hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Single BOM for multiple projects - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slashguitar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 25, 2014, 10:09:59 pm
content: Hi,I am working on a project consisting of multiple boards. Is there a way to generate a single BOM for multiple projects or do I have to go through them manually?Thanks

author: Gelf54
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 05:16:20 am
content: The only way I know atm is to create a new composite project with a master sheet containing sheet symbols for all your other schematics. You can then generate a BOM from this, but if you have multiple copies of a particular schematic sheet on your master, it only includes the parts from one of these sheets for the BOM, which seems like a bug to me. I'm currently searching for a solution to this.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2015, 07:00:40 am
content: Try using hierarchical sheet symbols? Then you can instantiate repeated sheets.Have fun with the net errors on that project; you can probably (and probably should..) turn off basically everything (errors, netlist compile, PCB transfer..) in such a project so it does exactly what it's supposed to do and nothing else.Not something I've done / had to do, but a neat idea. One rub: if you have assembly variants in the main project, those are project-specific settings and won't follow the sheets (of course).Tim
Cross hatch rectangles over components in Altium Viewer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jskoog
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 07:06:03 pm
content: I gave a client Altium Designer Summer 09 Viewer to check out a design. When zooming in on a PCB layout, cross hatch rectangles appear around the components. This makes it hard to view the traces. How do we get rid of these boxes.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 08:14:49 pm
content: You have mechanical 1 on and what you are seeing is the part body .O-L turn off mechanical 1 and or 2

author: jskoog
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 08:30:09 pm
content: Turning off the mechanical layers didn't help.This shows the purple mechanical layers on. But when I zoom in further, the larger white cross hatch rectangles appear around the components. The yellow top overlay component outlines also appear, but when I turn off the top overlay, the white cross hatch boxes stay.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 11:32:43 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on January 30, 2015, 08:14:49 pmActually just pressing the shortcut key "L" worksQuote from: jskoog on January 30, 2015, 08:30:09 pmHave a look at the actual component in the component library itself. It might be a keepout area. If so, save the component with a new name, modify it (ie remove the keepout area), then use your new version.You can also turn off the "Keep-Out Layer". Just press "L" to bring up the layer menu.ADDED: The mechanical Layer is just an indicator for you. The Keep-Out Layer prevents the auto-router from using that area.

author: jskoog
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 06:52:51 pm
content: These rectangles are not keep-out regions and are not specific to a component. All components get the box when you zoom in. I've attached pictures of the display just before they appear, and after zooming in one step.

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2015, 08:02:25 pm
content: Are there any active filters?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 07, 2015, 11:57:38 pm
content: Playing with variants ?

author: JDubU
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2015, 12:30:55 am
content: What happens if you click on the "Clear" button in the lower right corner of the window?
Altium From-To reports net lengths of 0 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: josko
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 07, 2015, 08:34:47 pm
content: HiHave you ever encountered and possibly resolved this issue with Altium designer?I have set up From-Tos on nets and after I have equalized net lengths and ran the DRC it reports 0 on some of the nets.If I re-route that particular net it show correct length just until I run the DRC again, after DRC it is back on 0 again.Thank you.
Altium exclude schematic component from BOM, with grapichal cross over. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 10:01:51 am
content: Hi,I have a board that on one variant alot of components shall not be included in the BOM.I have change the type of these components to (Standard no BOM). But i would like to have an graphical indication on the schematic like in the attached pic. This I dont know how to do.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 11:31:56 am
content: Select the respective assembly variant in the OutJob. You can do this per-job at the top, or per item (on the right of each item that can produce variants, there is a drop-down selection box that is enabled when the "select per item" choice is selected).Tim

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 11:36:17 am
content: Thank you for the answer,So you cant do this in schematic editor, you need to have an associated PCB to the schematic?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 12:40:28 pm
content: http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Managing+Design+Variation+with+Variants

author: halexa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 06:32:25 pm
content: Thanks for the link, now things starts to get clear for me.
Pdf of schematic messed up - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: scirturbo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 03:52:18 pm
content: I tried to use smart pdf to make a document of my schematic but all letters and numbers are messed up. There's a huge spacing between each letter/number. It gets better when I use "output job" but then all the letters with big fonts are crunch together. Didn't have this with Altium 6 only with 10. Tried to search any possible preference but no luck. Anyone have an idea?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2015, 03:56:20 pm
content: Wonder if it has anything to do with Unicode, language settings, font settings, print driver settings (including possible options related to the first two), etc.Altium seems to do very poorly with anything other than ASCII.Where are you from anyway, if you don't mind my asking?Tim

author: scirturbo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 10:55:29 am
content: I'm in the Netherlands. Maybe it's a country specific problem or win 7 , I don't know. Tried to change the language but no luck. I do have a work around by printing the schematic to PDF creator which works great.I couldn't find anything on the net so maybe I'm the only one.....thanks,Simon

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 03, 2015, 07:06:01 pm
content: it's font related, probably not charset related.If I remember correctly, pdfcreator doesn't advertise that it knows any fonts, so the printing application will almost definitely send the SHAPES of the characters rather than simply the font name to use and which characters to print.
Getting fabrication prints from Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sajid6300shaikh
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 08:31:47 am
content: Hello everyone,I've been using Altium for 1 week now and I designed my first PCB in it, now to get it fabricated we generally send Corel draw files to the person who makes films from them and then we send those films to a low cost PCB fabricator.To transfer PCB layers to corel draw we need to export the layers in Post script format(.ps or .eps) which is imported in Corel.Now one way I can make ps files from altium is to print them through a Post Script driver which is a bit crude way, does anyone know a better alternative to making ps files from altium?

author: Batang
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 02:38:07 pm
content: Have you heard of gerber files? I am sure your PCB fabricator has.Cheers.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 05:27:46 pm
content: ?!? print as pdf. that can be imported.but that is NOT the way boards are made ... gerber data

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 05:47:12 pm
content: This is the most convoluted scheme I've ever seen for making PCBs.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2015, 11:10:58 pm
content: they're sending them to someone that uses ferric chloride or something. there is no other reason that this would be done. I doubt this user is in the US or even in the western world.

author: IconicPCB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 05:24:17 am
content: Ferric chloride means not a thing.He is getting his film printed by a graphics printer who does normal printing of tools for print industry.This is often good enough for PCB photo tools as well.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 01:24:27 pm
content: I'm sure it's good enough.Seems to me that a PCB manufacturer would be able to offer a better price than some old photographic process.I don't know. You're right, I'm wrong, I get it.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2015, 02:07:55 pm
content: Rigby is spot on.I did that at one point for finer pitch. Go to you local printing shop. They can typically 'flash' a foil.Save as pdf or other common vector format like corel. They get you a pfotographically made transparency. Then use photosensitive board material to make ocb.You can ask the printing shop to make a negative. So you can use negative material as it gives better results than the positive process.I learned that the film used is mostly AGFA litex film and bought my own box and the chemicals for developing.Print using an inkjet on glossy paper. Then shine light through the paper onto the litex. : deveelopRazor sharp foils for making pcb's !
Page Ordering on a Hierarchical PDF Sch Print - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dboyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2015, 12:08:50 am
content: I've been using an outjob to control document generation, but I can't get the schematic prints for my new project to look as nice as I'd like. It's a large design with a pretty deep hierarchy. When I go to print the schematics with "[Project Physical Documents]" it expands the pages as I would expect. However, the page ordering is bad to the point of making the schematics impossible to read.Structure example:Top Level-- Part A-- -- LDO (a)-- -- Memory (a)-- -- -- LDO (aa)-- -- I/O (a)-- Part B-- -- LDO (b)-- -- Memory (b)-- -- -- LDO (ba)-- -- I/O (b)-- LDO (c)-- Misc. I/OFor example, I instantiate several copies of my LDO sheet at various parts of the hierarchy but when I do the printout, it just puts all of those pages at the first point it runs into a instantiate.The final order on the printout is something like:Top LevelPart APart BLDO (a)LDO (aa)LDO (b)LDO (ba)LDO (c)Memory (a)Memory (b)I/O(a)I/O(b)Misc I/ONeedless to say, the pile of pages becomes impossible to read because the page ordering is garbage. Is there a setting somewhere to change this behavior? A simple solution would be to just print out the same order as the project heirarchy but that is too easy I guess

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2015, 12:30:42 am
content: In the schematic view, hit up Tools / Sheet Numbering. Enter page numbers manually, then hit the three auto buttons on the bottom. Should come out in order for outjob "[Project Documents]".As a bonus, it also shows up on the title block. You... do have a title block in the sheet template, don't you?Tim

author: dboyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2015, 03:18:37 pm
content: Yes, of course. I am far too pedantic not to have build a series of perfectly (imho) formatted templates early on, heh.The issue from this approach is that if I switch to [Project Documents] I can control the order but I only get one page per subsheet. For sheets that are stamped out multiple times with different values, it doesn't make any sense. For instance, the LDOs are all set for different output values. I've set the resistor's value to "RVAL" or something similar, and then applied the parameter "RVAL=10k" or the similar to the sheet symbol. When I print [Project Physical Documents] it does the value replacement when it generates the sheets and they all look correct.In short, it looks like:Top LevelPartLDOMemoryI/OMisc I/OSpecifically, it doesn't make any notice of the fact there are 10 LDOs or whatever, let alone that they have different values.Any other ideas?
Can't set hole color for composite print - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 03:51:33 am
content: I'm trying to generate a composite print for my board so that I can print it out to scale and see if the components fit.Problem is the pad holes are always a dark blue color so it's hard to see against the gray pad color. No problem just change the hole color to white which is what I used to do in 99SE. Errrrr there is no color setting for the holes in the preferences like there was in 99SE. In fact half of the color settings that were available in 99SE are missing in the preferencesAnyone know a work around ?cheers

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 20, 2015, 08:56:19 pm
content: Is it not an available layer when you go into the print options and hit 'advanced' or whatever to see the color settings?I've never had to change it, so...Possible workaround: print copper layer (or even the final gerber if necessary) with holes relieved, so you get the same effect?Tim
Board cutout in gerber - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: maxpayne
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 10:05:02 am
content: How can I include the board cutout in the generated Gerber files ? the Gerber files does not including the cutout data. I tried to put manual closed line in mech layer1, but the result is the same.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 04:31:53 pm
content: Define the area with a Region, and select Board Cutout. It should appear on the same output layer as the outline, usually Keep-Out (.gko). It might not hurt to start with an outline on K-O and make the 'cutout' region from it. If you have any questions, ask your board fab to verify with you before printing.Tim

author: c4757p
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 04:48:51 pm
content: Ah - warning! Check with the fab on the size of the tool that will cut that! It'll round those cornerswideand then you'll be pissed off. You might want to tweak the shape of that cutout a bit...

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 06:48:49 pm
content: Right, the router doesn't carve out the shape you specify, the center of the router bit follows the path you provide. So, add the width of the router bit to the size of the path to get the final hole size.

author: ruffy91
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 07:05:00 pm
content: Quote from: Rigby on January 12, 2015, 06:48:49 pmThis actually isn't true for most pcb manufacturers. They will do their own milling paths which fit best INSIDE your board cutout. You don't have to take the tool radius in consideration.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 10:54:02 pm
content: Oh nice. I am corrected.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 12, 2015, 11:05:43 pm
content: Quote from: ruffy91 on January 12, 2015, 07:05:00 pmthere, fixed that
Testpoints in AD - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JJalling
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 10, 2015, 02:28:27 pm
content: Hi all,I have created a testpoint component in my default library. A 1.5mm untented pad, with a comment on the silkscreen next to it. The default designator is TP?In the schematic I write the testpoint name in the comment of the testpoint (e.g. "+3V3"), so it is shown on the PCB.The problem with this method is that the designator is also shown on the PCB. Is there a way to hide the designator by default on a component? Or should I us the designator instead of the comment?Is this the right way to do testpoints in Altium anyway?BR Jonas

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2015, 06:56:15 pm
content: A right way? Probably not. I prefer this way (placing them on the schematic as components), so that they are required during layout, so you don't lose space forgetting some.I haven't found default settings, but it's easy enough to filter them, e.g.,PCB Filter Panel > Name Like 'TP*', applyPCB Inspector Panel > select Designator link, tick HideOr go to PCB List, Display Only: Components; sort the listing by Name; select TPs; fix properties on Inspector Panel.Can also select/enforce TPs by selecting the pads (filter: IsPad AND (Name Like 'TP*-1'), or select from Pads on the List) and ticking Testpoint on Top/Bottom. The Testpoint Manager dialog doesn't always select the TPs you wanted.Tim

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2015, 07:09:53 pm
content: scriptsi have a cleaner script to do such workyou can set the font , fontsize for designatorsand font and fontsize for commentsby default all comments are turned off ,all designators are on , unless ,- the designator begines with ...orthe comment is one out of a listor the footprint is ..so i can say : all footprints testpoint or comment equal to a or b or c or d or tp*the schript has a graphical control panel and it stores its settings as parameters in the project so if you run it again you get your settings back.
Serious flaws in 3d rendering in Altium, anything but simple folds. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 01, 2015, 11:41:36 pm
content: The 3D features of allium are actually pretty useful. I've been using them to be able to create 3d models so mechanical can do their magic with cases etc;Most recent board has some more complex board cut outs and fold zones for flex, and allium really spits the dummy, the result is boards that don't fold.. Have raised a case with Altium and they adivse;"this is a limitation of allium, it doesn't recognise the geometry of the board".. Sigh, if its good enough to be able to draw it!I can produce the actuall working gerbers ok, but Im going to have to model the 3d bits as a separate process. and that is sort of non trivial!

author: RF-Tech
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 02:57:19 pm
content: I recently designed a rigid-flex board with multiple bends, and was able to create a step with it in the folded configuration and import it into solidworks without any problem.....but one.....I had placed a 9 pin connector on a section of flex that was to be flexed (bent), and it was not able to do it. Once I removed the connector, which was not meant to be on a flex section it worked correctly.

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 06, 2015, 08:15:43 am
content: sadly not my problem. I'd not even put components on the board!
NC file export - all in one file? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slow_rider
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2015, 04:12:07 pm
content: I'm exporting NC files in order to order board from OSHPark. I have two problems... The first one is that I get two text files: drills and slots. I can't find a way to combine them and the DRR file can't be used. The second problem is that seems OSHPark do not support slots at all although I've managed to order board with some but that was using Eagle.What do to? I find it hard to find useful info in the Altium help wiki.

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 05:52:24 pm
content: This support article should get you going. You can probably email them about specific issues you're having.I'll follow this and see what kind of issues I have. From there I might be able to give more specific help.http://support.oshpark.com/support/solutions/articles/136065-altium-drill-files
remove part of silkscreen from component - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: witec
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 06, 2015, 05:30:59 pm
content: Hi trying to get started with altium, is there any way to remove a part of the silkscreen without editing the part in the library,couldn't figure it out yet .Update:Right click -> Component Actions -> Explode Selected Components To Free Primitvesmaybe some one know a way without to explode the component?

author: toohec
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2015, 01:40:21 am
content: If you are looking to edit a single instance of a part, you can just double click on the part and un-check the "Lock Primitives" option under component properties. With the primitives unlocked, you can select and modify any of the component's individual primitives. After you delete the unwanted silkscreen, double click the part again and re-check "lock primitives" to prevent further changes.

author: witec
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 07, 2015, 04:55:01 pm
content: thanks a lot toohec works like a charm!
Altium - Autoroute Track from bottom to top only by vias - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 05:20:28 pm
content: Hi, i have a problem. I used autoroute to make tracks in my circuit, in bottom and top layer.But i want to connect track between top and bottom layer only from vias, placed automatically by autoroute.In image, i marked three objects.1: is pad of a capacitor, tracks are placed only in bottom layer, this is correct.2: is pad of same capacitor tracks are placed in bottom and top layer, this isn't correct.3: is via placed by autoroute, this is correct.I want that in my pcb there are objects only like objects 1 and 3.Thank you

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 07:09:37 pm
content: I'm not understanding... What's wrong with #2?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 07:19:31 pm
content: he obviously wants to make the doublesided board himself. so wants to rely on via's so he can solder a stub of wire in there. soldering under components is difficult unless you offset them off the board.you can try doing this using the rules but it will be bloody difficult. you will need to write a rule that all components need to be broken out on the bottom layer only , with a minimum distance off padthis is not the way boards are made ...

author: Rigby
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 08:20:46 pm
content: oh so he wants all layer transitions with vias to be done outside of component footprints. That's a bit odd.So, route manually, or put down some test pins/pads?
Copy & Paste PCB layouts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Christopher
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 06:19:01 pm
content: I have a schematic and PCB designed, and I need to make a copy of this same layout on the board 8 times, with the inputs and outputs going to one place.How can I do this with Altium? I've heard about Rooms but am unsure of exactly what the best practice is for this.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 05, 2015, 07:27:26 pm
content: rooms are not how that is done. look up tutorials on 'channel design' for altium.you will create a toplevel schematic, create 8 instances and place the connectors on top level. altium will partition your deisng in blocks you can manipulate. you can clone placement and routing between blocks.
Can't define a board shape in Altium!!! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slow_rider
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2014, 01:51:23 am
content: After I'm done routing the board I selected Mechanical layer 1 and draw a closed rectangle around my design. Selected Design -> Board Shape -> Define from selected objects and it worked as expected. I played with the layout some more and could shrink the board a bit. I drew another outer boarded and did the same menu selection followed by a notice from the software (in the attached file). I tried to re-draw the box again and again with no use and I can see it is closed. What do to?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2014, 02:04:14 am
content: Closed doesn't mean overlapping (like flood fill in a painting program) it means the tracks are physically joined.When you grab and move each track intersection with the mouse both ends should stay joined (with new tracks appearing as needed). None of them should come apart when you drag.Maybe find the two ends it is talking about, using the X/Y given, then change one of the ends to match exactly the X/Y of the other. You might find one is 4.3 and the other is 4.299999 etc..

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2014, 02:06:26 am
content: Got stuck on this too years ago.There must be a simple workaround, but I have not stumbled on it.So now I set it up at the start using the PCB Wizard.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2014, 02:13:45 am
content: You can also select "move board vertices" and then change the shape manually by dragging each vertex around and/or adding new ones.However sometimes it just wont let you pickup the vertexes. It's something to do with the current mouse state when you click.I did figure out what it was, but i cant remember.
When creating a schematic symbol, how to pre-connect pins? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slow_rider
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 08:50:49 pm
content: I have a regulator with 3 terminals. The case is a standard SO8 package and I would like to create a symbol that only shows those 3 pins.2 pins in the case are unconnected - how can I set this at the schematic symbol library? And 4 of the remaining pins are all shorted together, how can I define that to be done automatically also in the schematic symbol library?

author: SL4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 08:57:54 pm
content: Maybe not desirable to do it 'inside' the schematic symbol, as the connections should be obvious toanyoneviewing the schematic - without having to look for the part's datasheet.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 09:59:18 pm
content: NEVER do that !The unconnected pins you simply dont need to define.The others that belo g together you neatly place next to each other. So you can wire them easily on the schematic.There are people that draw pins on top of each other. The effect is a schematic with hidden pins. That is an absolute nightmare ! A schematics putpose is to show ALL connections.

author: slow_rider
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 29, 2014, 01:42:39 am
content: OK got it - thanks!
lost all pad an via holes? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 02:37:50 am
content: ..

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 05:41:36 pm
content: layers are off.options - layersbottom right colum. show pad oles, show via holes. tick the checkbox right that says 'show'

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 09:55:46 am
content: That's what it was, all fixed now.

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 10:02:49 am
content: Why did you remove your post?? Now this is useless for anyone else who has the same problem...

author: miguelvp
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 10:08:44 am
content: Quote from: 8086 on December 24, 2014, 10:02:49 amNot sure about that, just the title question was sufficient for free_electron to come up with the answer

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 10:17:09 am
content: Quote from: miguelvp on December 24, 2014, 10:08:44 amWell, yes. but I think we must admit he is a special case

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 11:18:38 am
content: My mammy always said i was special (puts fork with applesauce in eye)

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 11:48:07 am
content: Stop Forrest Stop!
Keyboard messed up - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ondre
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 02:33:34 pm
content: Hi everyone,weird problem in AD14 schematic capture: out of a sudden tab key and spacebar stopped working during some actions. For example when I want place a component and press tab to open the properties dialog, nothing happens. Same while placing wires. Spacebar doesn't change the bending angle anymore. When I change the key mappings to PCAD, it works again, but of course other shortcuts are different with this mapping. I don't know what happened. Is there any way to reset the default key mappings?Thanks and merry Xmas!Ondre

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 05:46:29 pm
content: You probably accidentally changed the non-menu key bindings.Double click on the menu bar , somewhere where there is no text. (The bar at the top that says file, place, project etc.if you doubleclick that menu bar where there is no text (so towards the right) the bindings window pops up. That defines what does what. There is a button at the bottom to reset to factory defaults.That should fix it.

author: Ondre
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 09:46:48 pm
content: Hi,thanks for your kind help on christmas eve.Double clicking the menubar brings up the "customizing sch editor" dialog. In the "toolbar" tab, I can restore the default toolbars, but that doesn't bring back the default key bindings. In the "commands" tab, there is unfortunately no button to reset to factory defaults. So, I'm still open for other suggestions.Ondre

author: Ondre
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 09:51:02 pm
content: D'oh! I probably had too much wine during xmas dinnerOf course, you have to click restore for every single toolbar in the list. Now it works! Thanks for your help free_electron!
Polygon pours in altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Preethi Yogaraj
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 05:26:52 am
content: Hi,I am designing a 2 layer board and am trying to have a ground pour on the bottom layer. But once I define the outline, the polygon is supposed to get filled which doesent happen. All that I am able to see is just the outline that I have defined.Am unable to understand the reason why this could be so. Can someone help me with this please?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 06:04:09 am
content: Repour it, or set automatic repours (Tools / PCB Preferences..).Tim

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 08:00:57 am
content: Most likely, you have checked the 'remove dead copper' option in the pour, and there's no connection to that net on the bottom layer. Try placing a via.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 03:31:56 pm
content: what version ?as of 14 .xx there is an additional checkbox 'ispoured' set that to true to run the pour.they did this because on huge boards with many polygons it was a pain when moving a track to have to wait for all pours to re-occur.at the same time they introduced the polygon pour manager that lets you set the order of pours. this can be important lets say you gat a small pour that is vcc with a bigger pour called gnd. in the past you had to draw the shapes such that they did not overlap otherwise there was the risk that gnd got poured before vcc and there was no room.now you can just define the order. i want this one drawn first, then that one so the previous one will be clipped by the software, then that one so now the two poured ones are clipped etc ...another nicety of the 'ispoured' flag is that you don't have to wait for redraw while will routing. neither do you have to set polygins to draft so you can see xray through the board.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 03:59:25 pm
content: Not sure about isPoured, but shelving and the polygon manager have both been around for a very long time.Tim

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2014, 08:57:51 pm
content: This can also be due to you not assigning a net to the polygon at all, or there not being any of the specified net objects within the polygon area.

author: dboyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 07, 2015, 06:46:21 pm
content: Also, I think you'd get the same behavior if you turn polygons to "Draft" view in the layer manager (L, Show/Hide tab).
Your tips on generating gerbers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 12:34:08 pm
content: In the past I have always relied on the pcb fabricator to generate the gerbers from my Protel pcb files.Since I have moved to Altium the file size has blown out with the inclusion of 3D objects etc so its time to generate gerbers files myself.Are there any pitfalls to watch out for in doing this ?I assume people use File -> Fabrication Outputs -> Gerber FilesOK so what settings do you use for the various tabs ?Imperial or metric units ?Format 2:3, 2:4 or 2:5 ?Layers to Plot ?Drill Drawing settings ?cheers

author: ludzinc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 01:02:07 pm
content: Talk to the fab house, do as they prefer.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2014, 02:13:25 pm
content: Dont sweat it, dont overdo it.Make sure that, outside your board there is text that identifies every layer. Use the .layer_name special string for that.Create an output jobGerber setup : 2:4 , all layers on , no mechanicals added , no layers flipped.Ncdrill setup 2:4.Run, zip , email , done.

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 04:58:52 am
content: Quote from: free_electron on December 23, 2014, 02:13:25 pmThat's great. Is there a preference for imperial or metric units or does it make any difference ?cheers

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2014, 10:25:15 am
content: Doesnt matter , as long as both drill and gerber are in the same units.
multi-layer polygon pour - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: giorgos3924
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 12, 2014, 06:04:36 pm
content: How can i add multi-layer polygon pour?i want to connect a net (eg ground) to multi-layer polygon pour.i tried to select multilayer in dialog but seems don't work

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 12, 2014, 09:49:06 pm
content: Uh?If you want a given net to appear on multiple layers, you need multiple primitives. Probably the best way, place one polygon in the shape you prefer, then replicate it a few times and change the attributes of the new ones (assign layers, nets, rename if desired) and repour.Altium also won't manage connecting them between layers, you have to insert stitching vias yourself (or with a generator or script).Tim

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2014, 03:06:33 am
content: Quote from: giorgos3924 on December 12, 2014, 06:04:36 pmPlace your first polygon pour on (say) your top layer.Select it, copy it, then paste it to the side of your board (when asked "Rebuild Polygon" choose no).Now double click on the polygon pour to change the layer. Choose (say) the bottom layer. When asked again "Rebuild Polygon" choose no.There is a bug in Altium version 14. Unless you choose to rebuild the polygon, Altium does not update the change in layers as far as the graphics card is concerned.There is however a workaround.Even though the polygon appears to still be on the top layer, it is however now on the bottom. Select the bottom layer, then select the polygon pour with a double click.Just press "OK" without making any changes. When asked "Rebuild Polygon" choose no.Choose "Undo" from the top menu bar & when asked "Rebuild Polygon" choose no.The layer is now updated (to the bottom layer) & you are free to move this polygon pour back to your board.It is identical in every way to the top polygon pour so you can align it exactly.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 13, 2014, 07:57:43 am
content: ^ During the process, it doesn't matter if you answer "yes" or "no" to Altium constantly bugging you about repours. It might make it clearer (since it'll repour on its actual layer, when switched).You can also disable the nag (PCB Preferences, auto repour). Repouring is a little faster since AD14, but still clunky.Tim
Infineon PG-SCT595-5 3d model? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2013, 07:27:22 pm
content: Hi, doesn anyone have the model for Infineon PG-SCT595-5 package? I can't seem to find it anywhere (maybe I should look under a different name?)

author: Gnyff
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 11, 2014, 02:45:03 am
content: Didyou manage to find one? If so - please give me lead... :-D Thanks!

author: Batang
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 11, 2014, 12:56:11 pm
content: Infineon have Altium libraries on their website i.e.https://www.infineon.com/dgdlc/en?dcId=8a8181663431cb50013431cb500b0000&downloadTitle=Linear_Voltage_Regulators_-_Selection_Table_Altium_v1.0.zip&download=L2RnZGwvTGluZWFyX1ZvbHRhZ2VfUmVndWxhdG9yc18tX1NlbGVjdGlvbl9UYWJsZV9BbHRpdW1fdjEuMC56aXA/ZmlsZUlkPWRiM2EzMDQzNDE3N2QyM2QwMTQxNzkxMDk2NDIxZDU0Cheers.
Pad on the edge of the PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: XavierG
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 10:44:33 am
content: Hello,I created a pad on the top and on the border of the PCB. But I also want that pad on the edge of the PCB.So my question is how to add something on the edge of the PCB? Maybe not a "real" Altium pad but a "custom" pad with "Top Layer" and "Top Solder"?

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 10:54:20 am
content: You mean you want copper (pad) on the side of the pcb?Your problem is not only how to do that with Altium but also to find any pcb manufacturer that can make that.

author: Codemonkey
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 11:03:59 am
content: If you're referring to castellated pads of the sort found on the edge of bluetooth modules etc, then the way to do it is just create an oval pad with a plated through hole. Then, you have to have the boards panelised but not routed out (if the pcb fab use a router to separate the boards, the rotating action of the router bit will tear out the through hole plating as it moves along its path). Instead, the boards should be cut from the panel using a dicing / singulation saw as these are precise enough to saw down the middle of a plated through hole without damaging it.

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 11:56:21 am
content: Quote from: Codemonkey on December 03, 2014, 11:03:59 amThis approach used to be something you only saw with RF modules, but a lot of other modules are made this way now. It should be easy to find a fabricator who knows exactly what you need.

author: Batang
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 03:06:11 pm
content: Most PCB manufactures can do this, we use it on a few boards.See Included image.Cheers

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 03:31:51 pm
content: Quote from: Batang on December 03, 2014, 03:06:11 pmAnd how do you guarantee mechanical longlevity of this thin plating?Or is it only to be used a couple of times max. ?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 03, 2014, 07:59:59 pm
content: What do you mean "used"? It's a pad like any other, intended for one soldered joint, maybe some rework at your peril, and that's that.Tim

author: Kjelt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 04, 2014, 08:45:10 am
content: Quote from: T3sl4co1l on December 03, 2014, 07:59:59 pmAh ok then my mistake I thought about it being used as a connector for instance for ICP or something like that.
Cleaning up project directories - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2014, 08:14:14 am
content: There are files more than the core project files in my project directory. I want to make a clean up, but I don't want to delete some necessary files which will cause problem in future.The ones that look like garbage are as follows:Code:Project Directory|--__Previews| |--SchematicFile1.SchDocPreview| |--SchematicFile2.SchDocPreview| |--SchematicFile3.SchDocPreview|--History| |--SchematicFile1.~(1).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile1.SchDoc| |--...| |--SchematicFile1.~(100).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile1.SchDoc| |--SchematicFile2.~(1).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile2.SchDoc| |--...| |--SchematicFile2.~(50).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile2.SchDoc| |--SchematicFile3.~(1).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile3.SchDoc| |--...| |--SchematicFile3.~(400).SchDoc.Zip| | |--SchematicFile3.SchDoc| |--PcbFile.~(1).PcbDoc.Zip| | |--PcbFile.PcbDoc| |--...| |--PcbFile.~(50).PcbDoc.Zip| | |--PcbFile.PcbDoc|--Project Logs for ProjectName| |-- <a lot of LOG files here>I'm already taking backup regularly. Can I delete these files occasionally? Will deleting any of these files cause a problem somewhere in the future?

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2014, 08:56:49 am
content: Project -> Project Packager generates a zipfile of everything Altium thinks should be in the project. Copy that file to a new directory, unzip it and use it for a while. (You'll also see if you've done something odd and used files from other directories by mistake).After a while, delete the original directory.Well, that's how I tend to do it.(but yes, all those files you listed are either old versions (which I like to keep for a long time!), or uninteresting (like schdocpreview)

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 28, 2014, 12:18:08 pm
content: Open the storage manager in altium. That does the cleanup.
Channel / Room format copy issue on multichannel design - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: feroznigoff
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 25, 2014, 04:30:03 am
content: Hi, this is my first complex multi-channel design and I'm experiencing an issue copying one completed channel to another.The structure of my multi-channel design is very similar to the template shown in the multi-channel options dialog:http://techdocs.altium.com/sites/default/files/wiki_attachments/231557/image017.jpgExcept that "Bank A" has it's own components which connect to components from both "U2_Ch1" and "U2_Ch2", in addition to multiple polygon pours and via stitches.I want to copy the format of "Bank A" and all enclosed objects to "Bank B", such that "Bank B" is EXACTLY the same as "Bank A". I've used "Copy Room Formats" in the past with success, however when I try to copy "Bank A" to "Bank B" there are many placement and routing issues. I've tried both "Match component by channel offsets" and "Match components by source designator". With the source designer option, Altium reports no errors, except the formats aren't copied correctly.This has become fairly frustrating, so any help or suggested work-arounds would be extremely welcome!I'm working in Altium 14.3.Thanks!
Changing defaults for polygon? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Korken
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2014, 09:18:58 am
content: Hi all,I just upgraded to Altium 15 and a strange thing started happening.When I draw a polygon and accept, the polygon becomes automatically shelved, and this is something I do not want.I googled like crazy to find where to set this, but to no avail. Under the "normal" defaults at Preferences -> PCB Editor -> Defaults -> Polygon there is no setting to turn of automatic shelving.Does anyone know how to fix this?I have logged a case with Altium, but the response time is not super.Thanks!

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 21, 2014, 08:12:23 pm
content: in version 14.3 they changed the polygon behavior. There is no "shelving" anymore. Now they are "poured" or "unpoured".What happened is that you drew a polygon and it became unpoured. You must set it to poured either in its properties or in the tools >polygon menu.Also it's possible you created a polygon on another layer that was hidden from the current view, so you can't see it.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2014, 08:27:56 pm
content: Quote from: marshallh on November 21, 2014, 08:12:23 pmI haven't installed it yet but I thought I read in version 15 they bought back the concept of shelved and unshelved polygons.

author: Korken
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 22, 2014, 11:35:55 am
content: I got an answer from Altium, apparently of you import your settings from 14.3 there is a bug that makes all polygones go Shelved.The fix is to (while the software is off) to find the ADVPCB.DFT file in 'C:\Users\xxxx\AppData\Roaming\Altium\Altium Designer {xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx}', and in this filelocate the the statement SHELVED=TRUE and change that to SHELVED=FLASEHopes this helps someone.Original discussion:http://forum.live.altium.com/#posts/207601
Empty pcb drawing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: J.Tax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2014, 09:01:06 pm
content: Hello,Currently I'm bissy with a small little board and i want to jse a couple of Texas Instruments parts.I have found the footprint from the TI website and download it( PCA9534 with TSSTOP). I followed the steps TI says to do. Deselect everything, and then select "Altium Desinger" and click export But when I'm done with Ultra Librarian and import the file to altium using the steps Ultra Librarian say I get a empty footprint file with no footprint in it at all but I get a schematic referenceI have also tried the follow tutorial;Does somebody knows what I'm doing wrong?I'm using Altium Winter Designer 09 with the Ultra Librarian link at TI. The part I'm trying to import is PCA9534 with TSSTOP.I hope somebody knows what I'm doing wrong.Greetings,J.Tax

author: J.Tax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 09, 2014, 06:33:23 am
content: Found the solution. I was doing something wrong with the importing.