hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Missing Libraries, I think - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: pi11235
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 04, 2012, 04:21:03 am
content: Been doing the rounds for a while now, and I love this site. I did a number of designs in KiCAD, and It's been stimulating.I recently installed Altium, but I cannot find standard components like resistors and capacitors. When I compare my libraries to the ones that come preinstalled, I find I am missing three: Generic Components, Generic PSpice Components, and Miscellaneous. If anyone could send me those files, or link to a dropbox, I'd be thankful. The computer I have to run Altium on is at work, and has no internet for security reasons. Thanks!

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2012, 04:39:43 am
content: grab minehttp://www.siliconvalleygarage.com/downloads/vh_altium_library.intLibsyntax is very easy : package - type of component - valuelike0805R-1k : 0805 resistor 1 kiloohm0603c-100nF-50V-X7R-MUR...... 0603 capacitor 100nF 50 volts x7r dielectric murata.( for capacitor i specify this info as it is important... )

author: pi11235
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 04, 2012, 05:33:40 am
content: That's quite extensively detailed, with 983 components :0. If that's your personal one, then you've spent some time on it. I could still use the original missing libraries just for the sake of completeness, but you've got nearly everything I can think of covered. I don't see many specific transistors or opamps, but that's what the part editor is for.Thanks a bunch!

author: electroguy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2012, 06:16:42 am
content: and there's also thousands of parts in the altiums libraries which you can download here:http://www.altium.com/community/libraries/en/libraries_home.cfm

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2012, 07:50:41 am
content: Theres also a bunch of component on my sitewww.pcbcomponentlibraries.com. I try to add parts regularly, if you need any specific ones let me know an I'll make them up. Altium only at the moment though.Chris.
How to trace a foil pattern image into Altium 10 ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: diracshore
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2012, 07:06:47 pm
content: Hi all,I have a set of foil patterns I would like to trace into a gerber format file with Altium Designer 10. I know eagle can do this. Can Altium, and if so how ?The cleaned images for the PCB are herehttp://depositfiles.com/files/izzkclymg

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2012, 07:15:08 pm
content: There is a bitmap importer script.But what is the point. Did you check yet if you can get a hold of that chip ? afaik it is obsolete.... analog devices makes some crosspoint switches but they are not in the package you have.

author: diracshore
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2012, 07:18:13 pm
content: It so happens I got a delivery of a very large batch of those ICs today, PLCC44. :>

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 25, 2012, 05:25:28 am
content: I got good results from mhtest.com. (No other connection than a satisfied customer.)
How to use cadence simulation tool spectreref in Altium Designer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sunsocool
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 19, 2012, 07:30:18 am
content: Recent I joined a project on GBbit internet development. I need cadence simulation tool in my project.When I learn how to use cadence to produce my PCB. I found cadence's UI ugly and inefficient to use.So I wonder How can I use cadence's simulation tool or a third-part simulation tool in Altium Designer?
getting started with Altium Designer 12 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ebez2010
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 02:16:44 pm
content: can someone help me with getting started with Altium Designer. I just started using it two weeks ago. p.s. I'm having problems with 3D modeebez2010

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 02:44:02 pm
content: What do you mean problems with 3d mode.Press number 3 to enter 3d mode , press number 2 to exit 3d mode.Its that simple.Two things : you need some horsepower on the grafix card , and you need a spacenavigator to really use 3d mode. A mouse doesn't cut the mistard .....

author: ebez2010
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 06:35:48 pm
content: is there some good tutorials for altuim

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 10:00:41 pm
content: they got some videos on their website

author: twistedresistor
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 06, 2012, 06:56:49 am
content: Hi ebez2010,as was I. If you hope on somebody who can show you "How to Altium" you will be very disappointed. There will be nobody who knows everything about it and Altium has too many ways to do one thing.1st register for a guided introduction "Live webinar" on their website, this is free and happens every week. You are connected via webseminar to an Altium engineer who gives you an 2h introduction. You can also ask questions during. This is very very helpful if you never worked with Altiumhttp://altium.force.com/eventsSearch for "Introduction to Designing with Altium" in your language and your Region.Click on register and input your details. Half an hour before the Webinar starts, you get an email with the link to it.2nd watch all the training videos on their website. ("Hello, Marty here!"). Every video is short and focussed on one topic.http://altium.com/training/en/training-videos.cfm3rd Read the Getting Started Part of the Wikihttp://wiki.altium.com/display/ADOH/Getting+Started+with+Altium+DesignerNext thing, download the Tutorial and work it throughhttp://wiki.altium.com/display/ADOH/Download+PDF+Learning+GuidesNEW linkAfter all that, the Altium Wiki is your friend. It is very well structured and even gives you hints.After that, there are hundreds of tutorials on Youtube.And after all that, you probably have to ask your company for a 3-day-course which is about 1500 $.Also you might be able to squeeze a few infos from your local sales rep. The Altuim Support is very comprehensive and if you ask right he will give you the info you need and not be trying to sell you a seminar.EDIT: This is a similar thread with lots of infoAltium- I am about to cry!!HTHtwistedresistor
Export gerber to goldphoenixpcb.com - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tony R
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2012, 01:10:19 pm
content: I am trying to export my gerber file to goldphoenixpcb.com. However; I am having issues.I followed the instructions given herehttp://www.olimex.com/pcb/How%20to%20export%20Gerber%20files%20from%20Altium%20Designer%202009.pdf(different company) however i get this message from the people at gold phoenix"There is no D-code for the gerber, we could not input the gerber completely please provide the D-code , or provide the gerber format with Gerber-274x"What am I doing wrong?

author: jpelczar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2012, 06:36:38 pm
content: Did you mark the "Embedded aperture" checkbox ?
tool for multiple via connections? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 15, 2012, 07:03:31 pm
content: Is there some tool/feature in Altium for making connections with multiple vias? I'm designing a power pcb and there are some 50-80mils traces which I'd like to connect with 4-8 vias when going to the other layer. Currently I'm putting those vias by hand, which is problematic when moving traces. Is there any tool for it?

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 16, 2012, 03:55:29 am
content: I haven't used it yet, but the most recent update addedvia stitching, which you might be able to employ for this purpose.
Fiducial Marks - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PsychedelicBreakfast
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2012, 03:36:34 pm
content: Hello all,I'm looking to put some fiducial marks on my PCB but I'm completely lost on how to do this. My initial attempt was to create a pad that was limited to the top layer only and surround it with a circular keep-out zone. But I'm not so sure if this is the correct way.Would someone here be kind enough to provide a few instructions on how create fiduicial marks in Altium? I've searched online for quite some time.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2012, 03:55:43 pm
content: Quote from: PsychedelicBreakfast on March 24, 2012, 03:36:34 pmA 1mm round top layer pad with large -ve paste mask expansion and about 0.5mm solder mask expansion has worked for me.You don't really need a keepout although it would enforce clearance from tracks and polygon pours. If you want it place a 1mm radius arc around the pad on the top layer and set it as keepout in its properties.
Auto Number Components [Solved] - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tony R
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2012, 02:18:00 pm
content: I was wondering if there was a way to automatically number components in the schematic editor across a multi-sheet document sheets.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 19, 2012, 04:43:44 pm
content: Yes, Altium calls this annotation. In the tools... menu there are several functions for related tasks.
Altium:  Multiple PCBs in one 3D view - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 01:49:21 am
content: Does anyone know a way to get multiple PCBs into one 3D view.I have a few boards that fit together and then the whole unit fits inside a case.I can import the 3D step model that the case manufacture provides into the Altium 3D view and position it with my main PCB which is awesome but i want to add in the other PCBs and position them as well and i cant figure out how.I can export the other boards as STEP models and re-import but they lose all colorAny ideas?EDIT: The coloring seems to have started working correctly when export/import step files, but i'm still interested to know if there's a way to have two full pcbs in the 3D view complete with tracks and everything

author: Randall W. Lott
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 04:43:31 am
content: You would be much better off using a program such as SolidWorks.If I remember correctly, there are two formats of .STEP files. One embeds the color information and the other doesn't.I'm not sure if the panelization feature supports multiple files.If all else fails, you can place both PCBs into a single board and use board cut-outs to remove the connective material between them.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 05:29:08 am
content: Last I checked you couldn't actually do multiple PCB's, as Altium doesn't natively support multipel PCB's per project, unless you actually exported those boards to STEP model and included them on the main PCB as component like you did with the enclosure.Dave.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 06:22:30 am
content: Thanks guysNow that the step export/import is working with colors it's not too bad and gives me the clearance info i need.

author: Randall W. Lott
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 07, 2012, 07:34:44 am
content: Quote from: Psi on March 07, 2012, 06:22:30 amI'm glad to hear it. That's the easiest method.
Which are the stable and unstable versions of Altium? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: andyg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 12:41:27 am
content: So, from my understanding, there are some versions which are considered nice and stable and some which aren't.Who knows which are the stable ones, and which ones aren't?I'm using 9.4.0.20159 at work, an old one, and it seems okay, we're not on subscription, but might consider an upgrade if it is worth it.So just wondering from existing users, which builds are the ones to avoid? And the ones to keep?

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 03:45:56 am
content: I don't recall actual builds now, as internally at Altium we'd often use the latest daily builds.But the final release build of Summer 9 which is what you has is pretty stable IME,I rarely had an issue with it.To get higher you have to make the complete jump to AD10(now AD12). Some build have been more stable than Summer 09, but some were horrible. And you must be on paid subscription to get bug fixes. The Altium forum has had mixed reports for AD10 last I checked. Some say it's rock solid, others have issues.Unless you need the new features offered by AD12, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.Dave.

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 04:54:13 am
content: I've been on 10.818.23272 for a while, no major issues except for a weird "Catastrophic failure" dialog that pops up occasionally, just recompile the project and it goes away. Also crashes on exit sometimes, not that it matters.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 05:26:22 am
content: I'm on current build. No issues. 10.37xxx had a problem with some things but that got fixed like within a few days.10.5 update corrupted a settings file. Simply deleted the settings folder so on the next start altium re-initializes the default settings.

author: andyg
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 06:54:27 am
content: Okay, thanks everyone. Worth thinking over, but I think I'll probably stick with Summer 09 which does everything i need and i haven't really had any problems.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2012, 08:16:29 am
content: I'm using summer 09 as well, It's pretty stable.Very occasionally when doing lots of polygon arrangement/copy/paste you can get an access violation.But you can still save your work, close and reopen Altium. So it's not a catastrophic problem.It only ever happened to me twice.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 01, 2012, 01:40:40 pm
content: Running the latest "cloud"-pushed version of 10. Seems mostly stable and they do appear to now have more hands in China to ifx things. Updates show up almost every two weeks these days.
Altium geber  output question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bmarvo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 27, 2012, 02:37:03 am
content: Been watching daves vids since probably episode 5 or so. Its about time I get on these forums right?Anyway, Ive been using eagle for years now but I had to switch to Altium for a project at school. The transition wasn't that bad but I'm usedto having eagle generate my gerbers by running the rs-274x job and not ask any questions. When I bring up the gerber output dialog in Altiumit asked me to specify a format (2:3, 2:4, 2:5). The descriptions for them say to choose 2:3 if all objects are on a 1 mil grid and choose 2:4 or 2:5for higher precision BUT some board houses won't be able to handle the higher ones. All of my objects origins are on a 1 mil grid,but their pads are not. Like (722.772mil, 334.362mil) for example.Relevant information: I plan on going with pcbcart, who doesn't seem to list any such restriction on their siteSo what I'm asking is, is it okay to choose higher than 2:3? Is it normal for a decent board house to support higher than 2:3? If i choose wrong, can the fabricatorfix the problem without me needing to generate new gerbers? Am I just paranoid?Same goes for the NC drill outputThanks!

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2012, 03:05:41 am
content: I've always just used 2:4 with PCBCart, never even thought about the precision, and haven't had any problems whatsoever.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 27, 2012, 03:22:18 am
content: yeah, i use 2:4 as well.Quote from: bmarvo on February 27, 2012, 02:37:03 amThey don't mean that a board house can't use your gerbers if you pick 2:4 / 2:5, they mean the board house might not have the accuracy to produce a board down to that level (if you happen to need it).ie, They might feed 2:4 level positioning detail to one of their machines, but the machine may only be rated to 2:3. It will accept 2:4 but only produce 2:3 accuracy. Exactly the same as telling a machine to move 1.0000mm when it's only rated to 1.00mm accuracy

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2012, 05:27:15 am
content: Another fun thing that it took me a dozen boards to figure out where it was hiding: you can create an "Output Job File" with all the steps for your production outputs. The user interface is pretty wacky, but just make sure there's a "Folder Structure" in the "Output Containers" to the right, then add the outputs you want on the left, and click the 'Enabled' button for each one while the Folder Structure is selected. Gerber Files, NC Drill files under "Fabrication Outptuts" are a good start. I also like to add the BOM in XLS format, and a PDF container with DRC and ERC report, assembly drawing, and schematic prints. The best part is that it saves the settings associated with each output, and you can copy the job file from one project to the next with minor tweaks so you keep your preferred settings.
Altium SmartPDF Doesn't Export PDF - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: pi11235
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 11:50:38 pm
content: I have a schematic all layed out, and I run SmartPDF. It runs through all the steps, I hit finish, and it exits quickly with no errors, but no PDF file is at the chosen location. A outjob file is generated however. Is there something I'm missing?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2012, 01:22:31 am
content: make sure that in the output job setting it says 'project' , not 'sheet '....

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2012, 07:09:16 am
content: The only thing I can think of is that if your not doing it from the output job and running through the smart PDF wizard. If so then are the sheets selected when you get to that screen they should all be blue. Also if you have open PDF after export ticked does it apeare then?
Altium Pads/Hole Style - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: brue
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 08:24:22 pm
content: HiI would like to Style my Pads like here:http://de.wikibooks.org/wiki/Datei:PartialDrilledBoard.pngwith a hole of copper in the middle. So it shoud be easyer to drill the holes manually.Is it possible to make this?Thanks

author: peter_mcc
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2012, 11:34:07 pm
content: Do you mean a large pad and a small non-copper area in the middle?If so, just make your pad "large" and the hole "small".Peter

author: Randall W. Lott
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 26, 2012, 11:03:14 pm
content: I would suggest using the octagonal pad style if you'd like to mimic this. Be sure to create an annular ring large enough so pad breakout isn't as big of a problem with drill misalignment.The annular ring is the pad area that is remaining after drilling. A typical recommendation is to size the pad to be at least 80% larger than the hole. I'd have it even larger if I'm drilling by hand.
Altium Library Questions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: electrode
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2012, 06:44:02 am
content: I've done a few projects in Altium now, but have a couple of library questions for you guys:1) Are project folders containing the PCB and schematic self-contained? That is, if I have a bunch of folders elsewhere on my computer containing the libraries used, but zip up and move just the project folder, can I safely edit the schematic and PCB on a PC without those special libraries, or will it have some sort of "part not found" error?(I know the PCB is standalone, but I'm thinking in terms of being able to edit the schematic and add more of the same custom parts and have it recognise footprints with the PCB, etc...)2) For every project I do, I've add to "add existing to project" and select the libraries I like from the C drive, otherwise the add component button will only have the usual ~5 basic libraries. However, I've noticed that 2 of my custom libraries that I used with my very first project are always loaded in by default, but I'm not sure how to do this. Does anyone know where the option to "add a library to every project from now on" option is?Thanks!

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2012, 11:13:57 am
content: Quote from: electrode on February 13, 2012, 06:44:02 amYeah. once you place a part in the schematic or PCB, it's stored in the SCH or PCB file, so no further need to reference any library unless you specifically want to do an update. If the library is in the your loaded project, then it will automatically search there and find it by default (there is an option to enable/disable this I think). So in that case, yes, using local project libraries you can move your project files anywhere you want.It's only when using system libraries that things get broken.Dave.

author: electrode
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2012, 11:23:32 am
content: Ah, that's good. Thanks for the fast reply.

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2012, 02:04:18 am
content: Quote from: electrode on February 13, 2012, 06:44:02 amDesign -> Add/Remove Library -> "Installed" tab. Or you can click the "..." next to the text box in the part chooser. I don't like using it for anything but the most commonly-used, super generic footprints because it clutters up the list and if I remove one later then it "breaks" older projects.
Altium sums up their problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 05, 2012, 10:54:47 pm
content: Just got an email from Altium, it's price discount time again.And the title was "Heard of Altium?" - Of course heard of frigg'n Altium, I'm on your customer email list you just sent out!Do marketing even have a clue?But I digress.I found this amusing,:QuoteAnd that right there folks is Altium's problem in nutshell. Biting off more than they can chew, and diluting the tool into being a master of nothing.Having minimal capability in each wank-word area so marketing can flog their dead horse.Dave.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2012, 11:15:46 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on February 05, 2012, 10:54:47 pmDiscounted from $5k (US)? How much? The price to get back on subscription compared to a new seat gets interesting.

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2012, 11:16:17 pm
content: I got the email too, and I have never been an Altium customer.I wonder where they got my address? Could have been a trade show I guess.Looks like to get the 25% discount I will have to go out and buy a competitors product first. Great idea! If I do that, I might find I like the competitors product!To me, a one-off 25% discount is useless. Either offer a perpetual 25% discount, or make a real offer like an 80% discount for the first year. They would be better off giving it away for the first year if it meant new customers.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 05, 2012, 11:38:50 pm
content: Quote from: Rufus on February 05, 2012, 11:15:46 pmAh yes, sorry, forgot the fine print:QuoteThat's easy, just buy the $50 version of EagleDave.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 01:36:55 am
content: How about: in contrast to Altium, the competitor's licenses are not time-limited, so my 1990 Eagle license is still valid, and therefore I still own it. Enclosed is a copy of an Eagle 1.0 invoice dated 1990.

author: tinhead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 02:19:59 am
content: i actually got few days ago similar email, however less discount"Your opinion is important to us! Send to us a meaningful reason, why you decided for Altium designer.We honor this with a price advantage of 400EUR with the purchase of a new Altium designer license"and the fine print:"I agree that Altium may use my quotation for marketing purposes"400EUR, that's far from 25% (EMEA price 5195EUR incl. 12M subs.)
Graphic Import - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tony R
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 02:26:09 pm
content: Hello, I know it is possible to import a graphic into Altium for use of a silk screen. I have checked the online documentation which told me to use the scripts found in the example directory, but some how the scripts are not there. Here is what i want to import into altium, I am using Altium 10.Where can i get these scripts to covert this into either lines or solid regions? or is there another way?

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 02:37:09 pm
content: Have a look atthis thread.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 11:47:07 pm
content: Quote from: joelby on January 31, 2012, 02:37:09 pmCorrectedhttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium-designer/vector-logotype-for-silk-screen-layers/msg76411/?topicseen#msg76411

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2012, 01:35:54 am
content: Oops! Thanks. The forum mangles URLs with an extra http if you put it in quotes.
Visual Improvements - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Randall W. Lott
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2012, 03:29:12 am
content: What kind of things have you done to create a PCB that has style?I like to place graphic symbols, operation information, and custom component footprint boundaries on my silkscreen layer. The alignment tool is irreplaceable to me. There's nothing worse than the absence of symmetry where it could be used.I create or import non-typical fonts for reference designators since the standard font seems to be boring to me.Yes, this can slightly increase the manufacturing time depending on the method of silk-screening, but it's absolutely worth it to me.Many people, including myself, take appearance very seriously. It's a clear indicator of an engineer's relationship with their work. If these things didn't matter, we would only see green PCBs in brown boxes.

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2012, 03:40:45 am
content: These came to mind.http://www.aurius.com/aurius_previous/design/design.htm

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2012, 03:52:36 am
content: Quote from: Randall W. Lott on February 28, 2012, 03:29:12 amI frequently don't bother with silkscreen annotation at all. The density of SMT boards often means there isn't space for a significant proportion of designators. Pick and place machines don't look at annotation, ATE equipment doesn't look at annotation. A technician can't fix a board without additional information so give him a component placement drawing with all the designators and a size he can read.I am happy for people to be bored silly by my boards, a board which nobody wants or needs to look at is doing its job.
Exporting for etching. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: McPete
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 01:19:39 am
content: Hi all,Quick question regarding AD10; How do I produce a 1:1 scale artwork printout that I can use to etch a board?I decided to jump to Altium from DesignSpark(!!) for this project, but I'm still learning about how to drive it all...Thanks!P.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 02:32:25 am
content: you mean for home etching?i've not used AD10, but with the version i'm on you just have to click file - export - final drawingsThat gives you ~10 pages of stuff.Somewhere in there is options were you can customise what is displayed on each page, eg copper only for etching.You can also enable showing the holes or not and if you want the image mirrored.Be sure to check what mirror/non-mirror option you need, since the iron on process inverts the image. Also note that the bottom layer is being viewed from the top in altium so is already inverted.There is also some other option page in in there somewhere which gives you printing options. one of them is scale and you can set it to 1:1I think one of the option screens you get from a button and the other you get from rightclicking.But as i say, i use an earily version and i dont have altium infront of me at present.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 08:22:56 am
content: Often, printer / printer driver does some scaling, too. When I want true 1:1 printout, I need to scale to 97%. In other words, measure your output before using it.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2012, 09:06:06 am
content: ok, i've had a look at altium 9.4 at home now.In that version you goFile - Fabrication outputs - FinalThen rightclick on the page and select 'Configuration'That gives you options for what it shows on each pageYou can also click preferences and enable different layers.Back on the page view if you rightclick again and select 'Page setup' you can change the color to mono and the scale to "scaled mode" with a scale of 1But you should print it on standard paper first and check the pins line up with components, just in case.Be sure to check that you don't have any mechanical lines displayed on the image around ICs and stuff. as they will short out tracks if you miss them and etch the image.When you print you can enter the page range you want. (only page 1 etc)

author: McPete
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2012, 01:14:09 am
content: Thanks Psi- That's got it!As it turns out, my printer's 1:1 scaling is just fine.Thanks!
How can I find simulation models for components in Altium? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: nasrmiad
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2012, 03:28:31 pm
content: Some components don't have a simulation model in Altium designer summer 09. where can i find simulation models for those components? such as the L293D motor driver chip.

author: tbscope
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 05:16:47 am
content: Altium can use spice models.

author: nasrmiad
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2012, 10:36:02 pm
content: Quote from: tbscope on February 06, 2012, 05:16:47 amDo you know any good site where i can find spice models for chips? such as l293d
Subpart assignment across sheet instances - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2011, 03:54:12 am
content: Is there some trick to getting Altium to assign subparts across multiple instances of a sheet symbol? For example if I've got a subsheet with a 1/4 op-amp, and then have 4 instances of that sheet, it uses the "A" subpart for every instance which means I get 4 quad op-amps with only the "A" subpart used, instead of 1 quad op-amp with each subpart going to one sheet. On the other hand, if I have 4 unique sheets the renumbering spreads the subparts across all four sheets like it should. It just doesn't know how to spread them across multiple instances of the same sheet.
Gray text showing copied component name - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2011, 06:56:44 am
content: Does anyone know how to disable this?Whenever ya copy and paste a component it shows the designator of the old component on the new component.egI really don't like it and want to switch it off but i cant find the option.

author: mobbarley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 26, 2011, 01:39:25 am
content: I've had that before but can't remember the details, check/reset the part's Unique ID? Recompile the project (right click project in the projects sidebar, choose the first option)?

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 12:33:26 am
content: Try saving project and schematic file and then recompile.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 02:18:21 am
content: Yeah, it does seem to go away eventually if i just ignore it.I was just wondering whats causing it any why.

author: mobbarley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 29, 2011, 03:40:10 am
content: Pretty sure it's the recompile.

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2011, 03:47:43 am
content: To permanently turn them off: Preferences -> Schematic -> Compiler -> Compiled Names Expansion, then uncheck "Designators".

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2011, 09:22:37 am
content: thanks
Double Precision Shortcut in the Routing Grid? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: x18
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 17, 2011, 04:21:45 pm
content: Hi,I'm quite new to Altium. I used EAGLE before. In EAGLE I could change my grid resolution by pressing the -Key and by typing "grid" in the commandline I can change what the resolution should be after pressing . Is there a shortcut like this in Altium and where can I define what the resolution should be?greetings.

author: x18
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 18, 2011, 11:29:11 am
content: I found a solution to this problem. By pressing  I can choose the grid resolution in the menu that pops up.
Integrated Library Additions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: zipfactor
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 04, 2011, 12:24:10 am
content: Hey All,I'm new to Altium so bear with me. I am trying to add a SMD footprint to the existing zener diode component in the "miscellaneous Devices" integrated library. When I add the footprint to the existing schematic symbol for the zener diode and try to recompile, I get an error stating "Could not create integrated library". I went through the tutorials following the steps to properly link the files, and I am not having any luck. When I try updating the PCB from the schematic, I get an error for the diode saying that the footprint cannot be found (assuming this is related to the integrated library not compiling). I tried going through the footprint manager to validate the new footprint for the existing zener diode symbol, and it does not come up with any errors. Any ideas on where I am going wrong? I am using AD 10.Zip
How do I run a digital logic simulation in AD6? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mosfat
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 27, 2011, 09:42:06 am
content: Hi,I'm new to Altium, and I'm using v6 of Designer.I'm trying to run a digital logic simulation on the digital circuit that I've designed. Is this actually recommended or feasible in AD6? I've tried the built in simulation feature, but it seems more suited to analog simulation. Am I mistakened?One problem that I've faced is with generating the digital stimulus to exercise my circuit. At first, I've was using individual VSRC to generate pulses. Needless to say, that is a very tedious and incredibly inefficient way to generate circult stimulus. Then, I found that it was possible to define a schematic component linked to a Simcode model, within which I will define my stimulus as-if I was writing VHDL.But I couldn't get some keywords like CHANGE_TIME and CHANGED_LH to work correctly. Finding the Simcode documentation to be lacking, I tried searching through the Altium supplied Simcode models but did not find these keywords being used.So, is there a better way for me to run my simulation?Thanks,Devon.
Overstanding Components!? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: x18
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2011, 07:34:19 pm
content: hi,how do I design pcbs with overstanding components? like the one in the picture without getting an error at the design rule check?what do I have to do with those overstanding components to create a clean layout?greetings.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2011, 08:33:51 pm
content: You either ignore the error or make a rule that targetes just that component or footprint.

author: shadewind
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2011, 06:40:53 pm
content: Seems like your component is outside of its room. Expand the room to extend beyond the board edge. It seems like this is what causes the error.
Flat designator naming in design using channels - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tesla500
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 09, 2011, 08:32:10 pm
content: Is there any way to have flat component designator naming while using channels? I'm using channels for the gate drive in a 3 phase inverter, and the naming of components between channels is C42_1, C42_2, C42_3, etc, while I'd prefer C42, C43, C44 etc. I definitely like only having to change one component when making an edit, and having all the parts change.
How to activate wire snapping when draggin them? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: x18
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 17, 2011, 10:46:27 pm
content: hi,i messed something up in my altium installation. when i drag a wire at a point with theewires, i can only drag two wires by pressing +left mouse and the third wire stays where it is. but i want it to move with the other wires. how can i activate this option?
Button PCB Trace - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: logictom
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 05, 2012, 12:48:56 am
content: How would I go about creating a pcb trace for a button like in the image attached?I'm only able to draw traces horizontally, vertically and at 45 degrees which looks a real mess.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 05, 2012, 01:27:55 am
content: Quote from: logictom on March 05, 2012, 12:48:56 amTraces can be drawn at any angle and you can manually set x,y coordinates of the start and end of a trace, there are no real restrictions. Release 10 has a polar grid option but it probably isn't worth setting one up for this.For the above pattern the simplest method would be to draw two vertical trace 'fingers', select one and from the move menu rotate selection to rotate it about the centre by 9 degrees. Select them both again and copy then select paste array from the paste special dialog which will let you paste an array of 20 in a circle.

author: logictom
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 05, 2012, 11:54:14 pm
content: Quote from: Rufus on March 05, 2012, 01:27:55 amThanks Rufus, that was spot on what I needed - makes the job easy when you know how

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2012, 12:41:41 am
content: In case you wanted to know how to draw tracks at any angle, pressing shift-space while drawing a track will switch modes.
Solid regions in PCB components - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2011, 08:31:29 am
content: Hi all,Does anyone have any advice on how to go about creating PCB components with polygon regions? I've designed a library component forhttp://www.minicircuits.com/pdfs/SXBP-157+.pdfand am following the "Suggested PCB Layout". I've made the ground pads (2-7) all the same pad (2), which is what Altium suggests. However I've defined the rest of the ground plane using a solid region on the top layer and because this doesn't have a net, it's causing short circuit DRC errors.I can't set a net for the region because "No Net" is the only option provided.Thanks!Joel

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2011, 01:37:14 pm
content: After placing the component, do "update free primitives from component pads".

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2011, 01:51:05 pm
content: Sir, you are a genius! Thank you very much.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2011, 06:19:01 am
content: Nah, no genius (but thank you anyway:-) ), just an experienced Altium/Protel user (since 1993(!)).
Interleaved layers- Is there an easy way to do it? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: McPete
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 08, 2011, 02:20:48 am
content: Hi all,Through my new employment, I've gained access to Altium! My near-vertical learning curve has begun!A quick question for our resident experts though; I have a design request that involves every second layer of a 14 layer PCB (all planes) be bonded through multiple vias... Think a multi-layer ceramic capacitor, and you've got the idea.What would be the easiest way to do this?Thanks!

author: dh
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 10, 2011, 10:26:35 pm
content: You can put vias down quickly by pressing P, V, then Tab to set the via properties. When you place it down, it will attempt to guess what net to take (or ask you).To my knowledge, Altium doesn't have a tool that will autplace vias like some more RF oriented packages have. If you need a big grid of them though, you can lay a few down to get your spacing, then start copy-pasting the vias.
Drill marks - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: billysdomain
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 09:58:58 am
content: Hi,Does anyone know how to put a centre spot in all the drill spots on a PCB printed from Camtastic onto a laminate?I have the marks, and the drill drawings, but i just want a little dot in the middle of all the pads that i need to drill so i can centre more easy - no matter what i do, change color, change layer order, i cant get them to come out on the print.....ThanksBilly

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 02:08:49 pm
content: You probably have to specify pad holes to be in the gerber before it gets to camtastic.

author: billysdomain
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 03:30:04 pm
content: The pad holes are there in the PCB router, all i do is generate the gerber from that - for example if i place a DIP part, i see the holes in the PCB designer, and the drill marks in the gerber, but it prints just as a black padId be alright if i had a CNC drill machine!

author: jahonen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 05:11:34 pm
content: PCB manufacturers don't like holes in the pads or vias in gerbers, so they are not usually included for a good reason. Therefore one must put them there deliberately.Regards,Janne
Is AD Live Down? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2011, 08:28:37 pm
content: Hi, I am one of the users who chose not to renew my subscription this year. All of sudden I can't access AD live. My login also doesn't work in the software. If I can't access the AD Live site, I can live with it, but my user account should still work with accessing my Seat license. Anyone else having this issue?

author: tinhead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2011, 09:55:42 pm
content: well, i do have subscription and can't login too, so probably some server issues.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2011, 10:23:46 pm
content: ok, thanks for the info.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 31, 2011, 11:32:42 pm
content: I can log in no problem.Your account should still be active as a "license holder" account I believe.So probably just something dumb with their customer AD server stuff again, it happens.Dave.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 01:57:18 am
content: Which is partly why I haven't renewed. If they can't keep their servers running its hard to justify the cost for all the cloud vault services theyre selling. I hope they get it together. I do really like the software.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 03:16:47 am
content: Quote from: yanir on September 01, 2011, 01:57:18 amSo do I.But unfortunately I suspect the company is in a downward spiral (in many ways), and the only way out is to be bought out.Dave.

author: JuKu
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 07:12:19 am
content: I'm on subscription. Bugcrunch works, and I can vote. Forum is down.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 12:42:54 pm
content: Everything works for me now.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2011, 01:05:27 pm
content: Looks like the generic parts are back in the vault and the resisters are there. I guess that was part of the reason. I'd would think you wouldn't have to bring your authentication down to add content but that's just me.
Panelization of PCB's - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: WanaGo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 21, 2011, 07:03:52 am
content: Hello,Work just updated to Altium Designer 2010 and I am just having a bit of trouble figuring out the Panelization.I have successfully created the Panel of 10 PCB's, however the file is only 68kb. I just submitted it to PCBCart.com to check the panel, however they emailed back saying only the outline was included. I move the file to a new directory and opened it, and just like they said - it was just an outline.It seems the Panel does not actually hold any information about the individual boards, and it still refers to the original files.So my question is, is it possible to make the Panel contain the information? PCBCart supports submitting the files as Altium Designer files, rather than just Gerbers etc. It would be nice if Ididnt have to generate the Gerbers, but it may be required...Is it possible to integrate the information into the Panel, so I can just submit the one file to them or not?RegardsWanaGo

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2011, 08:38:08 pm
content: You should definenatly be able to output all the layers from the panel board prj. When you generate your gerbers do you use the output job file or an export? Both should work, but you might want to try the out job file. There you can specify a lot of output options including PDFs. When you setup the gerber output you can choose to open the files in camtastic after for verification. There you will see if all your layers have been included. You can also create a camtastic file in your project and import the gerbers you created to see if you did in fact create all your layers from your original export.It's generally good practice to examine your mechanicals before you submit them, and camtastic is a bulletin gerber viewer in AD.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2011, 09:26:05 pm
content: WanaGo, also, you may have forgotten to select the other layers you need to plot. This is done in the Layers Tab in the Gerber Setup Dialog box. It's access via File\Fabrication Outputs\Gerbers or through the editor in the outjob file.
v-score and rout paths placement, AD summer 09 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: m4l490n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2011, 02:30:23 pm
content: Hi, I'd like to know how can I make a panel in AD S09, specifically, how do I put the v-scoring and routing paths. I've used the "Embedded Board Array/Panelize" but I don't know how to put the v-scoring and the routing paths.Can you help me with this. THANKS!!

author: thmjpr
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2011, 09:30:58 am
content: Talk to whoever will make the board. It may be easier if they do it.A separate mechanical layer for routing paths is quite standard. You could use one layer each for v-score and route, or even just a different size trace (with a legend).But your routing path should already be part of your individual board design?