Does anyone use it? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: buffalo960
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2011, 06:03:07 pm
content: Does anyone besides me and house91320 use diptrace here?

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2011, 06:12:06 pm
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/index.php?topic=3468.msg46492#msg46492https://www.eevblog.com/forum/index.php?topic=3914count me in, but a total noob.

author: slburris
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2011, 06:27:06 pm
content: I do, and I like it well enough that I've paid for the standard edition :-)Scott

author: 500in1
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2011, 01:53:59 am
content: I also use it. I have purchased the non-profit version (just a hobbyist and student at this time).After trying Eagle, and DesignSpark, I felt that Diptrace was the most intuitive for me.

author: A-sic Enginerd
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 15, 2011, 11:19:18 pm
content: Quote from: Mechatrommer on July 14, 2011, 06:12:06 pmDitto.Totally new to board design. Did a little digging around, including on here, and decided it was the tool to go after first. Using just the free version for now. An upcoming project may have me spending the few bucks to get into the standard version.Currently have the bulk of my little function generator project schematic done on it. Had to create a couple of components that weren't already in the libs. Was pretty straight forward. Once I finish the power supply part of the design I'll be going to the board layout side of it.

author: Medo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 17, 2011, 04:12:38 pm
content: Using it and loving it...After years of Eagle it is huge refreshment.

author: Kremmen
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 19, 2011, 07:24:14 pm
content: Quote from: buffalo960 on July 14, 2011, 06:03:07 pmOh lots, just subscribe to the Diptrace mailing list / forum to see.I'm using the non-profit version and like it. That said the component/pattern library system would benefit from some re-thinking but still the tool lets you do everything you really need. And in the latest version they introduced 3D modeling. Once that is further developed to make it really pro level then what more could a person want

author: sdscotto
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 30, 2011, 09:52:10 pm
content: I'm also a DipTrace user.I find it very intuitive to use and the few times I've needed support I've gotten a clear, intelligent, and accurate answers.I'll admit up front that I'm not the brightest crayon in the box. After weeks of trying to use Eagle, I just couldn't get used to their interface. It took me days reading the help system, following tutorials, downloading and running scripts, etc., and I still didn't feel comfortable with the software.I did complete a project with Eagle, and maybe if I stuck with it for a few more weeks I could have become proficient. But, their unintuitive interface, and their strange pricing levels (160x100mm board = $750, next step is $1500?) and unwillingness to negotiate and intermediate step sent me looking for something else.When DipTrace was mentioned on the AmpHour comments I gave it a try and completed the same project that took weeks in a single evening, even with creating numerous library parts from scratch. I was sold.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2011, 09:11:03 am
content: I am using it too, i find it a great program. It is very simple to use, and it's very simple to creat the part you need.

author: wosser
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2011, 07:24:12 pm
content: I was one of those recommending DipTrace on the AmpHour forum. I love it actually, I have the full version now!It's got one or two rough edges but to be honest, the work flow is so smooth and fluid that I find myself just playing with it when I'm not actually designing circuits.On more than one occasion I've used it as a handy tool for creating cool graphics. I used it to create a nice logo for my blog page (wardyprojects.blogspot.com) for example.I do have a few criticisms of DipTrace though, mainly to do with the schematic capture really. But these are related to some parts of the design process being a bit laborious (wiring up large buses for instance). But I do like the pattern and component editors, they are fairly intuitive (for the most part) and the workflow is fast and effective.I'm still starting out with PCB design (I'm hoping to make a career of it at some point!) and just playing around with this software has taught me a lot already. I plan to take some kind of formal training in PCB layout in the next couple of years.Yeah so I'd definitely recommend Diptrace to beginners and intermediate users. It's not a high-end tool by any means though, although it can be used to create everything you need to physically have PCBs manufactured to high standards, so it's good enough for all hobbyists I reckon.

author: Armin_Balija
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 13, 2011, 06:06:25 pm
content: Just bought the standard version, most intuitive and cheapest program that I've seen so far. At 125 bucks with 4 layers and 1000 pins, it's good enough for a lot of projects. Anyone know how to get the 3d models down to just above the plane of the PCB. For example, when I do a 3d preview of my board, my LEDs stick up with their leads showing completely, not flush with the board like how they would look when soldered.

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2011, 10:08:49 am
content: Quote from: Armin_Balija on November 13, 2011, 06:06:25 pmIf +Z axis is pointing upwards of your board, add negative offset Z-axis to the model. Tweak the value until you are happy with it.

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 14, 2011, 11:57:16 am
content: Quote from: Armin_Balija on November 13, 2011, 06:06:25 pmI see $345 for 4 layers 1000 pins:http://www.diptrace.com/order.phpDave.

author: Armin_Balija
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2011, 12:04:06 pm
content: Quote from: EEVblog on November 14, 2011, 11:57:16 amI'm a student so I opted for the educational version. Sorry for not mentioning that.https://www.plimus.com/jsp/buynow.jsp?contractId=1659088&referrer=Parallaxinc

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2011, 09:28:03 am
content: I use it too. I switched from eagle, tried some altium but stopped at diptrace. i find it really easy to use, easy to create parts and libraries. The PCB design is great. You could start with the pcb design and afterwards create the schematics. The only problem would be that you need to know the parts package.DipTrace has my thumbs up. For any questions i am glad to help.

author: Armin_Balija
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2011, 09:58:29 am
content: Quote from: shebu18 on November 15, 2011, 09:28:03 amMy good friend is an amazing 3d modeler. I was wondering if he was to teach me how to create very detailed low poly 3d models of IC's and passive components if there would be any way of replacing the ones Diptrace uses currently?

author: Flavour Flave
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2011, 12:01:02 pm
content: Welll I'm just downloading the freeware version just now(its got a 300 pin limit and non-profit use)

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2011, 06:30:52 pm
content: Quote from: Armin_Balija on November 15, 2011, 09:58:29 amI recommend you Solidworks for an easy to use software, also for component creation you could use Sketchup. You need the datasheet of the component and save/export the components to .wrl file format (it's an opensource format as far as i know). Modeling the parts is quite easy.LE: I added a file of a 0805 smd cap:

author: Armin_Balija
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 15, 2011, 10:12:05 pm
content: Quote from: shebu18 on November 15, 2011, 06:30:52 pmThank you very much. I was wondering how I would replace the 3d models of the components in DipTrace when I'm done?

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 16, 2011, 05:03:25 am
content: In the diptrace folder you have a folder with models (after u installed the models package). Here you could create a new folder, put your models in it and when you click the 3d button in the pcb software you can select the source of the cad file. Here you just change the source to the file created by you, or add a source to a part created by you.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 21, 2011, 12:54:43 am
content: Just downloaded the free version and started playing with it. I am liking it quite a bit so far. I'd say it feels like taking ExpressPCB's program and adding just enough features to be able to do normal board design, without overwhelming one with options. After spending maybe ten minutes in it, I am eager to play with it more and don't seem to need to go look for tutorials/videos like I had to do when learning Altium

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 21, 2011, 06:06:16 am
content: I still recommend you the tutorial. It shows you some nice features that you probably would find after spending some time in the program.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: November 22, 2011, 02:39:08 am
content: Oh, I totally agree. The difference is that it's optional enough that you can figure out most things by mousing around for a bit. With some more expensive tools, that does not helpQuote from: shebu18 on November 21, 2011, 06:06:16 am

author: JTR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: November 24, 2011, 02:29:11 am
content: I've only started with it and only after reading about it on the EEVBLOG forums. I have to say the poor user interface of eagle and the number of hassles and hoops you have to jump through to rework a board lead me to try something else. So far I have to say that DIPTRACE is the PCB package I have been looking for and I hope that the PCB manufacturers support it with DRC files etc like they do with eagle.Still want to use the space bar to rotate like I did with autotrax though. Some habits die hard.

author: The_Penguin
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2011, 05:06:42 am
content: Quote from: buffalo960 on July 14, 2011, 06:03:07 pmI just downloaded the free version today. Will try it for a small 555-based project I have in mind.I haven't used PCB software since the mid 90's then I used a DOS based one, EZsomething.Just played with it a bit tonight, looks pretty good so far.

author: peter_mcc
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 14, 2011, 10:17:51 pm
content: I'm using it - I was pretty familiar with Protel 99SE over the last 10 years and DIPtrace seems to be pretty easy to use. I tried Eagle for a while - it was terrible!! I miss some things like the Protel shortcut keys (eg va to view all) but apart from that it's great.peter

author: JGinwa
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: January 10, 2012, 11:35:50 pm
content: Successfully used the DipTrace freeware version to create a schematic and PCB layout for Dave's uCurrent design. Found DipTrace to be reasonably intuitive - their tutorial is worth going through. It has a good range of libraries and it is simple to add your own devices.Sent the Gerber files and drilling file to Seed/Fusion in China for PCB fab. Turn round time about 2 weeks. Boards look good and have 1 built up working as expected. Only problem was I forgot about the copper flood and solder mask for the bottom side (top when mounted in the box, - bummer!

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 15, 2012, 01:56:28 am
content: How's the stability of the program itself? I am deep in Altium at work and crashes are getting rather annoying. So for my own tasks I'd like to not deal with them

author: Noize
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2012, 03:12:05 am
content: Quote from: reagle on January 15, 2012, 01:56:28 amI've had no crashs so far. I've used it a bit

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2012, 07:44:01 am
content: Didn't had one crash and i use it since 2010

author: BravoV
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2012, 09:14:17 am
content: After playing with the free version, damn, this thing is like night and day compared to Eagle in term of easy to use and learn, I'm a convert now.Btw, just to share about the free license, requested thru email and received the free Lite license that is capable of 500 pins, 2 layers, while the freeware version max at 300 pins.Another nice thing is, I also got a written confirmation that it is no problem to install that single free license at multiple computers, did it at my laptop (win-x86) and desktop (win-x64), just can't complain more for such price and nice treatment.

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2012, 12:24:57 pm
content: I like this part:QuoteThis is what usually you see in forum (Arduino for example), people would make few pieces and some other guys interested to buy them.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 16, 2012, 12:35:04 pm
content: That sounds like "Buy me some drinks and i give you a board".

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 20, 2012, 04:10:24 am
content: Quote from: shebu18 on January 15, 2012, 07:44:01 amDamn, that is awesome!

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 06:31:21 am
content: Guys,Is there a way to set the library (component & pattern) to use relative path?I wanted to share the library but it'll be crazy if the component is using a path in my drive and having hundreds of components inside that library.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 07:48:17 am
content: What exactly do you mean? Do you want to change the location of the library's?

author: harnon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 08:20:57 am
content: I have been using Eagle for a while and didn't think it wasthatbad... but keeping an open mind, a few weeks ago I decided to try out Diptrace.The overall experience is positive, however I think it has its own quirks. For instance, I'm not sure if there are no shortcut keys or if they are just hidden? Also, I think the component selection box is quite crappy, the search box has never ever found anything and the only real way to select a component is to use your mouse (is there a shortcut key?!) to open the Find Component box. I assume that as the product matures and becomes more and more popular some of these things will be improved and there will be more parts/tutorials etc.Overall I like Diptrace and I think I'll stick with it for a while.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 09:23:51 am
content: What parts did you search for? there are shortcut keys but i need to search where they are all listed.

author: harnon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 10:21:25 am
content: Quote from: shebu18 on January 27, 2012, 09:23:51 amUsing the main box on the LHS... unless I type in the complete, 100% accurate part number nothing is ever found. Wildcards etc don't appear to make a difference. Not a big deal as I just use the Place Component/Find Pattern menu item.Quote from: shebu18 on January 27, 2012, 09:23:51 amThats kind of my pointyou shouldn't need a manual to work out the shortcut keys for menu items!As I said though, I think its at least as good as / slightly better than Eagle, but of course it has its own weird things / annoyances as well.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 10:34:09 am
content: The shortcut keys need to be discovered. I will search the help file and see what i can found. Theoretically they have shortcuts but are not mentioned.If i search fro "78l" i fill find 78l05 78l12 78l09. What was the exact name of the part you searched for?

author: harnon
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2012, 10:43:50 am
content: I tried quite a few parts but no big deal really, the menu dialog is better anyway!

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 08:08:15 am
content: Quote from: shebu18 on January 27, 2012, 07:48:17 amShebu,I probably got myself confused with the path shown in "Component > Attach Pattern > Add/Clear Library".I think as long as both the component and pattern library is placed together in a same folder, it should be fine.So, if any guys download them and put them in their local machine, it should be able to detect it's components corresponding attached patterns.Time to tidy up the library before releasing them!

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 30, 2012, 08:12:22 am
content: Yes, you have a schematic library file and a pcb pattern file, which need to be toghether. If you work in a LAN you can put the library files on the server, map the drive and load the library's from there. So everybody has the same library's.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2012, 10:10:15 am
content: Shortcut keys/hot keys should be somewhere in the help file, as i read in the diptrace forum. I will search as i get home.This is a nice thing.http://www.diptrace.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=24&p=131&hilit=hotkeys#p131

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 01, 2012, 08:26:59 pm
content: This is what i found:Code:Ctrl+N - new projectCtrl+O - open projectCtrl+S - save projectCtrl+Alt+S - save asCtrl+Alt+P - previewCtrl+P - printCtrl+B - convert Schematic to PCB LayoutCtrl+Z - undoCtrl+Y - redoCtrl+X - cut objectsCtrl+C - copy objectsCtrl+V - paste objectsDel - delete objectsCtrl+A - select all objectsCtrl+F - find object on schematicCtrl+Ins - add new sheet to schematicCtrl+M - copy matrixCtrl+L - lock selectedCtrl+Alt+L - unlock selectedCtrl+R, R or Space - rotate selected objectsCtrl+G - group selected objectsCtrl+Alt+G - ungroup selected objectsF2 - show/hide standard panelF3 - show/hide design managerF4 - show/hide objects panelF5 - show/hide libraries panelF6 - show/hide components panelF10 - move part textsR in F10 mode rotates text while movingCtrl+F1, + - zoom inCtrl+F2, - - zoom outF1 - display/hide originF11 - display/hide gridWire/Bus Placing (press key while making wire):C - change net-class (for new nets only)M - switch mode (automatic, manual)S, Space - switch segment (0>90, 90>0)Enter - complete wire/busEsc - cancel wire/busOther keys:R or Space while placing part - rotates part before placementCtrl - hold down to invert selectionShift - hold down to add objects to selectionShift + mouse - orthogonal moving of selected objectsArrows - move selected objectsShift+S - enable/disable auto-panning

author: 48X24X48X
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 06, 2012, 10:56:18 am
content: Hei guys,Just released our Diptrace libraries:http://goo.gl/t86tfFeel free to let us know if there's any mistake.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 09:58:12 am
content: I just started using it. I used Eagle before and found it OK but the limitations were too much.Hope I get some help hereHas anyone done a telit module for the library ?