hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Buses in Multichannel Designs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 05, 2014, 06:27:09 pm
content: I am making an individual power point controller that has a MOSFET switched jack. These are controlled by an 8-bit 12V shift register. Then I'm chaining 3 of these together per board. So I will have 24 power jacks that are individually addressable. These are chained to two additional boards (shielded ribbon for 18" or so) for 72 points per shift chain.I plan on driving the data and shift slowly to enhance reliability. The bandwidth of powering on and off is VERY low and I will be driving through MOSFETs to get from the MCU voltage up to 12V that all of these boards operate on.I have this structured as a 3 level hierarchy in Altium.Single Channel:Shift Register Level with 8x Single Channels:Top level with 3 shift registers and linking Qs into next levels Data In:I get errors for Bus Slice TP[1..8]. This is defined in the mid level, but it looks like I can't have it automatically generate buses in the mid levels for each bank. Although it looks like this is exactly what is done in the example here:http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Creating+a+Multi-channel+DesignI was unsure about QD1 <-> SD2 type linking, but it seems OK with that. Is there a better way of doing that? It sort of messes up my net names.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 06, 2014, 12:34:41 am
content: Do you have automatically generated net names configured properly, under Project Options? You'll want something like, "append channel index to name", or you can write your own identifier string.I see the component designators already have this, so check that the net names do, too.The "net linking" I don't think should work, but maybe that's how you're supposed to do it? I've needed to do that before, but didn't try; multiple net names on a single wire is so thoroughly against the design philosophy of Altium.... but I wouldn't put it past them to have it be done that way.Tim
STM32F103 component wanted - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: diyaudio
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2014, 08:04:59 pm
content: hidoes anyone here have the stm32f103 component family or all of the stm32 libraries ? share it with me please.

author: ali80
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: November 03, 2014, 09:37:38 am
content: it's in altium's libraries: "ST Microcontroller 32-bit stm32.intlib"
Double Board Edge Route with Altium 14 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: screamindaemon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 30, 2014, 05:46:38 pm
content: Hi all. First time posting here. From my searches here there is some good experience to be shared.I have come across an issue with Altium 14. Whenever I try to generate NCR files now, I am getting 2 board edge routes generated on my board defined edges. Please see the attached file.I have highlighted the correct board edge rout, but Altium is generating a second route inside the board.Has anybody else run into this issue? Does anybody know how to fix it?I have been using Altium 10 up to this point, and recently upgraded. There are a few changes now that are very frustrating.Thanks in advance for your help.
New 3D model, but LPI isn't expanded - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: willysjeeps
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 29, 2014, 03:31:11 pm
content: Hi All -I'm having a (late) Monday moment here. I have a board layout and in the midst of the design review with the mechanical engineer working on the plastics, we concluded we needed another 100mils of board height to meet some clearances and plastics design issues. No problem right? The mechanical guy provided me a new .STEP file with the PCB, which I brought into the layout. I deleted the old model, then used Design -> Board Shape -> Define from 3D Body and *snap* new PCB shape. Cool, I've done that many times before, no problem.However, this time, when I went through the new board shape, the LPI got messed up (see image, exposed copper and "blue" mask pullback from the upper edge where it should go edge to edge to edge, etc). The solder mask retained the previous outline and step back of the old board. Where did I fall off the wagon and how do I fix it? Some one must have run into this before. I don't know what keywords would allow to search for such an indescribable question.I have AD14, current rev as of 29 October 2014 8 am PST.

author: willysjeeps
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 29, 2014, 05:12:46 pm
content: Baha! Figured out how to get around it! I spent a few hours trying to fix the issue.If anyone runs into this and stumbles on this post, here's what I did:1. After I got to the point seen in the image, I used the Design -> Board Shape -> Create Primitives (2D mode).2. I created the primitives at 1 mil on a mechanical layer I wasn't using.3. Then I went to that new mechanical layer and selected the outline I just created.4. I used the Design -> Board Shape -> Define from Selected objects and *bam* - problem fixed.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 30, 2014, 12:02:55 am
content: So, sounds like the "create from 3D model" was the bogus step?Since they got rid of "edit vertices", I've always maintained an outline on some layer (usually Mech 2 for the drawing and on KO for the actual board shape) and done a (select the outline shapes), D, S, D (define from selection) command. No problems.Tim
PCB Design by Excel - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jefe_de_estado
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 24, 2014, 11:19:13 pm
content: Is it possible to do this in Altium (or another software package):I have a need to design many boards where many components need to be located in specific places. Is it possible to place components using and excel spreadsheet which contains info like .pcblib file location, component name, x location, y location?That would really help automate the design of these boards.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2014, 12:28:35 am
content: The PCB list panel works like a spreadsheet. You should be able to copy and paste from excel to set X and Y locations of placed components.

author: ludzinc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 25, 2014, 08:31:24 am
content: What's wring with copy / paste array?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2014, 02:53:20 pm
content: Maybe more like a mess of connectors positioned by mechanical constraints.Yes, if it's an ordered set, Paste Array, or preferably, multichannel design (using Rooms -- copies routing too), is the way to go.Tim

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2014, 07:08:39 pm
content: Yes, you can arrange them with the PCB list. Done it multiple times.

author: jefe_de_estado
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 27, 2014, 04:46:31 pm
content: PCB List looks like it will work. I'll give it shot later today! Thanks! The components are to be arragenment is random patterns, so arrays wouldn't work. Thanks for your help!
How do I use libraries simultaneously - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: joaosehn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 11:54:43 am
content: Hello guys,First, I apologize for my bad english.I am working in a small organization which me and other engineer will have to work with Altium at the same time, using the same libraries.What do you suggest for us to proceed? Could I just create a folder on our internal server and put the libraries inside of it? What problems are we going to find?Thank you in advance!João

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 12:07:00 pm
content: File on server open at same time.Better : lib1 and lib2 both on server. You only write to lib1 , collegue only writes to lib2. You can both read.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 12:12:53 pm
content: Yeah, use independent libraries. If necessary, merge when you're done (but mind possible duplicates in the process -- library management is a pain any way you cut it).Tim

author: joaosehn
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 20, 2014, 12:56:27 pm
content: Thank you for the answers!I've been looking for solutions of this problem before and I've found that database libraries might be a good ideia. Do you thing it's worth it? Seems to be not so easy.Thank you, again.

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 22, 2014, 03:59:05 am
content: Quote from: joaosehn on October 20, 2014, 11:54:43 amTwo ways of doing this (without resorting to vaults). In both cases, someone has to be the "librarian" and maintain the libraries.a) The librarian adds things to the libraries. After the library is compiled into an Integrated Library, the librarian puts the IntLib files out on a shared resource somewhere to which everyone who needs to use the library has access. Then everyone goes out and copies those files to their local disks. Each user points their Altium installation to their own local copy of the library.b) The libraries are stored in a source-code control database, accessed using Subversion or whatever. The librarian builds the library and commits the change to the repo. Each user then checks out (or updates) their local working copy of the libraries, and then the users must point Altium to the local copy of the library.In either case, it is incumbent on the users to regularly update their local copies of the libraries. The updates can be done each morning, or perhaps the librarian can tell everyone when new parts get added, and then the users can do the update.

author: Randy_Clemmons
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 26, 2014, 01:15:46 am
content: For the most efficient Altium CAD DBLIB or SVNDBLIB Library Tool available today take a look at:http://pcbparts.blogspot.com/p/welcome.html3 minute You Tube VideoMoney Back Guaranteed Satisfaction.Best regardsRandy Clemmons
An easy way of adding a new parameter to all existing libraries in a directory? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2014, 04:13:28 pm
content: I have created 100+ schematic libraries (SchLib files) until now. Recently, I have learned the importance of adding "Manufacturer" and "Part Number" parameters to libraries for getting a nice view of bill of materials (BOM). Unfortunately, I have never added these two parameters to the libraries I created.Is there an easy way of adding these two parameters to all of the libraries at once?

author: Batang
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 05, 2014, 03:19:01 pm
content: Use the parameter manager.http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Editing+Multiple+Parameters+Using+the+Parameter+ManagerCheers.

author: dboyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2014, 04:20:05 pm
content: Quote from: hkBattousai on October 04, 2014, 04:13:28 pmI'd recommend using your schlib files to populate a dblib or svndblib. Once you're done (if you have separate schlib files, you're not so far off), all of your parameters will be pulled into a single location. The way our libraries are configured, when a part is placed it will copy any filled in parameters to the part. If you need to add a column to the database or mass update parameters it's trivial as they are all in one place.
List of Rules For PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2014, 10:00:34 am
content: hidoes anyone have a list or documentation on how to implement specific rules in pcb? The query tutorial in Altium is not much of help.also some rules are implemented in SCH but when i run them to PCB some will work & some will notwhen is it appropriate to use 'AND' 'OR' in the query commands.not all users are programmers too
Different PCBs in a Single Project - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mathwiz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 10:28:24 am
content: I have 3 separate boards each with a unique PCB design:One 4 layer board, two 2 layer boards (each measuring 2.8cm x 6.2cm)--> Is there a way Altium lets you do the design in a single project AND single PCB file, and using V-Grooves / Mouse Bites in order to panelize the boards?Doing so will reduce the manufacturing cost, since combining the boards will lead to a bigger but a single PCB order as opposed to ordering 3 separate boards, which will cost more.Any help and comments appreciated. Cheers.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 10:32:53 am
content: Make a new blank PCB, then place copies of your existing PCBs usingPlace -> embedded board array / panelisethen draw your v-grooves / mousebites as you like.Note that not all PCB shops are keen on this.

author: mathwiz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 10:58:52 am
content: Thank you for your response. The problem is that I have 3 different Schematic Sheets, and each PCB design requires only the components from 1 Schematic Sheet - and as far as I'm concerned Altium does not give you the option to choose which Schematic Sheet you want to include, it just includes everything by default.The panelisation comes after I design the 3 different PCBs in a single project - but up till now I was unable to find a solution other than designing the boards in 3 separate projects. What would you suggest? Again, thank you!

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 11:07:49 am
content: Yes, three different projects, combined into a panel (which might be a 4th project, if you like).They're different projects - go with it!

author: mathwiz
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 11:26:11 am
content: ThanksJust wondering though, is there a way Altium let's you do this in a single project as opposed to creating separate project? I think a solution would be to define rooms, and then delete the room which is not required for the PCB.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2014, 12:00:52 pm
content: Sounds like a pain in the arse, but sure, you could do it that way.(there are many, many ways to achieve most things in most CAD packages. Pick the one that revolts you the least, and go with itAlso, if you're thinking of machine-populating these boards, then one project, and rooms, will get you properly functioning unique part IDs.

author: mengfei
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 15, 2014, 09:42:55 am
content: one EE did it that way, having 3 SCH/ 3PCBs in just one file projectit was a pain to deal with, not to mention with same designatorshttp://forum.live.altium.com/#posts/206268/572773?msgID=11177801

author: ludzinc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 15, 2014, 10:00:20 am
content: Quote from: mathwiz on September 25, 2014, 10:28:24 amA 4 layer design AND two 2 layer designs on the one panel?
Altium Designer 2012 component placement problem - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Dulus
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2014, 10:54:53 am
content: Hello everyone, having a bit of a problem here. (bangs head)to summerize the issue:while working with the pcb, when i update schematics or import changes to the board,some of my components go back to the schematic room. but only some of them.i've tried locking components, resetting the annotation, re-wiring the schematic etc.did anyone have a similar issue, anybody knows what to do?i'm about to kick my computer into summision right now.thanks in advance. =)

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 31, 2014, 03:22:05 pm
content: Parts are linked between schematic and PCB by each part having a unique identifier.Parts on the PCB which are not linked to a part in the schematic will be deleted. Parts in the schematic which are not linked to a part on the PCB will be placed from libraries.In the PCB editor look at Project | Component Links.
PCB library for chip antenna with copper radiators - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Sebastian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 12:53:46 pm
content: I have to make a library for this antenna:http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/400/rf_ant_ant016008lcd1575ma1_en-345733.pdfShould I draw the copper parts including vias and the tuning caps in the library or later on the board?I am new to AD, so I hope someone more experienced can tell me which method is better, i.e. won't give me trouble later.

author: s3t
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 04:56:07 pm
content: You can draw them anywhere, but how will you proceed with typical workflow of BOM/placement/production with these built-in caps?1 BOM/placement line = 1 part.So you've gotta paint the caps separately.I'd put all the rest into the footprint, so it won't get messed-up at the layout stage. Unless you want to change the suggested layout and know how to do it.

author: Sebastian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 05:08:35 pm
content: Thanks for the input. I didn't think about the BOM thing. I think I'll put everything but the caps into the footprint and add some marks where they have to go later.In case I have to adjust it I can change the footprint and update it, right? But I am pretty sure the caps will allow sufficient tuning.

author: Sebastian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 05:45:47 pm
content: I have another question: How can I change the way width transitions look? I attached an image to describe what I mean.

author: s3t
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 06:53:41 pm
content: Dunno, maybe teardrops,http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Enhanced+Teardrop+Control(i'm running older altium without trace-trace teardrops, and they aren't available in footprint editor)or - if unavailable - simple regions, "PR" hotkey. If you need just one or two of these.

author: Sebastian
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 07:44:48 pm
content: Thanks again, teardrops seems to be the right tool.
How do I highlight a net in the PCB editor? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 10:47:50 pm
content: I'm trying to find all tracks which belong to a certain net. I googled it and found how to do it in the schematic editorhere.I want to do the same thing in the PCB editor. How do I do it?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 11:11:50 pm
content: s-n select net

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2014, 11:31:36 pm
content: Thank you. That works.But there is one more thing. I need to find the location of a net before highlighting it. For instance, I'm trying to find and highlight a net named 'HB1_1'. How do I locate it in the PCB document?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 12:23:46 am
content: Lots of things:- CTRL+click on the net (assuming you are already looking at part of it!)- There may be a dropbox on the menu bar (exactly what you're looking for!).- I think the Design/Nets menu or dialog has some highlight features.- PCB panel, dropbox I think- PCB List panel, select nets / objects in net- PCB Filter panel, Net = '<net name>' (can also filter... well, any damn thing you can think of)- Place a bit of track, edit it to assign net manually, then CTRL+click to mask the rest, or P, T (begin routing) and click on the trace (same as CTRL+click but shows the ratsnest to the rest)- etc...Tim

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 29, 2014, 03:12:49 am
content: s-n click in blank space. popup comes. select net from list .
Altium imports STEP file distorted - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 09:11:24 am
content: I have imported a bunch of STEP files in Altium without problems, but this one is giving me headaches.It's made in Solidworks, and both Solidworks (of course) and Freecad shows it correctly. It looks like this:But Altium only wants to show me this:And I really do not like it.Any ideas?

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 09:18:58 am
content: I think Altium has general problem with 3d geometries that include curves other than simple cylinder. I have observed distorted graphics when I drew crimped through hole components with leads having circular cross sections (eg. Circle extruded along 3d sketch). You can try with autodesk inventor, it encodes step files a bit differently, so perhaps it will work (colors will disappear though ).

author: s3t
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 09:24:51 am
content: http://www.vitamin-ha.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Vh-funny-close-enough-origami.jpeg

author: ElektroQuark
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 09:31:44 am
content: ^|So Altium's fault, poorchava.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2014, 09:36:17 am
content: If that's a polyswitch fuse, I found some decent models on 3dcontentcentral when I needed one recently.Obviously doesn't fix the fact that Altium's cocked up that import, but lets you get on with things.http://www.3dcontentcentral.com/secure/download-model.aspx?catalogid=171&id=376741and the like...
[SOLVED] Redline under parts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: J.Tax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2014, 03:45:28 pm
content: Hello everybody,I'm having problems with Altium. When I have imported my schematic, some custom parts/resistors and LEDs wont shown connected in the PCB. I'm troubleshoothing for 1 hour now and saw that there is a red line (see picture called: 'red lines') underneath my MHDR's, where my parts a connected with, and my suspection is that it wont connect because of this.Does anybody know what this means?

author: Spikee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2014, 04:01:36 pm
content: Duplicate component designator ?Tools -> reset duplicate component designators.after thatTools -> annotate schematics quietlyIf this does not fix it , please attach or upload the files i can have a look at it.

author: J.Tax
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2014, 04:44:38 pm
content: Thank you very much, this was indeed a problem for the generation of the PCB.
Silly buttons gripe - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2014, 01:30:26 pm
content: Looking at variants. I've got the drop box to select from my list of variants, and I've got the button to view the variants dialog. I hit the SCH "complied view" tab (or whatever it's called), Variants toolbar doesn't change. WTF, where's my big red 'X' button?Right click / customize... drag 'X' button onto toolbar.Two 'X' buttons magically appear!Thanks, AltiumDrag extra button off, everything is normal.That is all...Tim
Altium footprint 'Port Map' for database libraries? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Tabs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2014, 01:43:36 pm
content: Hi All,Anyone know how (or if its even possible) to specify the port map between a symbol and a footprint when creating a component from database library fields?I would like to use a generic schematic symbol, eg a diode, and map it to several footprints (along with other parameter information from the database). This would allow me to map the 2-pin diode symbol to a 2-pin SOD323 or a 3-pin SOT23 package without having to create two versions of the symbol.Altium seems to support this for Sim Models using the Sim Port Map -> [Sim Port Map] reserved parameter name but I cant find the equivalent for "[Footprint Port Map]" or ideally "[Footprint n Port Map]".I don't understand why this isn't discussed in the documentation since a database library is meant to create components 'on the fly' by combining generic symbols and footprints with parameter information from the database. Looking at the database field mappings drop down list (when setting up the database connection), there doesn't appear to be a reserved parameter just for port map.Any advice is appreciated.Thanks.

author: Tabs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2014, 11:30:55 am
content: Just talked to our support guy who says it's not possible.Added an idea to altium community forumhttp://bugcrunch.live.altium.com/#Idea/4735Vote up of you agreeRegards.Tabs
Why do I get this "Floating Net label" warning? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 11:23:56 am
content: I have an unused opamp in a neighbor sheet, and I wanted to use it in this one. After I built up the circuit below and compile it, I get the warning messages for the net labels in the red rectangle.The messages are:Code:SheetA.SchDocCompilerFloating Net Label OPX0 at (606,444)SheetA.SchDocCompilerFloating Net Label OPX1 at (606,429)SheetA.SchDocCompilerFloating Net Label OPX2 at (606,413)How can I prevent these warning messages?

author: SL4P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 10:17:34 pm
content: Maybe the label anchors are not 'quite' touching the busses?Can't see an immediate reason for the warning - but the schematic?In my mind, it doesn't really communicate the wiring/circuit very well.Why not create or use a library op-amp ?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2014, 11:05:42 pm
content: Is the net label assigned to a wired net?They must match.The schematic part shown should be the same as on the other sheet and same identifier(IC?) and also the use the spare part portion(A? B? C? etc)That should also result in showing the pin #'s
Altium Relays libary? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Luke_dukeee
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 01, 2014, 04:36:45 pm
content: Hi guys!Since Altium is taking really long now just to move my account in the right user group for the design content, I am looking for a library with a few relays in it. Has anyone have a decent library and want to share it with me? I am currently in the learning process of drawing components by myself so I would really appreciate any library containing relays. I had a look on the vh_altium library but had no luck. (http://at.farnell.com/panasonic-ew/jw1fsn-12v/schaltrelais/dp/845863this is the specific relay I want to use on my board).If this is a stupid question please excuse!Thanks in advance!Best Regards from Austria,Lukas

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 01, 2014, 09:35:08 pm
content: Just make your own. takes 5 minutes. Really much quicker than trying to find a premade library (which guaranteed never has te parts anyway).

author: fww
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2014, 06:25:51 am
content: I find these relays in the standard library(miscellaneous devices.intlib).If not fit your component,Try to drawing component footprint based on the datasheet.
Power plane clearance - on all layers - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: penfold
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2014, 02:21:46 pm
content: Hi,I was wondering if anybody has a solution to apply some constraint that would ensure that there is no power plane lies under a particular trace, on any layer. A more automatic method to ensue that there is minimum capacitance to ground for a particular trace.I know there are manual ways of doing it, just wondering if there is some way that would either do it automatically or flag up a design rule check error
Build Query. How do you do this ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2014, 04:43:50 am
content: In the PCB editor I want to select component comments where the component is on the opposite side to the comment. ie the comment text is on the top overlay and the component is on the bottom layer. Don't ask me how it got like that but something to do with the importer.Even with the query language I can't see how to do this.This was easy to do in 99SE but in Altium as soon as you select the components on a layer you no longer can use "find similar objects" because it wants to do the operation on the selected components only and and not the comment text.It's got me stumped.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2014, 05:01:36 am
content: Do you simple want to flip (L) a few components?

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2014, 05:16:04 am
content: Quote from: David_AVD on September 02, 2014, 05:01:36 amNo the component is on the correct side but the comment text is on the opposite side.Anyway I found out how to do it using the following query which highlights the comment text on the top overlay for components mounted on the bottom.Code:(InComponentClass('Bottom Side Components') AND IsText AND OnLayer('TopOverlay'))It's not as obvious and user friendly as 99SE in this respect.

author: snoopy
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2014, 05:48:41 am
content: It's funny. I just noticed in the PCB Inspector that some of the parameters are hyperlinked so you can click on those to set more parameters.cheers.

author: dboyer
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2014, 04:32:45 pm
content: Quote from: snoopy on September 02, 2014, 05:16:04 amThis happens to me sometimes. I have not figured out a good way to reproduce it but hopefully this filter will help me find afflicted parts.FWIW, it seems to have something to do with the embedded component features in 14 but I'm not 100% sure yet.

author: stefanh
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2014, 11:59:45 pm
content: I occasionally get this problem. Some how my Component defaults get changed.To fix it I do the following:Goto DXP -> Preferences -> PCB Editor -> Defaults -> ComponentEnsure that Component Properties -> Layer = Top Layer and Designator -> Layer = Top Layer.
ANY RSISKS IN UPGRADING TO ALTIUM 14? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 300STC
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 04, 2014, 01:50:44 pm
content: We are currently using Altium 13.1.2 which is pretty stable. We are looking into upgrading to Altium 14. Is the new version stable and worth it?

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 04, 2014, 01:56:02 pm
content: The first few iterations of 14 were pretty buggy. I'm trying to figure out if I'm seeing less bugs than the stable 13 or not. I haven't crashed hard in quite a while.You will be installing 14 beside 13, so there isn't much harm in trying it. I did finally uninstall 13 a few weeks back, so it has been doing well for me.
SMA connector question - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: docmur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2014, 01:23:07 am
content: HeyI have a both a Bluetooth and WiFi module on my new project and I wanted to go with a SMA Antenna, in place of a chip or trace antenna. When designing for chip and trace antennas I know you have to be careful to match lengths and on how you route them. My question is how careful do you have to be when using SMA connectors in place of chip and trace antennas. Can I just place the SMA connector at the edge of my board and run a trace back to modules? Do I have to match for wave length?

author: salbayeng
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2014, 05:59:18 am
content: Hi,You need to match for impedance first, from memory 50ohms is around 100mil on a standard 1.6mm PCB. A thinner board allows thinner traces!And don't have any 90degree bends.Another trick is to contrive to have tracks that are multiples of half-wavelengths I think that's around 2-1/2" for 2.4GHz , 1/2 wavelength lines just replicate the impedance of one end to the other, so it's not critical if your track isn't exactly 50ohms ,( i.e +/- 50%)

author: docmur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 01, 2014, 01:24:56 pm
content: Thanks :-)I actually just discovered an impedance matching router in Altium that I never knew existed.
New component Design - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: barefootst
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 06:29:39 pm
content: I'm busy making a Board-Board Connector 100 PIN SKT SMD. Well what is the best way to go to this.Current steps would be:1. Create a table in excel with the PIN,Name,Description2. Import with SCH List and paste smart grid3. Draw the block and add pins. Geehs thats going to take long4. PCB footprintHere is the component name and link to the pdf's.http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/AXK500147BN1/255-2903-6-ND/2181736Please help me out.Stephan

author: barefootst
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 06:47:42 pm
content: Isn't there a way to automatically connect all the pins to the component(rectangle). A wizard of some sort

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 07:10:46 pm
content: place first pin, then copy it, then paste array. 30 seconds, including guessing which way the array will go, and whether the pins numbers will increment right:)No need for Excel...(The same works for complex stuff - copy and paste an array of pins, then paste the names and numbers in over them in the pin editor, having copied them from the datasheet pdf (ALT for column select). )Bear in mind that you'll have to kick the pin inspector into 'edit' mode, rather than inspect - but that's less hidden than it used to be. No Altium on this machine, hence the vagueness, I'm afraid. Shout if you can't work it out.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 07:53:52 pm
content: Nice of Panasonic not to bother indicating which corner of the connector is pin 1 or if the numbering zig-zags or circles - that way we can demonstrate our individuality by choosing a scheme for ourselves.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2014, 08:53:20 pm
content: Ah, now _that's_ a candidate for the annoying components thread. Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy?Just declare a scheme, manufacturers, nobody cares, as long as we all agree.(I have a confession about an Amp/Tyco part. The datasheet labelled pins 1 and 12, for a 6x2 connector. I guessed wrong. It was an annoyance for the entire life of the project, and I imagine it's annoying in manufacture, too. Sorry, chaps!)

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 04:09:01 pm
content: Quote from: Precipice on August 13, 2014, 07:10:46 pmI would do it the same way, probably the fastest way.
Right angle SMA Connector - Altium Designer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: docmur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2014, 05:37:42 pm
content: Does anyone know where to get a right angle SMA connector? I want to add a stub antenna to my design.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2014, 05:51:32 pm
content: RS? Farnell? Pretty much any of the catalogue disties do them, or ebay if you want to chance your luck a bit on quality.If you get a TE one, then the 3D models that TE supply are good. Should take about 5 minutes, tops, to make a footprint.
Apply different rules in particular area  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 11:13:43 am
content: hi everyone,So anyone have an idea how to define clearance and width rules for a particular area in PCBI tried room and create class and so without success i don't know what am doing wrong

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 01:00:04 pm
content: Are your rules in correct order? Try changing priorities.After every change in the rules re-run the DRC.

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 05:26:55 pm
content: In the Design Rules, press Query Builder and in the condition select "Belongs to Component Class" then select the room.

author: hamdi.tn
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 11:43:10 pm
content: @owiecc - yes i did set priority and Online DRC still show track with special clearance as faulty@avaldezc92 -That's exactly what i didanyway i did this routing manually many thanks

author: owiecc
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2014, 05:54:33 am
content: Online DRC has failed few times for me this is why I suggested to re-run the thing manually. After I do the DRC manually the online one works ok. It just looks like some of the errors are not updated wen you change the rules. Maybe it depends on the Altium version.

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2014, 03:26:07 pm
content: Try what @owiecc said. Run DRC manually and see what happends.
Teardrops are not working in T-Junction - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kcs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 23, 2014, 10:01:41 am
content: I am not sure why, but Teardrops are not working for junctions. Am I doing something wrong?

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 23, 2014, 09:13:01 pm
content: Make sure you shelve any polygons first

author: kcs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2014, 10:22:26 am
content: I am not sure I understand you. I have removed all the polygons, but I still don't get teardrop in this case, it does work in other places though.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2014, 12:25:38 pm
content: How do you invoke (create) a teardrop in Altium and are they used for a specific purpose?

author: kcs
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 24, 2014, 02:23:37 pm
content: I create them doing the following: Tools->Teardrops.

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 05:08:54 pm
content: I never figure it our how to get the teardrop in a T-junction. I always have to use Solid Region tool and draw a traingle

author: avaldezc92
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 05:22:33 pm
content: In AD 14.3 the teardrop tool was changed and seems very easy to have the T-junction unfortunately I have Ad 14.2
So what's the deal with altium's free version? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: justanothercanuck
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 01:26:24 am
content: Their website touts that they have a free version, but when you click the links, it takes you to a form to fill out. I never got an email from completing the form, so I'm assuming that they're going to try phoning me at some point... but if they really want people to try their software, why are they making it so hard to obtain?Just give me a 60-day timed "demo", and let me play around with it for a while.

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 01:34:22 am
content: There's no free version published yet, what you see is the standard "free trial" probably.

author: justanothercanuck
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 01:47:35 am
content: Same thing, basically. My point remains though, they should make it easier to obtain.

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 04:34:45 am
content: Quote from: justanothercanuck on August 19, 2014, 01:26:24 amIt's coming shortly. Click on Dave's link in the post below.Quote from: EEVblog on August 12, 2014, 04:12:31 am

author: justanothercanuck
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2014, 01:52:16 pm
content: So a guy from Altium just called me, he said they've been getting a lot of evaluation requests... then said "I don't mean to give you sticker shock, but our software costs like $10,000." (to buy outright, I believe) He wanted to know what kind of projects I'm working on and mentioned that their software can do flexible PCBs (I'm assuming he meant stuff like chips on flat-flex cable). They're going to send me a video to watch, and give me the contact information of a Canadian affiliate company with some sort of engineer to go over what kind of features Altium has over other PCB tools like Eagle.I dunno, I guess I'll find out what kind of pricing packages they have, hopefully in a price range I can be happy with.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 20, 2014, 10:11:56 am
content: Quote from: justanothercanuck on August 19, 2014, 01:52:16 pmIt's going to cost you not far from that $10KAltium is not a cheap package and does not have a cheap option (until the new low end packaged to be announced soon) . It's an "all you can eat" deal, take it or leave it, you can't just buy PCB/schematic for example, you have to pay for everything.And they will stick you for several $K/year for subscription.You don't have to pay subscription, you can buy it outright ("perpetual license"), but then you don't get big fixes or access to the library content.
DXF importer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: barefootst
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 15, 2014, 09:13:24 pm
content: Could someone please help me with dxf importer. Can't get mine to import.If someone could please get me it into a format that I can work with ( need it to get desing of the footprint ).Or say how I can get it working. Am I atleast right that the dxf file will make the footprint design easier.Pls help me out.Stephan Terblanche

author: barefootst
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 15, 2014, 09:22:30 pm
content: Any luck importing it?

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2014, 09:26:16 pm
content: It imports fine here - (14.2)create a new PCB,file -> importselect the dxf file (this used to not work across a network, so copy it somewhere local to be sure)select 'mm' for the scale - it's Japanese.3 drawings appear - it looks like a 0.5mm pitch mezzanine connector. However, they'll not be very much use for making a footprint.The datasheet herehttp://pdf1.alldatasheet.com/datasheet-pdf/view/393494/PANASONIC/AXK5.html(or Panasonic may have it, I just did a quick search) has the recommended PCB layout.It doesn't seem to be a very popular part, do you have a supplier?

author: barefootst
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 15, 2014, 09:34:28 pm
content: Hey, you are right. With luck I got the part but had to do some scavaging. Ok thought it would create it for me. Should I use the component wizzard or just, create the pads with an array. Not at a pc with altium on atm. Could you please check for me when designing the pads should if follw the dimensions of the "Recommended metal mask pattern" or "Recommended PC board pattern", the first one if I'm right.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2014, 10:07:03 am
content: Either place array or wizard - there won't be much in it. The wizard will place some silk screen details you'll have to delete...PC Board pattern is for the copper on the PCB, metal mask pattern is for the solder paste stencil. Bear in mind that these connectors will be quite tricky to hand solder - 0.5mm pitch, 0.23mm pins, which extend under the part, and will wick solder under there that will be difficult to get back out, even with solderwick and flux. I'd definitely be dabbing solder _only_ on the end of the pin, and I'd probably extend the footprint a bit, to give some uncovered pad, to make it easier to get heat into the PCB trace.Any attempt to flow solder along many pins with a large bit is likely to end up with the solder running under the part, and being impossible to get back out. One pin at a time, for these. (Or, of course, solder paste, stencil and careful reflow)I'd also reiterate - make damn sure you can get these parts before designing them in. Probably to the point of having them in your hands. Rare connectors are a nightmare. There may, or may not, be an interoperable series from other manufacturers.
How to measure the maximum height of an assembly? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Robert.Adams
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2014, 11:45:55 pm
content: Hello everyone,I'm playing around with FreeCAD (Mechanical) and figured I'd look at making a simple box for a project (using open source IMX6 which has Altium files already). Unfortunately I do not know the maximum height of the PCB.I've looked at the Board information report which gives the x & y dimensions. I know I can click on components I think to be the highest and manually add up the height but this seems really inefficient. Is there a better way to get this information (either in maximum total height or max component height per side)?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2014, 01:04:05 am
content: I take it you don't have 3D info on all components, and thus can't simply eyeball the one that stands tallest?Could probably do a query by Component Height and see where the cutoffs are (>1mm, >2mm, etc...). Don't think there's a way to query the one tallest component; that would require an N x N comparison (or at least O(N lg N)), while Query is only applied to all N objects once. For each side, just add "AND OnBottom" or whatever and do it again.IMX6 is going to have a standard maximum profile, no? So you could also specify component height design rules. Probably one rule for OnTop, another for OnBottom, since they're probably different?Tim

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 09, 2014, 02:43:37 am
content: 2 ways --1. Go to 3d view, and change the Projection to Orthgraphic. This turns off perpsective correction and allows you see the side as if it were a mechanical drawing.2. Side view, eyeball the highest component. Easy1. Create a dummy component with a huge 6 inch square simple 3d body, covering the entire board. Set the color to bright purple so any intersections will be visible.2. Adjust the max height of the footprint (by editing the primitive) until it barely covers the highest component.

author: Precipice
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2014, 10:58:04 am
content: Generate a BOM (from the PCB, not the project), and you've got height in mm, height in mils, as an option. Sort the resulting BOM by height (and side of PCB), and job done.However, it's still tempting to export your case design as a STEP file, and import that onto the PCB as a final check, to see if anything lights up green. It's saved me some hassle with connectors lining up on holes before...
Small form factor WiFi module - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: docmur
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 24, 2014, 06:34:07 pm
content: HeyI'm looking for a reasonable small form factor WiFI module, I was thinking of this;http://www.redpinesignals.com/pdfs/RS9110-N-11-02/RS9110-N-11-02_Module_DataSheet_v1.49.pdfHowever I could also implement a Bluetooth and WiFi module.I have about 13.7 x 17 mm for a WiFi module or 25 x 25mm for a combo module.I have an external SMA antenna connector.