A PCB is not just a board but is comprised of many small parts layer by layer. Making it is usually complicated if you don’t hire a professional. A PCB design software can help you create, test, and model PCBs before they are made.
Like other designs, PCB design involves creating the final digital version of the PCB. This process could affect many parts, such as the layout, where the parts are placed, and more. Most of the time, a PCB design tool helps you make the plan more quickly and easily. In this fast-paced world, you can not deny its importance.
DIY enthusiasts and many PCB manufacturers, such as UETPCB, greatly depend on it. The first part of this piece will tell you about PCB design software. Later, it will introduce some of the most popular computer programs you can use for your project.
What is PCB Design Software?
PCB design software is a computer tool that allows you to create and develop PCBs. After you make the design on this software, you can export it into electrical schematics. Later, you can use these schematics to create actual or physical board layouts. There are five key functions of PCB design application.
#1 Schematic Capture
The primary function of PCB design software is to design or draw. It comes with various design tools that you can use to organize electrical circuits. You can also place different parts like resistors, ICs, or capacitors. Note that these parts have unique symbols in the design software. The design tool connects these symbols with lines representing the connections.
#2 Component Placement
Some PCB design software also features component placement. This way, you can typically check whether all parts on your PCB fit perfectly. Some unique features can help you position the components in a way that can improve performance.
#3 Routing
Routing typically refers to the copper traces on the PCB. The PCB design software allows you to make paths. The interesting thing is that you can ensure that you create the proper routes so you won’t worry about short circuits when making the PCB.
#4 Simulation
The PCB design software’s simulation feature allows testing of the PCB before final production. This feature is handy for detecting errors, voltage drops, and signal quality.
#5 Design Rule Checking (DRC)
This feature in the PCB design software is crucial. It checks whether your design meets all the manufacturing needs. It checks for spacing, trace width, and various tolerances.
Why Should You Use PCB Design Software?
You now know some standard features of PCB design tools. Let’s summarize why you should use it.
(1) PCB design software can save time and effort. It is especially helpful when designing routing and rule checking.
(2) The best part of using PCB design software is its accuracy.
(3) It also simulates the whole design. This way, you can check errors and perform necessary changes.
(4) PCB design software can handle many manufacturing files. The most popular types are Gerber and ODB++ files.
(5) You can deal with very complex designs, which is nearly impossible with manual designs.
What is the Difference Between PCB Design and PCB Layout?
Both PCB design and PCB layout design are essential steps in circuit board manufacturing. They both work together to create a complete PCB.
As you know, PCB design focuses on electrical connections. It is typically the whole package of the design. It may include the PCB layout design as well. So you can tell it is a blueprint of the whole PCB.
On the other hand, PCB layout design only deals with the board’s actual form. It includes how you arrange the components. It also allows you to track the traces. Finally, the type of layout tells you the exact production process.
Popular PCB Design Software
Maybe you want to design your first PCB but don’t know which one to choose. You may have already searched for PCB design software online, but you may have ended up with many choices. If I am right, then you are not alone. Most people struggle to choose the right software for their projects. This section introduces five popular types of PCB design software.
#1 KiCAD
KiCAD is free, open-source software that can be downloaded from the Internet. It is suitable for simple, medium, and complex PCBs. This software could be an excellent companion for hobbyists and small-scale businesses.
This software mainly features schematic capture for designing and circuit diagrams. It also comes with a 3D viewer, which you can use to see the PCB upside down. It can export Gerber files for manufacturing.
#2 EasyEDA
EasyEDA is typically a website-based design tool. You don’t need to download the software to design and download the Gerber files; however, you can download it if you are looking for offline projects.
Since this software features an online design, you can work with a team. Your team can create creative and efficient designs. This software could be an excellent tool for students learning PCB design, beginners, and quick prototyping projects.
#3 Cadence Allegro PCB Designer
Allegro PCB Designer is one of Cadence’s most popular software packages. It might be a better tool for dealing with high-frequency and multi-layer PCBs. Allegro has excellent analysis tools for high-speed PCBs and some advanced routing tools.
Allegro PCB Designer is an excellent choice for professional engineers. This software is widely used in PCB factories. However, you must pay for the premium packages.
#4 AutoDesk Eagle
Eagle is a renowned PCB design tool from the AutoDesk Software Group. This software offers an easy-to-use interface. The best part is that you can place various components using drag-and-drop. Also, there is a vast electronic parts library. This software is widely used in factories, DIY projects, and startup designs.
#5 Altium CircuitMaker
Like KiCAD, CircuitMaker is a free tool for designing PCBs. It is one of Altium’s most popular tools. Unlike KiCAD, CircuitMaker comes with some professional design tools that can be used to create more complex designs.
Summary
A PCB design software is a platform or computer program that allows you to create a digital version of the PCB. It has various design tools that make the process convenient and faster. There are multiple types of PCB design software. However, you must choose the right one to achieve the best result. After all, if you need any help, feel free to contact UETPCB.
