hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
DIPtrace tutorial videos - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ocset
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2018, 05:02:46 pm
content: HelloDoes anyone know any good Diptrace tutorial videos?I watched a few on youtube, but they are taking loads of time to explain things like what a PCB is aswell, and its just not very succinct.Please tell if you know of good Diptrace tutorial videos.?Eg related toMaking custom library componentsschematicpcbgerbering

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 16, 2018, 09:55:45 pm
content: Quote from: treez on June 16, 2018, 05:02:46 pmThis video demonstration might be a good place to start:https://diptrace.com/support/welcome/

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 17, 2018, 01:55:32 am
content: not a video but the official pdf tutorial is very goodhttps://diptrace.com/books/tutorial.pdf
Possible bug with STEP 3D models containing non-ASCII text - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2018, 09:41:04 pm
content: I had a head-scratching moment earlier today with what appears to be a bug in DipTrace's handling of 3D models in STEP format. Thought I would give others a heads-up about it to save anyone from suffering from the same problem.I had downloaded a 3D model of a part from theJST website, and went to load it up as the 3D model for a component on my PCB layout. Except, when I opened the file, nothing would happen. The 3D model preview would continue to be empty, as if I'd never asked DipTrace to load a file in the first place.What was puzzling was that a second STEP model I'd downloaded beforehand worked just fine, so it must have been something to do with the file. Comparing the two in a text editor (STEP is a text-based format), I noticed the first non-working file contained some 'garbage' characters in the header section. I figured they may be Japanese characters, so I changed my editor's encoding setting to Shift-JIS. Ta-da, some intelligible text appears! On a hunch I deleted the text (everything between the single quote marks) and tried loading the file in DipTrace again. It worked!So, if the same problem happens to you with any STEP file, I encourage you to load it up in a text editor and check for non-ASCII text in the header. If so, try deleting it and re-loading the file.I have reported this bug to DipTrace support, so we'll see what they make of it. Hopefully they will at least change the code to make DipTrace show an error message when it fails to parse a file, rather than silently abort.

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2018, 08:24:19 pm
content: DipTrace support have said that they are aware of the problem and that it should be fixed in the next release.
Thinking about the jump - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2018, 03:50:37 pm
content: Hi,So I was using Eagle and then jumped to CircuitStudio. Not being very happy with CS ( some functional issue, mostly complete lack of support ), I'm now looking at DipTrace. Just in the short time ( hours ) I have been playing with it, I like it. To me, kind of has the feel of older software UI wise but with the benefit that every thing seems to work. It seems a bit more utilitarian which I like. It looks like DipTrace is actively supported and updated.For those of you that have used support, are they responsive, not just a reply but really address issues? Is there a company presence on this forum?I saw there was a hires monitor issue with the 64 bit version, has that been fixed? 4K monitor support is there?Thanks

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2018, 11:17:05 am
content: There is lots to read re Diptrace on this forum. The threads can be found here:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/diptrace/Quite a few users can help you out if you list specific problems you are having, however you should register with the official DipTrace Forum if you want factory support. Anyone can register. You don't need to already own DipTrace to be able to post your questions there.https://diptrace.com/forum/

author: 8bitgasm
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 05, 2018, 09:26:12 pm
content: I'm using an AMD FirePro W4300 with Diptrace at 3440x1440 on 21:9 ultrawide and have no issues.
Diptrace capacitor symbols - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Metonymy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 15, 2018, 02:53:13 pm
content: Hello,I'm a beginner to PCB design and schematic capture tools, I'm trying to place an through hole electrolytic capacitor on my schematic but the parts from the Capacitor components are very strange and confusing. How exactly can I figure out what every part name means?For example UZP_size4x4.5

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2018, 03:21:53 pm
content: Short answer: Find what you need and as time goes along create a user library with the symbols you use frequentlyLong answer:https://diptrace.com/books/Pattern_names_help.pdf

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 15, 2018, 10:44:56 pm
content: And if you haven't already done so, rip throughhttp://www.diptrace.com/books/tutorial.pdf

author: Metonymy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 16, 2018, 08:46:51 pm
content: Thank you for your answers!I found what I wanted in the Discrete library. I downloaded the tutorial but I didn't have time to read it, instead I watched the official getting started videos.
DipTrace Tutotial - looks promising! - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Electro Fan
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 26, 2018, 04:32:04 am
content: I started looking at some of the alternative programs. Read about several (proprietary, open source, client, web-based, free, trial, limited/fee-based, etc) and then recently downloaded one of the popular candidates - it was kinda cool but seemed a little less than highly intuitive.After watching this I think it is the next program up to bat - looks pretty good:If you haven’t found your program yet and haven’t seen a DipTrace tutotial yet this is worth watching. Maybe other programs start out hard and then get easy, and maybe DipTrace starts out easy and then gets hard but this really does look pretty promising - especially if you want something that uses a keyboard and mouse in a familar manner.

author: b_force
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2018, 11:32:40 am
content: I really find Diptrace a very affordable alternative.It has an interface that works and is understandable and the seem to take the community and suggestions pretty serious (can't say that from some other alternatives)I am extremely curious what the next update is going to bring us.

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2018, 12:16:05 pm
content: DipTrace works for me.(For non-profit/maker you can get a 500 pin licence if you ask nicely.)
Using Diptrace with higher-resolution displays - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 20, 2017, 03:56:02 am
content: We had some issues using high-res displays (3000x2000 etc) with Diptrace 3.0.0.2. For example, the menu icon spacing was off which caused them all to be basically useless - so we turned them all off (press Ctrl-1,2 etc.)However we came across a solution and just wanted to share - install the 32-bit version of Diptrace.Silly but it works.

author: Metonymy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 04, 2018, 01:24:50 pm
content: You could report this to Diptrace, maybe it is a bug.

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 04, 2018, 10:05:10 pm
content: Quote from: Metonymy on January 04, 2018, 01:24:50 pmThey're aware of it now and are working on it.
Linux? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cdev
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2017, 04:30:09 pm
content: At one time I remember installing Dip Trace on Linux - do they have a Linux version or is anybody using the windows version on Linux?I am a hobbyist and I just want to try it out as when I tried it a few years ago it seemed fairly straightforward and likely easier to learn than most other similar programs.But I was really sick at the time and so it didn't happen.

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2017, 04:32:17 pm
content: No Linux version, but they suggest it runs fine under Wine.

author: sasa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2017, 04:58:55 pm
content: Quote from: cdev on September 27, 2017, 04:30:09 pmStill there is no native version for Linux.I'm using latest free version on Linux through wine without problems.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2017, 04:20:41 am
content: I run Diptrace under wine on ubuntu and it has problems.Don't try and edit the title and sheet setup the program crashes instantly, also adding a table to a schematic will cause a crash.Diptrace support say its a wine problem because the program runs fine under windows.so they aren't going to do much. I looked in wine bug list and there is no open tickets for diptrace.hope this helpsHaving said that everything else works for me and I would recommend Diptrace in linuxregardsSteve W

author: Monkeh
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2017, 04:23:11 am
content: Quote from: steve_w on December 14, 2017, 04:20:41 am.. so open one..

author: james_s
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2017, 06:45:23 am
content: KiCAD has a native Linux version. You could also run Windows under VirtualBox and install Diptrace in there.I haven't had much luck with WINE beyond very simple stuff.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 16, 2017, 11:45:05 am
content: done
Looking for a big and difficult pcb file for Fun  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Theboel
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2020, 08:54:31 pm
content: Hi All,25 years ago I started use PCB software and I remember I need to run autoroute about 24 hours for my frequency counter design.today I want to try to see a pcb design that need very long time to autoroute to complete. if You have the file (i don't care what is that for) could You share it to me or maybe You can point me where I can download it.Thank You.Anton
looks like Parallax is reselling Diptrace - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slburris
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 03:37:36 pm
content: Just happened to be looking at the Parallax web sitehttp://www.parallax.com/and noticed that they are prominently featuring Diptrace on theirfront page and appear to be reselling it. I wonder what thestory is -- are they using Diptrace internally now?Scott

author: hisense999
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 04:02:36 pm
content: Is this is used internally nobody know, important is good profit margin... so here for sure is nothing personal in business all is about profit and profit.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 23, 2016, 12:38:50 am
content: Quote from: hisense999 on July 17, 2011, 04:02:36 pmI know this is an old thread, but it definitely looks like they do:https://www.parallax.com/downloads/elev-8-flight-controller-diptrace-files

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2016, 10:23:55 am
content: I was not aware of this. I have seen first time in parallax site that they are reselling diptrace.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 01:25:45 pm
content: Quote from: slburris on July 17, 2011, 03:37:36 pmI don't think its reselling. They are using Diptrace may be.

author: K6TR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 24, 2017, 05:32:42 am
content: Quote from: richardlawson1489 on January 19, 2017, 01:25:45 pmPrecisely One of Parallax's holdings is Bay Area Circuits which Manufactures PCB Boards. It's plant is in Fremont California just outside of Silicon Valley. Bay Area Circuits, Jameco (another Parallax Holding) and the Parallax Home Office distribute free of charge an older version of Diptrace to their clients that want to design boards. Jameco distributes the software as a way to leverage component sales. It's not the latest version and I'm not sure which version you get. I would imagine if you buy enough boards from Bay Area Circuits they will arrange for you to download the Ultimate Version of DipTrace.

author: ptal78
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 08, 2017, 04:53:54 am
content: www.picokit.com.aualso is the Australian dealer for DipTracePhil
Imported Eagle library makes Diptrace slow? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2017, 03:43:26 am
content: This is a strange one. I imported some libraries from EAGLE by exporting as an .scr and then importing the .scr in Diptrace. The library works, but, oddly, when I use a lot of components from it, Diptrace really bogs down. For example, a metal pour that might take a fraction of a second normally takes 10 seconds. Similarly, moving traces seems sort of slow and laggy.It definitely has something to do with these imported parts, but I'm not sure what.The library is the Seeed Studio Open Parts Library.Running Diptrace 2.4.0.2

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2017, 03:47:05 am
content: I notice that many of the patterns have route keepouts on them. I wonder if that is a factor. If there was an easy way to remove them all, I would, as I generally find that they are overused and not necessary. I don't even understand why someone would, say, put a route keepout on a 2x3 0.1" header. If the design rules allow it, what's the issue? (generally -- I can think of special situations, but...)I had to turn off the route keepouts DRC check.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2017, 01:12:02 am
content: Good workregardsSteve W
flattening refdes from hierarchical schematic? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2017, 10:41:51 pm
content: I like that Diptrace supports hierarchy, and I use it a fair bit. One thing I can't stand is the way diptrace names parts from the hierarchical schematic, with a series of numbers interspersed with underscores representing the index of repetition form each level of hierarchy. Well, I didn't say that well, but I think you know what I mean.The naming convention makes sense and has some advantages (like when you are doing a matrix of something and you can tell what row and column you are in), but it results in ridiculous refdes like LED_3_2_2. I'd much prefer just simple numbering, or the ability to "flatten" to simple numbering toward the end of the layout process.
Great DipTrace Video on pouring copper planes & auto-routing. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2016, 02:22:07 am
content: The DipTrace thread has been rather quiet for some time which is a shame.I presume this is because the software is so easy to learn that newcomers find everything second natureDipTrace is seen by some as "basic schematic & pcb design software" that is not very sophisticated.Here is a video showing how to place copper pours on the internal layers of an 8 layer board, how to place fanout vias for multiple BGA SMD components & then how to auto-route the layers & check for any errors.Now, this video was uploaded in 2011 using DipTrace ver 2.2. DipTrace has moved a long way since then to Ver 3.0.0.2 however the same"easy to learn"&"easy to use"philosophies still apply.Remember that some of the best software programmers come out of the Ukraine. That is why both Altium & DipTrace (Novarm) have programmers located there.Enjoy.PS: Can we convince Dave to complete a new video as his old one ............. is very old

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2016, 10:22:07 am
content: Thanks for sharing a very informative and interesting video.

author: Karel
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 31, 2016, 10:42:26 am
content: Tried to download the free or trial version. No Linux version...

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 01:36:59 pm
content: Nice video. I think this is not a new one. I have seen this somewhere.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2017, 10:57:57 am
content: Karel,The linux version runs under wing and works OK I use it on a dell Inspiron 9100? Runs OK.regardsSW
Custom Pattern: Where is the origin for pads? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 12:25:13 pm
content: I'm really struggling here.. I am trying to do a custom variant of a 0603 pad which will either be a solder bridge or an optional 0R 0603 depending on situation.After much wrangling I managed to import a DXF as silk screen and then create a polygon shape and eventually turn it into two pads... I thought I was done but..When I go to wire it up in PCB I find the wires attach at a point on the 'wrong' part of the padHow do I define where the 'origin' or 'wire attach point' of a pad would be?Thanks in advance

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 01:46:33 pm
content: So for example if I put one onto a PCB and add wires they connect at the Yellow arrowed points but I want them connected at the Red arrowed points.(For a rectangle pad I think it takes the centre which works but not so good for irregular shapes)

author: NivagSwerdna
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2016, 08:44:33 pm
content: Worked it out. The wire joins at the first polygon point. So I recreated my shaped but started with an internal first point but then radially moving to the edge of the shape, around the shape and back. And hey presto it works!
Aligning RefDes to grid in PCB  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kcbanner
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2016, 01:21:52 am
content: I'm trying to align the RefDes to the grid, so I can line them up. I've attached a screenshot of the issue, with the R4 and R5 RefDes overlapped to show that the left edge is not aligned. This is after dragging them using F10.Does anyone know how to snap the RefDes to a common grid?

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2016, 01:54:09 am
content: Quote from: kcbanner on December 21, 2016, 01:21:52 amThe component designator will be placed on the board with the grid that was used when making the library component. You probably do not know what that was, however all is not lost.You can "finely tune" the position of the component designator by making your current grid much smaller.ie click:VIEWGRID SIZE(& now either choose one of the finer grids already available) or chooseCUSTOM(& now enter a very fine grid of say 0.01mm)now click "OK"Now F10 will give you a very fine grid for placement of the component designator (in fact for any text & movement of any components on the board).I hope this helps.

author: kcbanner
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2016, 03:43:57 pm
content: Quote from: kcbanner on December 21, 2016, 01:21:52 amAh, ok, this makes sense why these RefDes appeared to be oriented around different origins. I've used the small grid idea (or disable grid entirely) to position the RefDes. It's too bad there isn't a feature to switch the origin RefDes though. Oh well, this solution works! Thanks.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 02, 2017, 01:12:21 pm
content: Quote from: DerekG on December 21, 2016, 01:54:09 amGreat Solution DerekG.

author: richardlawson1489
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2017, 12:32:39 pm
content: Is it really works? I don't have any experience. Have you tried kcbanner?
Ratlines are etched into the screen - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tibby
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 26, 2016, 02:30:47 pm
content: I find that from time to time, usually after doing a ripup of auto route and replacing with manual routing, that ratlines stay and stay and stay like they're etched into the screen.In some instances it is the track not making contact with a pad or something, but I have had cases where all pads on the net highlight, so they must be connected, yet the ratline STAYS. Why ?Its not serious in that it has no practical impact, but it's like a false warning that something is wrong.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2016, 12:25:25 am
content: I have had similar problems with ratlines a while ago I cant for the life of me think what I did to stop it, but you are correct you must ensure that the traces connect. I have used the layers view check boxes to declutter the screen so I can see what goes on.I am not an expert only self taught in pcb layout and design but everyone who is an experienced user says never use auto route. I tried a few times to see what happened and always ended up in a mess.I haven't seen the ratlines problems since I started using diptrace 3.0. The diptrace forum is quite a good resource maybe there?regardsSW

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2016, 12:30:35 am
content: Check the trace and pad properties are properly assigned to the correct net/s.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2016, 06:34:06 am
content: Quote from: steve_w on September 28, 2016, 12:25:25 amI would agree. For those still on Ver 3.0, it is well worth taking the 3.0.0.2 update. Quite a few improvements have been made in this latest update which include searching all component libraries & laying down solder paste screens.Nice work DipTrace. Very happy.
Dual Mosfet. Transistor, Gate, etc. Split into two schematic drawings? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 09:19:00 pm
content: Okay, as title says. Working with one IC that has, for ecample, two mosFETs in it.Is there a way to make two schematic drawings, one for each mosFET, and then when the schematic is imported into Diptrace, it will combine those two schematic drawings into that same chip?I could however see a problem with this, if I have more than one of those chips on the board.

author: Galaxyrise
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 09:30:46 pm
content: a single "component" can have multiple "parts". You see that with a lot of the supplied two-channel op-amps that have three parts (one for each channel, and one for supply voltages.)

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 09:35:14 pm
content: okay, how is it done?and can EACH part be moved around individually on the Schematic being drawn? (out of component editor)

author: Falcon69
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2016, 09:55:26 pm
content: NM. I figured it out!Thank You galaxie. 'Multiple Parts" was the keywords I needed to search for on google.It seems you use Component>Add New Part....and that inserts a new page. simply copy and paste from first page the same drawn mosfet, reassign the pins, and attach correctly to the attached pattern. Then, open schematic you are drawing, place part, and you can move the pieces around individually. Nice!Now I can do my schematics to look more manageable. It labeled the part as, for example, Q12.1 and Q12.2.Putting in a new SAME IC chip, it gets labeled as Q13.1 and Q13.2....and so on.Nice little feature.
Opening file and exporting PDF (or gerber) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Cloud
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2016, 08:45:38 pm
content: Hello,I have found this nice project for reflow controller, but the problem is, that files are in DIP trace format and since I am not using dip trace, I would like to ask some one to open them and export the PDF or gerber. I would need files for TOP copper, BOTTOM copper and solder mask layer (and if its possible BOM).Files are here:https://github.com/rocketscream/Reflow-Oven-ControllerThank you very much

author: HwAoRrDk
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2016, 02:38:45 am
content: Here you go, see attached. I exported Gerbers for everything, including silk screen, etc. Let me know if you need anything else (i.e. paste layers). BOM is in CSV format.

author: Cloud
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2016, 05:04:14 pm
content: Thank you very much
Tip: thousands of free 3D models - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AlxDroidDev
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2016, 11:32:17 am
content: In a small PCB I am designing, I wanted a few 3D models that aren't part of DipTrace's default installation. After some search I found this site:http://www.tracepartsonline.net/They have tens of thousands of 3D models, free to download in several formats, including VRML (which is used by DipTrace). All the models are indexed by manufacturer, type and a few other specifications.Registration using e-mail is required, but they accepted a "mailinator" disposable mail account.Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with the site above, and I just found it so helpful that I thought I'd share it with you.

author: Gixy
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2016, 12:57:00 pm
content: Just have a look here:http://www.3dcontentcentral.fr/

author: jeroen74
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 12, 2016, 01:10:56 pm
content: www.grabcad.comis another one.

author: pcbguy1927
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 05:47:56 pm
content: Over 9000 models from here freehttp://diptrace.com/downloads/models3d_beta.exe2G download.John W

author: Farley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 22, 2016, 10:47:22 pm
content: Diptrace can import and use STEP models also.
Making use of the default gate symbols. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: devinatkin
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2015, 09:40:01 pm
content: Okay so I'm trying to use a 3 input and gate on my schematic. I put the default symbol for a 3 input and gate that comes in DipTrace and then linked it to the default sot363 footprint, which is the correct footprint for my and gate.The issue comes hooking up the GND and Vcc pins which are not on the symbol for the and gate. I was trying to be lazy and not do my own and gate symbol (plus it makes the schematic look cleaner) but I've probably wasted more time trying to figure out how to do this. Now I just want to know because I've wasted so much time...

author: John Coloccia
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2015, 09:49:31 pm
content: Does the component have multiple parts?

author: devinatkin
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2015, 10:25:44 pm
content: No it's just the one part. I went to the attached pattern and in the parts drop down it only shows the one

author: John Coloccia
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2015, 11:08:28 pm
content: what specific part are you trying to use?What you want to do is see if the part you want is in the Diptrace library. If not, it's a simple matter to make your own library, and make your own component.Simply copy their component gate to your own library. Then in your library, add a part. The part is just a box with VCC and GND pins (trust me...it's more convenient to make it a separate part in the long run than to hang it off the gate). Then attach the pattern, and you're done. It's just a few minutes worth of work..maybe a 1/2 hour the first time.

author: devinatkin
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2015, 05:25:36 am
content: Thank you, Sorry for being so long to respond that's exactly what I ended up doing
Diptrace copper pour problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: evading
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 12:09:42 pm
content: I have a small problem with printing from DipTrace. The copper pours comes out with lines in them. If i export my design to gerber, I don't see them. But then if I print from the exported gerbers I see them again.I saw the same thing on the rendering of a board that I ordered from OSHPARK, but it was not present on the board when I got it.Any ideas how to solve this so I can do prototyping at home with a UV box or the like?Einar

author: alanb
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 12:25:43 pm
content: Are you sure its not your printer? Try printing a solid block of colour from another application and check if that has lines in it.

author: evading
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 01, 2013, 05:15:37 pm
content: I'm positive it's not the printer. Exporting the same PCB from Diptrace to BMP and then printing the BMP gave a totally black pour. The problem then was to scale the BMP when printing.I have noted that the phenomenon changes a little when messing about with the "Line Width" and the "Line Spacing" of the pour but I can never get it to go away.Einar

author: akis
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2013, 03:54:28 pm
content: Maybe the printer drivers or some setting in DIPtrace. What application did you use to print out the .bmp file?

author: presoonjohn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 20, 2015, 06:21:25 pm
content: I too have the same problem.I have installed CutePDF to print the output from Diptrace to PDF. The same happens with the PDF files too...There are raster lines visible.

author: Royce
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2015, 01:13:11 pm
content: When I was making my own circuit boards with Diptrace I would generally just print directly to the laser printer and it was fine.Anyway, to solve the scale problem for BMP export, maybe just introduce some scaling marks that you can directly measure on the printout to make sure it is correct. A "RR" in the copper (Reads-Right) is also a good thing to have to more easily identify mirrored layouts.

author: Connoiseur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2015, 06:53:35 am
content: I too faced those problems on my old laptop that did not have a dedicated graphics card, but my new laptop, which has dedicated 2GB of graphics memory and I don't see them anymore.So, most probably it is due to the rendering limitation of the graphics card and not a software problem. Try opening the pdf files in a different software, even google chrome comes handy at times (just paste the file path in place where you enter url).Hope that was useful.
How to setup clearance/isolate properly for pours? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Dago
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2015, 11:39:51 am
content: I'm routing a mains powered H-bridge design so I have large isolate values for multiple pours (high current/voltage nets). I haven't found a good way to setup the isolate/clearance for the pours. The issue is that if I properly set up class-to-class rules for the different pours the pours will not respect those class-to-class values even if I enable the "use net clearance" option from the pour (then it only seems to apply the "global" net clearance and not the class-to-class rules). I can always set up one big enough isolate value for the pour which almost works good enough but the problem with that is that I have some "mounting holes" in my FETs/diodes which are only used for offline-access (screwdriver through the board) so they do NOT need to have the isolate applied to them. But they do get the isolate and it really really takes away lots of useful routing space when I have eight huge holes of nothing in my board.What is the least hackish way to get around this? Other than stuff like making the holes in my footprints smaller and making them larger by modifying the gerbers etc. Or is there some way to get the class-to-class rules to apply to pours?
Auto routing a 4 layer board - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 12:11:05 pm
content: I'm trying to route a board.As it needs to carry 10 A I have chosen to have to power planes once the negative and one for positive as the central layers. This is because it would make life easier to route the components on the top and I will also need to use the top layer as some heat sinking.The auto route is failing to work doing an absolutely disastrous job and just completely missing many possible routes. I'm wondering if this has anything to do with the settings relating to vias and clearances as most beers will have to go through 2 layers to reach the other side.The dip trace help pages are pretty useless. Will the also route sort out via types on its own or do I need to define each type of via myself so that the auto root router can use it

author: Rerouter
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 12:27:42 pm
content: Now i am not that familiar with diptrace, but it seems like you can export and have another autorouter take a crack,e.g. as described here,https://www.eevblog.com/forum/diptrace/autorouting-smd-much-worse-than-pth/

author: BloodyCactus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 12:46:24 pm
content: Quote from: Simon on May 09, 2015, 12:11:05 pmdid you, when you made those two extra layers create the fill with attached net then have the fill size to the pcb size automatically for each layer? I've done 4 layer boards with gnd/vcc as internal and the autorouter will route (terribly, but no better or worse than routing 2 layer).

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 09, 2015, 05:31:40 pm
content: I'm not sure what you mean about having the fill automatically fill the board. I have created a copper pour for each layer and have made it almost the same size as the board. The copper pours have been attached to the related nets.It would seem that this is a similar problem to routine with copper pours that we discussed before on another thread where if a component is connected via a copper pour the program leaves the rat lines in as though the components are not connected together despite the fact they were individually connected to the same pour.Now that I have created vias to go between each potential pair of layers I am getting less collision errors.Once again the dip trace auto router proves to be very inadequate and not a finished product.

author: BloodyCactus
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 10, 2015, 11:32:52 am
content: This is what I have,1 - I create layer, pick its net (VCC)2 - I select the layer, create a copper pour, connect it to net VCC and hide all ratlines3 - check snap border to outlinedone. now this is on a through hole board so my pins cross layers and things connect automatically.
Hierarchy Resdef Silkscreen Customization - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jabramo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2015, 08:22:26 pm
content: I'm using a hierarchy blocks to copy and paste layout.The way the program resdefs each component is by putting an underscore and index number for the group from the hierarchy block.If you have 3 hierarchy blocks with R23 you'll have R23_1, R23_2 and R23_3Is there a way to renumber so there are 3 R23? I can renumber from the pcb layout but that renumbers every component from the top left corner of the board. This doesn't work because when I try to back annotate in the schematic editor throws an error that there are multiple resdefs for the hierarchy components.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2015, 06:30:34 am
content: You can not have 3 R23 in the schematic file. Every resistor is unique. You could use R123 for first hierarchy block, R223 for second block, R323 for third and so on.
grabbing objects that are under other objects? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: djacobow
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2014, 04:03:34 pm
content: <apologies, I'm dumping a couple of weeks' worth of DT annoyances today>This may be a Diptrace FAQ, but I could not find it.I sometimes put parts inside the footprint of other parts. For example, I might put a little QFP or SOIC right inside a DIP outline for the same part, so that I can fit either part when I populate the board. Another situation might be trying to fit a passive or two under some object where you know it will fit because the first object is elevated off the board.Anyway, if I do this, often can no longer "grab" the part I want in order to move it; DipTrace always grabs the top part. Eagle solved this by letting your round-robin through all the 'things' your mouse could be over. How is this done in DT?One solution is temporarily moving the covering part, but that messes up routing?Regards,Dave J

author: Refrigerator
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 16, 2014, 04:12:05 pm
content: Maybe there is option to move the selected part to back?

author: gc
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2014, 05:39:36 pm
content: Simply click more than once to select underlying objects.Sometimes it could be helpful to lock temporary the above part when moving the underlying parts.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 05, 2015, 04:53:05 pm
content: It's a royal pain in the arse, I had this problem when I had my PCB on the back of a large component being a pressure transducer. What I did was to swap the footprint of the whole pressure transducer for one that was just its terminals as it was becoming impossible to work with the board as it was smaller than the pressure transducer. I did contact dip trace support but they didn't seem to see the problem
leaving bare copper instead of soldermask - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 15, 2015, 09:16:17 pm
content: How do i get diptrace to bare certain areas and not automatically cover in solder mask ?

author: Wilksey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2015, 09:32:13 pm
content: I presume you do the same on DT as other packages, draw a polygon on the solder mask expansion layer.

author: Royce
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 15, 2015, 09:35:19 pm
content: Draw a filled shape and assign it to the the Bottom Mask or the Top Mask layer. I recently made a spark gap and it came out as I'd hoped.I grant you, the layers would be better named Bottom Mask KeepOut or some such, but its better than calling "UnGroup" "Smash" as they do in Eagle.If you make the shape over a copper pour in the "poured" state the mask shape won't show up well, but it will be there.

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 15, 2015, 09:37:27 pm
content: ok thanks, sounds rather un-obvious

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 16, 2015, 01:04:40 am
content: Quote from: Simon on May 15, 2015, 09:37:27 pmHi Simon,Yes, it is not that intuitive the first time around. I use this process to open up the solder mask on bottom tracks quite a lot. When the board is then wave soldered, the tracks have solder deposited over their entire width. This adds significantly to both their current carrying capabilities & to dissipate heat from any attached components.To accomplish this in DipTrace:1/ Click on "non signal layer assignment" down arrow (shown highlighted in blue below). In my example below I have chosen the "Bottom Mask";2/ Click on the "shape button" 3 icons to the left of the above down arrow. Different shape options will then pop up (as shown below). Simply then select the shape you want.Be aware that when you choose to view only the mask layers (ie you turn off all other layers), DipTrace has a weird anomaly in showing you only your manually added masks. It "forgets" to show you the masks around all your pads & vias etc. The only way to view the mask screen with all the elements shown is to view the final Gerber output.Altium & Proteus are much better in this respect, in that that both will show you the "truth" without having to look at the Gerber output.
Making components and patterns in Diptrace where should the origin go? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 04:40:05 am
content: Just a minor point, when making schematic symbols and patterns is there a convention of where to have the x y axis (0,0) point? I.e. in the center or at the say the bottom left corner (so all the co-ordinates are positive)?Is there a convention or standard to comply with? (I dont think AS1100 covers this ? dont have a copy since I retired)I have experimented and it doesn't seem to matter to Diptrace.regardsSteve W

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 06:45:49 am
content: Most people place the origin of the schematic on the bottom LHS corner - just convention (like when you are reading a graph).When making new components, make sure you place the origin at the centre of the PCB footprint in the library as this helps with SMD robot loading.Diptrace will do this easily for you when laying out new components in the Pattern Editor. Once you have finished making the new footprint select:Edit>Center Pattern

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 12:15:12 pm
content: Ta DerekregardsSW

author: Sirius631
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 06:38:49 pm
content: Hi,I haven't used DIPTrace yet, although I've decided to download it after seeing Dave's first look video. I've only had my hands on the first PC based schematic planners and autorouters in the late '80s.What occurred to me back then was that when creating component symbols, no matter where the origin was, the pads should be drawn on the intended snap grid to ensure ease of connecting wires when creating the schematic layout.Sorry if this is a dumb suggestion which doesn't need saying.

author: zapta
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 31, 2015, 08:06:16 pm
content: I place the origin where it will be the easiest to enter the coordinations of the pads. Sometimes it's in the center (leveraging on symmetry) and sometimes it's in one of the corner (e.g. for 0.1" DIP grid). It' doesn't matter much except when rotating the part in the layout. (I am a Eagle user but I presume the considerations are similar).

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 04, 2015, 10:48:42 am
content: Thanks guys,I just wasn't sure.you wont be disappointed with diptrace Sirius, I have no experience in PCB design but picked it up OK, just got my first board back from Dirty PCBs,check it out

author: Simon
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 05, 2015, 04:33:11 pm
content: There is one consideration to make. If you intend to use 3-D models of components then censoring the origin on the footprint makes a lot of sense particularly if you will have to manually coordinate placement of the 3-D model.
One component pin to multiple pads - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: lutkeveld
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 02:21:07 pm
content: How do you connect one pin in the component editor to multiple pads of the attached pattern?My QFN has multiple VDD's and GND's, which I want assigned to one pin of the component for easy working.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 08:12:03 pm
content: Hi, to do this go into the component editor, select your component, click the pattern button and when the new screen opens you can click a pad and the one you want to connect it to and "draw" a red between them. That means that those two pads are at the same potential.

author: lutkeveld
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2015, 08:57:58 pm
content: Awesome! That works. Thanks for your help

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2015, 07:49:56 am
content: You're welcome. If you have any other questions post them.
New diptrace version - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: RFTECH
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 01:35:33 pm
content: I put the new version and i dont have all library like the old one. I but the library file and i dont see in the software.?

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2015, 02:52:35 pm
content: The latest version of DipTrace (July 2014) has a completely different library structure.It is MUCH better than the previous versionRemember, everytime you install a new version, choose a different directory so you don't install on top of your old version.If you did install it over you old version (& your private library was under the DipTrace directory), hopefully you created a Windows Restore Point. If you did, you can roll back to the time before your new DipTrace install. Now move your private library to a new directory, then reinstall the new version of DipTrace.
problem with using vias to connect top and bottom ground planes together  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 08:56:00 pm
content: whenever i place a via to connect the top and bottom ground planes on a pcb and click update it disconnects the copper pour from the via. what am i doing wrong?

author: Farley
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 09:38:48 pm
content: At this point DipTrace doesn't know what the via is for so there are more steps to take. Right click on the via and select "Add to Net" from the context menu. Then select either "Select by Mouse Pointer" or "Select from List..." and pick your ground connection with the mouse pointer or from the drop down list.Assuming you have multiple vias to connect to ground you can select a batch of them either with a window or by holding the ctrl key and clicking on each one. Then when you right click you will see a menu selection under "Add to Net" called "Selected Vias." from there you can select which net to connect them to from the drop down.It helps to name your nets in the schematic prior to getting to this step.

author: electronics man
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 09:46:53 pm
content: thanks

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 05, 2015, 11:37:30 pm
content: Quote from: electronics man on February 05, 2015, 08:56:00 pmFarley in the above post has given you a good run through.One thing to consider is to place all your "new" vias to the side of your design first. Then connect them to the appropriate net (by following Farley's post above), then shift them to where you want them, then repouring the existing ground plane.You can hide the ground plane (or any copper pour) while you do this if you wish.