PC boards and software

From: vrs <vrs_at_msn.com>
Date: Wed Apr 14 09:16:37 2004

> That was back with V2.6, the DOS version with a dongle. The current
> version is Windows or Linux, and comes in three flavors. They all
> have three parts: schematic, PCB layout, autorouter; you can get one
> or two or all three pieces. The unlimited one is $400 per piece.
>
> Having seen autorouting, I wonder if it wouldn't make sense to get the
> version without it. Autorouting saves a bit of time some of the time,
> but only that. And it's only useful for noncritical signals. (That's
> true even for the most expensive industrial grade PCB tools, as I've
> found out talking to the hardware designers here.)

I use and like the autorouter. Perhaps none of my designs have very many
signals that would be considered critical by today's standards :-). I have
use the "signal class" feature to expand power traces, change spacing, etc.
I have also done things like route power signals in a separate pass, etc.
You can always hand-draw the critical stuff before turning the autorouter
loose on the rest.

In addition to the "more open" nature vs pcb123, I wanted to mention that
the Freeware Eagle version will print schematics and layout, and even
generate Gerber files for big boards. You just can't edit them. (It works
a little like the "viewers" for various expensive Office products :-).)
That means that while it cost me $1200 to do the TC08 backplane, I could
share it with any of you, and you could get a board made, without shelling
out for a license.

    Vince
Received on Wed Apr 14 2004 - 09:16:37 BST