hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
"Push: avoid" component dragging, how to constrain to one axis? Also "Fencing" ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: incf
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2025, 07:41:45 pm
content: When dragging components in "Push: Avoid" mode as shown in the below animated GIF is there any way to stop the component from moving in the Y axis?Additionally, is there any way to make a "fence" or "wall" that a components will stop against? (without having to grab or insert extra footprints - at one point in the past I made a footprint called "fence" that could be inserted, but it was clunky)Edit: the forum broke my GIF? it displays the same size, but when downloaded is only 10kb and doesn't playEdit: try #2

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2025, 09:27:48 pm
content: Use align tools instead. Or select all components and give them the same Y value.https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-dlg-aligncomponentsdialogalign-objects-pcb-ad?version=22&srsltid=AfmBOoplvO1ZgdT0DqF18y_uGE2rZ4lICRfwh9gbJ_5Sx8QAV3KGV30JCan't really see this as a feature I would want.edit: its basically covered in your other thread alreadyhttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/how-to-pack-components-so-that-their-courtyards-touch/
Copper regions not included in "unconnected net" DRC check? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: incf
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2025, 12:39:09 pm
content: I've got a design where I would like to have a solid polygonal copper region rather than a copper pour (so that nothing can be accidentally routed through it - I suppose I'd like to save the effort of defining a keepout overtop of a copper pour).The copper region is supposed to be connected to GND.For some reason, when I run the DRC check, it does not appear to check or report whether or not my copper region is connected to GND.Is this correct?The shape of the region and the DRC check buttonThe definition of the region showing it belonging to the net GNDDRC check settings 1, making sure that it reports all of the errorsDRC check settings 2, showing the "unconnected net" check is enabled

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2025, 02:45:17 pm
content: I believe Altium only cares about pads, tracks, and vias when doing unconnected net checks.In the latest version there is an open beta you can opt into within your advanced config that will enable you to identify floating solids as un-routed nets.
(Solved) Creating 'negative' shapes in Gerber output - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: angust_uk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 09:00:58 am
content: I'm trying to create a Gerber in AD20 to be used for a photolithography mask, and the features are to be inverted (i.e. the bits of interest need to be 'clear' and the background needs to be 'copper' (hopefully the image below makes more sense; left is imported DXF in Altium, right is the desired pattern). I'm struggling a bit to figure out how to do this; I can convert the large circle to a copper area (Tools -> Create Region from Selected Primitives) but I cannot figure out how to create a cutout in this region for the 2 long features.I've also tried to turn it into a polygon so I can create polygon cutouts, though I can't seem to convert the large circle (imported from a DXF) into a polygon successfully (when I try 'Create Polygon from Selected Primitives' it just gives me another un-filled circle with a slightly wider border). Is there a method I'm missing to do this?Edit: I've managed to convert the circle to a polygon (I'd forgotten to ensure its properties were set to 'Solid') but I still can't seem to create the cutouts in it. I've tried Tools -> Convert to Cutout with no success so far. Again, any hints on 'subtracting' an imported DXF shape from a polygon would be appreciated!

author: angust_uk
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2025, 10:00:09 am
content: Managed to solve it eventually! In case anyone stumbles across this, convert the DXF shape to a region, then set the 'Kind' property to Polygon Cutout.
Altium training advice, buy essentials course or something else? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: scottc19
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 05, 2024, 03:29:32 pm
content: Going to switch over to altium. Has anyone here taken the Altium Designer Essentials course or a 3rd party training course, etc and would they recommend it? Sales rep said 30% discount on classes, but they still seem expensive. Maybe I can try negotiating down, anyone had luck there (though I guess things might be different now after the acquisition?

author: hwasti
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 05, 2024, 06:34:34 pm
content: I would start with Robert Feranec's training courses athttps://fedevel.com/or his Youtube Tutorials.His courses are significantly cheaper and from what I hear much better quality than Altium's.There are several other 3rd party courses available, both live and recorded.Good luck.

author: jc101
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 06, 2024, 05:49:01 pm
content: Ask for a time limited access to their video tutorials, if they want to sell you a licence they should offer free access for a period.I then downloaded all the videos and ran through at my own pace, zero cost. You can't download them directly, but it's doable with a little digging.Altium has seen a lot of people stop giving them money of late, as the perpetual licence has been culled and maintenance withdrawn for those that have it already. Given the term based licence costs over double the maintenance on a perpetual licence every year, the sales reps are having to offer some huge discounts and incentives.Try asking for access to the training for free or no sale, they may well cave this time of year.
Altium Designer Pin Editing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jmsigler
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2024, 07:55:24 pm
content: Hi Everyone, trying here since Altium forum is a POS and their ticket system is currently broken.Anyone know if there is a way to copy/paste to and from the "Component Pin Editor" I swear I used to be able to do this but it no longer gives me the option. Is there a setting to enable maybe?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2024, 09:55:18 pm
content: Select all of the pins you want on the schematic, then in the properties panel, paste whatever you want to paste to apply to all of them.Is that what you want to do or are you trying to do something else?There is also this:https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/schlibgenerationtool-dlg-pindatasmartpastepin-data-smart-paste-ad?version=22btw I asked to move your post to here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/

author: jmsigler
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2024, 01:13:06 am
content: Sorry didn't notice there was a dedicated form.Ended up finding what I was roughly looking for. Under panels there is SCHLIB List and I was able to select all of my pins and edit them there. Still very strange you can't edit them directly in the component pin editor but this will work for me.
Component Links Dont open in External Browser - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2024, 03:31:52 am
content: Component Links Don't open in External Browser or even locally, another tab just opens & then the tab has a %2A namingI just added Manufacturer links to our components so when SCH part > right click > References > URL of Vendor > %2Aopen external browser has been checked, tried key combi still nothinghas anyone faced similar problem & how to fix this? is there a setting needed for the external browser to see Altium Links?thanks

author: Bryn
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2024, 07:24:30 am
content: First and foremost, ensure that the option to open links in an external browser are enabled. You can find this option in the System Preferences menu. You might want to check that the default browser is set correctly as well.Alternatively, or if any of these don't work for you, drag-and-drop of links to your browser would work and sometimes helps with the bypassing of issues relating to direct link opening.

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2024, 03:03:44 am
content: open external browser has been checked - done it a few times on & off still nadadragging doesn't work too

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2024, 08:08:44 pm
content: Works OK here, v24.9.1.What version and did you try other versions?

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2024, 01:40:07 am
content: AD21what is your settings & how was the links added?we usually have all our parts in Z2DATAthanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 08, 2024, 08:41:58 pm
content: Setting is as shown above. Link can be added manually for testing:

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2024, 06:05:54 am
content: OK, got it to work, we upgraded to AD24

author: Teun
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2024, 08:19:18 am
content: I have the same issue. AD 20.2.6 Anyone found a solution for that? I'm not really in the position to upgrade to AD24 :'(
Export 2 pcb from Cam stack - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dmowziz
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2024, 12:03:14 am
content: Hi,I imported a gerber file into camstack then after some settings I then (Export to Pcb)The new pcb is missing mechanical layers.Please how can I add themThanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2024, 10:19:10 pm
content: So when you did the import, all of the layers showed up on the import screen or no?You might have to check the naming.https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/cam-editor-imports-exports?srsltid=AfmBOoo1p0ebBj63Pp1uusRha_b4HBZAkiuPPn8V__6fp3AOTmqxYIx9#importing-cam-files-using-quick-loadhttps://electronics.stackexchange.com/questions/173702/import-gerber-files-into-altium

author: dmowziz
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2024, 11:24:40 pm
content: Hi,Thanks for your response.Yes they doYesterday I went through the altium link you posted.Here is a video I just saw, at the end of the video, the user just has the top and bottom layer as well.I don't just want it to be top and bottom.
Nets appear differently in Layout - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ekremturanfirat
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 17, 2024, 03:09:14 pm
content: Hello, in my design, the power port called 3.3V looks like a hatch, filled with black squares.The net called 7.5 looks normal. I thought it was because of the name, so I made it 3V3 instead of 3.3V and it started to look normal.What is the reason for this, is it to indicate the voltage line in any way? When you look at the design from a distance, these nets look increasingly faint, too.

author: rfindley
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 17, 2024, 06:12:54 pm
content: I think that's the Board Insight feature highlighting the net that you have selected in the schematic, assuming you have both open. And then it probably got deselected in the process of renaming the net.https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-editor-preferences#board-insight-color-overrides

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2024, 10:33:13 pm
content: OP already asked the question here and got answers:https://www.reddit.com/r/Altium/comments/1gtgj54/nets_appear_differently_in_layout/As they found out, you can toggle with F5.
PCB with different core width - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2025, 10:05:02 am
content: Hi,I'm trying to find a way to specify a board cutout that does not go all the way on the pcb width, as drawn in the picture.Is this possible.ThanksHamdi

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2025, 10:38:05 am
content: It's not very common, but still common enough to have a name for it. You'll find more resources with the link below.https://html.duckduckgo.com/html?q=pcb+depth+millingI guess most (hobby level?) PCB design programs don't have a standardized method for specifying this. It's probably something like using an extra (gerber) layer to draw your depth milling (one layer for every depth) and then communicating to your PCB manufacturer how to handle these layers. PCB manufacturers who support this probably have info on their websites for how they want this information.

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2025, 01:57:28 pm
content: Quote from: Doctorandus_P on May 06, 2025, 10:38:05 amThanks for your reply, Indeed it's not that common.I'm using Altium.I'm sure I could place this a mechanical layer and generate a gerber file. But I wanted the CAO to be designed with this milling so the 3D PDF et Draftsman can show it as well.So for anyone looking, I find a way to do it using PCB regions in Advanced Flex/Rigid Mode.Define a different stack up for each region.This did the trick.
Missing Net - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: andre.cassiano
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 14, 2024, 03:18:41 pm
content: When running validate PCB project in schematic capture there is no errors but when transferring into PCB layout there is the error of DIODE in Net DIODE missing in Net DIODE. Could you please guide me on next steps?

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2024, 03:52:28 pm
content: Welcome to the forum! And thanks for including those screenshots, it makes it much easier to help with weird problems like this.I would start by checking that your components and wires are all exactly aligned to the schematic grid, particularly where pin 2 of D1 connect. In the PCB we can see that R1 pin 1 is in the DIODE net, so its connections are good, but D1 pin 2 isn't despite the net label being right there. This can especially be a problem if you have schematic symbols created using an imperial grid in a schematic sheet with a metric grid, or vice versa, as there will be very small discrepancies in the grid increments. It's also worth checking the coordinate position of your components, it may be that something got nudged off of the grid very slightly. To quickly check that wires are actually connected to pins on a schematic symbol, you can try dragging it. If all of the wires get dragged around with the symbol, then they are connected properly.

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2024, 01:27:33 am
content: first of all we use A-K for Diodes to avoid the 1-2 wrong pin designator- in SCh, delete the line between those two pins & make sure they snap each other- in SCH LIB make sure the pin of the Diode has the the electrical connection & not the other way around
Rotating component on the PCB causes the component on the schematic to rotate! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2024, 02:53:29 pm
content: I can't be the only one having this issue.I usually use AD 24.10.1 in a dual monitor config, schematic on the left monitor and PCB on the right. This is really useful when deciding where to place components.However, when I go to rotate a component on the PCB using the spacebar shortcut, it seems that Altium absorbs the rotate instruction on both windows. This doesn't happen always, it seems to occur about a third of the time, but sometimes I don't notice it and have to go back and undo 10-15 rotations that have happened on the schematic whilst I've been placing parts.This applies to non-components too, if I click the pad of an SMD and rotate (won't rotate the actual component as I haven't selected the whole thing) it rotates on the schematic that net which is attached to that pad. That doesn't even make sense as an operation.Googling around I can't find anyone else with this issue, so I can only assume it is a bug that impacts my specific configuration, but I am wondering if anyone has any tips/suggestions. It is making it a right pain to work the way I prefer.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2024, 08:45:22 pm
content: Is it only PCB -> schematic, never the other way around?Any third party windows management software or keyboard shortcut software installed?Windows version?I don't see this but just tested 20 times or so, I don't normally edit on multiple monitors.Other thing to try is load an old version and see if it does it there.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 10:20:10 am
content: Yep, PCB -> Schematic only. The other way around isn't impacted.It did it on Altium 23 too, I can't roll back as it's centrally managed by IT. Running Windows 10, and no keyboard management software that I'm aware of.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 08:55:09 pm
content: You don't need to roll back, just install a parallel version. Then you can reset the preferences in that version to defaults, though it seems unlikely it would be related to that.

author: tom66
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2024, 11:51:42 pm
content: I think I fixed it.It seems to be related to the 'Cross Select Mode'. If I change it to just highlight the component then no rotation occurs.Still seems like a bug to me (because the rotation occurs despite the window not being focused), but at least there is a workaround.
Lock Down Library From Changes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: katzohki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2024, 01:48:18 am
content: Hi, I'm an experienced Altium Designer user, but have been with a different software for a couple years. Recently we are looking at switching to A375 and one of our decision makers has a very specific concern (a thing happened one time long ago). Namely that our library (containing our footprints, symbols and internal part numbers etc) needs to be:1). locked out from anyone other than authorized personnel making changes to the library,2). prevented from using "custom" changes to a local copy (e.g. swapping pins),3). if they make local changes it will warn / prevent them when updating the file - something along the lines of "this part has been locally changed" and4). prevented from using cloud parts (MFG listings) without going through the part approval and numbering process.Any thoughts on this? Tried to post on their official forums, but my above test was prevented for containing a link...Much appreciate any insight some might have on this. I really think it's possible when using the vault and change tracking, but not sure on the specifics.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2024, 10:31:49 pm
content: Its not possible to prevent someone from customizing parts locally AFAIK. Since it can just be done at the PCB level.I don't use A365, but in terms of GIT you can have the parts library there, and only allow it to be written by the admin. I'm sure 365 would have a similar feature.To prove nothing had been edited, you'd have to sync that library, check the user has no other libraries linked in their project, then run Update PCB and check that no updates are found.
Database Library Report - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2024, 05:57:42 am
content: How do I generate a report from our database library? We are doing a double cross check for all the symbols & footpritns so we need all the details that are embedded in each symbol & FP so that we will cross reference to their own data sheet.i grudgingly say that some of our BU's are critical of a 0.035 difference & even fuss about IPC given dimension, they even wont accept the 3D file coming from the Vendor itself coz it was made in Nominal height & they want that +0.2mm max in it! Arrrgggghhh ​​​​​​thanks.

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2024, 06:35:29 am
content: something like this, i guess, would satisfy our stake holders, but only possible with integrated lib
Does multi-channel design require ports? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Poe
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 23, 2024, 08:10:14 pm
content: Does each sheet need at least one port?Background - My PCB has multiple strings of LEDs. Each string has its own connector, so they're not connected. I made one schematic for each string/connector then one schematic with multiple sheet symbols. Altium's multi-channel/hierarchical features only work as expected when each sheet has at least one port. Without a port, it only acknowledges the first sheet.Without a port, no tabsWith a port, tabsThere must be a way to use these features without tabs because I see others use "Repeat" sheets with no ports. Any ideas?

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2024, 02:53:33 pm
content: I've run into this problem before -- it does seem like Altium will not properly compile a multichannel design in some cases unless there is connectivity between sheets. IME, it just needssomeconnectivity, not necessarily between every sheet, hence why you may see other projects using repeated sheets without ports that work fine. It may depend on your project settings as well.

author: Poe
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2024, 06:34:51 pm
content: I was able to find five other projects that used sheets "without ports", but they all used global power ports (e.g. GND)I ended up just adding a dummy port with No ERC directive. This appears to be an effective work-around for this bug.

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2024, 07:58:48 pm
content: I do not have this issue. I think the problem might be you have no nets?
DNI/DNP without variants - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Scutarius
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2024, 01:33:16 pm
content: Hi,I (think) know and understand how variants work, I am just curious if any use DNI/DNP components in any different way.Some times I have one jumper or a couple of resistors in parallel/series with something else just in case for the first rev, if I don't want to create a variant is there any "right" way to do it? how do you normally manage it?Thanks,

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 21, 2024, 02:51:52 pm
content: I just use a variantOur project templates are setup with a 'standard' variant used for all outjob outputs by default, so it's already there whenever I need to toggle a part.You can also create specific "DNI" or "TBD" components for your standard passives and place those in lieu of a standard part. I frequently use the latter for parts I'll come back and calculate values for later, but I'm not a fan of leaving either part on production BOMs -- using Altium's DNI flag via the selected variant lets those parts get filtered/grouped more effectively, and if you sometimes use variants anyway, better to be consistent and use variants for all DNI parts IMHO.

author: asmi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 24, 2024, 02:42:34 am
content: Some people set the value to DNP for those DNP parts.
Altium design rule verification report does not focus on the specific violation - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: electronx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 17, 2024, 01:09:41 pm
content: altium design rule verification report does not focus on the relevant violation. I am using version 24.5.2. WHAT I EXPECTED is for it to jump on the pcb when I press the violation. Is anyone else experiencing this problem?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2024, 10:24:05 pm
content: Whats your zoom level set set to?Open the PCB panel and check off Zoom and look at Zoom Level:https://www.altium.com/documentation/knowledge-base/altium-designer/pcb-panel-selection-and-highlight-controlsYou can try using messages instead of using the report too, it should be the same though.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2024, 11:03:30 pm
content: Quote from: electronx on November 17, 2024, 01:09:41 pmI’ve had the same problem for quite some time. The links simply don’t work. For me this has been the case for a while, on multiple computers. I know it did work several years ago.The links in the Messages panel do work, though!

author: electronx
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2024, 01:33:01 pm
content: Maybe if someone who works with x86 changes the drc file, it can return to its previous state.

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2024, 03:13:08 pm
content: Quote from: electronx on November 22, 2024, 01:33:01 pm????
Error while compiling an integrated library in an Altium Designer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Vishakha
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 09, 2024, 07:59:00 am
content: Hello I am using altium designer for PCB designing. I am getting one error while compiling the integrated library. This is happening with me second time. Earlier I had created one library and it was getting compiled and suddenly when I added one component (copy pasted from another library)I wasn't able to compile and it gives me the error *Error: Could not create integrated library*. Just for info I am copying components(sch symbol and footprint files) from one integrated library to other and after linking footprints with the schematic , I compile the integrated library. Yesterday it was all good today it was showing the error after compiling. Can anyone please help me?! Thank you very much!

author: 55pilot
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 09, 2024, 04:18:58 pm
content: Is the IntLib file mentioned in the error message currently opened by another program, possibly another instance of Altium Designer?

author: Vishakha
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 10, 2024, 08:39:21 am
content: Hey! thank you very much for your reply! I don't think so. I had closed the program and again restarted I had a same issue.

author: Vishakha
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 10, 2024, 02:31:08 pm
content: Hey! I have figured out the reason of error. So now in my library I tried to add the symbol of a component but forgot to add footprint to it and when I compiled, I got this error. So I deleted that symbol and tried to compile again but still I get that error. Any idea how can I solve this issue?

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2024, 05:22:30 pm
content: A library will still compile if a symbol doesn't have a footprint. That was not the cause.Try creating new schlib and pcblib libraries, then copy the symbols and footprints, respectively, into the fresh libraries. See if that will compile.
Altium Import Helper - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Crossphased
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2024, 05:53:15 pm
content: Do you use UltraLibrarian symbols/footprints? If so this script is for you. The UltraLibrarian provided import script is a pain in the butt, you can only import one symbol at a time, and you have to unzip the file first.What this script does:Imports EDA files:Unzips UltraLibrarian and SnapEda filesExtracts IntLibs to source SchLibs and PcbLibsImports UltraLibrarian text filesImports SchLibs and PcbLibsplaces source zip files in Archive dirImproves aspects of the symbols and footprints as described belowProcesses Symbols in SchLib:sets the pin font and size to constants defined below: PIN_FONT_NAME, PIN_FONT_SIZEsets active low pins so an overbar is in schematic symbol on pin namefilters symbol parameters, deletes many unecessary params, see 'FilterComponentParameters' method to editsets symbol body to color defined in constant below, COLOR_SYMBOL_BODY_FILLsets symbol body outline to color defined in constant below, COLOR_SYMBOL_OUTLINEsets all text label objects to constant: DEFAULT_FONTchanges all lines in symbol to color bluemoves component so pin1 is at the origin, including for multipart sch symbolsfixes UltraLib footprint previewsmakes MFR Part # visible, at bottom left of symbol body, including for multipart sch symbolsdeletes default schematic symbol Component1Processes Footprints in PcbLib:deletes default footprint PcbComponent1changes silkscreen pin 1 indicator of '*' to filled circlechanges Mechanical Layer13 pin 1 indicator of '*' to filled circlechanges linewidth of Mechanical13 Layer from 1 mil to 2milautomatically maps STEP files for SnapEDA footprintsGithup repo:https://github.com/johnpolakow/Altium_Import_Helper

author: hexreader
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2024, 06:08:00 pm
content: double post
Altium 22 SCH - port's direction disappeared on sheet symbol - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: karlik
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 08, 2024, 09:36:43 am
content: Hello,I messed something up in the 'Project options' during SCH editing and as a result all of the ports on sheet symbol on my top sheet SCH lost their direction - in the properties the ports have their direction (in, out), it is not visible on the schematic.Furthermore, this apply only to the sheet symbols already placed - if I want to put a new sheet symbol, it is placed with correct directions.Is there any way to reverse that?It a rather big design, so I would like to avoid re-drawing the whole top sheet.Cheers,K.

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2024, 04:05:39 pm
content: If you select the sheet entry, the properties window as a dropdown where you can select the sheet entry type. You can right click the sheet symbol, select 'Sheet Symbol Actions', then select 'Synchronize Sheet Entries and Ports', and check if things match there -- or just delete all of the sheet entries from the sheet symbol and use the same steps to add them back.
rooms getting clumped up far away after importing to pcb - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: niko-nix
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 17, 2023, 02:20:08 pm
content: after finishing schematics and importing changes to pcb file, a couple of first rooms are OK, but the rest of em gets clumped up far up right, in a messed up waydoes this happen to you? cause its pretty usual for mewhy is it happening? is there a way to fix it? its a pain to clean them up in high room channel count designs to begin withthe view from up close:all the parts and rooms are piled up on top of each otheri have this problem with altium for quite some time actually. AD20, 21 and 22

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2023, 09:21:08 pm
content: https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-cmd-arrangecomponentsarrangecomponents-ad?version=22?

author: grivera
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 01, 2024, 06:39:21 pm
content: Hello! I have the same problem and I don't know how to solve it, could you solve it? how did you do it? Thanks!

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 01, 2024, 07:27:48 pm
content: From thm_w's link above, you can use the 'Arrange Rooms' command to space all of the rooms out:https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-rooms#arrange_roomsThen you can use the 'Arrange within room' command to arrange the components for each room:https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/advanced-pcb-component-placement-tools#arrange_within_roomOr if you have a multichannel design, you can arrange the components within one room of each type, then replicate the component placement of that room to all of the other rooms of that type.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 01, 2024, 09:28:25 pm
content: Quote from: grivera on July 01, 2024, 06:39:21 pmIt's a library issue. The center/zero of the library is not at the component center. I had the same issue with a few 3rd party libraries.

author: Spark-Doctor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2024, 03:02:23 pm
content: It's a library issue. The center/zero of the library is not at the component center. I had the same issue with a few 3rd party libraries.Just had this very problem, 3 banks of 4 0402 resistors, when i pushed them to the board, they were all over the place. Checked the footprint and the origin was nowhere close to the pads.

author: Spark-Doctor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 20, 2024, 03:03:18 pm
content: QuoteJust had this very problem, 3 banks of 4 0402 resistors, when i pushed them to the board, they were all over the place. Checked the footprint and the origin was nowhere close to the pads.
MCAD 3D model import error - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: lutkeveld
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2024, 10:32:44 am
content: I get 'Fusion 30 was not able to import the following models' and then a list of all 3D models on the board.Also the board geometry (copper/silk) is only visible as bounding box.Altium version is 24.0.1, co-designer plugin is the latest version (3.9.0.12).Is this a known issue, and how to fix it?

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2024, 08:21:11 pm
content: hm just getting "Access Denied" if I try to log in to co-designer, so can't test it out.Some related links:https://www.reddit.com/r/Altium/comments/zaq3j4/3d_component_not_showing_up_in_mcad_but_it_does/https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/fusion-support/importing-altium-board-files-via-codesigner/td-p/10467550https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-codesigner/preparing-autodesk-fusion-360

author: lutkeveld
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2024, 12:39:38 pm
content: Unfortunate, I just opened a ticket on the Altium forums to see if someone can help get this fixed.With these import errors the MCAD plugin is of no use currently.

author: lutkeveld
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2024, 03:50:53 pm
content: For future readers: this was apparently cause by using a personal fusion 360 license.You need a paid license for the MCAD plugin to work.
Using BOTH DBLib and DBLink - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jashugan
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 12, 2016, 03:19:09 pm
content: Hello,I'm trying to use both DBLib and DBLink in the library: for the DBLib, I love the fact I can split in table the components. Moreover, in this table I would put any information related to the electronic environment.However, I need a DBLink to connect to the central database for storage and price information. I don't want to use an unified Database, because I have to work offline.My problem is that when I launch the BOM, and press the "Include Parameters from Database", Altium includes parameters from DBLib and not the database linked by DBLink, no matter what parameter I have chosen for synchronize to the design.Do you have any advice for this problem?Thank you.

author: Just1
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 11, 2017, 05:53:11 am
content: jashugan,Did you find a solution? I'm facing the exact same problem.

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 26, 2018, 08:10:31 pm
content: I've been facing the same issue on Altium 18, and it's pissing me off

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 05, 2024, 06:45:45 am
content: any solution on this yet?
RoutingVia design rules: Via "Template Preferred" not showing Via Templates - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: smoothVTer
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2024, 04:35:30 pm
content: I have a project to which I've added a PCB document, a schematic document, and a pad/via templates library document:The pad/via template library is part of the project, as you can see the red arrow above highlights.There are 2 vias in that library:And the defined vias appear in the Vias templates panel:However, when I try to define a PCB Design Rule using the "Template Preferred" Routing Vias, the fields are unpopulated:There doesn't seem to be a way for me to select the Pad/Via templates library I have already defined and added to the project. What am I missing here? Is there a bug in Altium or am I missing a key step? I've read the online documentation and it leads me to a dead end.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2024, 08:53:40 pm
content: https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/pcb-routing-rules#routing-via-styleSeems to work for me on the latest version.
Altium Blank Gerbers / CAM File won't save / DRC links don't work [Solved] - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sean0118
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2024, 11:59:15 pm
content: This is more of a rant because I've already solved this, but hopefully it helps someone else...When I exported Gerbers they would look empty, just black without any layers displaying. I also couldn't save the Camtastic files (.CAM1, CAM2 etc). No errors... just clicking save would do nothing...Also after running the DRC clicking the links wouldn't work. It's meant to zoom to the problem location on the PCB where the DRC violation is... except nothing would happen after clicking the link...I then found that Windows couldn't compress files in the directory the project was in, was complaining about special characters.Turns out there was aninvisible unicode character in one of the folder names, probably because the name was copied from elsewhere.Renaming the folder fixed all the issues.
Unable to connect signals vias harness - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kratikus
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 14, 2024, 03:48:31 pm
content: Hello,I've been struggling to get some signals from a multi channel design to connect using harness.In principle there are 37 signals which have to be connect to diode arrays, but Altium somehow does not create the connection in the layout.Below you can find a picture of the connections.Another thing bothering me, is that Altium shows that the signals coming from the diode array are not connected to anything and that the net labels for the signals coming from the LED are out of range.Can anyone shed some light?Thanks

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2024, 08:45:54 pm
content: Previous threads:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/repeat-function-on-a-harness-in-ad22/https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/multi-channel-design-harness-use/https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/how-to-repeat-a-sheet-entry-that-is-connected-internally-to-a-bus/https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/altium-multi-channel-schematic-net-labels-are-not-repeated/

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2024, 06:09:09 pm
content: I see a couple problems in your screenshots:Bus label syntax uses two dots between the numbers, not three. For example the `LED_I[1...10]` net label should be `LED_I[1..10]`. I think this is causing the "Bus index out of range" warnings.The labels for the nets coming off of those buses don't match the names created by the bus label. `LED_I[1...10]` creates a bus with entries called `LED_I1`, `LED_I2`, etc, (as you can see those names in altium_3.png) but you have the nets labeled `LED_I_1`, `LED_I_2`, etc, so these won't connect. It also looks like some of the net labels have underscores and some have spaces, but that could be a weird image artifact. That would be causing the "NET ____ has only one pin" errors
Anyone know how to turn off outjob generation of  .DRR and .LDP on NCdrill ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2024, 01:58:46 am
content: Does anyone know how to turn off generation of .DRR and .LDP files when generating NCdrill outputs?i found the option to remove all the crap files when generating gerbers, (untick generate reports) but i cant find it for NC drill.
Renesas aquires Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: embedded_tom
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 03:43:38 pm
content: Not sure if this makes sense to me:https://www.altium.com/company/newsroom/press-releases/renesas-completes-acquisition-altium

author: ataradov
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 02, 2024, 04:32:03 pm
content: Already discussed to death -https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/renesas-to-buy-altium/
Mentor Integra to Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: emballage
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 16, 2024, 07:56:41 am
content: Hi there,I have a annoying issue and need your help. Because of reasons I need to work with projects created by a software called "Integra", which was a product of mentor graphics (In the 90s?). Using this very old software in a VM is pain. Did anyone figure out a way to convert those old projects to Altium? Or maybe to some version of Mentor and then to Altium? That would be awesome.Thanks in advance!Best regardsemballage

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2024, 09:01:25 pm
content: You can see the list here:https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/design-tools-interfacing#interfacing-to-eda-design-toolsnot supportedIt might be possible to convert to something on that list then to altium, but I don't think that is worth your time.

author: emballage
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 18, 2024, 09:26:59 am
content: It seems like "Pulsonix" can import those files. I requested a trial version to check it out. Pulsonix can export to more usefull formats.

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2024, 07:04:15 pm
content: Unless this is a really complicated board, it may be more efficient to just redo the layout instead of trying to fix-up conversion errors. For many layouts placement of the components is most of the work and that is already done. I have not seen conversion between PCB CAD packages work well (even when from the same company) because in many cases the primitives that make up the PCB design and footprints are not defined in a similar way.

author: emballage
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 19, 2024, 05:00:27 am
content: I would not be doing this, if it was not an important and complicated board

author: emballage
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 23, 2024, 08:02:27 am
content: Pulsonix can import old Integra projects without any issues, it is possible to work on them there. If anyone ever has the same issue
I can't make polygons in altium latest version - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: brinbrin
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 27, 2024, 06:42:39 am
content: I am revising a board and I am not able to make new polygons or edit polygons. All the polygons I create are assigned 0 area which means they cant be poured. essentially all the polygons on the board have been assinged 0 area and have been disabled.

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2024, 02:36:17 pm
content: Can you show a screenshot of the properties of one of the polygons as well as the polygon manager? Is the Solid/Hatched/None selector in properties possibly set to 'None'?

author: brinbrin
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 27, 2024, 08:23:07 pm
content: Here is the screen shot, whats strange is that the polygons were fine before.

author: thm_w
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2024, 09:28:29 pm
content: The area is probably just a measurement of the copper area, not something that is assigned.They are not pouring, maybe due to a design rule change or error, maybe related to all of that green color I see on the bottom layer?Polygon pours -> Repour all does nothing right?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2024, 09:38:50 pm
content: Yeah, looks more like a design rule issue. It's choosing not to pour for some reason.Perhaps there was a bug in the previous design rules and now that it's fixed it's obeying your design rules correctly when before it wasn't.Check what the changes were between this version and your old one. Maybe there will be some info in there.Or you could simply make a backup copy of all your pcb and start deleting design rules and putting everything back to stock, see if the issue comes right.

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2024, 03:16:03 am
content: ...also you try to make a NEW PCB then try a polypour over there to confirm if ok or not
Renesas Completes Acquisition of Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ali_asadzadeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2024, 09:22:45 am
content: Any Ideas?https://www.altium.com/company/newsroom/press-releases/renesas-completes-acquisition-altium?utm_source=marketo&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter-20240830&utm_content=news-article&mkt_tok=ODE3LVNGVy0wNzEAAAGVP7dhJpGIoo4jnBaKO8cRwWeeoKvu5Gc0D2X7Aih_-4Dc5bypBBLmtujvBIWnXsX0UvNbSzKSMD_fWT-M0y2cCtldUkEm4r1ROqiUYFe4Amn9bzv87g

author: tooki
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2024, 09:33:51 am
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/chat/renesas-to-buy-altium/?all
gerber to PDF export - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ampdoctor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 26, 2012, 08:39:18 pm
content: I've got a little problem I'm trying to work through over here. I have a few stand alone gerber files that were not part of any altium project. I can easily import them to altium, however I'm having a bit of trouble exporting them out to pdf's. And before somebody mentions it, yes I've tried gerbv. The problem is that it doesn't export accurately and seems to add color channels that screw up the printing process. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

author: GK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2012, 06:28:00 am
content: You could just print to a *.pdf file using a free program such as "cutepdf", or something like BroadGun pdfMachine if you wan't to spend some money.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2012, 07:13:28 am
content: What is wrong with the built in SmartPDF or the outjob->PDF functions?

author: ampdoctor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2012, 11:08:20 pm
content: Quote from: JuKu on August 27, 2012, 07:13:28 amThat's the problem. Do I need to create an entire project before I can use these features, or is it something else entirely? Basically what I'm doing is going to file -> open *.gbr. Then it displays just fine. After that I can't do much with it. Do I need to create an entire project before I can work with job files, and what would be the general work flow?I think my biggest issue is that I don't use Altium very often so I only really understand it's basic functionality. So, what I'm hoping for is a broad brushed nudge in the right direction as to what exactly I'm doing wrong here. As I said originally, I have no schematics or anything else for that matter; just the gerber and NC drill files.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2012, 06:58:32 am
content: Ok, different direction than what I do. I about never even look at the gerbers Altium generates. The outjob route is project specific, but the smartPDF should print a PCB file without an associated project. the gerbers load to Camtastic, which is Altium's gerber viewer/editor part. You first want to convert the data to Altium PCB file, which gives you the PDF print option. I have never done that, but the instructions are at:http://www.altium.com/files/Altiumdesigner6/LearningGuides/AR0121%20CAMtastic%20Reverse%20Engineering%20PCBs.PDF

author: ampdoctor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2012, 11:36:08 pm
content: That doc was just what I needed. Thank you very much for the help and the patience sir!

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2012, 06:50:13 am
content: You can print to PDF directly from Camtastic if you have a PDF printer installed. Just import the gerbers and print.

author: HQ
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 24, 2024, 09:45:52 am
content: try this method, if you or someone still have such questionhttps://www.nextpcb.com/blog/gerber-files-for-pcbs