tool are DXF, TIFF, JPG, BMP, HPGL, etc. These files are drawing type files and Unisoft can import and display these drawing files but they have little other value within the Unisoft software. For example you can not extract component, pin, x/y, netlist data, etc. from these type of files.
Note 24: The first few lines of the IPC-2581 .cvg file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
Note 25: The first few lines of the IPC-2581A .xml file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
Note 26: The first few lines of the Fabmaster FATF file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
Link to download a sample Fabmaster FATF file
Note 27: For the DesignSpark CAD system to generate an ODB++ file go to the main menu and click OUTPUT and then click ODB++ . After the ODB++ file has been created go to Note: 6 .
Note 28: An export that maybe available from the OrCAD PCB Designer system is the IPC-2581 .cvg file format. The first few lines of the IPC-2581 .cvg file will look something like the sample below. You can import this file into the Unisoft software.
Link to download a sample IPC-2581 .cvg file
Link to download a sample IPC-2581A .xml file
Note 29:Mentor Graphics Neutral File:
Exporting from the CAD System: From the CAD system on the output menu of the Fablink utility select WRITE NEUTRAL FILE and then select to output all options. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
Link to download a sample Mentor Graphics Neutral file
Note 30: OrCAD export of GenCAD:
Exporting from the CAD System: In the OrCAD layout software without a board or project open from the File menu select Export and choose the GenCAD option. You can now import this file into the Unisoft software.
Link to download a sample GENCAD file
Note 31:X-Y Component center and rotation file: An X Y Center and rotation (XYR) file is any file containing component X Y center and rotation information. This type of file in most any format can be imported into the Unisoft software and is useful in creating Assembly and AOI machine programs.
In AutoCAD Electrical an X Y Center and rotation (XYR) file maybe exportable via the Data Extract window. They can then use that file to import into the Unisoft software.
Below are examples of files that contain reference designator, X/Y center and rotation in various formats. All of these file types and also a similar one exported from AutoCAD Electrical via the Data Extract window can be imported into the Unisoft software.
Please note that it is always preferable to use the other full CAD files listed above and not a XYR file as your first choice for importing into the Unisoft software.
For more details on XYR importing click here FEATURES and see 'Importing your X/Y Center, Rotation files'.
Link to download a sample XY Rotation file
Note 32:ODB++ export from EASY-PC:
Exporting ODB++ from EASY-PC: Go to the Output menu to export the ODB++ file. In the window displayed for Layers click the box Select All and at the top of the window click the box Compressed . A compressed .TGZ file will be created in the folder location selected in the Compressed File field.
Note 33:ODB++ export from Pulsonix:
Exporting ODB++ from Pulsonix: Exporting ODB++ from Pulsonix: Go to the Output menu to export the ODB++ file. In the window check the box Compressed . Leave the box Use CAM/Plot Layer Combinations unchecked. A compressed .TGZ file will be created in the folder location selected.
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Introduction: Free PCB Schematic Entry & Layout Software Beat Eagle for Some Features
'Nothing is free', 'There ain't no such thing as a free lunch', 'There is no such thing as free unless the thing in question is without value'. We've all heard this before but maybe, just maybe, the old maxim is challenged by some software.
Cadsoft Eagle, DipTrace and Uncle Tom Cobley all do 'free' or 'lite' so as to get you hooked and, they hope, have you come back and buy.
I've assembled a list of free PCB editor/layout that prove 'popular' software is a dog in many ways. Eagle, for example, is something you either love or hate! People have many things to say about it - often swear words. I know of one user who got so frustrated whilst using Eagle he used to pull at the hair of his temples. He is now permanently bald above his ears!
Few Editor (schematic entry)/Layout software packages are the ideal answer - I have six different packages on my company's servers ranging from Cadence (an expensive beauty), through Layout Sprint, to Express PCB. I use what is most appropriate to the assigned task. Note I use the term 'editor/schematic entry'. None actually 'capture'. Nuance Voice>Text software captures. The nearest to 'capturing' is the Sprint Layout ... which is not free, Osmond (Mac) described below.
So here's a list of free software listed in alphabetical order. Only YOU can decide what is best for your tasks, just as much as choices of transportation differ from person to person. Our goal is Gerbers - the route we choose to get there is variable. Quit the square pegs in to round holes game.
Step 1: CircuitMaker
Besides being a collaborative community for electronic design content, CircuitMaker is Schematic & PCB design software, built upon Altium Designer technology. With a streamlined interface and powerful engine to boot, you’ll never have to worry about your software holding you back. This is a free design tool unlike anything you've seen before.
CircuitMaker (http://circuitmaker.com)
Step 2: DesignSpark PCB
DesignSpark PCB is a free EDA package offered by RS Components. It has a board size limit or 1 square meter or 1550 sq inches and no limits on pin counts, layers, or output types. DesignSpark PCB includes schematic capture, PCB layout, autorouting, circuit simulation, design calculators, BOM tracking, component creation wizard, and 3d viewing. With the extensive library of Eagle components available online for free, the ability to import component library files makes transitioning and starting in DesignSpark PCB fast and easy. DesignSpark PCB outputs all of the required files to have you PCB made at any PCB manufacturer.
Eagle component libraries, design files, and circuit diagrams can be imported in to DesignSpark PCB. This enables Eagle files from articles or other sources to be converted without having to install Eagle. With practice size-limited Eagle files can be merged to form a larger board!
Pcb File Open
DesignSpark PCB (https://www.rs-online.com/designspark/pcb-software)
Step 3: EasyEDA (Cloud)
EasyEDA is a free, zero-install, Web and cloud-based EDA tool suite, integrating powerful schematic capture, mixed-mode circuit simulation and PCB layout in a seamless cross-platform browser environment, for electronic engineers, educators, students and hobbyists.
As with any cloud-based system you have to consider the safety of your hard work and the security from a content perspective.
EasyEDA (https://easyeda.com)
Step 4: ExpressPCB (Vendor Limited)
ExpressPCB is a simple to use PCB layout packager aimed at the first time user and designer. ExpressPCB offers a schematic capture program that integrates with their PCB layout software. The schematic and layout files can be linked to automatically carry changes forward. One neat feature is that you can group parts of a layout together and replicate, rotate, etc. as you would a component footprint.
ExpressPCB is meant to be used with the ExpressPCB manufacturing service and does not support outputting to standard formats directly. ExpressPCB offers a file conversion service for a fee ($100) if standard outputs are required.
Now, however, ExpressPCB files can be converted into formats acceptable to any fabricator of your choice. The answer is at the end of this article.
ExpressPCB (https://www.expresspcb.com) (Vendor limited) (See end)
Step 5: FreePCB
FreePCB is an open-source PCB design package for Windows. It was designed to support professional quality PCB designs but be easy to learn and use. The only limitations to FreePCB are a maximum board size of 60x60 inches and 16 layers, but it can use the FreeRoute web-based autorouter at www.freerouting.net.
Designs can be exported in the extended Gerber format, used by all PCB manufacturers.
FreePCB (http://www.freepcb.com)
Step 6: Fritzing
Fritzing software is an interesting open-source initiative to support designers, artists, researchers and hobbyists to work creatively with interactive electronics and develop electronic projects. Fritzing helps you learn more about electronic circuits, to document your projects and even let’s you prepare them for production.
A unique feature, useful for beginners, is the Breadboard View which populates an onscreen breadboard to aid you replicating it in reality in your work space. Other views include Schematic and Layout Views. A change in one is automatically reflected in the other views.
Lady Ada of Adafruit, the heroine of the electronic D-I-Y community, has started using this, too.
Fritzing (http://fritzing.org/)
Step 7: GEDA (Linux, Unix, Mac)
gEDA is an open source package that runs on Linux, Unix, Mac and has produced tools which are used for electrical circuit design, schematic capture, simulation, prototyping, and production. Currently, the gEDA project offers a mature suite of free software applications for electronics design, including schematic capture, attribute management, bill of materials (BOM) generation, netlisting into over 20 netlist formats, Verilog analog and digital simulation, transmission line analysis, and printed circuit board (PCB) design layout. Gerber outputs are supported.
gEDA (Linux) (http://www.gpleda.org/)
Step 8: Kicad (Linux/Unix, Mac, Windows, FreeBSD)
The best open source (GPL) EDA package is KiCad, which is available for Linux/Unix, Mac, Windows, and FreeBSD. The KiCad suite of programs includes schematic capture,
PCB layout with 3D viewer and up to 16 layers, footprint creator, project manager, a Gerber viewer. Tools are available to import components from other packages, such as Eagle. KiCad has a built in autorouter and the freeware FreeRouting can also be used. KiCad supports outputting to extended Gerber formats, enabling freedom in selecting the manufacturer you want to use.
Kicad (http://www.kicad-pcb.org/)
Step 9: Osmond PCB (Mac)
Osmond PCB is a free, full featured EDA package for the Mac. Osmond PCB has no limitations and can even work with both Imperial and Metric units in the same design seamlessly. Osmond PCB can import a PDF file to serve as a background image, allowing a design to be matched to the mechanical enclosure or trace an existing design or datasheet.
Osmond PCB supports direct printing of a layout to a transparency for the toner transfer technique for DIY home made PCB fabrication. Extended Gerber outputs are also supported, allowing freedom of choice in manufacturer.
Osmond PCB (Mac) (http://www.osmondpcb.com/)
Step 10: PCBWeb Designer
PCBWeb is a free CAD application for designing and manufacturing electronics hardware. Design multi-sheet schematics with a fast and easy-to-use wiring tool.
Route multi-layer boards with support for copper pours and DRC checking. Integrated Digi-Key Parts Catalogue with Bill of Materials Manager.
PCBWeb Designer (http://www.pcbweb.com/)
Step 11: TinyCAD (Schematic)
TinyCAD is a Editor program to help you draw circuit diagrams. It comes complete with symbol libraries to get you started straight away. As well as being able to simply print your designs, TinyCAD can publish your drawings by copying and pasting into a Word document or saving as a PNG bitmap for the web.
TinyCAD (Schematics only) (http://tinycad.sourceforge.net/)
Step 12: ZenitPCB
A layout design software tool to create professional printed circuit boards. It is limited to 800 pins maximum in the free version, which limits designs to smaller hobbyist or semi-professional use. ZenitPCB is able to export extended Gerber files, allowing PCBs to be made by any PCB manufacturer. is an easy to use PCB layout program that also includes schematic capture and a Gerber file viewer.
As it is limited to 800 pins maximum in the free version, it limits designs to smaller hobbyist or semi-professional use.This pin limitation is less restrictive than limiting board size as in the case of Eagle. ZenitPCB is able to export extended Gerber files, allowing PCBs to be made by any PCB manufacturer.
ZenitPCB (http://www.zenitpcb.com/)
Step 13: The Freedom Fighters - All We Want Is Gerbers - Viva Analogue ExpressPCB PDF Converter
Don Julien, is a programmer, who dedicates himself to updating the open-source program ‘pdf2gerb’. Ppdf2gerb is a text based ‘PERL’ instruction set that’s meant for converting PDF vector graphics language files to Gerber “Numerical Drilling” (CNC driver) ones - the brainchild of Matthew Swann.
“… in essence, the instructions that are meant to drive a printer are similar in nature to those used for driving an automated CNC machine” …
Three PDF “layer” files are print-created from by expressPCB which are true (basic) vector files. The top and bottom layers are combined into a top.pdf file, in order to produce copper text in the end, then the bottom.pdf only (without text, logos, etc .) and then the silk.pdf layer.
The program code and three object files are fed to a compiler which produces seven Gerber output files. Visual confirmation of translation accuracy to the new format can be made using a Gerber file viewer such as ViewPlot or 'Gerbv' or Pentalogix Viewmate to verify sizing, replication, drill file overlap, etc.
Viva Analog - Gerber files from expressPCB generated PDF’s (http://viva-analog.com/pdf2gerb-and-expresspcb-reality-cheque)
Links
pdf2gerb16e (https://www.viva-analog.com/forum/forum_files/pdf2gerb16e.zip)
Mathew Swann’s ‘pdf2gerb’ (http://swannman.github.com/pdf2gerb)
ViewPlot (http://www.viewplot.com)
'Gerbv' (http://gerbv.geda-project.org/)
Pentalogix Viewmate (http://www.pentalogix.com/viewmate.php)
Step 14: The Freedom Fighters - All We Want Is Gerbers - Copper Connection ExpressPCB Conversion
I've included this software because it has the ability to convert expressPCB PDFs into industry standard formats.
Copper Connection is a modern PCB layout editor for creating printed circuit boards at home or commercially. The software is easy enough for hobbyists and students, but includes rich features for the benefit of professionals. Then, either print the board for etching at home, or export the board to an industry standard format to order from the PCB manufacturer of your choice.
The Home Edition is free of charge and can be upgraded at any time.
This is another way to convert ExpressPCB file format to other file formats. Using Copper Connection software, the ExpressPCB circuit boards can be easily searched, printed, or exported to Gerber and Excellon.
Copper Connection ExpressPCB Conversion (http://robotroom.com/CopperConnection/Converting-Express-PCB-Files.html)
Step 15: Wikipedia - Today's Encyclopedia
There is another list of software in Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparison_of_EDA_software) which I urge you to read.
It contains a fully comprehensive list of software packages with far greater feature descriptions than my list.
I hope this list serves to highlight other 'free' software packages - choose the one you feel that serves your purposes best. Then you can quit banging square pegs into round holes with you know what!
Step 16:
Footnotes
In September 2009, Farnell bought CadSoft, the makers of the Eagle Schematic-PCB program. Farnell now call themselves “element14”, and present themselves as an engineering resource, rather than just a component supplier.
RS Components opened DesignSpark, a design portal and community for engineers, and offered “DesignSpark PCB”, a free, non-crippled and modified version of Easy-PC; a low end CAD tool from Number One Systems. RS also plan to build in a procurement tool.
Farnell and RS Components are the two big UK based players, and hope to make their engineering portals a haven for engineers who need inspiration, social contact and easy parts procurement.
Advance Circuits offers the PCB Artist derivative of Easy-PC, and has helpful documentation. In particular the Layout Software Part Creation Tutorial explains the library system.
Beware the Cloud
DesignSparkPCB uses internet licence management, so if RS ever turns off the licence server, you can lose your investment in libraries and projects.
Different Philosophies
Most CAD tools link schematic symbol to footprint by a simple text field; giving you flexibility to use any combination of schematic and PCB tools. Eagle and DesignSpark PCB are different: they lock you in to a self-contained component model which keeps schematic and PCB inside the one program. That is a 'we know best' approach, which gives the beginner an easy start, but ultimately limits you.
Someone Took the Words Out of my Mouth!
The Eagle user interface defies normal GUI conventions. Eagle has a scripting language – fiendishly clever – but running scripts is the only way to achieve tasks which might be a simple menu item in another program.
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