hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Show only sheet numbers in port cross references? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: chicosbailbonds
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 17, 2012, 05:12:49 am
content: I recently moved from Capture to Altium, and while most things are a vast improvement, the one thing I miss is the intersheet references. The port cross reference report in Altium is similar, but it shows the entire filename of the schematic sheet, which looks really confusing on a sheet with a lot of ports, and tends to run off the page. All I want is the sheet number, surrounded by brackets -- does anyone know if there is a way to customize the port cross reference report to do this?
Curious clearance issue with xtal - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2012, 05:23:21 pm
content: I've added the 4-pin crystal in the picture - and now, even though my clearance rules are 0.2mm min, it's constantly complaining about there being a collision between the crystal, the IC, and the resistor. If I move the crystal away from either by about the same distance as the width of the crystal, it's fine, but then it's miles away! The footprint for the crystal doesn't have any hidden exxtended parts, either, the extremes of the footprint are literally the corners of the pads.Any ideas what's going on here?cheers

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2012, 10:56:31 pm
content: Yep, it's stupid. Try adding a 3D body to the crystal and it should use that instead.

author: AlfBaz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2012, 02:04:24 pm
content: I had something similar happen to me. single clicked the component in question (funnily enough it too was a crystal) thereby selecting it and the selection outline revealed that the perceived body was larger than it should be.I hadn't created a 3D body for this xtal but selected "manage 3d bodies for component" and found it was creating a body outline from the overlay extremes, which included the No1 pin marker. Might pay to look there

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 20, 2012, 02:09:47 pm
content: I created a 3d body and all was well. thanks guys.
How to import a bitmap logo into a PCB library? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2012, 04:49:26 pm
content: I use Altium Designer for work, but the rest of the company uses Protel 99SE.I've made a library component with a logo that works with AD, but when I save in Protel format, it appears blank. I assume this is because the logo is made of 'regions' - which I suspect Protel doesn't understand?I have been looking for a way to convert regions to polygons or similar but to no avail - does anyone have any idea how I might get the logo to show in Protel?Cheers.

author: sacherjj
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 01, 2012, 06:10:47 pm
content: There was a program floating around somewhere called PCBLogo. I remember using it to get a logo into an old EDA tool. Not sure if that helps any. It was shareware for $10-15 I think. Not sure if it is still around.Not familiar with Protel at all. I do know that some apps are picky about bit depth on bitmaps. Most would want 1 bit Bitmap. (i.e. Black and White only). So make sure it is formatted like that in a paint program.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 02, 2012, 02:20:54 am
content: there is a script in altium designer that will read a black and white bitma[ and convert it into line art.look in the install directory under examples in pascalscripts.

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: November 19, 2012, 05:20:03 pm
content: Thanks guys, I found the script but it didn't come out too well. In the end I just used Altium and didn't bother with Protel.
altium designer viewer summer 09 - printing gerber file with mirrored output - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: arekm
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: October 13, 2012, 09:28:05 pm
content: Hi.I have a gerber file with silkscreen. I'm trying to print this with mirrored output.Is there a way to get such print with altium designer viewer summer 09?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 14, 2012, 04:14:42 pm
content: open in camtastic -> flip layer -> print
Component placement according to DXF/Step file restrictions - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: guscrown
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2012, 02:19:06 pm
content: I'm new to PCB design and new to Altium. I manage to figure out the following:Create my own footprints for odd parts and using the wizards.Import the board shape from a DXF file.Import the board shape from a Step file. Which is neat because it automatically creates pads for holes and everything.Now I've been going through the wiki and can't really find on how to correctly position parts according to the DXF information or the Step file created pads. I now a little bit of autocad and I know you can use commands like "Select", "Middle", "Move", "Center", etc.. to aid you in the movement and placement of figures. But in altium I cannot figure it out. I don't just want to eye-ball it. As the mechanical restrictions are there for a reason.In the case of the pads automatically created by the Step file importation, can I place pads over pads? I ask this because of course this pads belong to my parts, and I already have a footprint with the correct pads but I don't know how to link them together. My best guess is I should delete them ones created by the step file and position my footprint instead, but if that is the case, how do I accurately position the footprint?Check example here:

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2012, 02:38:56 pm
content: You would place components there. Messing with loose pads is a non-no.So , for the connectors on the left, make a 2x4 pin connector in the library ( sch and pcb ) and place them there. You will see them snap in place.Once all these are in place you will then simply redefine the board shape ( remove the cutouts )Done.

author: guscrown
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2012, 03:42:59 pm
content: Can I place the pads of my part's footprint over those pads on the left?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 26, 2012, 08:01:26 pm
content: absolutely. no problem.
VIAS and PADS ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cerrem
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 09, 2012, 10:01:32 pm
content: Hi... I am new to forum....Glad to have found this place...I have experience with Allegro and now like ALtium much better after trying it out....OK... I am not 100% sure I understand when I should use Pads vs. Vias in this software...I have a 4 layer board... Inner Layer 2 is +12V plane and Inner Layer 3 is -12V plane.....I use Top layer (METAL 1) and Bottom layer for routing...RED and BLUE respectively...WHen I switch from Top to Bottom Layers a VIA is placed in the routing that jumps through the entire board....this is what I refer to as a full stack VIA...I am using a PAD to go from TOP LAYER metal 1 to the Layer 2 for my +12V ...I am also using a PAD to go from TOP LAYER metal 1 to LAYER 3 for my -12V....Under PAD PROPERTIES I am setting it as "MULTILAYER" and setting the NET to the +12V or -12V ...I also keep it set to a SIMPLE pad....Then I am placing the pad on the top layer and running the top layer RED trace to it.....Is this the proper use of PAD to get connection the TOP LAYER to the +12V and -12V layers??My gut feeling says no.....So..is this PAD also acting as a VIA to the inner planes???Or should I be using a VIA ??I see in the PROPERTIES section of VIA that it has a START LAYER and a END LAYER ......I can set the START LAYER as TOP LAYER and then set the END LAYER as INTERNAL PLANE 2 or INTERNAL PLANE 3 ......Is the VIA the correct way to do this??? or can a PAD act the same way??I use to call this VIA a blind VIA .....Any clarification would be greatly appreciated...Thanks...Chris

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 10, 2012, 01:00:17 am
content: A pad is a hole in the board where you stick a component pin through or solder a component pin on ( SMt pad )a thru-hole pad should always be used as such.a VIA is a connection between layers. if you double click on a via you can set begin layer and end layer and do exactly what you are after: make blind via's and buried via's.normally a board should not have free pads ( all pads should belong to a component )the reason they let you place pads in pcb mode is so you can tweak a part then select the pads and the part go to the library and plonk it down there.there is even a tool to convert 'free pads' to via ( and vice versa )
net class manual routing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: aleksazr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 06:31:38 pm
content: Hello everyone, I'm new here.I have some 10 months of Altium experience, plenty with older Protel.Question:Say I have 3 nets: 5V, 5VA and 5VB.I want to route 5VA and 5VB separately, then join them in some point(s) to 5V.I've created a net class (CLASS5V) with all 3 nets so I can create a rule allowingCLASS5V to be short-circuited to itself.That works great, I can route all 3 nets together and join them... but Altium still thinkssome points are not connected - even though they are.For example, I have two vias of 5VA net connected together with a 5V track,and Altium doesn't think they are connected... it still shows a ratsnets.What is the Altium's approach to this kind of routing?

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 09:50:39 pm
content: I can't think of any solutions offhand. Your "sub" nets should probably be contiguous, e.g. connected end-to-end and only shorted to other nets at one point. There might be a way to disable "net routed" checks, but that's a pretty big hammer.

author: aleksazr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 11, 2012, 02:21:47 pm
content: I've found one way... if anyone is interested.1. route the board until almost done and you are unsure if it is completed or not.2. copy the PCB file and open the copy in Altium.3. Design > Netlist > Configure Physical Nets...repeat steps 2 and 3 until finished.Setbacks:1. Jumpers are not taken into account.2. Nets that are no longer in use are not deleted from the netlist. (not sure if this bothers me or not)Cheers!

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2012, 02:45:44 pm
content: Net ties might work for you check out the Altium wiki -http://wiki.altium.com/display/ADOH/Home

author: aleksazr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 12, 2012, 08:19:39 pm
content: Thanks
Evenly spacing components along an arc/circle - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SpinLock
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 22, 2012, 11:33:28 pm
content: Hello everyone,I'm trying to clone this board:https://www.sparkfun.com/products/10407?using Altium. I have managed to place all of my LEDs along an arc/circle but I'm not sure how to ensure that there is uniform spacing between them along the arc. I can eyeball the spacing but I don't feel that will be precise enough. Is there a way to accomplish this?Also, I need a large hole in the middle of the board for mounting purposes. What is the best way to implement this in Altium?Thanks

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2012, 12:26:09 am
content: Quote from: SpinLock on September 22, 2012, 11:33:28 pmI *think* the last time I needed to do this was to simply create an arc (10 thou line thickness) on the keep-out layer of the required radius. You do need to mention to the PCB fab house that the board has a cut-out.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 23, 2012, 12:37:02 am
content: simply define a polar grid with the correct radius and off you go. parts will snap to the grid.if you don;t have the updated altium with poar grids : here is an easy way to do iton a mechanical layer : draw a little cross ( 10 mil by 10 mil. ) then draw an arc with the wanted radius using the cross as the centerpoint.place 1 ledcopy the little cross and place it centered on one of the pads of the led.X-AS-I and select the cross on the led padO-P and change rotation angle to whatever you needE-C - click on the cross in the center of the circleDO NOT MOVE THE MOUSEE-P hit space bar to take one rotation step and hit enterE-P-SPACe-ENTERE-P-SPAVE-ENTERand so on as many times as needed.now delete the circle.place led's the led's pin 1 will 'snap' to where the little crosses are. when moving the led hitting the spacebar will rotate the part with the right rotation as wellto define the inner large circle : place a circle on the keepout layer. put in th emech comments to use keepout as board contour.
Altium Layer Stackup For Transmission Lines - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: PsychedelicBreakfast
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 04:21:42 pm
content: I'm a bit puzzled by Altium's layer stackup. I emailed my PCB fab. (Gold Phoenix) about substrate height, copper height and the dielectric constant and I was told the following:QuoteSo I set the top and bottom layer to 1.6mm and the prepregs to 0.17mm and the core to 1.2mm, as shown in the picture below:But when I try to setup a width rule based on characteristic impedence, I get negative values for the width(!). What am I doing wrong?

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 05:14:38 pm
content: you got something else wrong ...6.69+6.69+47.2 don't add up to 189 ...so you got your copper thickness wrong...

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 05:40:48 pm
content: The copper thickness doesn't show up directly in that dialog, you have to double-click on each copper layer and verify that it is set to 1 oz (1.4 mils, 0.036mm)

author: PsychedelicBreakfast
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 05:41:25 pm
content: Copper thickness as stated in the email is 1.6mm. I set that too, for both bottom and top layer. So 62.9 * 2 mil + 47.244 + 6.693*2 = 186.43. If you add in the gnd and vcc plane thickness, it adds upto 189. The email didn't state anything about the thickness of the gnd/vcc plane (and Gold Phoenix isn't being helpful now) so I left it as default.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 05:46:17 pm
content: 1.6mm copper on the outer layers ? what kind of board is this ?1.6 mm they mean the total board thickness.that outer layer copper is 1oz . i do't kno any pacb house that uses such thick copper on the outer layers... that'll be an trmendously expensive board..

author: PsychedelicBreakfast
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 05:49:40 pm
content: Quote from: free_electron on September 06, 2012, 05:46:17 pmYou're right. When I set 1.4 mil as the thickness for all the layers, the width came out as about 10 mil for 50 Ohm Zo. I was confused by their figures because they quoted 1.6mm twice, once near the top layer and once near the bottom layer.Sorry about all the confusion! I appreciate the help.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 06, 2012, 06:43:55 pm
content: you got negative numbers becasue the aspect ratio changed... the trace would have been thicker than it was wide ... and that upsets the calcs...
Locking wires onto nodes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: cksa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2012, 09:11:37 am
content: I don't know how i did it...but now on my altium designer...when i wire up two component pins....then move the component...the wire doesn't stay attached to the component pinsI do not know which altium option/setting/preference that adjusts this. I want to move the component, and have the wires "tack on" to it and move with it.Any ideas?Thanks.

author: cksa
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2012, 09:45:27 am
content: SOLVED:. Need to check "Always drag" in the Schematic Editor Preferences.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 12, 2012, 07:46:10 pm
content: Yuck ! . that is a very annoying thing. half the tie the wires become spaghetti.leave that option off by default and use the M-D command ( move - drag ) if you need this
Altium libraries - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Isaac Newton
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2012, 12:14:51 am
content: I haven't done much designs on Altium since i installed it, just 2 boards for a micromouse robot contest in college, but it just used passives, op-amps, 74xx series ICs and a eeprom memory, nothing too exciting. The components where very easy to find with the libraries I downloaded. Now I need some micros for another project and I just cannot find Altium libraries for any of them... I'm using Altium Designer Release 10, and I've downloaded the Atmel and the Microchip libraries from : "http://www.altium.com/community/libraries/en/libraries_home.cfm" (summer 9) but I can find no records onAtmega328p, Atmega32u4or any of the micros used in the Arduino boards.

author: jeremy
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 30, 2012, 07:00:34 am
content: Yep, there aren't any. You'll need to make the parts yourself. The 328p has the same pin out as the old 8s, so you can use that at a pinch.

author: Isaac Newton
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2012, 03:03:02 am
content: Thanks, Jeremy

author: joelby
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 31, 2012, 05:05:18 am
content: In AD10, you should be able to find these parts in the Vault. The ones you can download from the Altium web site are no longer being updated.
Creating footprint for Molex Connector.  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: guscrown
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2012, 09:43:30 pm
content: Hey everyone, I'm trying to create a footprint for a Molex connector but I don't think it is possible to do with the wizards inside Altium, so I guess I have to do it by hand, but I am completely lost. Any help, tips, tricks, tutorial, video or whatever would help me out. The component wizard has an "Edge Connector" but I think that is something different.Here is the connector I want to create the footprint for:http://www.molex.com/molex/products/datasheet.jsp?part=active/0874370343_PCB_HEADERS.xml&channel=Products&LIt's the 3 pin version.

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2012, 11:24:21 pm
content: Creating footprints in Altium is very easy, its just a matter of starting your own footprint library, creating a new entry and drawing the line/holes you need while using the measuring tool to check it matches the datasheet. (in your case the drawing pdf)Then adding your new library to your project.A search on youtube should find videos of people making footprints in alitum.Altium makes it even easier because you can copy/paste any existing footprint into your new footprint library. So you just need to find something that's close and adjust it as needed.Adding 3D to your models is pretty easy too, just place a 3D body and give it some dimensions.However molex have 3D models already available, so you can just import those for the 3D part.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2012, 12:58:24 am
content: I've been creating library parts this week and using3D Content Centralfor the more complex 3D models.If you don't need the 3D model standard pads, lines and circles is what most people use.

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 29, 2012, 07:57:08 am
content: Hi,I have some molex parts listed on my site -http://pcbcomponentlibraries.com/searchresults.php?key=MolexYou might be able to use one of these as a base and mod it to suit if not let me know and I'll create it and list it on the site for you.Thanks,Chris.
DXF export? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Things
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2012, 04:05:47 pm
content: Hey guys, I'm trying to export a DXF of the solderpaste layers so I can lasercut my own stencils, I'm using the convert to camtastic first method then export as DXF, and the file contains what I want, however it seems to insert this damn empty layer as layer 0. This upsets the laser cutter software & it won't show up at all.Is there a way to disable this useless layer, or move the paste to this layer instead?I have been digging around software to try find something to delete the layer, but it's not going anywhereCheers,Dan

author: Short Circuit
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2012, 04:18:23 pm
content: You could try withCamBam+.

author: Things
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2012, 04:59:19 pm
content: Well, I've managed to get it working, although somewhat hackily.It turns out the laser cutter software is expecting a "layer0", and not the "0" that Altium produces. I can leave the "0" layer there and just rename the one I want to "Layer0" and it works, although the scale is waaaayyyyy out for some reason. How do you change between metric and imperial for Camtastic's DXF export?Dan
Opening Component Properties window bug ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2013, 01:05:59 am
content: Hello gentlemen, I have some problem with Altium 9.4.020159 on Windows 7.When I try to open component properties window, nothing happens. Active window of Altium fades and becomes inactive and it looks like it waits until I do changes in Component Properties, however I DO NOT see it. When I press ESC, it comes back to active.Same behaviour when I move component and then press TAB or Right Click and select Properties in the menu.Every other dialog window works and it also works for objects like Texts, Lines, Rectangles. Component Properties is the only does not work.Anyone have some clue ?Thank you and regards Ondrej

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2013, 01:23:54 am
content: Sounds like the window is off screen somewhere (different monitor). Have you changed your monitor setup?

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2013, 07:42:21 am
content: Yes, I tried different resolution, switch screens, unplug the second screen, run Altium maximized, minimized, open it in little window if Properties isn't opened behind the Altium window.It seems to Properties do not open at all.This happens only for Component.Ports, Lines, anything else works allright.// I also tried to set everywhere default settings. I am afraid that I will have to reinstall Altium, perhaps I should try newer version if I don't solve this in reasonable time.

author: salvodi89
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2013, 10:39:58 am
content: I have the same problem with Relase 10 and windows 7....I tried everything but widout resoult!

author: MetraCollector
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2013, 01:44:56 pm
content: I solved this downloading portable version of Altium 9.4. and works well for now. Sometimes crashes, but it works.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 15, 2013, 10:01:22 pm
content: Maybe login to Altium Live and update? You do own a legal copy of Altium don't you?
DXP 2004 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: GK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 15, 2012, 02:20:38 am
content: Hello all.Sorry if this is a silly question but in Altium DXP 2004, every time I want to update a PCB document from a schematic file, the "Engineering Change Order" wants to delete all my design rules by default, so with each update I have to un-click about two dozen check boxes. This is annoying. Is there a option or preference setting buried somewhere which I can select to stop it from doing this?Cheers,Glen

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 11, 2012, 12:31:45 am
content: The design rules shouldn't be affected by an ECO as far as I know.Are you meaning that some of the component properties or nets are changing?

author: GK
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2012, 02:08:11 am
content: Hi,Here is the ECO window. Each time I have 25 "Remove Rules" check boxes to un tick.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2012, 03:31:38 am
content: I don't have a solution for you, but you know you can right click in that area and select "Disable all of same Kind" ? That cuts it down to a couple of clicks.
Altium Tutorials? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2012, 03:24:54 pm
content: Does anyone know any good interactive or "play along" ones?Cheers

author: hans
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2012, 02:54:42 pm
content: http://www.altium.com/community/trainingcenter/en/training-manuals.cfmAlthough it suggests the version 09 summer, which may differ from yours, it's perfectly fine as version 10 is almost identical.

author: Spikee
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2012, 03:28:50 pm
content: There is one on youtube that explains the basics of the program.The rest you can find on the altium website.

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 14, 2012, 02:46:43 pm
content: The Design Secrets videos are pretty good when you can find them - I always struggle. They don't come up in a google.
Linear Technology Library doesn't include all parts? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Genuigr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 03:24:16 pm
content: Hello guys,This is my first post and it's about that I can't find some parts I need for Altium Designer.I am trying to make a redesign of Dave's PSU with less features so it's a bit cheapier for me to build. Like him I want to use the LT3080 as the mainregulator, but I can't find that frickin thing in Altium. I installed the Linear Technology library from herehttp://www.altium.com/community/libraries/altium-designer-libraries/altium-designer-board-level/de/altium-designer-board-level_home.cfmbut I cant find it. I wonder why, because Dave had one in his schematic. Did he design it himself (Please not, I hate doing that) or are there other librarys I'm missing?Besides that, the LT3080 chip is not the only thing in my design, that I can't find.That's it, I hope to get an answer pretty quick, because that's making me insaneFabian

author: EEVblog
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 01, 2012, 10:43:18 pm
content: I designed it myself.Altium never has the part you want!Maybe a dozen manufacturers libraries are massively comprehensive, all with 3D models and supplier data etc. But then the others that haven't been touched and updated since the new push toward all this live vault content, and they contain very little or nothing.There are some libraries that only contain one part from a manufacturer! That stems from the internal designers (like me) needing the part for a Nanoboard or whatever and then having to create the library for that one part, and it eventually made it's way into the public libraries.The majority of the major parts in the various power supplies I've had to design myself.Dave.

author: Genuigr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 02, 2012, 08:15:51 am
content: Okay then.Looks like I have to get some work done, better start right nowThanks.Fabian

author: hans
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2012, 02:57:14 pm
content: In every CAD package you have to draw your own parts. No matter what. And otherwise it's good practice to do so for custom connectors or program headers. For e.g. I find it convenient to duplicate a 5 pin header, rename the signals of a PICKIT pinout and name it a "PICKIT" part or something.

author: Genuigr
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 14, 2012, 03:18:49 pm
content: Yup, I already made all the parts I need, it's really not that difficult, I just have to be carefull to get the footprints right
Component with different footprints - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JJalling
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 08:53:28 pm
content: Hi,I'm trying to add a component (LTC3564) to my library. The component is available in two different packages - one with 5 pins used and one with 7 pins used. How do I create component in my library? Should I create two different schematic symbols - one for each package/footprint?Thanks for any tips!/Jonas

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 10:31:00 pm
content: LTC3564-packacge1LTC3564-package2thats how i solve itfor exa,pleLTC3564-SOT23LTC3564-MSOP8

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 10:38:48 pm
content: If the footprints have the same pinout, I just add multiple footprints to the schematic component. If they are different, the only way I know of is to create multiple schematic components.

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: July 20, 2012, 11:23:27 pm
content: It is possible to map the pins differently for each footprint, but I only do it for generic parts like transistors or voltage regulators. It's least confusing to use letters to label the pins (D, G, S for a MOSFET) and then use the Pin Map to assign it to numbered pins for each footprint. You can find the Pin Map button in the dialog where you select the footprint, after clicking "Edit" in the schematic library or properties of a placed symbol. But then you have cases like nets that are on more than one pin (SO-8 MOSFETS) and you end up needing a separate symbol anyway so you can have 3 pins on top of each other so they all get electrically connected.For ICs I just use separate symbols always, and use the manufacturer part code to name the symbol so it matches up with the BOM.To answer your question more literally, even if the pinning were the same I would only put the one footprint I'm using on the symbol because any "extra" work I do is work that I'm not going to bother checking, and then 6 months from now I'll rely on it and get screwed because I chose the wrong footprint.

author: mkissin
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 23, 2012, 09:17:05 am
content: Definately go with two different schematic components.It's much simpler for the BOM if you consider this as two entirely seperate components, which happen to perform the same function, than as one component with two different packages and pinouts. In this case, your two components are the LTC3564ES5 (SOT23) and the LTC3564EDCB (DFN6). You get that from the ordering information section of the datasheet.Your supplier links will thank you as well.
QFN footprint - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mobile
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 02, 2012, 10:14:23 pm
content: Hi,I've been watching many many videos on youtube and I really like that topic.So normally during my daily job I'm a software engineer, recently I decided I would like to swing over to electronic engineering (if possible :-). I have access to Altium (through my employer). So I'd like to understand some kind of video grabber and try to make one by myself.It should be a simple design since it's a one chip solution.I tried to desolder an existing device (heated up the PCB) just to see the footprint:http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/210/qfndesoldered.jpg/So at first I tried to make some kind of PCB library with Altium (Tools -> Component Wizzard -> QFN)however the dual row layout probably cannot be done with it it seems.What I noticed through the componentwizard is that there's some solder mask expansion I just wondered that kind of solder mask expansion seems to be so big that the footprint might end up with no solder mask at all.. But from the de-soldered sample I can clearly see a solder mask in between the pins.As far as I understand the solder mask expansion is the gap between the copper/pad and the solder mask, I don't understand how that should apply to those QFN packages.I have the package specs I will add them asap.I wonder how can that one be drawn with Altium designer?(I'm an absolute beginner please correct me if I'm wrong with something here ^^)

author: mariush
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 02, 2012, 11:06:38 pm
content: There's a very good blog that explains a lot about various footprints, here's the QFN footprint:http://blogs.mentor.com/tom-hausherr/blog/2011/04/06/pcb-design-perfection-starts-in-the-cad-library-part-15-qfn/There's also some very good posts towards the beginning of the blog but overall the whole blog is a very informative one.Hope it helps.Look into Camtasia Studio for screen capturing.

author: mobile
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 03, 2012, 01:37:41 am
content: Hi mariush,thanks for your reply! I'm studying it :-)here's the QFN dimension (which I promised to show)http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/1033/qfndimensions.pngI'm just trying to get that thing somehow into the altium PCB/Schematic library but having some hard time to understand how to do that.. I'll keep playing of course :-)

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 03, 2012, 03:17:10 am
content: Perhaps you can do the outside set of pads via the wizard, then add the inside set manually. Shouldn't take long.

author: mobile
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 03, 2012, 03:50:16 am
content: I'll try my luck tomorrow and will post my result here once it's done :-)
0 ohm resistor as jumper - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slashguitar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 05:02:24 pm
content: Hi. I would like to use 0 ohm resistors (either 1206 or through hole) to route tracks under them on single sided boards. Is there a way to insert them directly from the PCB editor and how can I make altium see the same net at both terminals so I don't get errors.Thanks

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 07:36:55 pm
content: You don't need to put it in your schematic.Place a footprint directly in the PCB (keyboard shortcut: p c)Edit the footprint properties and set type to 'Graphical' so it doesn't get erased when you import changes from schematicEdit both pads, set the net for each to whatever net needs jumpering, and set the Jumper ID to 1 so altium knows they are electrically connectedMore info:http://wiki.altium.com/display/ADOH/Pad#Pad-JumperConnections

author: slashguitar
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 08:44:54 pm
content: Thanks a lot

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2012, 09:11:58 pm
content: That's a great little bit of info. I needed to do this on the other week with a single layer PCB, but had to split the net and put the zero Ohm resistor in the schematic. Another tip learned and bookmarked!

author: poorchava
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 11:43:36 am
content: Generally a good practice to split circuit into few sections with 0R jumpers. Often makes it easier to debug the design (you can disconnect other parts of the circuit easily). of course using jumpers as a way to handle crossing tracks is also ok.You only need to remember that 0R jumper in reality doesn not have 0 ohms. In case of small smd's I'd say something like few miliohms. This can make serious difference in some designs. Also - each jumper type has some maximum current it can safely carry (rather large values - something like 1.5-2A for 0805 IIRC)

author: robrenz
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 11:57:48 am
content: Quote from: poorchava on September 10, 2012, 11:43:36 amSpecs I have seen only guarantee <20m Ohm for a Zero Ohm jumper so it can be a big deal depending on your circuit.

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 11:59:00 am
content: I'm always amused at the 0.25W rating for zero Ohm resistors.

author: SeanB
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2012, 03:48:43 pm
content: Even more amusing is that they have a voltage limit as well.
Getting the 30 day trial - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 01:11:18 pm
content: So i requested the altium 30 day trial earlier today, but they have to be awkward and have someone contact me before I can have it...Does anyone know if they tend to call on the phone or is it just a case of them emailing a download link when they get round to it?

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 01:51:24 pm
content: No one called me when i got the 30 day trail. They did however post me a CD and email me a license file.However this was like 4 years ago.

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 01:55:19 pm
content: Well I just got an email from them. What the hell, it's only a 30 day trial. They want ALL THE INFOI only want to try the bloody thing out!I guess I'll have to give it all up for 30 days of their godly application

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 08:40:01 pm
content: may i suggest the free version to try it out?

author: 8086
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 09:25:14 pm
content: Quote from: M. András on July 02, 2012, 08:40:01 pmThere's a free version??

author: David_AVD
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 02, 2012, 09:34:01 pm
content: Yes, it's annoying but they do have to set up an evaluation licence for you. I guess it's to cut down on the people who have no intention of ponying up the $$ for it.

author: M. András
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 03, 2012, 04:27:40 pm
content: Quote from: 8086 on July 02, 2012, 09:25:14 pmeverything on the net can be found for free if you know where too look
Comment = Value - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jerry507
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2012, 03:44:11 pm
content: So I've got a number of older projects and projects we've gotten from customers where they've set the Comment field to be "=Value" where Value is a parameter for the part. So far I've just been using the Comment field for passive values. Is there any advantage to this practice that I just haven't realized yet?

author: gxti
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 14, 2012, 07:45:01 pm
content: I think the simulator requires values in the value field, but I don't use it. They might also work with someone who is OCD about BOM formatting, and doesn't want anything other than part numbers in the comment field or something.

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 17, 2012, 02:43:05 pm
content: ^Same we use =Part Number as we like the partnumber to be shown on IC's etc. You can do that with your database setup but I inherited the system so left it as is... I may change it in the future though, and leave the comment field blank.

author: jerry507
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2012, 11:43:34 pm
content: We eventually decided to just use the comment field for the value. On that note from Chris, we decided to move our designators to an assembly layer. We got tired of dealing with silkscreen anymore, especially with a lot of tight designs. We don't have our boards assembled in house anymore, and frankly it takes more time to make it look nice than it saves looking at your Altium files.

author: Chris
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2012, 09:54:21 am
content: "A lot of tight designs" - Sounds like fun!One thing of note if you do use DB libs is that you can set what is shown by default in the DB setup - might be worth looking at.

author: jerry507
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 25, 2012, 07:01:15 pm
content: We haven't started doing the DB stuff yet. It's on the list to look into, but it'll have to wait until a few current projects get wrapped up. We JUST started gathering a real well managed parts library
ALTIUM OpenBus VGA 32-Bit Controller - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: m4l490n
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: July 06, 2012, 12:41:51 pm
content: Hi everybodyI'd like to know if someone has worked with OpenBus with SwPlatform and the VGA 32-Bit controller OpenBus module in AD10. This because I can´t make it work!! and all examples provided by ALTIUM are with their TFT display on the NB. I'm working with a custom board with a 8-Bit DAC per color and VSync and Hsync directly to the VGA connector.Can any one help please?
Default values for a custom schematic library - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: redrobingarden
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 23, 2012, 08:26:02 pm
content: Hi guys! This is my first post in this wonderful blog that I should have joined years ago.Here's my question. I use a custom schematic library for a project I'm making. Every time I add a new component, it is automatically filled with a bunch of default values that happen to be a PIC MCU I used once. So, every time i add a new blank component, and I have to go in there and delete all the default microchip pic values. I've been doing this way too often, and I'm sure there's a way to get at the default values somewhere.Anyone have any idea how I can fix this?Thanks a bunch for reading!

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 23, 2012, 11:05:08 pm
content: How exactly do you mean full of default values.Do you mean that every time you click the 'add' button in the schematic editor you get a physical PIC mcu symbol and you must delete it plus all its pins and labels so you can start your new schematic symbol ?Or is it more about default properties like value / package version / publisher. etc. all the stuff you get when double clicking on a component.?Normally when i want to make a new schematic symbol in my library i go find something similar to what i want in one of my projects. Then i right-click/copy that and right-click/paste into the schematic editor library window. That way i'm not starting from scratch all the time.

author: redrobingarden
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 24, 2012, 12:28:22 am
content: Thanks for the reply!When I click on add in my schematic library i get a component has footprints of a specific PIC along with default property values for that specific PIC.QuoteYour advice sounds great (i'm an altium n00b) I never did that but will certainly be doing that in the future.I do like importing parts from suppliers and starting off with that data though. When I do that, I get the supplier properties along with the damn PIC values.
I can't get the board outline to gerber - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: brianbange
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 08, 2012, 10:31:42 pm
content: I can't seem to find how to output the board outline in:FILE - FABRICATION OUTPUTS - GERBER FILES - Drill drawing tabDoes anyone know how I can get the board outline in the gerber of the drill drawing.I'm really wasting my day on this and have better things to do.Thanks in advance,Brian

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 12:01:45 am
content: draw the outline on a mechanical layer. in the project outputs create a 'final' project. there you can add the board outline to the plot.

author: hesam.moshiri
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 07:20:46 am
content: Quote from: brianbange on May 08, 2012, 10:31:42 pmI had the same problem, here you can consider the reason and solution.https://www.eevblog.com/forum/altium-designer/altium-gerber-export-board-outline/

author: dfnr2
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 01:36:38 pm
content: Free_Electron gave you the exact answer. Not knowing your level of experience with Altium, I'll spell out the steps a bit more explicitly:1. Use "Design->Board Shape->Create Primitives from Board Shape". Create the primitives in a mechanical layer, and make sure nothing else is in that layer.2. You should be using an OutJob to create the Gerbers. Right click the "Gerbers" line, select config, go to the "layers" tab, and check the mechanical layer containing your outline.3. Document your convention, including the name of the outline Gerber, in your README file.Dave

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 09, 2012, 02:07:10 pm
content: Here is another technique : i simply draw the outline on the keepout layer.S-y. ( select all on layer )Define board from selected objects.Do designIn gerber. Export job , the keep out layer will automatically be injected as a separate plot.If. You draw it on a mechanical layer , make sure the 'add to plot' is turned off, or it appears on every single gerber file. Board houses don't like that as they have to remove it ...

author: brianbange
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 10, 2012, 12:25:00 am
content: Thanks all. I finally figured this out after about four hours searching.From now on I will put a copy of the board outline on the Drill Fabrication layer. That way I can get it on my gerber of the fab, but not on the other layers.Brian
Altium Designer youtube tutorials - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ampdoctor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 23, 2012, 02:43:06 pm
content: The other day I was looking for some online tutorials to assist me with learning altium designer and stumbled across this page.https://www.youtube.com/user/matarofeHe put together about a dozen tutorials that seem to cover most every aspect of using altium. If you're struggling with trying to figure out how to use the software I would highly recommend checking them out.

author: slateraptor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 24, 2012, 06:34:45 am
content: http://www.altium.com/training/en/training-videos.cfm112 videos for your viewing pleasure courtesy of Altium...just in case you weren't aware. The pause button can very useful while going through a tutorial. I found these videos to be really fast pace but very informative.

author: Randall W. Lott
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: April 03, 2012, 04:32:48 am
content: Robert is great. I was quite impressed when I viewed his DDR memory layout.His blog is pretty useful as well.

author: ampdoctor
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: April 04, 2012, 04:32:05 am
content: I know! The man took me from completely lost to reasonably functional on most of the key elements within a few hours. Clear and relaxed, not frenetic, thorough without going into excruciating detail. Haven't personally spent much time on his blog but I may start sniffing around there a bit more in the near future.

author: yanir
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 07, 2012, 07:05:11 pm
content: I hope he puts out more content. Really good.
Irregularly shaped pads - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: johndoe1395
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 05, 2012, 05:03:51 pm
content: According to altium wiki (http://wiki.altium.com/display/ADOH/Creating+a+Custom+Pad+Shape), you can create custom shape pads by using various design objects to create the shape, then place a small pad inside to define the connection point. I created a custom footprint and did exactly that however the DRC shows errors at those points. What am I doing wrong? Is there any other option I need to check?Thanks

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2012, 05:29:18 pm
content: that's normal. when pushing the netlist these bject do not get tagged.run the DNU command. ( Design , Netlist , Update primitives from .. drat cant rmeeber what ti reads on themenu. the keyboard shortcut is DNU in the pcb editor