hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Coming off Eagle - Is DIPTRACE a good move? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: envisionelec
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 03:06:15 am
content: I have been an Eagle user since 1998. After they were bought by Newark, I was extremely disappointed with what they considered updates to the package. For the first time ever, I experienced a series of crashes. And it doesn't stop there. The routing features didn't improve much and transparency didn't work well enough for me. Basically, there weren't enough usable updates that has compelled me to continue using it.I switched to Altium in 2009 and part of 2010 just to finish up an audio amp, but then happily left after dealing with its constant DXP.exe and "Access Violation" errors. I made some very nice looking and performing PCBs with it, so it wasn't a total loss.I am about to embark on to DIPTRACE. I've watched the videos and some of its GUI in the ERC/DRC, particularly, seems remarkably like Altium. I am interested in its import/export abilities as I have scores of designs in Eagle.

author: Mechatrommer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 05:24:30 am
content: the only hint is download the free limited program and try it out. someone posted on another thread (diptrace library) that its possible and step how to import eagle library to diptrace. i used diptrace with ease after months of idling eagle in my pc which i cannot get how to. if you ask me, its a good move, but YMMV.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 07:41:03 am
content: I recommend DipTrace. Used eagle, and tried Altium. Eagle was to rudimentary and altium was to high grade. DipTrace is in between. Just give it a try, watch the tutorial on their site and if you have questions just post them here.Making parts, library's is much easier in diptrace then eagle.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 01:12:07 pm
content: I tried to import some libs from EAGLE 6.0.0. I didn't work. I will try from version 5.Alexander.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 02:59:14 pm
content: What is the library you need? I could try and convert it. I tried it with one and managed to do it.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 08:24:56 pm
content: It's thecon-wago-500.lbrone. I have tried several others. Exporting to EAGLE src importing from Diptrace, and nothing happens.Alexander.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 09:18:36 pm
content: You can try this:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/index.php?topic=6177.0Attached the diptrace lib. change the filename from zip to eli and put it in the lib folder of diptrace.

author: firewalker
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 03, 2012, 09:49:08 pm
content: Thanks m8.Alexander.
2.2 Released - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sdscotto
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 09, 2011, 08:57:03 pm
content: 2.2 was released a couple of days ago.

author: wosser
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2011, 08:48:56 am
content: Yeah, I installed it soon after I heard. I like the new bits but they removed the ability to re-order sheets - which is a bit puzzling. It's still worth having though.

author: buffalo960
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: September 12, 2011, 04:41:08 am
content: I have noticed that routing traces is significantly less buggy

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 16, 2011, 06:26:04 am
content: The new 2.2 version is really great. I also like the 3D feature because you can see how the finished product will look like. The routing is great and very easy. is there a way i could remap the shortcut keys? I miss the W for switching from top to bottom layer.The Via editor is again a nice adding.
How to create a pattern for a component after import into pcb layouter? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thilo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2011, 08:49:52 pm
content: Hi,I want to create a custom pattern for a component from my schematic. However, after importing the schematic into the pcb layouter it just warns me that there is a missing pattern and it just strips that component and all its connections altogether.How can I design custom patterns in the pcb layout software for such a component? I cannot even see this component in the design manager anymore.Thanks,Thilo.

author: 500in1
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2011, 09:43:28 pm
content: Quote from: thilo on August 09, 2011, 08:49:52 pmYou will have to attach a pattern to your custom component, go to help on Diptrace and open Diptrace Tutorial.You will have to read section 3.1 on how to make a pattern and then section 3.2 has info on attaching pattern to your component.

author: thilo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 10, 2011, 08:40:17 am
content: Hi,thanks for your reply. I know how to create and attach a pattern to a component. But in this case it is a special case, thus I deleted the attached pattern from the component in my schematic and assumed that I can build one in the pcb layouter for it (I've read something on Google where somebody claimed he just designs patterns on the fly for missing parts). But yeah you're right, I can just create a custom pattern library as part of this project instead of storing it in my general pattern library.Thanks,Thilo.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2011, 09:18:30 am
content: You could creat a user library and a user pattern where you can put all of your components and patterns you need with time(that is what i have done) Creating a part or a pattern is very simple, it is a walk in the park compared to eagle. if you want i can help you with that.
Blankets - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Microknigh7
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 06, 2025, 01:39:46 pm
content: Hi,I came across this thread looking for info on using blankets in CShttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/circuit-studio/net-blankets-for-circuitstudio/I haven't used this, but I guess what I have is a similar idea.I have a schematic created in AD that has blankets on that are visible in the CS schematic editor. However, if I generate the PDF output for the schematics it doesn't include the blanket lines, only the Net Class Symbol applied to it. There's nothing in the config for the output that isn't checked.Any thoughts, am I missing something?I could try overlaying the blanket lines with a regular polyline I guess...ThanksGraeme

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 06, 2025, 05:59:50 pm
content: It's been a few years but IIRC there's an option in print settings to enable blankets....but you say you've checked.I have CS schematic PDFs here that show the blankets, so it was possible at one point in time.In fact, the schematic in OP here has net blankets shown:https://www.eevblog.com/forum/circuit-studio/example-project-20-channel-solid-state-scan-card-for-k2000-dmm/Try opening that project and printing schematic.
Sweeps? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Superglob
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 01, 2025, 04:06:26 pm
content: Not sure if this has been asked / answered but is there a way to sweep a number of components? For example, I have 12 LED's that I want to put in a clock-circle. Is there a way CS supports this or do you have to do all of this by hand?

author: Superglob
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: May 13, 2025, 04:06:25 pm
content: No replies? Does that mean that it doesn't exist?I seem to remember an EDA package that allowed you to select an item, like a SMT led, specify the number of components you wanted and then just draw a circle. The leds would be appropriately space on the circle, which was pretty awesome.Maybe it was AD?

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 13, 2025, 08:46:28 pm
content: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/circuit-studio/paste-array/
Banana Jacks - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: mattkrass
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 02:05:54 am
content: Do any of the standard Diptrace libraries have some kind of banana jack for PCB mounting in them? I'm finding it a bit difficult to navigate, but I don't believe there is anything there. ARe there any tricks for navigating the libraries? And finally are there any extra libraries people tend to keep around? Eagle had a bunch of those, and it seems like Diptrace has a decent community.Matt

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 06:24:45 am
content: I do not think they have. Could you put a datasheet of the jack?There are some Diptrace library's at their site. We also have a library here. If you need a part just add a datasheet, or a link to it, and the component will be made.

author: mattkrass
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: February 09, 2012, 06:02:20 pm
content: Ah, I just wanted to see if there was already a part for it. Since I'm trying to learn Diptrace this is as good an excuse as any to learn to make symbols myself, just didn't want to re-invent the wheel. Once I make the part for Diptrace, is there someplace I can/should send it to be considered for inclusion in a common library?Thanks,Matt

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 10, 2012, 06:51:19 am
content: No, you can download the library from here, add the part and upload the library again.

author: steve_w
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 10:02:13 am
content: Hey Shebu,When you say there is a library here, where is "here"?regardsSteve W

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 19, 2012, 10:14:39 am
content: Here,https://www.eevblog.com/forum/diptrace/library's/If you want a part just say the exact name and it would be nice to add a link to the datasheet.
Any CircuitMaker Pro beta people on here ?? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 18, 2024, 11:15:59 pm
content: If so, are you free to comment on the ultimate disposition of the CircuitMaker Pro effort? (the proposed replacement for CircuitStudio)Can you comment anyway

author: lamabrew
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 19, 2024, 05:01:54 am
content: I made what appears to be the last post on the CMPro Beta forum last month (the prior user post was from July). I just looked, 14 people viewed that post, so that's probably a reasonable proxy for how many users are left.Altium last answered a technical question in July '22. After May '21 they never provided guidance as to what their product plans were.I signed up for a year of the AD Individual when they put it on sale a few weeks back. Altium never told us about it and if AD Individual was what Altium was now considering as the package for former CS/CMPro customers. I continue to use CMPro as well as that's a permanent license and my fallback if AD Individual goes away or gets even more pricey at renewal time.From the forum comments looks like many people went to Kicad; in some sense you could say that must have been Altium's disposition strategy for CMPro users.

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 20, 2024, 04:22:56 pm
content: My impression is that the original CircuitStudio was largely a Farnell Element 14 venture, perhaps they approached Altium to have it created. So, when Farnell lost interest in it, I was somewhat reticent to apportion blame to Altium. But in the case of CM Pro, that was wholly being pushed by Altium, so they are entirely to blame this time, no denying it. It's frankly stunningly poor business logic. I mean, if they played it right, and actually supported CS (CM Pro) properly, just a couple of updates a year, it really could boost future Altium sales. Instead, shoot self in foot. Crazy.

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 20, 2024, 08:49:07 pm
content: CMPro was quite a re-write over CircuitStudio........one wonders due to licensing/contracts that Altium weren't allow to just go it alone with the CircuitStudio codebase after the Element 14 thing all but ended.I remember being on the CMPro beta early days and wondering why they had re-done just about everything when all that was really required was to update CircuitStudio V1.5.........it could have been pretty good.Ian.
Circuitmaker Part swap need help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: HobbyGuy
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 30, 2022, 04:44:52 pm
content: I am trying to learnCircuitmaker 2.2.1. I have a project almost done that uses a lot of the same part. I now want to swap all of those parts Say a cap to a different type cap. It looks like there is a Pin/Part swap tool but I do not understand how to use it. Suggestions on how to do this in Circuitmaker if possible is what is desired.
negative mask bug - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 14, 2023, 11:00:50 pm
content: Been using circuit studio for about 5 years and I'm still finding bugs.Made footprints for small connectors with complex pad shapes. The copper was rectangular but the solder mask and paste mask needed complex shapes. To get rid of default rectangular solder and paste masks, I set expansion to -5mm (larger than the copper). Then I drew my own solder mask and paste mask with 'solid regions'.It looks good on every layer but the DRC (design rules check) gives hundreds of: silk to solder mask clearance failures. I changed clearance to 0.001mm and still had these failures. I changed expansion from -5mm to -0.8mm and that fixed about half the failures.I guess what is being displayed is properly handling the negative pads but DRC is using a different data set which allows expansion to extend past 0.Fortunately the gerbers match the data that is displayed not whatever data the DRC is using.
How to print/save a layout with visible grid? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: thilo
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 09, 2011, 01:59:57 pm
content: Hi,I'd like to print/save a layout with visible grid, because I'm soldering it onto a veroboard and seeing the holes (the grid dots) makes placement and wire routing much easier. But I cannot find such an option in Diptrace's print preview window. Is this even possible?Thanks,Thilo.

author: shebu18
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 21, 2011, 09:22:45 am
content: I think you can not do that. You could save the image as jpg, import it in a picture editing software and there tou can creat the grid and put the board over it.
Circuitmaker Pro video tutorials - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: VEGETA
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 19, 2021, 07:19:16 am
content: Hello,I found this thread:https://www.element14.com/community/thread/77885/l/circuitmaker-pro-tutorialswhich has this unlisted tutorials on youtube:this is a confirmation that Circuitmaker Pro existsanyone tried it in beta?regards

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 26, 2022, 06:24:09 pm
content: It appears that the name may be going back to CS, as in CircuitStudio 2.0.I think this makes sense as it does not associate CS with CM which was free/cloud/sharing and other bad words for the CAD world.This was found by an E14 member:https://resources.altium.com/p/new-version-cs-20

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 26, 2022, 11:04:10 pm
content: Hopefully there will be an upgrade path for those who bought a v1.x version and didn't renew the annual maintenance. Altium will need an olive branch/sweetener to bring people back.
Does CircuitMaker have private projects? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harjit
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2022, 05:32:15 pm
content: Is there a limit?Thanks.

author: Doctorandus_P
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2022, 08:09:56 pm
content: This is so atrociously written that it can only be done by an altium employee.[quote link=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CircuitMaker]Several initiatives such as EAGLE have attempted to fill this void, releasing restricted versions of semi-professional EDA tools. The rise of KiCad further fragmented the market. This pressure eventually provided the incentive for Altium to release a simplified and more user friendly version of their professional EDA software package and flagship product, Altium Designer, targeted at less complex circuit board projects.I'm a happy KiCad user myself for some 7 years and counting, and I value my freedom (for as far as that's possible in this constrained world), and that alone is enough reason for me to not use that mist based software that keeps your designs as a hostage on someone else's server. Who knows when they'll pull the plug out of that server, and poof, all your effort has evaporated.I've been thinking about deleting this post as I don't want to make a KiCad vs. circuitmaker rant but the "incentive for Altium" to "fragment the hobby & small company PCB design market even further", and present themselves as the savior of open source project is too mind mindbogglingly misleading to let it slip. There is no altruism in altium.Have you read this thread (Spoiler, there are not many happy people there):https://www.eevblog.com/forum/circuit-studio/circuit-studio-dead-(again!)/I am curious though why you're interested in circuitmaker, (Or more interested in circuitmaker then in KiCad).

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 11, 2022, 11:27:26 pm
content: QuoteI didn't read it that way. To me, it was saying Altium saw the writing on the wall with Kicad coming along nicely (for some!) and figured they had to provide a cheap way to entice future customers in.Perhaps I'm just not biased or sensitive enough to be triggeredSeriously, it didn't read as if Altium is the knight in shining armour. Rather, they've just realised the dog yapping at their heels is looking awfully like a bear now.
Is Offline Documentation for Circuit Studio possible? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: jamiechi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2021, 02:47:18 pm
content: Would prefer not having to go to a web site that is not secure.

author: Relaxe
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2021, 06:51:10 pm
content: About your design files:There is no "cloud" requirements for Circuit Studio. You can keep all local and private.Note that this is different for Circuit Maker.If you are talking about the software "help pages / manual" themselves, I have no idea.

author: Joel_l
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 10, 2021, 11:39:14 pm
content: I griped a lot about the lack of documentation for CS, went nowhere. The online docs are poor, the community help is very good. Generally could get answers to any questions I had. It helps, but it's not a replacement for a good PDF users manual.

author: johnboxall
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 13, 2021, 10:40:25 pm
content: Quote from: Joel_l on June 10, 2021, 11:39:14 pmYou and me both. I'm a bit old-fashioned and like to sit down with a book, or a least a sequential set of tutorials online and work through them. None of this hunting around the web for hazy or out-of-date answers from randoms instead of the company we just paid $1100+ to for their software.FFS the Diptrace pdf manual is light years ahead.
Export NETLIST from CircuitMaker Schematic? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: slow_rider
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2021, 08:47:55 am
content: I need to generate a NETLIST from a schematic file in CM. Currently I have a schematic with all custom parts which do not have layout only schematic symbols. Is this possible or do I have to add FP to all of them in order to do that?
Designators on wrong layer after import changes to PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 05, 2021, 09:27:51 pm
content: Hi everyone, CS just gave me yet another surprise. I add components to schematic and import changes to PCB. The components all get added to the PCB on the top layer as expected but the designators are all on bottom silk and mirrored!?I try to click and drag to select them to no avail. I could filter for text on bottom layer and select them all with ctrl-A but then I also select all my other designators that I don't want to change. So I hold shift and click every new designator and then use object inspector to change them.Not sure if this has anything to do with it but I use the .Designator special string on footprints in PCB library for assembly text top and that seems like it still works.Anyone know why this happens or how to fix it?While we are at it, anyone know how to set default height and width for designators?

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 06, 2021, 09:54:08 am
content: Quote from: Kasper on May 05, 2021, 09:27:51 pmhttps://www.element14.com/community/thread/76670/l/can-i-specify-the-default-designator-text-size-for-the-footprint

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: May 06, 2021, 07:30:48 pm
content: Quote from: voltsandjolts on May 06, 2021, 09:54:08 amQuoteThat did it! Thank you! Changed text height and width following this comment and fixed the layer problem in the same line.To get designators on the correct layer (top overlay), I went to line 9 and changed this:FLIPPED=TRUE|FLIPPINGCHANGED=TRUEto this:FLIPPED=FALSE|FLIPPINGCHANGED=FALSEI started by changing LAYER=BOTTOM to LAYER=TOP but that didn't seem to do anything, though I did keep that change when I made the other changes so maybe it was part of the solution.
Upgrade from 1.2 -> 1.5 ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: onesixright
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2021, 10:56:34 am
content: Hi All,I dusted off my 1.2 version. Seems to work.Latest version is 1.5.x, anyone knows is it possible to just do a 1 yr. renew and update from 1.2 -> 1.5 ?And more importantly, is it worth it? Probably differs per person, me just doing very simple and small boards ...Many thanks!

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2021, 04:06:03 pm
content: Don't bother.New rebranded version is on its way, in beta testing now apparently....hmmm, and has been for at least 6 months.Wait and see what that brings.

author: onesixright
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 13, 2021, 05:43:06 pm
content: Quote from: voltsandjolts on February 13, 2021, 04:06:03 pmThanks. After the 1st year of hardly updates I already put it in the freezer. Any news on the new (beta)version, upgrade wise?

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 13, 2021, 09:34:31 pm
content: I think there are a few beta testers lurking here and the E14 forum but they are under NDA, so dunno what its like.

author: trevwhite
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 16, 2021, 09:02:57 am
content: I think there is better support for eagle import in the latest version. I think its fine to do a renew and it will upgrade you to the latest version.

author: plazma
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2021, 02:44:41 pm
content: I will wait for Circuit Maker Pro. Lets see if it's worth paying annual fee and update.

author: iainwhite
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 07, 2021, 03:49:40 pm
content: I'm on V 1.4.1 and I let my subscription expire in Mar 2018. Last update seems to have been 1.5.2 in Feb 2019 - so over 2 years with no updates.I'm another member of the 'wait & see' club.
Bus problems and duplicate net names caused by leading zeroes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: February 02, 2021, 04:22:16 am
content: Just about ready to tear my eyes out after over two days of being unable to product a simple three sheet test schematic with buses that span the 3 pages.Failing miserably, changed from a flat to a hierarchical design to no avail. Duplicate net names everywhere.Tonight, finally discovered that the problem in all cases came from my habit of using 00..07 vs 0..7. Just a habit from working with wider buses (and Cadence). CS ignored my leading zero in the bus range BUT my net names, I'm assuming, all looked like a zero index at compile time (i.e. ADDR00 == ADDR0, ADDR07 also == ADDR0).added: until I discovered the leading zero problem, NO connections were made between associated partsJust an FYI for those with newbie (to buses) problems.
Video - Circuitstudio panel layout - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 27, 2017, 11:08:27 pm
content: Dealing with laying out panels in Circuitstudio.https://youtu.be/lXM_3_9vTBI

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 28, 2017, 09:46:49 am
content: Thanks for another useful video Harvs.I have attached a CS PCB doc with an embedded board array.

author: trevwhite
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2017, 10:09:03 am
content: Thanks, both. The videos are great and appreciate the file being attached.

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 28, 2017, 10:27:17 am
content: Quote from: voltsandjolts on March 28, 2017, 09:46:49 amThanks for that, I did mean to post that here but I forgot...

author: veenie
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 18, 2017, 09:07:56 pm
content: seems the latest update has wrecked this optionWorked fine an couple of weeks ago but doesn't seem to work anymore.File won't be opend by circuitstudio 1.4 build 84

author: Harvs
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2017, 11:38:20 pm
content: Quote from: veenie on June 18, 2017, 09:07:56 pmTry the attached, this works fine for me in that build...

author: JamesH-AltiumOfficial
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 20, 2017, 12:46:05 pm
content: Hi veenie,I can't think of any changes in 1.4 that would change that functionality.Best regards,James HarrimanAltium

author: GlowingGhoul
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 21, 2017, 03:08:36 pm
content: Quote from: veenie on June 18, 2017, 09:07:56 pmNo problem here either.

author: Alexandre1978
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 27, 2017, 02:31:57 pm
content: Hi and thanks for sharing !I have tried it, and tought to create gerbers from this panel.But, I'm surprised that there are only PCB's with components, and NO tracks, neither top nor bottom.Also in video, it seems to me there are no visible tracks.Should'nt there be tracks?Thanks in advance,Alexandre

author: Alexandre1978
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: November 27, 2017, 03:12:05 pm
content: Sorry, my failure. Seems to work fine !

author: satoshi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 25, 2023, 01:47:06 am
content: Very helpful. Don't forget to sync the layer stack up by saving the one from the original board and loading it into the panel.
Vault and CS need some developer assistance - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2021, 12:41:46 am
content: I'm very happy because I just got my infinite license for CS.The purchase was based on the capabilities of the package but there are some issues which Altium developers can and should fix.I noticed that a gentleman from Altium has stopped by here a few times so I'm hoping this message gets some mileage.Processes within Altium which are going to take a long time, or perhaps freeze, either need to be in separate threads with signals out as to thread status, or they need to have a cancel flag which is always polled, even when the process is stuck.The Vault seems to be about the worst at this. I've waited a long time and the Vault never returns after clicking on a single folder, like Si Time for instance. The "Retrieving Items" never ends. We need to be able to break out of this.It is not acceptable in 2021 to have to terminate the entire application because a process can get jammed up.I'm looking forward to CircuitMaker Pro, hopefully on my first year of maintenance. I realize that there's a wide gap between $495 and $7500 (or whatever a current AD seat is going for). But the difference cannot be having to terminate the program vs smooth recovery.Having used AD for several years before this, I know it's not perfect either. Altium needs to focus on improving behavior, and less on more and more new features (in AD's case).Thank you Altium, though, for landing on a decent price point for those of use who need EDA "after hours".

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 29, 2021, 01:19:33 am
content: The plot thickens a bit.When the Vault is off searching and is frozen on my Windows 10 Pro system, there is no way out.When the Vault is off searching (same search) on my Windows 7 Pro system, if you hover over the "structure" tab, the text becomes underlined and clicking on that tab will regain attention from the search.Just an FYI for Altium.
Does CS auto placer work? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: EE-digger
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 17, 2021, 07:58:28 pm
content: I've been evaluating CS for a few weeks for hobby and some small contract projects. I've used AD for a few years prior to this and Allegro for many years prior. I'm impressed with what CS brings to the table at its price point.The "hidden" features in CS, accessed from the upper right search box, show an "auto placer" but it seems to be non functional.Has anyone tried to utilize it?
Collision on component bounding box - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: daqq
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2020, 11:33:14 am
content: Hi guys,I created two simple components - PCB holes. Now when I place them, they give off a Collision error as shown on the pictures. The components do not intersect in any way aside from their automatically generated rectangular bounding box. Is there any way to specify the boundaries as non-rectangular?Thanks,David

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2020, 11:59:22 am
content: In Altium, if you dont add a 3D object to a footprint, it generates the outer bounding box as the size of the component.There are multiple solutions for this:You can set the item on the schematic as BOM, MechanicalEdit the footprint properties to be Mechanical (probably the most proper way)Add a small 3D object or the screw to the footprintAdd an exception to the ruleI dont know which one could work in CS

author: daqq
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 27, 2020, 12:48:45 pm
content: Awesome, thanks! Works like a charm, I just added a small barely visible cylinder into the middle of the hole.
Current limiter - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Myeevblogacc
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 21, 2020, 04:02:54 am
content: Hello everyone,I’m interested in building a current limiter circuit to use with a 12 volt battery to power on car amplifier at low current.Can anyone help me with an idea?Thanks in advance

author: langwadt
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2020, 04:17:56 am
content: Quote from: Myeevblogacc on December 21, 2020, 04:02:54 amwhy do you need a current limiter?

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2020, 04:24:35 am
content: Quote from: Myeevblogacc on December 21, 2020, 04:02:54 amFirst figure out exactly what you want it to do. Do you want it to do nothing until the current reaches 'X' amps and then a) shut off b) fold-back the current to a lower level or c) let exactly 'X' current through ?? Or some other mode of operation?

author: S. Petrukhin
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 21, 2020, 10:47:09 am
content: Maybe this Is what you need:

author: Myeevblogacc
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: December 22, 2020, 04:15:34 am
content: Hello, and thank you for the quick response.When repairing an car amplifier, sometimes is needed to regulate the current to reduce the riskOf generating more problems.I have a 12 volts 20 amps power supply which current can be adjusted from 3-20 amps.What I will like is to find the way to regulate the current of a 12 volts battery the same way I do with my 20 ampsPower supply.Thank you

author: bdunham7
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 22, 2020, 05:04:51 am
content: The simplest way is with PTC resettable fuses.https://www.mouser.com/datasheet/2/643/ds-cp-0zrs-series-1664088.pdf
Interactive routing visibility problems - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: pisoiu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2020, 02:57:29 pm
content: I am sorry if this has been discussed here before, I was not able to find it.While I am doing interactive routing I have some visibility problems. When I choose a net to work on, all other nets/vias disappears from my view, I cannot see them. I can only guess where they are after the shadows they make over the grids. It is very difficult to work this way.I spent a fair amount of time looking for a solution in settings but no luck so far. How can I change this? In CS tutorials I saw that the other nets/vias/tracks only dim their color, but they do not disappear completely like in my case. I attached 2 pictures, one with normal view, other with interactive routing started.

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: December 15, 2020, 03:49:38 pm
content: Go to VIEW tab (on PCB) and at the right hand side of the ribbon set the DIM level slider. You probably have it quite low.Ian.

author: pisoiu
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: December 15, 2020, 09:00:35 pm
content: Thanks very much, it worked.
Update PCB, designator on opposite side. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: negativ3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 11, 2020, 04:09:16 am
content: I must have ticked the wrong box somewhere,but when I update PCB from the schematic (Project > Update PCB document) all the designators for parts are placed on the opposite side from the component footprint.This happens with standard library parts as well as custom parts I have made.Yes, I can edit them all and correct this behavior manually following the update, but it's not optimal.Any ideas for me to get the behavior back to normal i.e. part footprint and designator on the same side of the board?Many thanks
Exporting a DXF/DWG of the PCB? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: stumpja
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 01, 2020, 02:58:24 pm
content: Hi guys,I recently started using Circuit Studio. I have completed 2 projects at this point, and I'm getting the hang out it, but I still have a lot to learn about the software. My background is working with Mentor PADS Pro, so this is a big change.I have a question about exporting PCB files. I can do gerbers, and even export a nice STEP file for mechanical review, but I would like to be able to export a DXF or a DWG file for part placement review. My typcial workflow is to export a DXF to send to an ME to review board outline, and part placement. The dxf includes assembly outline information, and more importantly through hole pad placement, so my ME can not only verify the part location, but also the footprint.Maybe there are better ways to do this, of which, I'm open to hearing about, but my ME has requested either a DXF or DWG of the PCB layout, so if there is a way to do this natively within Circuit Studio, that would be awesome. I have yet to figure it out.Any suggestions?Thanks!

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: September 01, 2020, 07:29:04 pm
content: Hi,If I want a DWG of my CircuitStudio board layout I've done the following in the past:-On board layout, OUTPUTS tab then ASSEMBLY DRAWINGS.........and print to PDF. Then extract the sheet required to a single page PDF.Then, convert the PDF to DWG viahttps://www.zamzar.com/convert/pdf-to-dwg/(or any other PDF to DWG conversion website).Ian.

author: stumpja
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 04, 2020, 11:31:33 am
content: HeyIanJThanks for the tip. I havn't tried it yet, but I'm going to soon. I will make sure to update results.Thanks again!
Rotate schematic symbol 45 degrees - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: negativ3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 11:15:45 am
content: Hi all, this is for a decent looking diode bridge. Any hints appreciated, or do I attempt to draw it up myself?

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 12:20:28 pm
content: Hah, in 3 years of using CS I never realised you could only rotate in 90 degree increments in schematic!I suppose it makes sense, otherwise you could get in a pickle quite easily, with pin connections not lining up on the schematic 10x10 grid.

author: negativ3
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 12:37:55 pm
content: Yea, sod it, it's easier just to make one as a symbol and lay it out incorporating all four diodes in the pcb as well.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 17, 2020, 01:02:54 pm
content: How's this?Tim
DXF Import Fail - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 07:29:22 pm
content: Having problems importing a dxf file from a 3rd party, lets call it 3rd.dxf. When I import 3rd.dxf to circuit studio, it gives me some extra low res bs with no curves.3rd.dxf:Size: 193 KBRough dimensions: 30mm x 40mmShape: roughly an oval but more complex.Circuit studio: no curves, looks like a pentagon.Random online dxf viewer: looks good but very skinny lines, hard to see.FreeCAD: not visible, shape not listed in model tree, doesn't seem to be loaded.I drew my own similar version in FreeCAD called mine.dxfmine.dxf:Size: 5 KBRough dimensions: 30mm x 40mmShape: similar to 3rd.dxf but using simple shapes.Circuit studio: looks goodFreeCAD: looks good and shape is listed in model tree as expectedI tried uninstall/reinstall TeighaX and it didn't make a difference. Any one have any ideas why mine.dxf works but 3rd.dxf doesn't? The fact FreeCAD can't load it either makes me think it's not just a circuit studio bug. 3rd.dxf is a much bigger file than mine.dxf. Could that be the problem?Funny part is I have gerbers too but cs doesn't make it easy to import them like KiCAD and other free EDA do.

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 08:36:49 pm
content: hm... import 3rd.dxf to easyEDA and get both the oval and the pentagon. Should be able to work with that, assuming I can get it from easyEDA to cs.

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2020, 09:32:43 pm
content: Kind of a pain but this solved it:import dxf to easyEDAcleanup dxf in easyEDA (delete pentagon lines)export new dxf from easyEDAimport new dxf to circuit studioIn summary, use free software to solve problem that cs couldn't solve.

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: June 02, 2020, 09:02:02 pm
content: I often import DXF outlines from SolidEdge2d, works like a charm.Perhaps you had a malformed DXF which easyEDA happened to cope with.We can only guess.

author: Kasper
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 03, 2020, 05:37:40 am
content: There seemed to be something funny with it, FreeCAD couldn't open it either.
Net Blankets for CircuitStudio - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: April 27, 2020, 08:10:36 pm
content: Net Blankets make it easy to apply directives to a group of nets, without having to place a directive on each net.CircuitStudio doesn't have the tool to place net blankets but you can copy one from the attached SchDoc file and it will work fine.Although this is a small feature, I find it useful and it's more than e14/Altium have given us this past year.(That said, please keep this thread related to net blankets, rather than CS bashing!)https://www.altium.com/documentation/altium-designer/sch-obj-blanketblanket-ad
Basic question: how to modify multiple pads at the same time - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: JoseR
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 25, 2020, 10:45:35 am
content: Hello,It's a basic question, but I don't find the way to do that.If I'm making a custom footprint, how can I modify multiple footprints at the same time? (For example, for changing the x or y size)If I select one pad, it's called Free-1, and if I select the other pad, I see it's called Free-2, and I can modify each of them independently.Is there a way to asign "Free-1" for both pads or to edit both "Free-1" and "Free-2" at the same time?

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 25, 2020, 01:17:48 pm
content: Select all pads then use the inspector panel to change attributes.http://documentation.circuitstudio.com/display/CSTU/PCB_Pnl-PCBInspector((PCB+Inspector))_CS

author: JoseR
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 25, 2020, 01:27:13 pm
content: Thank you! I found it on View - PCB Library - Object Inspector.
In need of a very very simple Circuit Studio Board - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: pointhi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 12, 2020, 10:12:05 am
content: Hi,For file reversing purpose I need a sample *.CSPcbDoc file which contains aDimensionobject.As said in the title, my request should be very simpleRegards, pointhi

author: Relaxe
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 01:43:58 pm
content: Here you go!Good luck

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 02:18:37 pm
content: AFAIK Altium Designer and CS both use the Microsoft Compound File Binary (CFB) file format.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compound_File_Binary_FormatHowever, the CS file format uses obfuscated stream names to scupper easy file sharing between Designer and CS.

author: pointhi
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: March 20, 2020, 03:19:13 pm
content: Thanks @Relaxe, but I got my answere already.@voltsandjolts: You seem to be knowledgable about the internas of the Altium file format. The reason of my question was exactly to map the stream names between different altium products. If you can enlighten me about some altium file internals, I will listen patiently. Especially about how polygon fills are handled.You can find my current work here:https://gitlab.com/kicad/code/kicad/-/merge_requests/60I also created a table which contains a mapping of all known stream names:https://gitlab.com/pointhi/kicad/-/wikis/Differences-between-different-Altium-File-FormatsRegards,pointhi
Production assembly BOM - Need a better way - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 01:24:15 pm
content: Hi all,Been using CS since the beta days....love it (came from Eagle 6.3).I assemble a good few boards at a time and by hand, over a hundred components on each typically. Currently I keep my BOM in Excel as I never really used the built in CS BOM management (all values are set on the SCH though).So, when it comes to assembling my boards I usually print of part of my Excel BOM (sample below) and run down it that way.....but it's cumbersome. What I would really like is a way of having my desk-mounted iPad or perhaps a 3rd PC monitor to have the layout of the board and I just select a component value and all same components are highlighed and I can just follow the layout. Could be say 1off resistor, but may be 7off like the SS16R2 diode on the list below.Any ideas?........I don't think there's anything that can help me within CS or am I missing something?PS. I never really used the Eagle BOM management and when I picked up CS I just ran the same way.Ian.

author: Selectech
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 01:29:12 pm
content: I've used this to help with manual assembly.https://www.compuphase.com/visualplace/visualplace_en.htm

author: IanJ
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 02:27:07 pm
content: Quote from: Selectech on February 23, 2020, 01:29:12 pmThanks, this program looks to be exactly what I am looking for......Just tried it with CS gerber output (I added about everything) and the program reports "Failed to load pcb images" and then "unknown file format for component placement".Lack of .GBR layer I think....?Ian.

author: PlainName
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 07:01:45 pm
content: There is another similar, previously posted about in a topic near this one:SMT Assistant

author: MitjaN
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: February 23, 2020, 07:30:35 pm
content: This most likely way too exotic, but it is an avenue:1. Import the project into KiCad via development builds that have Altium Board import compiled in (https://forum.kicad.info/t/work-in-progress-native-altium-importer/20712/37)2. generate interactive html made for exactly this purpose. (https://github.com/openscopeproject/InteractiveHtmlBom)
Custom footprint pad shapes - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DMKitsch
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 03, 2022, 10:55:44 pm
content: Hi,I'm trying to make a footprint that incorporates a custom shaped pad. I've drawn out the custom shape as a polygon fill, then applied a tiny pad on top of it to act as a single copper region. However, instead it just creates a DRC error due to the no net being shorted to the pad. Any ideas on how I might solve this? Selecting the polygon and trying to select a net just comes up with a blank boxBest regards,Dave

author: voltsandjolts
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: March 04, 2022, 01:13:07 pm
content: Try"Update Free Primitives From Component Pads"

author: DMKitsch
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: March 06, 2022, 01:41:43 pm
content: Thanks for this, it seems to have worked. Any chance you could explain what it does in a bit more detail? Does this just modify the track name to a pad that touches it? It sounds potentially destructive?