hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Via being flagged by DRC as 'Net Antennae' - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Robert.Adams
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 06:33:09 pm
content: Hello everyone,Does anyone have any tips for getting the DRC to not call a via a net Antennae? My layout is error free except for a single via which Altium has decided is a net antenna. I'm running the latest 16.1 release and it has no problems with my other vias. I've tried coming at it from different directions, making sure the tracks don't touch in the via area, etc and I can't get it to work. If I delete the via I get an un-routed net error and more net Antennae errors since the tracks don't connect to anything without the via.Edit: A little more complaining and re-drawing and it now works. No idea why, so I still would love an explanation if anyone knows what causes this type of behavior.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2016, 07:37:09 pm
content: Delete it and replace?Also, set a PolygonConnect rule, IsVia, direct connect. Shouldn't affect the present problem, but itlooks better.Tim

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2016, 02:06:13 pm
content: your blue trace does not go all the way to the center of the via.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2016, 04:42:28 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on October 11, 2016, 02:06:13 pmbut its suppose to already electrically connected to the via, Altium should not complain it as a stray antenna, its a bug.
altium and pen tablets - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: daedalus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 04:27:18 pm
content: has anyone figured out how to use a Wacom style tablet to place parts on a schematic? It seems like the control for the schematic surface is badly written and only responds to mouse movements whilst placing (so you cant move the crosshair with the pen).

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 05:27:35 pm
content: Lots of software doesnt support pen usage.Altium uses mouse and a 3d navigator.

author: daedalus
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 14, 2012, 08:05:36 pm
content: I would argue that whilst pen usage might have been rare a decade ago, almost everything supports it these days, as its been baked into win32 api since XP. I mean every app written in WPF, winforms, all of windows, every mechanical cad package ive ever used, all work fine. The exception to this is custom controls that directly interpret mouse-move events and don't follow current guidance.I was hoping that someone had found a workaround for the problem, altium may use mouse and 3d navigator, but that's pretty useless on a slate tablet pc.EDIT: the problem is when the targeting crosshair is displayed when placing a part, wire or bus, when the pen is outside of the canvas control, the crosshair moves around the edge of canvas as expected, and clicks place parts. But moving across canvas / clicking on it doesn't update the crosshair as expected. The rest of the UI works fine. That said I have an older version, so if someone has experience with latest release can you let me know.

author: DanSGiesbrecht
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 08, 2016, 04:50:54 pm
content: I know that this thread has been dead for a long time, but I was having the exact problem described, and have a solution.I'm using Altium Designer 16.1 on Windows 10, with a Wacom Intuos 'ART' tablet.As described, my crosshair wouldn't update, and I couldn't place schematic symbols or pcb traces. Turning off 'Windows Ink' in the Wacom setttings fixed this problem completely.I hope that this helps somebody else!
Altium Designer crashing when saving as PCB Binary 4.0 file - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jpk42
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2016, 11:46:05 pm
content: Hi,I am creating a PCB in Altium 2016 version, and trying to save in the native Protel 99SE .pcb (PCB Binary 4.0) file format for backwards compatibility purposes, as other CAD designers in our office use exclusively Protel. However whenever I try save as .pcb in Altium, the program crashes. Any solution to this so I can open my PCB designs in Protel?Thanks.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 09:03:10 pm
content: Huh, just doing this now on a random board, it seems to freeze... no CPU usage, no crash.Call up support.Tim
Help required in ground planes interconnection - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sanwal209
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 02:50:35 pm
content: Hi everybody,I am designing a board which contains a RF MCU(EFR32MG1) and a lot of digital circuitry (Not very High speed). PCB consists of six layers. 2nd Inner layer is continuous ground which is requirement of Co-Planner transmission line. My question is can i connect the digital ground vias of digital components on top layer to the RF GND plane? or should i connect all digital vias to the other ground plane and interconnect both ground layers at ground pin of power input connector.Please help me out hereThanks

author: sanwal209
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 03:11:16 pm
content: I exactly did the same as you recommended. Width of the Transmission line is .6 and clearance is .5 as this was output values from co planner wave guide calculator. Please do check the attached PCB design. Is it fine ? or do i need add more stitching vias

author: sanwal209
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 03:35:58 pm
content: Thanks.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 09:00:36 pm
content: At a glance, R14/R15 don't even have a ground connection."Stitch heavily" meansthe whole damn board!Tim

author: sanwal209
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 06, 2016, 09:16:00 pm
content: Thanks man but R14/R15 are connected to ground via(Zoom in). I will update as soon as i put stitching vias all over the board. Due to massive routing on inner signal layer i am not able to put massive number of stitching vias from top layer to bottom. But what i can do is i can put stitching vias from top to RF ground layer. Does this work?
Poly pouring too far. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 24, 2016, 11:34:34 pm
content: Hi Everyone.I have poured a ground plane over surface mount components and have discovered that the plane covers too much of the resistors pads which are connected to ground, please see my uploaded pic.How can I prevent this from occurring? I have so far used cutouts but it seems a bit tedious, I have many resistors connected this way.cheerskvresto

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2016, 12:24:13 am
content: thanks blueskull, if I select 2 relief connectors that seems to work. Is there another way to keep 4 relief connectors or even a solid connection?EDIT: wrong pic, the other one shows 2 reliefs.The only other thing is the pour is still being poured between the resistor pads. Also note the ground pad to the left has only one relief connected.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2016, 12:44:30 am
content: Add a query to the rule, to select which kinds of objects should be poured accordingly.For example, create a rule, set the first query IsVia, and set to direct connect (no thermal relief).Also looks like you have different clearance rules set for different kinds of objects (in net / unconnected?), which is weird but okay.Tim

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 25, 2016, 01:34:36 am
content: T3sl4co1, this is an area I'm dealing with for the very 1st time. I tried several combinations of rules, but I don't really know what I'm doing at this stage, everything sort of works, but no cigar.I quickly looked at the documentation, and it was so convoluted and fragmented for this issue I just don't want to make it a study course to figure it out. I decided to stick with cutouts for now.I plan to get a pcb house to make, just a quick one, these cut outs wont affect the end result will it?

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2016, 02:19:10 am
content: Rather than messing around with complicated rules, in your polygon pour settings, set the "Remove Necks" to something wider than the clearance between the pads. This stops it forming very narrow features like those shown in your images.

author: kvresto
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 11:56:49 pm
content: Hi D3f1ant, just thought I'd have a look at my resent post and found your solution. Looking forward to getting back to desk in a couple of days and trying it out, thanks again.kvresto
RUNNING ALTIUM IN MAC - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 05:25:41 am
content: Anyone here who is running an altium in MAC? I can't make it work.. I need help

author: PartialDischarge
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 05:41:16 am
content: Yes I am, with a virtual machine. IIRC virtualbox work very well and its free

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 05:41:58 am
content: should I just download it in my MAC?

author: karoru
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 06:10:09 am
content: You also need a Windows license. You can also consider using for example VMWare Fusion or Parallels Desktop which aren't free but integrate nicely with your Mac's desktop - they allow to run a "headless" Windows copy so your Windows windows (pun not intended) will behave as native.

author: b_force
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 08:02:15 am
content: Wel, you can also use a trial version of Windows of course!Depends how the license of Altium works, but sometimes you will need another license for an extra virtual machine.

author: dfnr2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 04:48:56 pm
content: I've run AD9 through AD16 on a 2008 Mac Pro and 2009 & 2012 Macbook Pros, over a range of OS X versions, under Parallels-hosted Windows 7 VM's. No serious issues. 3D works smoothly. 3D mouse works fine.I had Office 2008 installed on the Macs, and did not bother to install a windows version of Excel on the VMs. Parallels allowed AD to invoke the Mac-installed Excel to generate BOMs from templates. When I updated my Mac Office version to 2016, that feature stopped working on the Mac Pro, and I had to install Office 2007 on the VM to be able to generate BOMs again. Kept Office 2008 on the Macbook, and still works fine with AD16, via Parallels.

author: grouchobyte
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 05:26:17 pm
content: I use AD 14 on an Imac 5k with an external thunderbolt display. With a quad core i7 and 32 gb of RAM using VMware fusion v7 and windows 10 it runs very smoothly with pristine, crisp graphics, smooth fluid 3d rendering and never crashes. Supporting two 27 inch displays makes using AD fun and functional.I retired all my PCs in 2008 and have a thriving consulting EE business using only MACs. And yes, I can afford it.@grouchobyte
Multichannel design and copying same layout with polygons - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: weky
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 18, 2016, 04:09:27 pm
content: First of all i am beginner...I am designing board with 8 same channels. When i make layout with polygons on one channel and use copy room formats to get same layout on each channel I get collision on copied channels because polygon around D-PAK is connected to NetD1_D08_2 and this same net is copied across all channels as layout. Please can someone refer me how to instruct Altium to do change net for this polygon by automatism?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 18, 2016, 04:17:40 pm
content: We just had this..?https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium/copy-rooms-with-fills-and-poly-pours/I don't know why it doesn't change polygon properties. If you have auto-repour disabled, maybe Update Primitives from Component Pads will do it automatically? Otherwise, go through and do it by hand. Try to avoid tweaking the layout and having to copy and update things again...Tim

author: weky
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 18, 2016, 04:20:52 pm
content: Just as I clicked post and got back to main topic, I realized that same topic is few posts bellow...sorry. Thank you for fast reply.

author: weky
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 18, 2016, 04:33:41 pm
content: Quote from: T3sl4co1l on February 18, 2016, 04:17:40 pmTo confirm this works for me...

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 04, 2016, 10:08:30 pm
content: FYI:I'm doing this today, as it happens. Turns out it works (v. 16.0+) if you do:D, M, CClick a source room, then click a destinationIn the dialog, checkCopy All Objects Touching the RoomIt even clears the old ones, so you don't get a huge pile of copied shapes or anything.Tim
How to draw drill hole in PCB Gerber File? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 12:14:06 pm
content: in Altium, PCB Gerber doesnt have drill hole information... i need this so where the drill hole, the copper on the pcb will be etched out to make drilling bit easy. i remember i can do this in DipTrace. like the guy below, he has copper etched out already at drill hole location... please help...

author: Jeff_Birt
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 12:23:26 pm
content: Quote from: Mechatrommer on October 03, 2016, 12:14:06 pmThe Gerber files do not contain drill information. That is what the Excellon drill file is for. Before I made my boards via a Taig CNC mill I used to print out a 1::1 print on a transparency and expose pre-sensitized boards with a UV lamp. Since these were drilled by hand on a small dill press, by me wearing a jewelers magnifying headset, I would reduce the inner diameter of every pad to a pin point. That way a tiny circle was all that was etched off the board and it made a perfect small spot to locate the drill.To do this you have to make a copy of your file and change all pads the small ID. I don't recall how I did this in Eagle, I may have run a ULP to do it automatically.

author: jpanhalt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 12:46:43 pm
content: Yes, Eagle has a ULP for making small etched spots to help center the drill : drill-aid.ulpAs for the original question, I can understand the need to have a clear zone around a hole, but for hand drilling, I would still keep a pad there with an etched center for locating and centering my drill.Sorry, can't answer how to do it in Altium. In Eagle, use a round polygon as if making a copper pour. You can also use a keepout layer and a regular geometric shape, but that would make it harder to put a small pad in the center.John

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 03, 2016, 05:17:53 pm
content: meh, so much so for multi thousands business software. in the end if you want to get satisfied, you have to make your own...
Polygon pour connection for vias - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2016, 06:35:33 am
content: I'm actually trying to work this out for Circuit Studio, but I figured if someone could tell me how to do it in AD then I might come up with a workaround for CS.I always use thermal reliefs for components on a polygon pour as it is needed for manufacture, however I really want to use the direct connection style for vias without the thermal relief.I don't have AD anymore, but I thought there was a way to setup a rule for polygon connection just for vias?Thanks

author: thesgoat
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 14, 2016, 07:18:35 am
content: You can setup a custom query (at least in AD) "IsVia" and select direct connect.

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2016, 01:07:43 am
content: That's interesting, for soldermask expansion I can set an "IsVia" rule to tent all vias, but I can't set and "IsComponent" rule on polygon connect style.It's a strange thing to remove from CS given a whole lot of other custom rules are still there in the rule wizard. Perhaps it's not there in the rule wizard of AD aswell? The "custom query" doesn't exist in CS in the same was a AD, it's only available via the rule wizard.

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 15, 2016, 01:19:46 am
content: Ok so armed with the info that it works this way in AD, I've got it to work in CS. For anyone else wanting to do this, here's how it goes:1. Create the rule you want to put a custom query on.2. Export the rule3. Open in a text editor, find the "SCOPE1EXPRESSION=ALL" property and change it to the required query text. For IsVia, not surprisingly it will be "|SCOPE1EXPRESSION=IsVia|"4. Save and reimport the rule, selecting yes to clearing out the old rule.And it works as expected...
Altium rotation quackery - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2016, 06:13:00 pm
content: So, I was dragging and rotating a part of a layout. Rotated just fine, except for the pads that seem to lag 90°??? Anyone ever saw something like this.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 01:46:51 pm
content: Are component primitives locked?Did you select by filter, so that the pads were part of the selection as well, not just the components?<sarcasm> I don't know what you're talking about, those diodes look perfectly fine... you sure do use a lot of diodes though...</sarcasm>Tim

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 08:39:45 pm
content: Quote from: T3sl4co1l on September 22, 2016, 01:46:51 pmYep.QuoteNope. Just dragged a window over it.QuoteThat was actually my first tought too: geez, how many diodes did they put there!Altium threw a tantrum around that time (ie 786 523 889 error boxes, rats nest screwed up,...) so I guess it was just a more interesting way for Altium to crash. Still sucks though...
Antenna PCB Altium designer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: tarik85
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 28, 2016, 05:12:34 pm
content: Hello guys,i am new to altium designer and would like to design an antenna on pcb(altium designer) for my NFC (13.6Mhz),wpuld you please guide me by tutroial or something else?thanks

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 28, 2016, 06:59:19 pm
content: Use a Net Bridge component.Search for Altium documentation on how to do that.As for the antenna geometry, the appnote for your controller IC will probably recommend something.Tim

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 12:44:15 pm
content: May this guide will help you.http://www.cypress.com/file/136236/downloadhttp://web.eecs.utk.edu/~dcostine/ECE482/Spring2015/materials/Altium/Altium_Designer_Intermediate_Guide.pdf

author: pix3l
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 01:05:07 pm
content: There might be some useful info in this appnote from nxp:http://www.nxp.com/documents/application_note/AN11564.pdfAlso, it's 13.56MHz but you probably know that ;-)

author: pix3l
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 22, 2016, 01:09:19 pm
content: Also depends if you want to make a PCD or PICC of course..
Single channel hierarchical design error - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: blueskull
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 25, 2016, 10:13:35 am
content: I have implemented a hierarchical design with one parent sheet and 4 child sheets. Among the 3 child sheets, one gets instantialized 5 times, while the other 3 only get instantialized 1 time each, which makes them essentially single channel design.When I try to compile the project, the 3 single channel designs won't auto rename part names and nets, which lead to errors.So my question is, is there anyway to force single instantialized sheets to auto rename?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 27, 2016, 12:47:38 am
content: What's under Project Options / Multichannel?Tim
Line spacing between the component parameters in the schematic - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: electricar
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2016, 11:48:43 am
content: Hi,I’m wondering if it is possible to change the line spacing between the displayed component parameters on the schematic? (see “schematic.png”: I mean the spacing between “R?”, “390R”, “0805” and “1055”. I want them to be closer to each other.I got a schematic library with the component parameters as shown in “component parameters.png”. The respective component parameters have their parameters as shown in “parameter properties.png”.Thank you very much in advance!Kind regards

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 13, 2016, 07:38:32 am
content: Nope*.*I mean, you can set the parameter locations in the library (in the SchLib view, check Tools / Document Options, tick Always Show Comment/Designator, then move them around), but they'll be reset if the Designator and Comment objects are set to Autoposition. And if they aren't, then the labels spin around with the Part as you rotate and flip it, which is ugly. So it's pretty hopeless.The next best thing is to tolerate it during placement, then fix up ALL THE COMPONENTS in one fell swoop. Use Schematic Filters to do this.A query something like this, should be pretty comprehensive:Code:IsDesignator OR (IsComment AND (NOT IsHidden)) OR (IsParameter AND (ParameterName = 'Value') AND (NOT IsHidden))I use the 'Value' parameter a lot (sometimes with, sometimes without the Comment), but just fill in the name of whatever those parameters are that you're using.With everything selected, set the right grid size (usually 5), CTRL+SHIFT+D (snap to grid), and M, S (Move / Selection) to get everything back where it needs to be.Not quite that simple though. You need to move parameters for rotated Parts differently. So, before you SHIFT+C out of the filter, hunt through and select all of those, and move them (and if you like, set Horizontal Justification to Center).Or select parts by their rotation (e.g.IsPart AND (Orientation = '90 Degrees')and such) and move their parameters by selecting the parameters from the Inspector links. Repeat for the four orientations, and however many component types you have.Or you can place each part, toggle grid size, and position the labels tediously, on each placement. Or if you flip/rotate a part, reset them. Or...Tim

author: electricar
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2016, 08:33:16 am
content: Thank you for your answer! It seems like there always has to be a tradeoffThat sounds like Altium didn't really wanted to implement this. If I reset the font to Times New Roman size 10 the spacing looks fine. Only for other fonts the spacing is too big...
The "Altium popup ads" Thread - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SimonR
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2016, 11:11:08 am
content: I can't read this thread because my internet security software blocks it.Apparenly it contains 1 pixel by 1 pixel picture which are known to to be used by unscrupulous entities for covert tracking or even worse.Since I can't read this thread I don't know exactly what it is about, does it mean that Altium are not only hosting adverts but also suspect adverts? Or is there just a suspect advert in the thread?

author: Kelbit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2016, 07:37:55 pm
content: Quote from: SimonR on September 12, 2016, 11:11:08 amNothing of the sort - it's just a screenshot of a popup ad in Altium hosted on imgur. I think you need new internet security software there.
Altium popup ads - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kelbit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2016, 06:26:40 pm
content: I was greeted with this when I logged in to Altium at work this morning:I thought we paid enough in annual maintenance fees not to have popup ads. What's next - Facebook integration? Google text ads? A "sponsored by Nike" logo on my silkscreen?EDIT: Deleted some employer-specific stuff from the screenshot.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2016, 08:51:26 pm
content: Call it in and complain!I did once; unfortunately the website people aren't the support people, so all they can do is pass it along.You can try the website complaint box, though that probably has the same responsiveness as any other web forms do...Tim

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2016, 09:01:32 am
content: They really pimping that PDN analyser plugin and it's actually quite nice.. but WAY to expensive.
Solidworks MCAD Collaboration gone from 16.1.12 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 24, 2016, 11:05:26 pm
content: I did the update to .12 and it has removed my Soldiworks MCAD Collaboration and replaced it with Solidworks PCB Collaboration which asks for a serial number. Anybody have this problem?I've logged a support ticket but have a project sitting here that I can't carry on with without a lot of messing around. Might have to revert to previous version.My subscription is valid until 2018...I have bad feeling about this.

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 26, 2016, 05:10:22 am
content: So the official word from Altium is I have to run the old version of AD if I want one keep using my MCad.. so my subscription that I am paying for is essentially useless.Not happy.

author: BMF
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2016, 01:38:51 pm
content: My guess is that Altium will add the feature to a higher end EDA tool. I'm done with Altium. I'm saving my subscription fees to put towards another package.

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2016, 08:03:24 pm
content: The short term fix is to use the offline installer for an older version, install the plugin, then upgrade AD but don't upgrade the plugin.The serial/key for the new plugin is now supplied by the Solidworks reseller but they didnt know anything about it.Even though I got it working, I'm back to using import/export step models. I never liked having to use 'managed' projects anyway, there nothing but headaches with that Vault thing.Once I got the plugin it working, my existing managed projects complain about them not being in the Vault (I guess I should have backed it up before reinstalling windows).I deleted the SVN sub folders, uninstalled Vault, and recreated the projects as unmanged. Problem fixed. KISS for the win.
How to get different style connection with via and polygon - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: arlen
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 16, 2016, 09:34:26 pm
content: Hello everyone,I need help about how could i get diferent styles connection between vias and poylgons, for example,1) How could i get direct connection On Top Layer , and relief connection on the bottom layer,2)How could i get differents style coneection for specific poylgonsI've been tryinh using the command OnLayer('L1') and other, but i couldn´t, i hope someone who know how could it be done can help me,I still don understand how is the second query used for T Tthanks in advance

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 09:39:27 am
content: Using OnTopLayer and such might be better than named layers, but that should work too (you do need to use the full layer name, as shown in Layer Stackup Manager).Rather than using polygon names (or pad or net classes), you might prefer using polygon classes. Assign these at Design/Classes, Polygon Classes (right-click, New Class).It sounds like a lot of bother to me; I simply prefer to make all vias pour without thermal relief (direct). You should be able to do this, though.Tim

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 05:18:01 pm
content: Many of the available design rules determine how any two objects will interact with one another, so there are two queries to allow you to assign a rule to specific combinations of objects. So for your case, your first query might be "OnTopLayer" and the second might be "IsVia". That way the rule will only be invoked when one object is a polygon on the top layer and the second object is a via (the first object being a polygon is implicit in a polygon connect rule). If you left the second query as "All", then the rule will affect the connection of a polygon on the top layer to ANY other object.If you want to have different types of connections in different situations, you'll need to create multiple polygon connect rules to cover all of your possible conditions and set their priorities appropriately. Generally you'd have on rule with the conditions "All"/"All" at the lowest priority, so that your default connection type will be applied when no other rule is appropriate.You can invoke different connection types based on polygon name, polygon class, net class, component class, pad class, and a number of other things. The "right" way will depend on your specific requirements and how much effort you want to put into setting up complicated rules.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 27, 2016, 02:35:55 pm
content: What about Polygon connect style rule?
how to make an NFBGA package in Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Morgoroth
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2016, 06:55:38 pm
content: Hi all,Normally I make my own packages, butNFBGAare more complicated, and not even searching google I has been able to find a way to make them properly for aDLPC3430. I normally use Ultra librarian and some bxl file, but nothing too, and of course I ask on Texas Instrument and delayed forever.So please is someone know how to get or build this kind of package let me know.Thanks in advance,JP

author: exmadscientist
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2016, 06:06:53 am
content: How is this any different from a typical BGA package? Use the footprint wizard to draw the basic pattern, clean it up as usual, and start using it.

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2016, 10:35:51 am
content: The recommended pattern is provided in the datasheet, complete with solder mask and stencil designs.In all likelihood that pattern will be perfectly adequate so stick with it.Sent from my SM-N930F using Tapatalk

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2016, 12:43:15 pm
content: Did you install Plugin for that?https://designcontent.live.altium.com/PluginDetail/ComponentMaker_BGA

author: Morgoroth
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2016, 09:30:47 pm
content: Quote from: D3f1ant on August 21, 2016, 10:35:51 amYeah, I saw that, problem is I have noone here to check my job and I'm not the best doing footprints, always some detail behind... I hate this part of the job.

author: Morgoroth
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2016, 09:32:35 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on August 21, 2016, 10:46:11 amYeah, seems like this is the way to proceed. I'll let you know how it goes.thanks.JP

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2016, 09:36:14 pm
content: You can always post your footprint in here, some friendly person with time on their hands might sanity check it for you.Sent from my SM-N930F using Tapatalk

author: Morgoroth
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2016, 08:20:47 pm
content: Yep, the IPC footprint wizard did the work, seems like I was using other wizard...

author: Morgoroth
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2016, 08:22:08 pm
content: Quote from: blueskull on August 22, 2016, 10:48:45 pmHey @blueskull , thank you very much, I´ll check my design with this.JP
Print file displaying sizes  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dansku
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2016, 09:28:01 am
content: Hi all, I am trying to generate a file displaying distances and sizes in Altium, similar to this oneHow can I build the same in Altium?Thank you

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2016, 01:35:05 pm
content: P, D, L (Place, Dimension, Linear), and the other kinds.Usually, you'll place dimensions on the Drill Drawing, or a mechanical layer. Personally, I prefer to put the mechanical outline (with dimensions, holes, board outline and any significant features) on Mechanical 2.You should read up on geometric dimensioning, and drafting, too, if you don't know how they work. It's easy to miss dimensions or put in ridiculous tolerances if you aren't thinking about it.Tim
3DPDF panelized PCB bug? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 27, 2016, 11:45:35 pm
content: Hello m8'sJust wondering if anyone has experienced this bug in Altium, exporting a 3DPDF file of a panelized PCB (using Embedded Board Array function) gives a blank board. But doing the same for a single board works just fineIs there a solution for this?Cheers

author: ANTALIFE
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 08, 2016, 01:36:56 am
content: Turns out this is a known problem which will hopefully be fixed in future updated. Here is the email I got:The Embedded Board Array is not currently supported by the 3D PDF feature. There is a feature request ticket with the Development Team requesting that this issue be investigated and resolved at the earliest opportunity.One possible workaround would be to use a pseudo panel for the 3D PDF output, create a copy of the panel geometry, then export the original PCB as a STEP, then place a 3D Body in the pseudo panel and embed the exported STEP.

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2016, 12:30:59 pm
content: I also had the same problem before few months. And still looking for solution.
Trace Impedance Measurement - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MAntunes
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 09:21:08 pm
content: Hello guys!Is there any way to measure the impedance of a cooper trace in Altium Designer?Best regards!

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2016, 12:54:59 am
content: Controlled impedance routing is enabled when there are plane layers in the stackup.Altium's impedance control is very basic, limited to setting the trace width during routing, based on the calculated value. There is no check for adjacent copper: a very large polygon pour will not be considered a reference plane (because a polygon is routing copper), and conversely, you are not prevented from routing controlled-impedance traces over a plane keep-out region.If you need accurate trace impedance, signal quality, or SWR calculations, consider getting an RF-oriented board simulator.Tim

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2016, 07:50:07 am
content: You can trace the impedance measurement by controlling impedance or by applying impedance formula editor. You need to achieve impedance matching by matching components and routing the board to give the required impedance.

author: MAntunes
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2016, 03:59:41 pm
content: Thank you all for your answers!I am very new with altium and I don't know how to do a lot of things!
Component foot print, solder resist and solder stencil - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: dansku
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 09:20:54 am
content: Hello guys, I am making the footprint for a OSRAM led (http://www.mouser.com/ds/2/311/LCW%20CRDP.CC-335261.pdf)Because it is a 1W led, the datasheet suggests to have a bigger copper area, solder resist area, etc, like the picture bellow.I would like to know what is the best way to make this footprint on altium?Thank you very much!

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 09:45:03 am
content: Make the footprint area as shown, but do not follow their suggested solder resist size: it is better to maintain 3-4 mils mask expansion, from rule; compensate by making the pads smaller in the directions where copper pour connects. This avoids having solder mask partially cover the pad areas, which makes the surface uneven, and makes solder joints prone to cracking.When placing on PCB, pour around the pads with polygons. Set a design rule so they connect without thermal relief. Shape them to connect with the pads, as recommended.Tim

author: dansku
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 10:00:38 am
content: So I would just make the footprint are as shown (straight red line) and then adding the extra copper under solder mask on the board design?Is there a way to do that in the component edit to save time?Thanks

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 10:26:44 am
content: You can place Regions around the pads, in the footprint, and they will connect automatically. But that reduces your options on reusing the footprint.I mean, you could design an entire PCB just within footprint view, but that wouldn't be very useful. I suggest keeping footprints as simple as possible, so you have as many layout options as possible. Even if you'll only ever use the footprint once, in some simple lighting thing or whatever, I still recommend it.Tim

author: dansku
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 10:28:38 am
content: Quote from: T3sl4co1l on August 09, 2016, 10:26:44 amI see your point, I will do that, thanks!

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 01:34:07 pm
content: Either use the "IPC Compliant Footprint Wizard" or "Component Wizard".

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 01:53:21 pm
content: Uhhh... hm.It's a nonstandard package.I guess you could use an LGA or PSON prototype, fudging the numbers as needed.But you'd probably spend more time entering the numbers (or trying to find them, if they provide package dimensions and tolerances at all) than just doing it by hand.Tim
Altium problem: Cant drag/move traces. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 06:10:33 am
content: Hey, im having and issue in altium (latest version)It's a rigid flex design.The issue is on the sections of the pcb that have an angled grid. I can't drag/move traces or vias around once placed.It's like alitum thinks there's zero clearance available nearby to move too.(im using the free angle route placement mode, if this has anything to do with it. Cant use the usual 90/45 degree mode because this does not take grid angle into account)Any ideas?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 09:07:58 am
content: So it frees up when you you cycle SHIFT+R to Ignore? (Of course, you /need/ it in some routing mode, otherwise what's the point. I'm just checking.)I saw a weird thing like that recently, I need to call support and see what they think of it...Tim

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 10:40:18 am
content: I will try shift-R tomorrow.Thanks

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 17, 2016, 05:03:59 pm
content: What sort of grid are you using and what sort of clearance rules? I've had issues when using imperial trace/space settings and metric grid and traces placed in "hug obstacles" mode. I suspect it's some sort of rounding error that causes Altium to think that there's a DRC violation when you're trying to move a trace, even though DRC says it's okay (because it actually is). On the same project I also had problems when moving a group of traces all at once suddenly had DRC violations, even though the spacing between them shouldn't have changed at all.Could also be a problem with snap settings, where the next place the tracks want to snap to would cause a DRC violation, so Altium won't let them go there, leaving them stuck in place. Maybe try a smaller snap grid.One more basic thing, is the layer the tracks are on active?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 18, 2016, 06:41:52 am
content: Yep definitly on the active layer.I will check the metric/imperial issue.TH pads can't be moved if they are connected to a trace.Free pads always move fine.
Castellation / Half Moons - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: luky315
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2016, 01:53:52 pm
content: What is the best or correct way to create a footprint with Castellation / Half Moons in Altium?I want to design a (RF) module and a baseboard and I am looking for a way to create the connections in a way that the 3D preview "looks right".

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2016, 09:12:37 pm
content: I don't think you can do both.AFAIK, the proper way to construct them is by placing thru-pads or vias on the board edge. Thus, they get routed through, and you're done.Altium doesn't cut these, in 3D view; you see the full pad as usual.You could make the board edge follow its physical path (a scalloped path, alternate straight and semicircle segments), and run copper up to the edges; but you wouldn't get a plated sidewall, in 3D or in fab.If it's a hard requirement, you can hack a 3D model of it by placing an extruded 3D model in the board outline shape (including the scalloped edges), then place extruded arcs (of a metallic color) on the edges. (Arcs can be created by Tools/Manage 3D Bodies.) Just don't forget to keep it synchronized with your board file.Tim
Lost all my PCB footprints? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: WillHuang
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 06, 2016, 04:33:14 am
content: I was working on Altium and then all of a sudden my computer crashed and had to reboot. When I re-opened my project, I had to modify a component footprint that I created. When I opened the PCB library panel, all of my footprints are gone! When I view my PCB, I can still see my footprints and 3D models on the board, but all the footprints in the library somehow dissapeared....Does anybody know a fix?EDIT:Nevermind, I managed to get it back by searching through the History folder!

author: dansku
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 10:06:56 am
content: Glad you managed to find the solution.Just remember to backups your stuff. Most of my projects I use the SVN version control.Remember to backup your stuff. What would happen to your projects if your computer explode? (aka stolen, burned, went to mars...)

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2016, 10:30:26 am
content: Step 0. Do you have automatic backups turned on? (Tools/Preferences, Data Management, Backup, Auto save. Note the path; change it to a more convenient place if you like.)Step 1. Check the backups. If you see a file, of the same name but with ".~(1)" numbers added on, with a newer "Modified" date, open it.Step 2. Check that the file still looks right and all, then when you're satisfied, save it over the original project file.Tim
Altium Designer - Routing Issues - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: GaryDent
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 07, 2016, 07:35:14 am
content: Hi All,I am trying to get some experience with Altium Designer. Specifically I am trying to design a simple Resistor and LED Circuit. To be thorough I am trying to make my own schematic symbol and footprint. I am able to get the schematic and the footprint done individually and in the schematic sheet I can connect up my custom resistor with a provided LED schematic. When routing however my resistor footprint does not show any connection to the provided LED footrpint.I am not quite sure why this is. I have made sure that the desginators are correct. I have also done a force annotate schematic and made sure that all the relevant files are in the one project. I am really not sure what the next step is. However as I am a fairly new beginner to Altium Designer I was hoping that those more experienced would be able to look through the files attached and point out my errors.Thank you very much.

author: D3f1ant
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2016, 08:26:27 am
content: Your pin 1 on the resistor schematic is incorrectly oriented, turn it 180 deg and it will work. Only one end of a pin is active/connectable.
How to change my pad to this shape in the PCB design part?(I don't want to... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: rozeh
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2016, 07:33:37 am
content: Hey guysMy pad on PCB is like this:But I want to change it to this in the PCB design part and I don't want to redesign/modify its footprint:I tried to modify it by double click on the pad and changing some-things but couldn't do this. any trick/way ?

author: Ice-Tea
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2016, 11:26:56 am
content: http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Creating+a+Custom+Pad+Shape

author: technotronix
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2016, 01:11:37 pm
content: This may also helpful to you.http://www.altium.com/video-creating-custom-pad-shapes
Add polygon to existing polygon class - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2016, 04:29:36 pm
content: Okay, this is another case of "I must be missing something because it would be absolutely ridiculous if Altium didn't have this ability." Which, based on experience with Altium, means it's 50/50 either way.Is there a way to add a polygon to an existing polygon class without having to redefine the class? The only way I can figure to do it is to select all of the polygons that are in the class already as well as the ones that should be added to the class, and "Create Polygon Class..." from the polygon manager, as if creating it from scratch.The polygons page of the PCB panel shows a form for adding and removing polygon classes when you Right click->"Add Class" in the list of classes, but this seems to be entirely broken (doesn't list anything, doesn't do anything when you click "OK") and there doesn't seem to be a way to invoke it on an existing class.

author: Fgrir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2016, 04:46:43 pm
content: From the menu choose Design|Classes...Should give you a window like shown where you can add and remove members from any type of class. Is this what you are after?

author: ajb
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2016, 05:37:31 pm
content: Thank you! That's the same menu (minus the overall class tree) you get by clicking "Add Class" in the PCB panel, except it actually works, whereas the one from the PCB panel is completely broken.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 04, 2016, 09:32:21 pm
content: Pad class is also handy, say for if you want to put specials on a bunch of pads that don't have any other obvious rule. Like thermal pads from QFNs and power parts, then add a PolygonConnect design rule, query InPadClass('Direct'), rule no thermal relief.The other classes are annotated from schematic view, so will be reverted if you update without also implementing them there. Check Project/Project Options/Class Generation (which is also where you remove Rooms, if you don't need them) to enable Component, Net and Structure classes. (Net classes can be assigned with directives, and component classes can be assigned by adding a "ClassName" parameter to the component.)Tim