PCB/EDA software list - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2011, 02:16:15 pm
content: Hi all,I was looking for PCB software to test and eventually use. This is the list of suppliers I ended up with. Please add what's missing and correct mistakes.Free/Open sourceCircuitMaker (Altium) -http://www.circuitmaker.com/DesignSpark (RS comp) -http://www.designspark.com/EasyEDA -http://easyEDA.com/editor(web based)FreePCB -http://www.freepcb.com/Fritzing -http://fritzing.org/gEDA -http://www.geda-project.org/KiCAD -http://kicad.org/Minimal Board Editor -http://www.suigyodo.com/online/e/index.htm(English, Japanese)Open Circuit Design -http://opencircuitdesign.com/Orcad DOS (old) -http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/OldDosOrcad/OrCAD Lite (Cadence) -http://www.orcad.com/products/orcad-lite-overviewPCB Elegance -http://www.pcbelegance.com/PCBWeb Designer -http://www.pcbweb.com/(Windows only)Protel (Altium) AutoTrax/EasyTrax (DOS Based) -http://www.altium.com/community/downloads/en/downloads_home.cfmTCI -http://b.urbani.free.fr/(French)ZenitPCB -http://www.zenitpcb.com/Index.htmlLimited free versionCADint -http://www.cadint.se/p_free.aspCadstar Express (Zuken) -http://www.zuken.com/products/cadstar/downloads/express.aspxCometCAD -http://www.cometcad.com/DipTrace -http://www.diptrace.com/Eagle (Autodesk) -http://www.autodesk.com/products/eagle/overviewLayo1 PCB -http://www.baas.nl/layo1pcb/uk/downloads.htmMcCAD -http://www.mccad.com/index.htmlOrCad (Cadence) -http://www.orcad.comOsmond PCB -http://www.osmondpcb.com/index.html(Only PCB)TopoR -http://eda.eremex.com/WinQcad -http://www.winqcad.com/CommercialAllegro (Cadence) -http://www.cadence.com/products/pcb/Pages/default.aspxAltium -http://www.altium.com/Ariadne -http://www.cad-ul.de/ariadne-eda.html(German)AutoTRAX DEX 2020 -http://www.dex2020.com,https://kov.com/Bartels AutoEngineer -http://www.bartels.de/bae/bae_en.htm(English, German)BoardMaker3 -http://www.tsien.info/index.php#Board Station (Mentor) -http://www.mentor.com/products/pcb-system-design/design-flows/boardstation/CADint -http://www.cadint.se/products.aspCadstar (Zuken) -http://www.zuken.com/products/cadstarCIRCAD -http://www.holophase.com/index.htmlCircuitCREATOR -http://www.circuitcreator.com/creator/index.htmCircuit Studio (Altium) -http://www.circuitstudio.com/Circuit Wizard, PCB wizard -http://www.new-wave-concepts.com/products.htmlCometCAD -http://www.cometcad.com/CSiEDA -http://www.csieda.co.jp/en/csieda/(Japanese, English)DipTrace -http://www.diptrace.com/Douglas CAD/CAM -http://www.douglas.com/software/pro/prolayout.htmlDreamcad -http://www13.ocn.ne.jp/~dreamnet/(Japanese)Eagle (Autodesk) -http://www.autodesk.com/products/eagle/overviewEasy-PC -http://www.numberone.com/easypc.aspEDWinXP -http://www.visionics.a.se/index.htmlExpedition Enterprise (Mentor) -http://www.mentor.com/products/pcb-system-design/design-flows/expedition-enterprise/ICADPCB (Fujitsu) -http://www.fujitsu.com/my/services/software/business/icad_thirdpage.htmlLayo1 PCB -http://www.baas.nl/layo1pcb/uk/index.htmlMcCAD -http://www.mccad.com/index.htmlOrCAD (Cadence) -http://www.orcad.com/Osmond PCB -http://www.osmondpcb.com/index.html(Only PCB)Pads (Mentor) -http://www.mentor.com/products/pcb-system-design/design-flows/pads/Pantheon PCB software (Intercept) -http://www.intercept.com/products/pantheon-pcb-designPollEx PCB/Polliwog -http://www.polliwogeda.com/xe_new/Proteus PCB Design -http://www.labcenter.com/products/pcb_overview.cfmPulsonix -http://pulsonix.com/index.aspQuadcept -https://www.quadcept.com/en/index.htmlRimu Schematics/PCB -http://www.hutson.co.nz/Scooter PCB -http://www.scooter-pcb.de/scooter-pcb/index.html(German)Sprint-Layout -http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/sprint-layout.htmlSuperCAD/SuperPCB -http://www.mentala.com/products.htmTarget 3001 -http://www.ibfriedrich.com/(English, German, French)TINA (DesignSoft) -http://www.tina.comTopoR -http://eda.eremex.com/Ultiboard (National Instruments) -http://www.ni.com/ultiboard/Upverter -https://upverter.com/(free for open source projects)Vutrax -http://www.vutrax.co.uk/index.htmWinCircuit -http://alain.michel13.free.fr/Anglais.htmlWinQcad -http://www.winqcad.com/XL designer (Seetrax) -http://www.xldesigner.com/Zuken -http://www.zuken.com/enFree SW for PCB order service (no gerber files export)ECAD Pro -http://www.pcbdesignandfab.com/(gerber files $25/board)ExpressPCB -http://www.expresspcb.com/Pad 2 Pad -http://www.pad2pad.comPCB123 -http://www.sunstone.com/PCB123-CAD-Software.aspx(gerber files $100/board)PCB Artist -http://www.4pcb.com/free-pcb-layout-software/Target 3001 (PCB Pool edition) -http://www.pcb-pool.com/ppuk/service_downloads.html(gerber with proto)Schematic CapturesPlan -http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/splan.htmlTinyCAD -http://sourceforge.net/apps/mediawiki/tinycad/index.php?title=TinyCADXCircuit -http://opencircuitdesign.com/xcircuit/Gerber tools3D Gerber Viewer (online) -http://mayhewlabs.com/3dpcbCircuit people online Gerber viewer -http://circuitpeople.com/DFM Now! -http://www.numericalinnovations.com/pages/dfm-now-free-gerber-viewerGCPrevue (Graphicode) -http://www.graphicode.com/Download_GC-Prevue_and_Free_TrialsGerberLogix -http://www.easylogix.de/products_detail.php?prog_id=1gerbv -http://gerbv.sourceforge.net/McCAD -http://www.mccad.com/FREE_GerberViewer.htmlOnline Gerber-Viewer -http://www.gerber-viewer.com/Tracespace -http://viewer.tracespace.io/(online viewer)ViewMate -http://www.pentalogix.com/viewmate.php(Free & Commercial versions)Viewplot -http://www.viewplot.com/ZofzPCB 3D Gerber Viewer -http://www.zofzpcb.com/PCB panelizingCAM 350 -http://www.downstreamtech.com/CAM350XL.htmlFAB 3000 -http://www.numericalinnovations.com/fab3000.htmlStripboard/Veroboard layout toolsDIY Layout Creator -http://diy-fever.com/software/LochMaster -http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/lochmaster.htmlStripboard Designer -http://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Multimedia_and_Graphics/Misc__Graphics_Tools/StripBoard_Designer.htmlStripboard Magic -http://www.marlwifi.org.nz/other/stripboard-magicStripes -http://sites.google.com/site/libby8dev/stripesVeeCAD -http://veecad.com/VeroCAD -http://xtronic.org/download/verocad-3-veroboard/VeroDes -http://www.heyrick.co.uk/software/verodes/Simulation - Free5Spice -http://www.5spice.com/(not free for commercial use)Cider -http://embedded.eecs.berkeley.edu/pubs/downloads/cider/index.htmCircuitLab.com -https://www.circuitlab.com/(Online only)Circuit Simulator Applet -http://www.falstad.com/circuit/(iPad/iPhone version available, iCircuit - NOT FREE)Logisim -http://ozark.hendrix.edu/~burch/logisim/LTpsiceIV (Linear Technology) -http://www.linear.com/designtools/software/Mindi (Microchip) -http://www.microchip.com/stellent/idcplg?IdcService=SS_GET_PAGE&nodeId=1406&dDocName=en537206Ngspice -http://ngspice.sourceforge.net/screens.htmlQucs -http://qucs.sourceforge.net/SimOne -http://eda.eremex.com/(limited)Systemvision -https://www.systemvision.com/(cloud)TINA-TI (Texas Instruments version) -http://www.ti.com/tool/tina-tiXSPICE -http://users.ece.gatech.edu/~mrichard/Xspice/Simulation - CommercialAdvanced Design System, ADS (Keysight) -http://www.keysight.com/en/pc-1297113/advanced-design-system-ads?nid=-34346.0&cc=US&lc=engAIM Spice -http://www.aimspice.com/B2 Spice (Beige Bag) -http://www.beigebag.com/Circuit Wizard -http://www.new-wave-concepts.com/products.htmlEveryCircuit -http://everycircuit.com/(online or app. limited free usage available)ICAP/4, etc.. -http://www.intusoft.com/default.htm(Limited Free version available)Micro Cap -http://www.spectrum-soft.com/index.shtm(Limited Free version available)NI Multisim (National Instruments) -http://www.ni.com/multisim/NL5 Circuit Simulator -http://nl5.sidelinesoft.com/PartSim -http://www.partsim.com/(online)Plecs -http://www.plexim.com/PSpice (Cadence) -http://www.cadence.com/products/orcad/pspice_simulation/pages/default.aspx(Limited Free version available)SIMetrix -http://www.simetrix.co.uk/(demo available)Super Spice (Anasoft) -http://www.anasoft.co.uk/(Limited Free version available)TINA -http://www.tina.com/English/tina/start.phpTopSpice -http://penzar.com/topspice/topspice.htm(Limited Free version available)Via Designer -http://www.viadesigner.com/WinSpice -http://www.winspice.com/OtherOpenboardview, PCB viewer -http://openboardview.org/Front panel: Frontdesigner -http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/frontdesigner.htmlFront panel: Front Panel Express -http://www.frontpanelexpress.com/index.htmlCAD: DraftSight -http://www.3ds.com/products/draftsight/overview/CAD: Free CAD -http://sourceforge.net/projects/free-cad/VLSI Design:http://www.staticfreesoft.com/index.html

author: ngkee22
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2011, 04:29:02 pm
content: There was a really simple Pspice program I used in college, but I can't remember the name or the website at the moment. I will look it up to add to your free list. It was simple and worked well.I was also told about a program called b2spice,http://www.beigebag.com. I believe there is a free version of it too. A friend of mine likes this one, I think the university he went to recommended it.

author: mikeselectricstuff
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2011, 05:07:35 pm
content: Addition to "Free SW for PCB order service (no gerber files export)"PCB-Pool offer a free package "Target 3001" - you get gerbers if you order protoshttp://www.pcb-pool.com/ppuk/service_downloads.html

author: Bored@Work
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2011, 06:56:04 pm
content: Quote from: ngkee22 on June 07, 2011, 04:29:02 pmMaybe PSpice?Today with Cadence, under their OrCAD brand (once a separate company)http://www.cadence.com/products/orcad/pspice_simulation/pages/default.aspxIn general there is really no shortage of, typically commercial, SPICE versions.A quick google revealshttp://www.aimspice.com/http://www.winspice.com/http://penzar.com/topspice/topspice.htmhttp://www.kemet.com/kemet/web/homepage/kechome.nsf/weben/kemsofthttp://users.ece.gatech.edu/~mrichard/Xspice/http://www.spectrum-soft.com/demo.shtmhttp://embedded.eecs.berkeley.edu/pubs/downloads/cider/index.htmhttp://www.anasoft.co.uk/http://www.intusoft.com/icap.htm#isspice4http://www.ni.com/multisim/And that is maybe just 1/10th of what is available.

author: ngkee22
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2011, 07:14:44 pm
content: It was named PSpice. I thought it was now part of Cadence, but I couldn't remember for sure.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2011, 01:07:44 am
content: I updated the list with the suggestions.I wasn't looking for simulation SW when compiling the list so therefore it isn't that many there.And if someone have any better head line for the "Free SW for PCB order service (no gerber files export)" it would be great! I don't know what that type of business is called. (I'm not native English speaker, and getting worse by living in Asia for long time..)

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 08, 2011, 03:36:55 am
content: Awesome list!I've made it a sticky topic, so will always be at the top of the list.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 08, 2011, 10:35:54 pm
content: Mindi and Logisim to be added to free simulators.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2011, 02:27:52 pm
content: Great! Added.Quote from: Alex on June 08, 2011, 10:35:54 pm

author: Fox
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2011, 11:38:54 pm
content: Hi,impressive List.Here another two commercial Programms i know, limited Demoverions available:Ariadnehttp://www.cad-ul.deBartels AutoEngineerhttp://www.bartels.de

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2011, 04:17:32 am
content: Added;Quote from: Fox on June 09, 2011, 11:38:54 pmI also added some more. It's amazing how many there are available! And all of them are "the easiest", ''world best", "most cost effective", "fastest to market", etc., etc. Hard to believe there is a real market for all of them..

author: LEECH666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2011, 01:16:29 pm
content: Nice list. I just wanted to tell you guys that I can give some basic to semi-advanced help regarding general usage of Zuken Cadstar in case anyone wants to use it.Cheers from Germany,Florian

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2011, 04:22:54 am
content: I regularly use Rimu Schematic/PCB. These are low cost commercial packages with demos available.http://www.hutson.co.nz/The advantage is that Rimu PCB has excellent polygon and shape support so if you are doing allot of precise positioning of weird copper areas such as microstrip shapes, its good for that. In addition if you have a really unusual PCB pattern you can write a PCB file with precise points in Protel Autotrax/Tango language using a text editor and import it directly.I have found few packages with this flexibility. Most now store PCB files in binary format so you can't write your own or are undocumented.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2011, 04:48:57 am
content: AddedAnd some more.. How many are there?!? never ends

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2011, 11:22:39 pm
content: not really general PCB but there is VeeCAD but its targeted at stripboard layout onlyhttp://veecad.com/

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2011, 11:43:34 pm
content: As far as the Spice based simulators go I would add QUC'squcs.sourceforge.netQuc's is my current fav of the free ones but can be a bit slow. If you expand your list to RF linear/harmonic simulators it will explode.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2011, 02:31:11 am
content: Added both. I put the VeeCAD under a new header.

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2011, 08:48:06 pm
content: You could add Lochmaster as another Stripboard/Veroboard packagehttp://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/lochmaster.html

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2011, 09:06:35 pm
content: And a few more Stripboard/Veroboard packagesStripeshttp://sites.google.com/site/libby8dev/stripesVeroDeshttp://www.heyrick.co.uk/software/verodes/Stripboard Magichttp://www.marlwifi.org.nz/other/stripboard-magicDIY Layout Creatorhttp://diy-fever.com/software/Stripboard Designerhttp://www.freedownloadscenter.com/Multimedia_and_Graphics/Misc__Graphics_Tools/StripBoard_Designer.htmlVeroCADhttp://xtronic.org/download/verocad-3-veroboard/

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 29, 2011, 09:18:42 pm
content: I think maybe you should also add pcb panelizing software to the list as quite a few of us submit whole panels rather than individual boards. The two I am familiar with areCAM 350 (expensive)http://www.downstreamtech.com/CAM350XL.htmlFAB 3000http://www.numericalinnovations.com/fab3000.html

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2011, 01:49:29 pm
content: I think GCPrevue from Graphicodehttp://www.graphicode.com/Download_GC-Prevue_and_Free_Trialswould be a good addition. It's free and I use it to verify my gerbers and drill data independently from my CAD software. I find it a good 'sanity' check!Good to see Bartels on the list, I suspect I'm the only one here using it!

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2011, 08:07:28 pm
content: Gerber Viewers are a good addition.I use Viewplothttp://www.viewplot.com/Also to the Spice simulators, I also use 5Spicehttp://www.5spice.com/

author: LEECH666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 05, 2011, 01:32:21 pm
content: I use GC-Prevue, gerbv and GerberLogix.gerbvhttp://gerbv.sourceforge.net/GerberLogixhttp://www.easylogix.de/products_detail.php?prog_id=1All of them are more or less "free" for personal use.Cheers,Florian

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 06, 2011, 04:47:52 am
content: Finally I got some time over..Added all the suggestions under different headlines.I haven't the time to check all links so please help out with that.

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 10, 2011, 02:52:19 pm
content: A very useful tool for selecting commercially available resistors for a given calculated value is Resistor CAD. There was a DOS version of similar functionality but this one has a GUI. It also provides the error for the various combinations.I managed to find it here:http://www.circuitsonline.net/download/view/90

author: jahonen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 10, 2011, 03:01:26 pm
content: Quote from: Alex on July 10, 2011, 02:52:19 pmFor a bit more functionality (constraints on values) and customizable resistor value sets via text files,Resistor Optimizeris also an option.Regards,Janne

author: Unknown
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 10, 2011, 03:16:44 pm
content: Thats great Janne. It would be useful if it allowed you to select more than one series at the same time, say E24 and E96. However, one could create a custom resistor list and load that as a workaround. It's great that you can select specific values within the same series.

author: RichardSim
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 15, 2011, 07:18:20 am
content: I recently came across the PCB Matrix LP Calculator - you enter the part type, pin count, and dimensions from the datasheet for a part, and it gives you back a IPC-7351B pcb footprint. It takes all the guessing and math out of it, and makes it *damn* quick to make footprints for new parts (my most hated part of a project).PCB Matrix was absorbed into Mentor Graphics recently and the product stopped being available for free - but if you Google for "PCBM_LP_Calculator_V2010.zip" you can still find the last free version available for download in a number of places. I just tried uploading it to oldversion.com, so hopefully it'll appear there in the next couple of days.

author: RichardSim
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 16, 2011, 05:34:59 am
content: Here we go, saved for the ages (hopefully):http://www.oldversion.com/download-PCB+Matrix+LP+Calculator-2010.00.00.html*edit 2021-11-16: It looks like oldversion has updated their site at some point in the last 10 years(!!), but the new URL is:http://www.oldversion.com/windows/pcb-matrix-lp-calculator-2010-00-00

author: gregariz
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 18, 2011, 05:57:09 pm
content: Here's two more free packages (albeit in french)SDS (schematic capture)http://b.urbani.free.fr/pagesds/sds.htmandTCI (pcb layout)http://b.urbani.free.fr/pagetci/tci.htm

author: SoftwareSamurai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2011, 12:59:21 am
content: Speaking of Gerber viewers...PentaLogix (http://www.pentalogix.com/) offers "ViewMate" in three flavors: free, $100 USD, and $500 USD. The free one not only reads Gerbers but also Excellon (DRL) files automatically. (As opposed to GerberLogix which I can't seem to get to read a DRL file correctly for the life of me!)

author: SoftwareSamurai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2011, 01:14:41 pm
content: While I'm at it...I highly recommend "Saturn PCB Toolkit" by Saturn PCB Design (http://www.saturnpcb.com/) This free utility gives you lots of different calculations for many PCB design details. (I personally love the "Via Properties" tab!)

author: EasyLogix
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 27, 2011, 01:10:55 pm
content: Hey SoftwareSamurai,we just released a new Version of GerberLogix (V2.5).Now there is a new auto format recognition for Excellon files (Drills), which tries to find out which number-format (3.3 / 2.4 / ...) and which unit (MM / Inch) is used in the file. This works in most cases, if there is at least one gerber file already read in (e.g. one Copper/Paste/Mask layer).Best Regards,EasyLogix Team

author: SoftwareSamurai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 28, 2011, 01:05:39 pm
content: Quote from: EasyLogix on October 27, 2011, 01:10:55 pmWell hot dog! It works great now! Okay, GerberLogix is my favorite again!

author: LEECH666
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2011, 11:53:36 am
content: I never had any troubles with the older 2.4 version of GerberLogix. Sure setting up the drill files is (was) a bit cumbersome but not that problematic if you only have 2 drill files (PTH / NPTH) and know exactly what format has been used to generate the files.It's a nice free tool. And even the comerical license doesn't seem to be that expensive.Greetings from Germany,Florian

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 03, 2011, 12:24:49 pm
content: I've added this list to the EEVblog Wiki:http://www.eevblog.com/wiki/index.php?title=PCB_CAD_programsDave.

author: ChrisKiwi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2011, 02:14:00 am
content: Quote from: elCap on June 07, 2011, 02:16:15 pmThat was a great list, thank you for the effort!I do have one more to add thoughTinyCADhttp://sourceforge.net/apps/mediawiki/tinycad/index.php?title=TinyCAD... Which I have now added to the wiki ...

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 05, 2011, 05:26:01 pm
content: Hi,Here's a couple of legendary DOS based ones I use to use bywww.wintek.comSmartWorkHiWire IIHowever, I do believe Wintek just recently pulled the products from their website.Ian.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2011, 11:53:25 am
content: Quote from: EEVblog on November 03, 2011, 12:24:49 pmCool!. And great with a Wiki page!Quote from: ChrisKiwi on November 05, 2011, 02:14:00 amGreat. Actually I wasn't looking for any schematic-capture-only SW when compiling the list, but now it's time to add a section for it. I will do that when I have some time over.

author: Mr J
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 07, 2011, 03:59:31 am
content: does anyone know a good simple PCB editor? We are currently using circuitmaker / traxmaker 2000 and love it but it's been discontinued for some time, it's the only thing bad about it. Eagle, Multisim is way to complex for what we need. All we need is up to double layer and can export in gerber.

author: ChrisKiwi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2011, 11:15:30 am
content: Quote from: Mr J on November 07, 2011, 03:59:31 amI've scene good results obtained with KiCAD

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 08, 2011, 11:26:36 am
content: KiCAD will never be enough praised.Go for it!

author: amspire
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2011, 12:09:01 pm
content: If anyone want to try the latest KiCad build, a link to download the files is in this post:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/index.php?topic=5497.0The latest stable release is Build 3044 (2011-07-08) and this has to be installed first, but I have started compiling some of the daily builds.There are changes. Brand new icons throughout. New PCB calculator, and new microwave tools in the PCB package - create specified track length, create specified gap, create specified stub, create a stub arc, create a polynomial shape.If you are interested, this is a development build. I have used the Schematic package of this build, but not the other packages yet.If you have to revert, it is just a matter of putting the old files back (keep a copy, or just reinstall).Richard.

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 01:47:04 am
content: I would also add OrCAD SDT 386+ and OrCAD PCB 386+ both for DOS but many users are running this venerable product in WinXP (No hope for Win7 except with the use of VMWare (also Free). Windows video drivers, software and manuals can be found:Yahoo! Groups DOS OrCAD Grouphttp://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/OldDosOrcad/Concerning free Spice. There is a huge group on Yahoo! groups for LTSpice which is available as a free download from Linear Technologywww.linear.comI believe that one of the best bargains in the paid for software would have to be theSprint-Layout PCB and SPlan-7.0 Schematic Capture programs. Currently at 39.90 Euro ($52.58 USD at current exchange rates) for each program is is quite a bargain for a 4 layer PCB layout package.Definitely worth a look.Full function demos available (but no save or print)http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/sprint-layout.htmlhttp://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/splan.htmlThey also have the coolest panel and graphics designer program called FrontDesigner 3.0I have used this and it works really well for laying out dials and knobs. A lot easier than AutoCAD orstandard non application targeted CAD package.http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/frontdesigner.htmlI have to add the usual disclaimer: I have no affiliation with Abacom I just like their products.Sam

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 03:37:44 am
content: I added a new subject, Schematic Capture. I put TinyCAD and sPlan under there. I guess there is more available so please reply if you know.Then I added Other for other useful sw. So far it's only two front panel sw there.For OrCad DOS. Do you know where it officially can be downloaded from? I will added it to the list when I know.The other (LTspice and Sprint Layout) are already in the list.

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 03:49:13 am
content: Sorry I missed the ones that were listed. Quite a large list to spin through.You can find the Old DOS OrCAD in the Yahoo Group files section. You have to sign up to the group to get to the files/manuals/drivers etc.This link should get you to the group.http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/OldDosOrcad/SamSam

author: dizzz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 08, 2012, 10:45:51 am
content: TopoR(TopologicalRouter) is to be added toLimited free version(up to 8 signal layers and 125 nets) andCommerciallists.SimOne(electronic circuit simulator) shoud be added toLimited free version(commercial version is due to be released during)Both are products ofEremex Co Ltd

author: miranday
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 06:44:22 pm
content: Gerber Tools: DFM Now!www.dfmnow.comThis tool also allows its users to request PCB Quotes from the PCB Manufacturer directly. It's built right inside the tool!

author: Raul_77
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 24, 2012, 01:25:56 am
content: Lacks SIMetrix, perhaps the more intuitive circuit simulator. SIMetrix Intro, a free versión:http://www.simetrix.co.uk/http://www.simetrix.co.uk/site/demo.html

author: georged
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 24, 2012, 03:33:52 pm
content: gerber tools:online gerber viewer :http://www.gerber-viewer.com/another online gerber viewer:http://circuitpeople.com/McCAD Gerber Viewer:http://www.mccad.com/FREE_GerberViewer.html3d gerber viewer:http://mayhewlabs.com/3dpcbGerber Viewer From Altium:http://www.daycounter.com/Downloads/camtasticdxpviewer.exehope it helps.pcb assembly quotes

author: BMac
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 28, 2013, 11:18:50 pm
content: Check out this SW "DEX 2020" atwww.kov.com. I think it shows some promise as a good schematic and PCB layout tool.BMac

author: Josephine85
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2013, 07:33:15 pm
content: I really like Cadsofts EGALE so far, especially teir training tutorials section on their homepage:http://www.cadsoftusa.com/training/

author: xygor
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2013, 09:25:43 pm
content: Add 'nl5' to the simulators list.http://nl5.sidelinesoft.com/Edit:Also PLECShttp://www.plexim.com/

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2013, 02:18:22 am
content: List updated.

author: lgbeno
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2013, 04:07:52 am
content: There's also ViaDesigner available at ViaDesigner.com

author: Frank3point14
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 05:19:15 am
content: Hello...Really Great List...You could also check out thishttp://actpcb.com/pcb-calculatorThankss

author: GeoffS
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 15, 2013, 07:17:42 am
content: Quote from: Frank3point14 on September 15, 2013, 05:19:15 amLink doesn't exist

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2013, 02:53:04 pm
content: Worked for me.

author: Claudia
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 23, 2013, 03:56:12 am
content: Could anyone suggest a simple software to import eagle files and export it into gerbers correctly?

author: aflex
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2014, 06:41:20 am
content: There is lots of software in the market for PCB. But I am giving you a list of top used PCB Software’s and PCB industry sites list.1.http://www.zenitpcb.com/2.http://www.freepcb.com/3.http://www.osmondpcb.com/4.http://www.electroschematics.com/832/expresspcb-download/5.http://www.a-flex.com/printed-circuit-board-manufacturing.html6.http://www.kicad-pcb.org/display/KICAD/KiCad+EDA+Software+Suite7.http://www.gpleda.org/8.http://fritzing.org/home/9.http://www.rs-online.com/designspark/electronics/eng/page/designspark-pcb-home-pageI think they will help you in building a good list of PCB softwares.

author: Marmes
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 30, 2014, 07:18:54 pm
content: I opened a thread herehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/eda/wich-pcb-software-to-choose/msg413975/, I hope you make some considerations when choosing wich software to buy, and the reasons you are based to make the decision of buying it. Hope this leads us somewhere.Cheers!

author: dillon
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 07:08:19 am
content: My Web based EDAhttp://easyeda.com/It is easy but good enough for 3000 Pads PCB.Dillon

author: deephaven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 11:27:09 am
content: Quote from: dillon on April 24, 2014, 07:08:19 amRemove the period from the end of the URL you gave or people will get "access denied":i.e.http://easyeda.com/editor

author: blackice504
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2014, 03:25:20 pm
content: Nice software list, i was happy to see some of the software i use on there, and some other ones i have not herd of that i could use. Thanks guys.

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2014, 12:21:47 am
content: Another free Gerber tool:ViewMatehttp://www.pentalogix.com/viewmate.php-Angel

author: salfter
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2014, 02:37:52 am
content: I've knocked out a few designs so far with Upverter:https://upverter.com/It's schematic capture and PCB design that runs in your web browser. Import/export between their system and desktop EDA software is very much a work in progress, but you can export gerbers to get boards made and schematics in PNG format. (I think there are some other supported file formats for assembly, but I've done my own assembly so far.)Ordinarily they'd charge for access, but you can get a free account for open-hardware projects (they're publicly viewable).

author: Thor-Arne
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 12:03:10 am
content: Found this one in a add on the first page.PCBWeb Designer -http://www.pcbweb.com/QuoteWindows version only.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2014, 03:59:54 am
content: Quote from: Thor-Arne on September 26, 2014, 12:03:10 amI just spotted that one today as well! It's added to the list and so is Upverter.

author: Vasi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 04:33:29 am
content: Mindi Microchip simulator no longer available...

author: malder
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 05, 2014, 09:47:17 pm
content: I have to buy an EDA package soon for work, and this forum has been invaluable... so I thought I'd better contribute.I found Quadcept last week:https://www.quadcept.com/en/It is a Japanese program and I didn't have high expectations, but I am really impressed.It seems like a really good deal -Am I missing something here?It doesn't really have libraries but that's OK, everybody builds their own anyway.And there seems to be no (English speaking) community around it - but using the program is no problem.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2014, 10:34:47 pm
content: Quote from: malder on November 05, 2014, 09:47:17 pmThe pricing is actually not cheap. You need both the Schematic & PCB package which will set you back $440 + $1100 = US$1540. This is an annual price (ie you need to pay it every 12 months).I think you would be better off looking at DipTrace (www.diptrace.com) or Proteus (www.labcenter.com). Both of these are excellent programs for the money.

author: SirNick
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 08, 2014, 05:03:18 am
content: I really like Robot Room's Copper Connection.http://www.robotroom.com/CopperConnection/It supports Gerber export, it will read ExpressPCB files to ween you off the proprietary fab habit, it's cheap, and the interface is easy to use. Practically non-existent parts library, but I always make my own footprints anyway. It's Windows only (.NET), obviously a work-in-progress, and the feature set doesn't compete with any of the big CAD packages, but for hobby projects it's absolutely wonderful. You won't run into board size or pad limits at least.No relation here, nothing to sell. I like it and want to see it succeed, that's all.

author: psysc0rpi0n
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 30, 2014, 08:59:04 am
content: Hello everyone.I would like to do a question about some of the software listed.I'm a Linux user so I'm looking for software that can perform, roughly, the same tasks as Proteus in Windows. Is KiCAD capable of it or what software can replace Proteus???

author: Iliya
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2015, 10:01:34 am
content: There is a change to your list. There now is the free version of AutoTRAX DEX. This is the non-commercial (not for profit) version. It is the identical version as the commercial version. There is only one binary program. The only restriction is that it must be used for non-commercial projects. There is no demo program; there’s no need!You do not need to register for the free software.It does not have a time limit.There is no limit to the number or size of sheets.There are no layer limits or PCB size limits.There are no adverts for PCB board manufacturers.The BOM does not ‘guide’ you to a major component distributor.You can get it fromhttp://kov.com/

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2015, 10:56:37 am
content: Quote from: psysc0rpi0n on December 30, 2014, 08:59:04 amKiCAD does not even come close to Proteus.I prefer Proteus to DipTrace, but DipTrace is less expensive so why not give their demo a try.

author: Davy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2015, 05:49:43 pm
content: I too use Proteus by Labcenter.At the moment I use an old version and was thinking of upgrading to version 8, I noted not a mention on the list.It never seems to get a mention in reviews, write-ups or in forums, I can only think the reason for this is the ODB++ Manufacturing is only available in the level 2 or higher version, level 2 costing £595.I did try many others and just couldn't get to like any, I even tried Design Spark by RS, I think that was a Number 1 systems spin off. Many trial and free versions have 'laughable' limitations or the bigger the pcb size the bigger the price.Software companies must make their profits too, would I be right in thinking the prices are steep because they don't exactly sell like 'groceries'? I noted the most expensive programs don't advertise their prices.... you have to ask for them and a shock often ensues.I also agree with DereG Kicad is nowhere near as good as Proteus, the version I had was buggy as many a free ones are I would say.Don't get me wrong I'm not after a free dinner I won't mind paying a couple of hundred pounds but not several hundred pounds. Another gripe I wonder how many people actually use 3D viewing for me it's just a gimmick.Dave

author: RF-Tech
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2015, 09:08:16 pm
content: Here is a free package for schematic/pcb/asic - a friend of mine mentioned it to me, he's been using it for his hobby stuff.http://www.staticfreesoft.com/index.html-S

author: feetwet
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 27, 2015, 07:55:05 pm
content: I know this is a big question to ask, so I apologize in advance. I am just an electronics hobbyist and I want to learn PCB design, so that I can send out my own board to be manufactured. I would like to get the most bang for the buck. I want to invest in a software package that has plenty of room to grow and good learning resources. I only need a single license. After looking at the website for a lot of the PCD Design Tools out their it gotten so confusing regarding how the licenses works to make a decision. I need a PCB designer that has Layout, Schematic, Auto Routing and possibly other items I don't know yet. I plan on sending my boards out to a manufacture to be built, but I want to make sure I have all the functionality to make professional looking boards. It helps if there is a strong resource community online to help answer questions to easy the learning curve. I have listened to Dave and Chris for years. I think Dave likes Altium and Chris likes Kicad. I have also heard of Eagle Cad. How do you select the best PCD Design Tool for a single user that will provide me all the functionality to build what I hope someday will be robust and complex design boards that I can send to a manufacture to be built. Can it be done for around $1000.00. Any advice would greatly be appreciated.Thanks in advance,Feetwet

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2015, 10:10:25 pm
content: Quote from: feetwet on May 27, 2015, 07:55:05 pmTake a look at the demo versions of DipTrace (www.diptrace.com) & Proteus (www.labcenter.com), then decide (perhaps) on one of their pin limited versions as these are pretty cheap. You can upgrade at anytime by paying the difference between what you have & the next level up.There are educational deals too if you are studying.By all means also take a look at KiCAD as it is free, but my preference would be one of the packages mentioned above.I use Altium as well for work ................ but it costs close to $10K .......... and you can do 90% of what Altium offers for under $1K with either Diptrace or Proteus.

author: feetwet
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 28, 2015, 12:29:26 am
content: Thank DerekG for your feedback. I have watched both set of tutorials regarding both programs. I believe that DipTrace is the one I am leaning towards: simple because they seem to support Mac OS. I find that Mac software tends to be more stable than PC software most of the times. Although, sometimes I find Mac software tends limit functionality. Always a tradeoff. Thanks again for the great advice.Feetwet

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 28, 2015, 09:15:38 am
content: Quote from: feetwet on May 28, 2015, 12:29:26 amYes, it is one of the easier pcb programs to learn. It is relatively straight forward & relatively powerful.QuoteI'm a Windows user but would tend to agree with your sum up.Remember there will be a major release of DipTrace within the next 3 months. It is expected to be ver 3.x ....... so if you can hold off your purchase until then, that would save you a few dollars.

author: timofonic
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 27, 2015, 04:11:13 pm
content: Quote from: MikeKeens on July 27, 2015, 03:22:40 pmCould you please share at least some of them? Why do you use Cadstar?

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2015, 04:53:15 am
content: I just updated the list with the latest software and cleaned it up a bit.As always, please check list for errors.

author: Merlysys
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 17, 2015, 01:30:09 am
content: Which to go with for a person who haven't used one of these programs for 30 yrs? (yes there were programs 30 yrs ago!)For simple circuit with <20 components, PCB to have traces on both sides, no fancy layers/vias etc.Free/Open sourceCircuit Maker (Altium) -http://www.circuitmaker.com/DesignSpark (RS comp) -http://www.designspark.com/EasyEDA -http://easyEDA.com/editor(web based)FreePCB -http://www.freepcb.com/Fritzing -http://fritzing.org/gEDA -http://www.geda-project.org/KiCAD -http://www.kicad-pcb.org/display/KICAD/KiCad+EDA+Software+SuiteMinimal Board Editor -http://www.suigyodo.com/online/e/index.htm(English, Japanese)Open Circuit Design -http://opencircuitdesign.com/Orcad DOS (old) -http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/OldDosOrcad/PCB Elegance -http://www.pcbelegance.com/PCBWeb Designer -http://www.pcbweb.com/(Windows only)Protel (Altium) AutoTrax/EasyTrax (DOS Based) -http://www.altium.com/community/downloads/en/downloads_home.cfmTCI -http://b.urbani.free.fr/(French)ZenitPCB -http://www.zenitpcb.com/Index.html

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 29, 2015, 01:03:31 am
content: Abacom's SprintLayout6.0 hands down, easy to learn and use has many really useful features. Inexpensive. Good support.Probably the easiest PCB CAD software I have ever used and I have tried nearly all of them. You can download a demo that does everything but save for free.I have tried the free ones but this one is close to free and you can make industry standard 274-X files as well as print for toner transfer.I think it is the best value out there for a easy to use "Just Draw It" program.SamSee it here:http://www.abacom-online.de/uk/html/sprint-layout.html

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 29, 2015, 06:52:10 pm
content: Quote from: scopeman on October 29, 2015, 01:03:31 amThank you for this hint. It is quite popular in the amateur radio community and more than once I got such a pcb layout file ...Cheershammy

author: CatalinaWOW
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2016, 07:43:55 pm
content: Perhaps Dave or one of the moderators could convert this list into some sort of poll. I know that many of the items on the list are less popular, while programs like KiCad, Eagle, Altium and Diptrace are widely used and appreciated. I have tried a couple of dozen of the programs on the list over the years and know that sorting out the best is a tough job. Seeing what the users of this forum think would rapidly winnow the selections.The poll I envision would have rating factors like: User interface, interchange capability, library size, library quality, board size, #layers, projected stability, price, extendability, documentation.While things like user interface are very subjective, if a high percentage of people rate something high in this are it means something.There would still be confusion. As examples, the two programs I use the most are DEX 2020 and Eagle. Eagle has few limits on size and layers if you pay the full license, so might rate high in that category. But it also has a free version. Might rate high there too, but it can't get both scores at once.Similar confusion would occur on the library scores. Since DEX imported the Eagle library they both have essentially the same library size, and it is huge. But I would rate the overall quality of the library as low. Many parts are poorly labeled, have low quality circuit symbols, and have footprint errors. The quality of the library for DEX is even lower for two reasons. First the import process had errors. Second, a feature of DEX that I like is 3D board visualization. But this requires 3D models of the parts, and as far as I can tell none of the imported parts have 3D models. A surprisingly small number of the parts submitted by users in DEX have these models either. DEX would also score low in projected stability. It is a one man show, and he has demonstrated the capability to get fed up. No telling when development will stop cold because of anger, illness or old age.

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2016, 02:24:32 pm
content: Quote from: Davy on February 18, 2015, 05:49:43 pmI am still struggling in making a decision between Proteus and Diptrace - Eagle seems a little quirky and has odd constraints so I've decided against them.I'm a Brit so would like to support my local supplier (Proteus) but they seem very expensive for the hobby individual or else very constricted. The fact that you need to pay £595 + VAT = £750 if you want to have ground planes with cut-outs seems a major negative. I would like the option of say laying out sections of co-planar transmission lines for example and presumably the lower cost Proteus options can't do that? Can DipTrace?I actually e-mailed Proteus and they didn't know what a co-planar transmission line was!

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 28, 2016, 03:12:31 pm
content: Quote from: jpb on February 28, 2016, 02:24:32 pmAsk for "coplanar waveguide" or "CPW".

author: jpb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2016, 04:16:49 pm
content: Quote from: hammy on February 28, 2016, 03:12:31 pmYou're right, of course, and I probably did use the correct term when I emailed - but in any case, when it comes to circuit boards and integrated circuits transmission lines and waveguides are the same thing - at least they were when I was doing this for a living about 30 years ago!The main point though is that PCB software vendors seem to pick completely arbitrary things to restrict when selling cheaper versions. Number of pins seems sensible and proportionate - board size (as in Eagle) and no cut-outs in power planes seems to me to just be annoying!

author: vzoole
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 29, 2016, 02:47:57 pm
content: Intercept - Pantheon PCB layouthttp://www.intercept.com/

author: noras
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 14, 2016, 07:49:33 am
content: DesignSpark is pretty horrible. The library structure is unfathomable and it’s difficult to construct your own completely independent of the RS agenda of directing you toward their own products. That would be fine if all RS components were modelled but most (that I need) aren’t. There are extensive tutorials but intuitive apps don’t require tutorials. It’s not intuitive, plus the talk-over is a ghastly estuary accent which grates – ‘model’ for instance pronounced ‘modo-oww’, aghhhh. The help files don’t match the program and it’s difficult or impossible to track down what many of the click boxes mean. And it’s flaky, frequent crashes.The best for me in PCB design is Eagle Cadsoft, but there is not simulation & too much libraries. Circuit Wizard is very intuitive to check simple problems in simulation. Proteus is excellent. I like WinQcad of MicroCad, but not so practical as Circuit Wizard, PCB Wizard & Live wire. Multisim is very good. I´ve never used Altium Designer. I think that each one of us have to start walking the first step trying at less one of these PCB software and then we will know with wich one of them we fell ok according our requeriments.

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 14, 2016, 08:20:11 am
content: Quote from: vzoole on March 29, 2016, 02:47:57 pmAdded

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2016, 11:13:54 pm
content: Quote from: Davy on February 18, 2015, 05:49:43 pmI was just plowing around on old threads and saw this. I use Proteus too. I've used Eagle (cumbersome), the original CircuitMaker (before Altium bought it) and a few others.Proteus is not without its issues ( what EDA is?) but it just does everything well. You have to go with Level two and advanced simulation in my opinion which cost a few bucks but you get a really good simulator plus a few other perks worth it for my designs. They stepped up the program quite a bit when it went to 8 so you get a nice smooth drawing to PCB transition when you change traces and components. For small to medium boards I'd say it's about the best around. The advanced simulator is really a pleasure to use. I guess I've been running Proteus about 5 years now. Medium EDA learning curve, not too bad if you know EDA's.The thing I tell new people is not to look for the cheapest program. Most EDA's have a relatively substantial learning curve so wasting your time on a program that is cheap but a pain like the free Eagle is not worth it in the end. If you get the full version of Eagle it's not cheap either, in fact, the last time I checked it cost more than Proteus even with Proteus' advanced sim. I wouldn't buy an EDA without a simulator.Rob

author: Raj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2016, 05:53:34 pm
content: fritzing might be the buggiest one i've ever used

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2016, 06:19:20 pm
content: I've heard some good things about the new free Circuitmaker from Altium. No sim, AFAIK but people seem to like it. Don't overlook the free software from Mouser and Digi-key. I think one of them might be a scaled down Orcad or Electronics Workbench from NI.I never liked Electronics Workbench from way back in the 90's when it was advertised in the old "Poptronics" but it may be better since NI picked it up. It does have a simulator, but it always seemed clunky to me. I guess you could use the LT simulator if you got a program without one but it's really nice to have an EDA with a built in sim, it makes the transition to PCB much nicer.Rob

author: vzoole
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2016, 09:15:07 am
content: Quadcept was mentioned before, but not on the list yet.http://www.quadcept.com/en/

author: SimonR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2016, 01:27:26 pm
content: Quote from: vzoole on June 22, 2016, 09:15:07 amInteresting producut, But $150 per month subscription only.

author: Mo Mo
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 31, 2016, 02:58:00 pm
content: Here's a few for Android.A pretty cool simulatorEveryCircuithttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.everycircuit.freeUseful tool collectionElectroDroidhttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=it.android.demi.elettronicaA PCB designerPCB Droidhttps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.theophrast.droidpcb

author: elCap
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2016, 03:00:04 am
content: Quote from: vzoole on June 22, 2016, 09:15:07 amAdded

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 01, 2016, 03:10:53 am
content: Great to see this list: bookmarked and thanked.Neat to think you are still here and updating this since 2011.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2016, 06:43:26 am
content: Great Listing.This is really helpful. You saved my time.Thanks.

author: Jeffw5555
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 21, 2016, 01:44:09 am
content: I started my career laying out PCB's in the early 80's, a number of my boards are still flying today in several military aircraft, cant say which because I was under clearance at the time. Anyway, I started a company about 6 years ago and we sell equipment into a niche application, not a huge business, but keeps me busy. At that time, I did a survey of most of the cheaper layout applications at the time, and finally settled on Sprint-Layout 6.0. It doesn't have many bells or whistles, and it is totally manual, doesn't have autorouting, but does have clearance checking functionality. I believe it is the most powerful application versus price out there. (best value) I am still blown away by the fact that I can create a board in a few hours, email the gerbers overseas, and have prototype boards at my door in a few days at a cheap cost.One of the limitations of Sprint Layout is its libraries, I have needed to tweak a number of them and create a bunch of my own. I was on the team that created the original IPC surface mount guidelines in the early 80's, so this is no big deal....Since I am old school, I naturally comment that none of the programs I have seen can really assist a designer to create the optimum board construction, either in optimal routing, RF performance, design for optimal cost.

author: kasbah
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2016, 03:13:27 pm
content: There is a new online Gerber viewer athttp://viewer.tracespace.io.It lets you inspect the layers as well as a preview rendering of the board.

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2016, 04:49:58 am
content: Not exactly sure where to place this, as it's more of a /repair-rework/ end software tool, but I'd like to suggest adding OpenBoardView to the list of software. As the name implies, it's OpenSource (MIT licence) and it's for rendering boardview files. If you've watched any recent Louis Rossmann videos you'll have seen it being used.http://openboardview.orgApologies if not appropriate for this section.

author: scopeman
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2017, 01:51:51 am
content: How about Robot Room's Copper Connection?It can read ExpressPCB files and can create Gerbers from them as well as create PCB's from scratch.They have a Home Edition (free but no Gerber or Excelon), A Studio Edition for 49.00 with Gerber and Excelon , and an Ultimate Edition for 99.00, that outputs in open text format.It looks like the Home Edition can print out direct to a laser for transfer printing with mirroring capability or direct to paper scaled 1:1 for positive/negative use.Limited to two layers AFAIK but seems quite easy to use. I found the program when looking for a way to convert a design that I found on-line done in ExpressPCB to Gerbersso I could import them into SprintLayout6.0 and edit the PCB.See:http://www.robotroom.com/CopperConnection/index.htmlSam

author: AE2RO
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 01:32:05 pm
content: Have anyone tried the free Orcad Lite version?I have just stumbled across it and would like to know if it is any good.http://www.orcad.com/products/orcad-lite-overview

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 05:56:35 pm
content: Please add:PollEx from Polliwoghttp://www.polliwogeda.comAnd from Daves video:WinPCBhttps://www.csieda.co.jp/en/csieda/winPCB.html

author: bitwelder
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2017, 08:33:33 pm
content: Quote from: AE2RO on February 05, 2017, 01:32:05 pmIt feels funny how much they stress that their usage license does not expire:QuoteI wonder whether the web page has always been like that, or whether they have updated after a certain CAD package has changed its licensing scheme

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2017, 12:15:35 am
content: I think we have to differentiate here, two groups, EDA for professionals or hobbyists.

author: TheUnnamedNewbie
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2017, 11:04:15 am
content: Keysight's ADS is used for PCB layout aswell. I myself have used it a lot for RF microstrip filters (And other filters). Perhaps worth adding to the list?

author: Deridex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2018, 05:06:58 pm
content: You might want to take a look at Horizon:https://github.com/carrotIndustries/horizonI think it can become a decent EDA software.

author: DrAlx
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: April 26, 2018, 05:04:01 pm
content: Please consider adding VeroRoute to your list of programs for stripboard/perfboard.http://sourceforge.net/projects/veroroute/It's written by me. The larger the user base, the quicker it will improve.

author: PointyOintment
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2018, 07:26:22 am
content: I clicked on the link for Copper Connection, because I hadn't checked on it in a while, and it looks like it now belongs to ExpressPCB:https://www.expresspcb.com/CopperConnection/They say they'll have it updated to work with ExpressPCB manufacturing within 60 days, but there's no start date on the page that I could find. All Copper Connection customers can get a free lifetime ExpressPCB Engineer Membership, which gets you 10% off some stuff and "free Gerber files". They also say that the current Copper Connection will continue to work, and apparently they'll even provide replacement keys for the current version in case you lose yours.Horizon looks interesting. The user experience looks like it's better than KiCad, which is enough for me to hopefully never try KiCad a second time. It tries to do things "the right way", some of which I like and some of which I'm not sure about. A couple of examples: 1. It's netlist-aware in editing, which sounds nice because I like netlists for reverse engineering. But it doesn't consider identically named netlists connected, which sounds like it could make netlist-based RE more difficult. 2. Apparently it doesn't allow you to use generic parts that aren't associated with an actual part number, which seems like it would make going from ideas to schematics very inconvenient because it sounds like you'd have to stop your schematic drawing workflow to look up and decide on every single part before you can draw it. Anyway, maybe I'll try it.

author: unitedatoms
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2018, 12:11:29 am
content: LibrePCB of librepcb.org released this December. May be it will turn into popular free EDA tool.

author: Sergey Astakhov
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2019, 11:24:48 am
content: Upverter (https://upverter.com/) in 2017 joint Altium and became free for all types of projects, so it can be moved from "Commercial" section to "Free".

author: nigelwright7557
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 24, 2019, 03:14:49 am
content: Don't forget PCBCAD51 and PCBCAD360.Just a few pounds athttps://www.murtonpikesystems.co.uk

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 24, 2019, 09:49:02 am
content: Quote from: nigelwright7557 on July 24, 2019, 03:14:49 amWhat are the differences between PCBCAD51 and PCBCAD360?

author: nigelwright7557
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 28, 2019, 09:51:43 pm
content: Quote from: hammy on July 24, 2019, 09:49:02 amPCBCAD51 was written in C# and PCBCAD360 was written in C++.PCBCAD360 is quite a bit faster on screen redraws.PCBCAD51 has some basic 3d rendering of pcb's, PCBCAD360 doesnt.Otherwise they are identical.

author: Styno
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2021, 07:20:46 am
content: The url for CAM 350 has changed tohttps://www.downstreamtech.com/products/cam350/

author: nigelwright7557
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2021, 05:37:51 pm
content: I hadnt realised there were so many CAD packages.A lot of packages chasing a very few specialist hobby or business users.With all the free stuff not much reason to buy unless you are doing very specialist stuff.

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2021, 08:05:54 pm
content: Quote from: nigelwright7557 on August 03, 2021, 05:37:51 pmI buy because there's better support. I've been with Labcenter for over ten years now. They know me and it looks like they will be around. The investment in learning high end EDA is to important to me to waste on free stuff. I don't think you can get the service I get with free software and if it shuts down, for whatever reason, you're stuck with all the time it took to learn it. That's happened to me more than once. I do professional work, I can't tinker around with free stuff and I'm not in the EDA program design business. If there are bugs then people figure, hey it's free. Labcenter has been very good with bugs over the time I've owned it, not that high end guarantees that but if you find it in a program then I say stick with it if your time is worth something to you.Time is life, what you do with your time you do with your life!

author: Just_another_Dave
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 03, 2021, 09:00:37 pm
content: In case same one is interested in open source alternatives to ANSYS HFSS (I haven’t tried them yet):gprMax:https://www.gprmax.com/openEMS:http://openems.de/start/index.phpOpen source simulink alternatives:OpenModelica:https://www.openmodelica.org/Scilab/Xcos:https://www.scilab.org/Additionally, I miss fasthenry parasitic inductance and capacitance extractors:https://www.fastfieldsolvers.com/fasthenry2.htmAnd an open source spice alternative for simulating huge circuits:https://xyce.sandia.gov/Finally, some open source ANSYS Maxwell alternatives for simulating transformers and magnetic components:MaxFEM:https://www.usc.gal/en/proxectos/maxfem/description.htmlCalculix:http://www.calculix.de/Elmer:http://www.elmerfem.org/blog/Femm (2d):https://www.femm.info/wiki/HomePageFreefem:https://freefem.org/Vampire (atomistic):https://vampire.york.ac.uk/

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2021, 10:24:37 am
content: Can we add FlexBV as a commercial boardviewer/diagnostics tool?https://pldaniels.com/flexbv( it's a commercial fork & development of OpenBoardview )

author: Munyua44
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 13, 2022, 08:57:59 am
content: there are so many EDA software available in the market but the best way to go when it comes to design for commercial purposes, you need to be aware of the customer preference software. those are the only software you should concentrate on. I believe you already know each fab house and what they prefer.thank you!

author: Lrv209
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 22, 2022, 09:24:08 am
content: Hello,I just joined this blog and found your post and can advise the following:EasyEDA also has a desktop version available for install on Win 10 machines at least. I have it on my Win10 PCAutodesk Eagle has now been rolled into Autodesk Fusion360 and is accessed from the Fusion360 GUI. I believe Eagle is still available as a standalone but expect it will eventually become unavailable as Fusion is Autodesk's preferred application.Hope this helps and great list by the way.

author: www.MKRD.info
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2022, 10:54:25 pm
content: Quote from: elCap on June 07, 2011, 02:16:15 pmWhere is LTSPICE? It has the most-awful (yep, made that one up) GUI, it is literally THE OPPOSITE of all common sense of all GUIs, but hey, for some reason I use it.

author: hammy
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 26, 2022, 02:30:59 pm
content: Quote from: www.MKRD.info on September 24, 2022, 10:54:25 pmStrg+F or ophthalmologist

author: max.wwwang
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2023, 08:55:03 am
content: Great list. Are there major feature comparison matrices available somewhere for these different categories (OS/free, commercial, etc.)?

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2023, 03:14:56 am
content: The gerber viewer from Ucamco is not yet in the list:https://gerber-viewer.ucamco.com/Quite strange, as they are the maintainer of the Gerber format, which implies their reference gerber viewer should be quite good (on compatibility, not on features).Ucamco also has the standard as freely downloadable pdf'shttps://www.ucamco.com/en/gerber

author: redkitedesign
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 09, 2023, 07:10:50 pm
content: Quote from: hammy on September 26, 2022, 02:30:59 pmCtrl-F "ltspice" will never find "LTpsiceIV"... Eyescan recommended indeed :-)

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 09, 2023, 07:44:54 pm
content: LTspice is a pain in the arse. but I just designed a nice sub 50ns switch time gate driver in it.

author: nigelwright7557
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 11, 2023, 08:17:03 pm
content: Quote from: Simon on April 09, 2023, 07:44:54 pmI have found ltspice invaluable for testing circuits without having to build one.Used it for a few years now.Some parts are complicated but so is electronics.

author: DarkMode
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2023, 01:48:14 pm
content: Add to list: Eric Bogatin Suggestion from article.Free and Low Cost Tools:https://www.signalintegrityjournal.com/articles/2026-low-cost-and-free-tools-fit-for-an-engineers-personal-budgetEagle Free Version: Yes it workshttps://www.autodesk.com/products/eagle/free-download?plc=F360&term=1-YEAR&support=ADVANCED&quantity=1

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 28, 2023, 06:23:02 pm
content: Eagle is cumbersome and highly overrated. It's free and probably fine for hobbyists.

author: DarkMode
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2023, 07:48:46 am
content: Yes 1000% agree, great for hobbyistsPros and those in schools get better tools, either Almost Free or Cheap.The only software that displays nicely on my 4K monitorare Free Eagle and KiCad and EasyEDA. I'm still learning (adding to the list of other things I need to learn)There are others, but out of my league for a newbie.Those that pay full price for Commerical software are either in-love (with the software experience)or making bank

author: Robaroni
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2023, 10:22:38 am
content: I wonder how many people are using EDA software professionally? I am but not as much as I used to so I didn't renew my LabCenter license this year but I've had the program for over ten years now.The thing is that there's a learning curve and I find it takes a long time to really master a program. So you invest the time in a program and find it has things about it that aren't great, like I found with Eagle years ago. The good thing was when it came to buying the full program I knew it wasn't worth it for my money. I don't know if LabCenter has a cheap version but it's a polished program without a lot of bugs, the Brits stay on top of it.Good luck in your search but keep in mind that it's your time you're spending learning these programs.If your monitor isn't running correctly there's something wrong, check with the makers of the program. They may be able to direct you to settings to fix it. I know in LabCenter there are different parameters and frameworks you can test with your operating system like Open GL.

author: DarkMode
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 30, 2023, 03:36:07 pm
content: QuoteYes LabCenter has a nice piece of software, Proteus - I've seen a few YT videos on showing off the software. $248 USD for the Starter Kit and $1000+ for the Professional Starter, no subscription requiredI'm more like, why would I pay for Software that looks pixelatedbut hey that's just me\Picture is Target3001

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 01, 2023, 11:47:16 am
content: Quote from: DarkMode on June 28, 2023, 01:48:14 pmIs that limited to 1 year? Do you then need to either buy or acquire a new (possibly another 1 year) license?I think it's pretty clear that Autodesk only do stuff that will push you into a subscription. Their calculation is no doubt that after 1 year you'll be locked in enough that a few bob a month won't seem much, and then it's a slippery slope as they ratchet up.Couldn't find any T&C about this on that page or nearby, so my strong suggestion would be to not give them the benefit of the doubt and instead treat them as the bloodsuckers they normally are.

author: 3roomlab
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2023, 10:57:02 am
content: https://librepcb.org/https://github.com/LibrePCB/LibrePCBCurrent version 0.17

author: DarkMode
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2023, 03:22:53 pm
content: I have LibrePCB installed, looks fine

author: steven236
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 29, 2024, 08:31:29 am
content: One more Online eda tool Herehttps://www.pcbx.com/They are trying to combine PCB design+PCB ManufacturingA new one with a few bugs but worth trying

author: neillnz
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2024, 11:38:09 am
content: Here is one for the "other" catergory.When you want to have a pcb manufactured that cannot be designed with PCB CAD software you can import the design into ACE Translator and it will generate a Gerber for manufacturing, for example from a DXF.https://www.numericalinnovations.com/collections/ace-translator-3000This Company also makes the FAB3000 software that can be used for panelizing and is already in the list. This is a companion product.Now you may ask what sort of PCB cannot be designed with PCB CAD software? Well, one like this, which is a reproduction of a 40 year car instrument cluster flexible circuit board, check out them curves:This was "designed" by digitally tracing a scan of an orginal.

author: anon1991
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 17, 2024, 03:16:39 am
content: Free/open source EDA suite: Ringdove EDA -http://www.repo.hu/projects/ringdoveSchematics editor (sch-rnd), PCB editor (pcb-rnd), gerber viewer (camv-rnd) and some more. Small and quick with mininal dependencies.Source and precompiled binaries for Linux and Windows are available.Also loads gEDA, KiCAD, eagle, Orcad, altium, EasyEDA, tinycad and some more.

author: cunningfellow
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 17, 2024, 05:07:32 am
content: I really liked pcb-rnd when I was using it along with gEDA schematic. I stepped away and when I came back kicad had made great strides and I moved over to it.It is good to see it has expanded to be a complete suite.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 14, 2025, 01:22:06 pm
content: https://dexpcb.com/I don't know if this is the same as the Autotrax Dex 2020 mentioned earlier in this thread, but both the links tohttp://www.dex2020.com/and kov.com have since expired.It is also quite "affordable" with a current price of USD145https://dexpcb.com/Purchase/Full-VersionBut of course whether the price is right depends on the feature set. I'm a happy KiCad user myself. Even donated more to KiCad then what this Dex program costs.But then again, when reading the comment below, it does not inspire much confidence to invest your time and effort into this program (assuming it's the same).Quote from: CatalinaWOW on January 24, 2016, 07:43:55 pm

author: PCBeginner
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 17, 2025, 11:46:26 am
content: What about Protel 99SE? It's still a viable CAD/CAM package even though its somewhat dated.