hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Any way to define a bus as "equal track lengths"? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 07, 2014, 11:40:42 pm
content: I'm doing a design with some DDR3 SDRAM, is there a way in the schematic to tell altium that the data/address bus needs to route to equal lengths?I can do differential pairs but I can't see a way to do a whole 16 bit wide bus...

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2014, 01:50:43 am
content: Directive - Design rule - something about net class or bus class. Then add a length matching rule (can be on schematic as well) for that class.Tim

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 08, 2014, 02:55:02 am
content: Create a net class, put all the nets in it, and specify length. The former part is done in the SCH editor and the latter part in the PCB editor

author: AlfBaz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2014, 03:12:25 am
content: Firstly you need to make sure you have a netclass for the group/s. These are normally generated automatically if somewhere on your schematic you lay down a bus (Place bus) and you add a net label that encompasses that group, something along the lines of data[15..0], where data0, data1 etc are net labels for the individual pins/wiresIf, for example you wanted to make your data, address and control lines matched and you didn't already have bus's labelled as described above then simply place a bus connected to nothing with a net label including the [...] thingy. You then Place->Directives->PCB Layout and attach it to the bus wire, edit it adding the DRC rules you want.The names of the control lines are not usually suitable for grouping with [...]. With those you can create a net class as Tim stated with the Place->Directives->NetClass. Double click it and give it a name such as ctrl_bus. Copy it and add it to all the control lines you wish to add to that class.The only way I know how to add a PCB Layout directive to these (since you cant draw a bus and label it ctrl_bus) is to wire them into a harness and place the pcb layout directive on the signal harness wire

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2014, 12:32:24 pm
content: Thanks guys. I have managed to do it with a combination of blanket boxes, applying net class to each.
IMS boards in Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DutchGert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 07:52:30 am
content: Hey guys,I can't seem to figure out a way to define a IMS (Insulated Metal Substrate) PCB instead of the regular FR-4 boards in Altium. Does anyone now if this is even supported?For now I use the following layer stack (see image) but of course this is not a proper definition of a real IMS board in therms of thermal properties, design rules (only one layer, no via's) and 3D view.For now I am stuck with Eurocircuits IMS solution (http://www.eurocircuits.com/index.php/component/content/article/4-services/169-ims-pool-default-values) so I would like to model my layer stack to there constrains and properties.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 12, 2014, 11:29:44 pm
content: What is different about IMS from a regular board? Do you not simply send them files and specify that it's IMS?Tim

author: DutchGert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 06:29:56 am
content: That is not the problem but for instance it is a 1 layer board. Altium only knows 2 layer boards as a minimum (so it looks like) so your design rules (no via's etc) are screwed up.Then, an IMS instead of FR-4 back has effects on the impedance of the tracks, now it looks like there is no way to have automatically impedance matched tracks.Then, the 3D visualisation, it would be nice to see that u actually us a metal backplate or even export it properties in the STEP file for the mechanical boys.Of course I can draw the board 1 layer and send it to the production house but it would be a lot nice if Altium would have support for IM boards or if someone knows a good work around for the above problems.

author: mkissin
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 09:01:42 am
content: You should try asking in the Altium forums. I'm sure it's something that has come up before.http://forum.live.altium.com/The people there are generally very helpful.
Altium 'forgets' window positions all of the sudden  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DutchGert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2014, 06:46:14 am
content: Hey guys,Since a few days I encountered something very annoying. Sometime sit seems that altium completely forgets the window and toolbar layout I am using and just randomly (or perhaps the defaults, don't now) applies a layour to my workspace/desktop (not sure what to call it).Since a few day it also forgets the 'floating' screens such as library which I placed on another screen or keeps the floating screen on top of the main screen if I click the main window........ I am getting crazy
Compiler error for the same designators in different sheets - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: hkBattousai
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2014, 11:52:25 am
content: My project consists of multiple sheets. They all combine in a single top level sheet. I designed each sheet independent of the others. Therefore, sheets contain circuit elements with the same designators very often (e.g.; R1, C2, IC1 etc). This causes a compiler error for each duplicating designator as seen in the image below.Code:Duplicate Component Designators Q2 at 154.37mm,141mm and 203.63mm,161mmI have already selected "Strict Hierarchical" from:Menu > Project > Project Options... > Options > Net Identifier ScopeBut it looks like to be only related to the relations of nets.Is there anyway I can make contents of my sheets completely independent of each other?

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2014, 11:35:30 pm
content: Hierarchical settings do nothing in a flat project.Think of a flat project as a single sheet, where each sheet in the project is looking at a different section of that overall sheet. There is full visibility between pages. As such, you must annotate the project, because you have duplicate designators on the same single project sheet.If you're trying to reuse sheets simultaneously in different projects, you will have to make an independent copy for each project, or use hierarchical design.Sheets called out with hierarchical subsheet symbols can be automatically assigned physical pre/postfix designators, so that R103 becomes R1103, etc. Sheets can also be REPEAT'd for multichannel design, where each channel gets the same prefix, which can be handy for identifying parts on the PCB.Tim
Training / Manuals ??? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 10:19:14 am
content: Hi,Short history: I have been using Eagle for a long time, but some of our projects have got to a point where it was just getting not good enough for the job. So there was a deal on Altium and i shelled out some $$$$, and got it.So any way, I got started and designed a board, but honestly it took me 2 days, when in eagle it would have been 2 hours. Lots of stuff, that i just didn't know how to do, so it was a steep learning curve. There are a lot of features.I don't have time to spend 3-5 days at a training course, and i'm finding the online manuals painful to say the least.I need some kind of online / book thing where i can spend an hour a day learning it for 30 days or so, and at least get a certain level of profiency.. Any suggestions.. I looked at the $500 course, on altium, but that seems like i've already got past that stuff..

author: Christe4nM
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 01, 2014, 10:56:00 am
content: You could take a look at Fedevel Academy (http://www.fedevel.com/academy/)He teaches by going though a design and taking you along in every step. Maybe not the world's best teacher, but still a pretty decent one! I was a bit familiar with Altium before doing his SMPS (starter) course and still learned a bit. Haven't got the time yet to do the advanced course but I will in due time.

author: geo_leeman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 03, 2014, 07:30:18 pm
content: Quote from: Christe4nM on May 01, 2014, 10:56:00 amI'm trying the Fedevel courses now. So far I'm pretty happy with them. Creating your own 0805 footprints seems slightly insane though.

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2014, 08:59:19 am
content: Quote from: geo_leeman on May 03, 2014, 07:30:18 pmUse the Wizard (harry)!

author: geo_leeman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2014, 01:30:02 pm
content: Quote from: peter.mitchell on May 04, 2014, 08:59:19 am

author: andyturk
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2014, 06:09:00 pm
content: Quote from: Christe4nM on May 01, 2014, 10:56:00 amOnce you get used to his accent, Robert is actually pretty good. His videos are well paced, and he does a good job of explaining why he's doing something (as opposed to just showing the steps). I met him when he came to the SF Bay Area not too long ago--really nice guy.

author: geo_leeman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 04, 2014, 11:53:14 pm
content: Quote from: geo_leeman on May 04, 2014, 01:30:02 pmThis may be better in another thread? But Robert (the instructor) uses the Component Wizard. Others instruct me to only use the IPC Compliant Component Wizard. Thoughts? Or should this become a new topic?

author: mrpackethead
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2014, 06:15:35 am
content: The cost is considerably lower than Altiums offering, and its structured in a smarter way for me, so i'll take the plunge and see what happens. Might buy the company one, so we can have a few others on it.
WIRING PERCENTAGE - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 01:33:18 am
content: Good day, do you know how to check for wiring percentage in a PCB design? thanks!

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 06:19:55 am
content: Percent completion..?Reports menu, there's a Board Properties, or Statistics, or something like that.Tim

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 28, 2014, 11:31:31 am
content: R B Tab Enter Enter

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 29, 2014, 02:34:24 am
content: Thanks guys!
Placing two components, one underneath the other, on the same layer - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Milentije
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2014, 09:34:47 pm
content: Hi to all!I searched for this problem in Altium section of the forum but I couldn't find the answer. My problem is as follows: I want to place LCD (16x2) and some other parts under the LCD, all on the top layer (there is 16 pin female connector for LCD so it is detachable, and it gives me a plenty of unused space). Problem is that the Altium is reporting DRC error because I placed more components at the same place (some components are in the area of LCD's outline). How can I solve this? Is there some kind of "exclude from DRC" option that I can set for LCD (even I think it's not the good idea), or is there some more ellegant way to solve this?Thanks in advance!

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2014, 09:41:14 pm
content: 1st: make sure every component has a 3D model.

author: Milentije
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2014, 10:47:06 pm
content: Thanks a lot! I just needed somebody to show me the right way. Now when I have a starting point I can google for the rest.Thank you once more!
Removing Dead-Copper from a split power plane - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: LimeyDave
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 18, 2013, 10:02:20 pm
content: Hi All,As the subject says i'm trying to remove a section of an inner layer power plane. The section of dead copper (which has no Net Label) is underneath a couple of relays so the pins voltage potential could get quite high (240V) which is why i'm trying to remove it from the rest of the power planes, any suggestions?My only thought was to fill the area using the "square area" icon and cover the section. It looks ok on the gerber file generated, but is there a more elegant way or properties option that i've missed?Regards,Dave

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 18, 2013, 10:09:05 pm
content: Place an arc/fill on the plane layer to create a plane "blow-out". Then regenerate the split planes. The copper should be removed from that area.

author: LimeyDave
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 18, 2013, 10:16:23 pm
content: Cheers Marshall,I'll give it a try in the morning and let you know how it goes....Dave

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2013, 03:22:16 am
content: multiple options- placing a fill- placing a polygon cut out- defining a keepout regioni'd go for the keepout region and draw it as multilayer. that way the cut is automatically done on ALL layers and you'll never have to worry about it if you inject it in the database then it becomes even easier as the zone now moves with the part so you don;t have to fidget with that stuff all the time.

author: reagle
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 10, 2014, 08:34:27 pm
content: Does multilayer polygon cutout work with internal planes(as opposed to internal layer with manually poured polygons)? Try as I may I could not get it to do anything there. Manually placed cutout on the same layer works fine.
Battery holder footprint - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SolarSunrise
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2014, 01:41:22 pm
content: Hello again. I am currently designing a device that is powered from two LR44 coin cell batteries. The data sheet from the battery holder manufacturer says I need minimum 4mm by 4mm copper pad for the negative contact (check image below).But won't this create an unstable connection? The diameter of a standard LR44 is about 11mm. The height of the plated copper would be lower than the surrounding solder mask(or is it?), thus the bottom of the coin cell won't contact the pad. Unfortunately the data sheet has absolutely nothing related to solder mask expansion and all the important bits. Do I have to make a HUGE solder expansion to keep the solder mask out?The reason I'm really picky here is because as always, there's nothing more excruciating than having a production run of 1000 faulty boards... And this is my first design that had coin cells (never had to use one of these boys before). Just trying to avoid Murphy.Thanks a lot guys!

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 08, 2014, 03:38:13 pm
content: Open solder mask for the entire size of the battery.

author: SolarSunrise
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 10, 2014, 05:54:23 pm
content: Can a moderator remove this thread? I made a new thread in the general pcb design genre when I realized this thread was in Altium Designer section.
Altium Polygon Keepout - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2014, 01:11:09 am
content: I'm using Altium Designer and can't work out what should be a simple design rule.I have a ground plane (polygon) in which I want to have a small area not covered. The area in question does have a few components and a couple of tracks.I created a keepout region and the ground plane polygon pours around it like it should. But... there are violations between the keepout region and those few components and tracks.How to I implement the design rule for this? Have I used the wrong method in the keepout?

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2014, 01:57:30 am
content: Use a Polygon Pour Cutout instead, it won't interact with non-polygon objects.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 02, 2014, 02:07:46 am
content: Perfect - that seems to do exactly what I need. I just knew there was something simple I'd missed / forgotten! Thank you.
Selecting all components in a Variant - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: RudolfE
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 19, 2014, 10:14:47 pm
content: Hello everyone,I'm trying to select all the components within a variant that I've set up. The purpose being to add a specific parameter to each or to modify a parameter of those components. I don't see anything within the 'Find similar object window' to only select a non-X'd components. I also tried the SCH Filter. None of the parameters within the Helper seems to fit what I want to do. And SCH List doesn't really have the filter I want either.When I generate a BOM, there is a fitted column... I basically want to select based off of that parameter but I can't figure it out. Anyone else?

author: pa2ees
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2014, 04:16:54 pm
content: I agree that it doesn't seem possible to use a schematic filter to select only fitted components of a specific variation.However, I think I might be able to help you solve your problem.Go into the Variant Manager (click on the PCB icon next to the variant drop-down menu, or click on Project -> Variants...)Under the 'Fitted Components' section, you can right click anywhere and choose 'only show varied components' if that's a filter that you want.You can also click on the 'Fitted' heading under the variant name, and it will sort the components by whether they are fitted or not.Then you can select multiple components, either by click->drag, or by selecting one and shift selecting another to select all components in between the two, or by ctrl-clicking on each component you want selected.Once you have them selected, you can modify their parameters in the 'Component Parameters' section.As far as I can tell, there is no way to filter the schematic based on variant parameters, or parameters modified for a specific variant.- Erik
How to set text font in utilities section - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: madpcbwoman
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 27, 2014, 12:25:23 am
content: Hi all, I'm afraid this is a really simple query - but sadly i haven't used Altium in a couple of years, so have got a bit rusty....When using 'utilities' text - i.e. at block diagram level - not actually in the schematic of PCB portion, and the text is not being interpreted... i place text, and it is literally that 'Text' which i can then change under properties of same, which is fine. But i can't find anywhere to change the font and size so i am stuck in changing it for every piece of 'text' that I change.Any ideas folks?

author: pa2ees
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2014, 03:15:33 pm
content: Please explain what you mean by 'utilities text', and what type of document you are placing this text in (Schematic Document, PCB document, etc).Also elaborate on what you are trying to accomplish.- Are you trying to change the font and size of multiple text strings?- Are you trying to set a default font and size so when you place a test string you don't have to change it manually?In hopes to possibly answer your question, here are a few tips:If you are trying to change the font and size of multiple text strings, select the ones you want to change (shift click on each, or right click -> find similar objects, or use a filter, such as (Object Kind = 'Text String')), and then use the inspector to modify the 'Font' field.If you want each string you place to be the same font and size, before you click to place the string, hit TAB, and modify the font and size by clicking on the blue font description near the bottom of the dialog box. This will allow you to modify the properties of every subsequent text string you place.Hope that helps.- Erik
Trying, without luck, to add an intlib after creating a schematic  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: bobpullford
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 31, 2014, 09:14:17 am
content: 1. I was given a schematic and an intlib file that has footprints for that schematic2. I opened and modified the schematic first3. Later I installed it the intlib4. When I try to update the PCB from the schematic, it says footprints not found5. thanks - I've googled etc for about an hour but no luck - I've often found answers on EEV blog in the past but now is the first time I've actually asked a question - it might be a very basic thing but I'd stuck - thanks for reading

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 31, 2014, 10:31:03 am
content: I prefer putting the library in the project, rather than installing it.Did you verify that the footprint names are correct? Are they set to "look in library on path xxx" or "any"?Tim

author: pa2ees
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 01, 2014, 02:55:31 pm
content: Open the properties for one of the components in the schematic (double click on the component, or right click -> properties)Click the 'Validate Link' button. If you get a message like 'Component Not Found In Libraries', click 'Choose...', select your library, and find your component.Next verify that there is a footprint listed in the 'Models' section of the component properties. Click 'Edit' under the footprint, and in the dialog box that comes up, if the Description says 'Footprint not found', then click 'Browse...', select your library, and find your footprint.If a footprint is not listed there, add one, and all should be well.This will verify that Altium can find all information about your component, and will allow successful update of the PCB from the schematic.- Erik
Nets name conflict - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: grimmjaw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 07:30:15 am
content: Hi,First off, I am no expert in alitum so bear with me.As you can see in the attached pic, I have a shunt resistor that I need to measure.I'm using a multiple sheets design(power is set to global), and use port to connect thedifferent sheets.My problem is am using differential measurement to measure the resistor and is connected to analog GND, and now i have a conflicting nets name, one is Vsense low and the other is Vssa. I would like to separate this two , to avoid any ground loop.Anyone has any suggestion?

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 02:21:25 pm
content: I'd separate them on schematic and then use some sort of sopper fill to connect them on PCB. DRC error can be removed by setting a rule to allow short circuit between two nets.This is kind of a workaround, but it works.You can also use a dummy component consisting of two pads connected by a piece of copper, but you're gonna get short-circuit DRC error too.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 04:04:33 pm
content: Two options:1. Delete the port. The netlist doesn't give a damn how you intend to wire it: ground is ground. Route it differentially in the PCB by hand.2. Split the ground net (and possibly the other one, too) and use a net bridge or zero-ohm resistor to join them.A net bridge footprint can easily be made (or there might be libraries for them) by making a component with two SMT pads (specified with negative solder mask expansion so they remain as covered copper), shorting them with a trace or fill. The part needs to be specified as a net bridge somewhere (I forget what property does this). When placing this component, the shorting copper is ignored by DRC checks, and won't be assigned a net (or if it is, it doesn't matter) by Netlist from Physical Connection.This also works for other planar components like RF stripline and filters, "gimmick" capacitors, planar transformers and so on.Tim

author: grimmjaw
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 26, 2014, 04:11:15 pm
content: I think I prefer zero-ohm resistance.Thanks for the tip
Need some help with an university project - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: IvanIvanov
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 25, 2014, 02:26:02 am
content: So here's the task - I have to create a 20 QFN footprint for PCB of sgtl5000. I found the pdf in google:http://cache.freescale.com/files/analog/doc/data_sheet/SGTL5000.pdfThe teacher said almost nothing about Altium and how to work with it. He just said "Use the wizard and you will be fine". Well I used the component wizard but I can't seem to get it to work. Can someone tell me where can I find the exact mm values I have to use in the component wizard. I saw the schematic at the end of the pdf but it's not the same as the one on the wizard and it does not containt the values I need. Would be nice if someone took 5 minutes to create the project and upload it somewhere so I can see what I have to do. Or you could just lay down some info if you could because I am in a really big need of help here. Never worked this program before and I have no idea how to do it. Thank you in advance and have a nice day!

author: IvanIvanov
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 26, 2014, 10:09:12 pm
content: Anyone? Please I need to get it done in one day and I have no idea how..

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2014, 11:32:52 pm
content: You should be able to key the values in as metric ( 2.54mm ) or imperial ( 39mil ).

author: Kean
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 27, 2014, 02:08:08 am
content: No one here is going to do your university project for you. A google of "altium footprint wizard" should give you plenty of tips. The footprint wizard is pretty straightforward, and the major dimensions you will need for the wizard should be in the mechanical outlines (unlike some manufacturers they don't seem to give recommended SMD pad dimensions). You may need to derive some dimensions from others shown in the PDF.

author: Wilksey
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2014, 09:49:57 am
content: Wow, no wonder kids these days are troubled if they can't even use Google!You can't do it, so find out how to do it by using Google, if you still can't figure it out, you are on the wrong course!In my day University taught you how to research things, not how to actually do it, thats what your brains are for, and i'm pretty sure thats the same as it is now as "my day" was 10 years ago!Yes, it's frustrating, yes it takes a long time, but once you have done it a few times it will take no time at all.Worst case, design the part in something else and import it into Altium!

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2014, 10:02:43 am
content: The wizard is pretty self explanatory. Look at the package info page on the datasheet and just look for the dimensions the wizard asks you for. Then input the values. Simple.
ALTIUM fixed components placement - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 02:49:05 am
content: Dear people,How can I place a pre-placed component in a PCB using altium? for example..the component must be placed from x=19.5mm and y=20.5mm of the board... TIA!

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 03:11:08 am
content: Do you mean you want to specify the component's x and y coordinates in the schematic?

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 03:24:53 am
content: exactly.sorry I'm just a beginner in ALTIUM..and also, how can I delete a polygon placed on whole board..thanks

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 03:25:20 am
content: placement will be on PCB not in schematic

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 04:43:09 am
content: Click component and in the inspector set x and y coordinates

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 04:46:12 am
content: so as a default, ALTIUM has an origin lower left side of the board set as (x=0,y=0)?

author: AlfBaz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 05:14:17 am
content: Quote from: kfc_n on April 24, 2014, 04:46:12 amNo.If you want that you can set the origin to where you like... it's in under one of menu items somewhere

author: kfc_n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 24, 2014, 05:46:44 am
content: thanks I found it, after, changing the board origin, I can now re-position any components to its proper placement in the board..thanks..
Custom Mouse Shortcuts - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: katzohki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2014, 10:31:41 pm
content: Hi All,I just got (convinced them to get me) a new Logitech M705 Mouse. It's pretty nice and fits me well and it has some neat features.Since it has an extra 5 buttons, I'd like to customize it to do some special things in Altium. I've already figured out how to make it place wire by assigning place-wire to "W" and then assigning one of the custom keys to "W". But what I'd really like is a little more complicated. I want a button to place, for example, a standard resistor out of our company library. Since they're out of the library and not in one of the menus, I can't figure out how to assign a shortcut key to it.Any idea how to assign a custom key to a specific library part? This would really help out my productivity. (And since I have to redraw a lost schematic, I could really use it!)Thanks!

author: Araho
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 03:54:22 pm
content: I think you will have to create a script that selects and places that component from the relevant library, and that script could then be linked to your button, maybe via a shortcut or something. No idea how to do it though.
Delete ALL Overlay? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: katzohki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 06:42:01 pm
content: I've designed my board, and I'm trying to get rid of ALL overlay on it. I've been double-clicking the text and clicking hide (not sure if this is even working), but I can't manage to get the damn part outlines. I want a top overlay in my panel once I take this to panelization, but not on the board. I tried deleting the top overlay from the layer stack manager, but that didn't seem to help.Any ideas?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 07:35:21 pm
content: simply do not generate that layer in the gerber output.create your own overlay on a mechanical layer and export that as overlay

author: katzohki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 07:45:08 pm
content: I get what you're saying and that's what I did do, but I'm using Altium's panelization tool and I need the panel to have silk screen.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 07:55:38 pm
content: unlock all components (unlock primitives) then select the top overlay, then delete

author: katzohki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2014, 08:16:50 pm
content: Ahaha! That's got it. Thank you very much.
single component spanning multiple sheets - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TonyStarkPE
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 12, 2014, 02:54:33 pm
content: Hi, I'm a student and I'm new to Altium. I'm working on a project that uses a microC that has 100 pins. I think this can cause a lot a clutter on a schematic diagram. I'm wondering if there's a way to place that same part on multiple sheets without creating a new physical component? I'd also like to know if we can take sub parts of the components, for example the SPI unit, and place that on different sheets as well. One one sheet I may have the LCD, in my case it isn't, but say it was connected to the uC SPI unit and on another sheet a measurement circuit with an ADC connected to the SPI as well.Thanks.

author: TonyStarkPE
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 12, 2014, 03:17:35 pm
content: I'm a little confused. What do you mean by create a new schematic part? I made one that has 100 pins.I know what buses are. I've used them in Quartus, and was planning to do it in Altium as well. e.g MCU_GPIO_PORT_[7..0]If bus/network connections are a better way, I wouldn't know where to start.What would be a good way to do JTAG section. Power section ( Regulator, VCC, GND , Bypass Caps )Thanks

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2014, 04:14:55 pm
content: when you create a schematic symbol there is a menu option to create a new part in an existing symbol.that is how you partition a device into multiple schematic symbols. you can then place individual parts on different pages.
Doubt about how I sould generate gerbers for a board with internal cut-outs - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: senso
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2014, 10:18:23 pm
content: Good evening, here I'm again bothering you..So a friend of mine asked for some help to make some wierd shaped pcb's with some internal cut-outs, I have never made such a thing and I would like to know if there should be extra care when generating the gerbers.More precisely, when I generate the gerbers there is no milling paths in the drill files, only the drills for the vias.A couple images might help me explain better, in green is the top cooper and purple is the drill file:I can see that all the information about the form of the pcb is in the layers gerbers but not in the drill files.

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2014, 10:36:23 pm
content: This is when you contact the manufacturer and explain your requirements to them. They can generally work out how to use the gerbers to do it, you just have to indicate which parts you want removed.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2014, 11:02:41 pm
content: When i add cutouts I ...- Put the cutouts on the mechanical layer along with the board outline.- Add a JPG to the gerber zip file which shows the board in 3D and makes it obvious where the holes are.- Write the number of cutouts in the "special requirements" box when submitting board to pcb house

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 03, 2014, 11:20:08 pm
content: board contour and cutouts should be defined on the keepout layer.then simply specify that the keepout layer holds the milling.that;s it.

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 08, 2014, 01:59:17 am
content: I convert two separate layers to v-score and routing information, create a README.txt that defines each layer plus mirroring and negative layers. If it's not very clear what I'm trying to do, I also add notes on another layer to be read by the PCB entry technician. I've never had a problem in 15 years.
More colours for the schematic highlighting pen? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: eecook
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 04, 2014, 03:48:29 pm
content: Hi all!I've been strugglin with this all morning and i cannot seem to find the way to solve this or anyone with the same problem.I have 8 different netclasses on a design and i wanna highlight them using the highlight pen on the schematic. The problem is that the pen only offers 7 different colors, and according to altium techdocs (http://techdocs.altium.com/display/ADOH/Altium+Designer+Viewer+-+Viewing+Schematic+Documents) it seems that i'm tied to those colours only. Any ideas?cheers!
Swapping pins on passives - what is the easiest way? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 06:04:53 am
content: I've been using Altium for a fair while now and have never really bothered to look into it, but for passives like resistors, inductors, ceramic caps, is there an easy way to automatically allow pin swapping?I understand you can define pin swapping configs for components and pin groupings/pair groupings, but that would be a bit of a pain to do for every passive on every layout.The reason it comes to mind now specifically is that I am using a few non-symmetrical passives, so i can't just rotate the part 180 degrees, instead I just rotate it 180 degrees in the schematic and then update pcb from schematic.Is there an easier/quicker way or is that probably as fast/easy as it gets?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 06:07:13 am
content: I just 'copy' an existing component and 'paste' it into my own library then change the pins and then use that.

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 08:22:13 am
content: Quote from: Psi on February 28, 2014, 06:07:13 amfair enough; i thought there may just be a simple option for setting polarized passive vs non-polarized passive, and thus allowing either pin to either net. i'll show you a small example;In this situation, i would normally rotate the inductor in the schematic to allow the pins to align i just thought there might be an easier way.

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 09:47:14 am
content: You may try to flip component over X or Y axis using 'x' and 'y' buttons, but I remember there was an annoying window popping up if you did that in pcb editor, asking if you are sure (fair enough - this is fatal for most types of components).

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 10:18:08 am
content: Quote from: poorchava on February 28, 2014, 09:47:14 amyeah, I thought of that, but i have some components that arent symmetrical so that won't work

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 28, 2014, 03:41:59 pm
content: Firs, your SCHlib must be configured for pin swapping, and write some meaningful information for each pin ("1"). Then make sure your schematic is updated from the library if you already work on the project. Work the SCH as usual. Then on the PCB, you have the option to swap the pins, by pressing TWI if you enable the pin swapping for that component first. Than press update schematic from the PCB editor.I think it is a bit tedious, and I never used it for passives, but maybe I will give it a try, just to test how well it performs. The TWA seems to be useful after placement though.
altium modules templates - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: asadi.siyavash
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 09, 2014, 06:10:21 am
content: Hi, as I saw altium videos I see they have standard template for creating module with QFN format, but I can't find it. here is it's picture.

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 11, 2014, 07:10:01 am
content: pcb library editor -> tools -> Footprint Wizard / IPC Compliant Footprint Generator

author: asadi.siyavash
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 09:39:11 am
content: thank you but I need templates like that you see in the pictures,

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 13, 2014, 11:28:26 am
content: your pictures don't work. host them somewhere else or attach them to your post as an attachment.
Impedance calculation on a two layer board - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JJalling
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 24, 2014, 09:29:33 pm
content: Hi,Is it possible to get altium to calculate trace impedance on a two layer board? Is the only way, to insert a "dummy" plane in my layer stack, and use that as a reference?Thanks in advance./Jonas

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2014, 10:37:35 pm
content: you can't do controlled impedance unless there is a plane ....besides it is a futile experiment for a double sided board. the dielectric is so thick you need gigantic traces to get anywhere.

author: marshallh
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2014, 01:42:26 am
content: Yup, your 50ohm traces will have to be several mm wide on twolayer.. I've seen it done, but its not practical for most things.

author: JJalling
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 25, 2014, 07:16:25 am
content: Yes, they are quite wide. According to my rough calculations, I need trace widths of about 1.3mm for 50ohm.I'm using double-sided .5mm RO3003 for the antenna.I guess I'll just put in a dummy plane then, and remember to remove it later on.Thanks guys.Br Jonas
Integrated Libraries, User Parameters and BOM Generation - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2014, 01:21:10 pm
content: It seems like there should be a way to do this, as I see templates for BOMs that allow it, but I can't get anything to work.I have and Integrated Library. I have Manuf, ManufNumber, Supplier, etc. fields in User Parameters. I can't get any of these fields to show up in my output job. There are include Parameters from Vault and Include Parameters from DB, but no Include parameters from Integrated Library.Maybe this is a situation where I'm doing something totally wrong, not one where Altium is punishing me for not jumping on the Vault bandwagon. With Supplier info and other things in my libraries, it just seems like I should be able to get it out SOMEHOW.

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2014, 01:26:14 pm
content: I need to just post a request for help on this forum before I search at all. Without fail, the next thing I read after posting here is the answer. I've looked at this for a couple days and there is one piece that I had been missing:PROJECT BOM, NOT PCB BOM.If someone else is trying to do the same, maybe this will help.
How to batch round courners of PolyRegions and/or Fill's - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DutchGert
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 24, 2014, 08:27:21 am
content: I have a board with a lot of switching power supplies. Since I use a lot of fills the I decided to use Solid Region's instead of 'real' Polygon Pours to place large area's of copper.Now I see that all these fills have rectangular corners. Ofcourse I can select a fill and manualy place an Arc on its corners but is it also possible to add a (predefined) Arc on all selected objects?
Output File and CAMtastic - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slowaudio
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2014, 06:21:42 pm
content: I've recently upgraded from version 10 to version 14 and have noticed something different when I'm outputting my Gerbers. I've created an OUTJOB file and have setup fabrication outputs to generate the appropriate Gerbers and NC Drills. In previous versions after I'd generate the content a new CAM file would be created and I could go in check to make sure the Gerbers had been generated appropriately. However it's not doing that anymore.This is the first project I've started in 14. However when I open a project created from a previous version and generate content again, the a new CAM file gets created. Is there a project specific setting I've missed?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2014, 07:29:19 pm
content: there is an option somewhere "open document after creation"

author: slowaudio
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 17, 2014, 07:39:59 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on February 17, 2014, 07:29:19 pmit almost seems like the CAM file isn't being created. I don't see it anywhere in the working directory.
Please wait a moment... - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 12:27:16 pm
content: ...while I crash yet again and lose the last many minutes of your work.I really love the new differential trace width assignment, which makes routing internal diffs in a weird stackup nice. But I remember working all day without a crash on 13.3....Altium marketing model: Give enough new features for people to switch to 14.Keep enough bugs and crashes that they can't sanely go forward without a service contract.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 02:24:18 pm
content: Do the registry patch to allow 3gig allocation.That crash frequently happens because you are low on ram.Close memory hogs like chrome and internet exploder and firedfox

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 06:18:03 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on February 11, 2014, 02:24:18 pmI thought 3Gb allocation is only on 32 bit systems? I'm running Win7 64bit with 16 Gb of RAM. I haven't been over 6 Gb used by the system, while running Altium.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 07:06:18 pm
content: doesnt matter. altium is a 32 bit application. without the patch it will not allocate more than 2 gig. ( i think)

author: Fabiusp98
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 07:14:22 pm
content: If it's a 32bit software it has an absolute limit of 4gb, but probably has also other limitations. Maybe you can modify the registry fix to use 4gb instead of 3gb.

author: Rufus
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 11, 2014, 07:35:28 pm
content: Quote from: sacherjj on February 11, 2014, 06:18:03 pmx64 Windows gives 32bit applications a 4GB address space if they are marked as Large Address Aware in the executable header. Current Altium versions are so marked.

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 15, 2014, 04:28:00 am
content: I've been having a few issues with 14.1.5.30772 in the past week or two (probably because I''ve been using it full-on), maybe an error once a day.I logged a support case and they are aware of an issue which seems to be affecting a small number of users with specific system configurations. Damnit platform diversity!
Orcad Schematic Import Error - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: asadi.siyavash
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2014, 05:40:22 am
content: Hi I want to use open source Hardware BeagleBoard. the schematic was drawn with Cadence Orcad, I want to import it in Altium but it doesn't work. the error is Design file "E:\...Beagle.DSN' not recognized. "the link of the open source schematic is there:https://github.com/CircuitCo/BeagleBoard-RevC5/blob/master/BeagleBoard_revC5_SCH.zip?raw=trueany help would be greatly appreciated,all the best,Siyavash

author: Mikekoz13
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2014, 12:10:23 pm
content: Siyavash-I read the .DSN file in with no problem at all. It is only a schematic, no board.Did you realize that the file you linked to is a .zip file? You will have to save the .DSN file that is in the .zip file to your drive and then do the import.

author: asadi.siyavash
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: January 27, 2014, 12:43:46 pm
content: Mikekoz13Hi, really thanks for your reply, I extracted zip file I can saw them in Cadence Orcad, I don't have any problem for converting allegro PCB with altium import wizard, is it possible to upload your imported file?My altium version is 14, can it be the problem?best regards,Siyavash

author: peter.mitchell
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 08, 2014, 05:54:20 pm
content: Quote from: asadi.siyavash on January 27, 2014, 12:43:46 pmI just gave it a go, importing works fine here with 14.1.5.But, here is a copy of the converted files;https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/677635/BeagleBoard_revC5_SCH.zip