Free CAD for Electronics.

[Retired]

Hi,

http://www.pad2pad.com/

In my other thread about free CAD I find emachineshop to be brilliant but I've only just started using their CAD and making rapid progress. Yesterday whilst browsing EMS website I noticed another free drawing program covering electronics which looks very interesting. The link is above.

I know both Tony and Gary enjoy designing electronic circuits and obviously many more members will do the same so I thought this pad2pad drawing program might be of use.

Kind regards, Col.

[Radio Fixer]

Interesting video Colin and slick software. However, I rarely make PCBs and only occasionally do wire logic on IC boards (pretty horrible and gives me eye strain).

If I were going to do some PCBs I would do it in Corel Draw as I'm always seeking opportunities to practice and get better with that software. I really believe its best to stick to a few poweful packages. At first it would take longer as I would need to create a component library and then be able to put down IC pads, headers etc as in Pad2. I would use layers to create front and back board sides.

Cant see how I could do the Logical Connections feature but for my simple stuff and in house I probably wouldnt need it. BTW we used to call Logical Connections ,and do this first, a Running Out list for wiring in the old days.

But Yeah! good to see and thanks Gary

[Aerodyne]

This looks interesting. I like the autorouting function, simpler than some software. I've only looked at the basic video demonstration so far. I'd need to know how easy it is to change track widths and pad /hole sizes. Presently I use Express PCB and Express SCH, more freeware. I like these two though there are limitations; for example, it isn't easy to lay down tracks at 45 degree angles, whereas with pad2pad this is a built-in. Certainly worth considering and it looks easy to use.
Nice young lady presenting the video, too...
Thanks, Col!
Tony

[Joe]

I've just been having a play and, so far, can't find how to make it use a single-sided board nor produce an output suitable for DIY etching.

- Joe

[Nick]

Eagle has a Freeware version - full-featured except its only 2 plane and limited to 100x80mm (4"x3.2") - see http://www.cadsoftusa.com/download-eagle/freeware/

They also have a far more enabled version called the "Hobbyist" at http://www.cadsoftusa.com/shop/eagle-hob...education/

Many many board shops take Eagle files directly - I've used Eagle for over 10 years - its now owned by Element 14 (Farnell) who have pumped money into it.