hybridfree/eevblog-posts huggingface dataset:
Convert Mentor PADS .sch & .pcb files to Altium without owning a license - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: soFPG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: November 27, 2019, 10:33:00 pm
content: I have a schematic (.sch) and a PCB file (.pcb) - both for Mentor PADS.I am using Altium Designer and I am not owning a PADS license. I have downloaded both the Schematic and PCB viewer from Mentor but there don't seem to be an export option.What I found out so far is, that Altium is only able to import ASCII based files - but I don't have them!Is there a way to get these files into Altium without buying PADS?Best regards

author: ZaphodBeeblebrox
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2019, 05:36:39 pm
content: There is a huge difference between "PADS" and "PADS Pro". The latter is a stripped down version of Expedition / xDx Designer / xPCB Layout / Whatever funky term the Mentor/Siemens marketing department thinks up tomorrow.Altium designer has an import wizard. Try using various options that contain the term "PADS", "DX Designer", "Expedition", "Mentor" and "Viewdraw" until you find the one that imports for you.Warning: have aspirins or stronger painkiller nearby.

author: ZaphodBeeblebrox
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2019, 05:38:08 pm
content: Oh, and another small thing: PADS does not have any form of export functionality to other CAD systems to my knowledge (correct me if I'm wrong).

author: HighVoltage
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 01, 2019, 06:19:54 pm
content: PADS is even more tricky, it is not backwards compatible.Your best bet would be to find someone that has PADS installed and have themsave it for you to ASCII or even better to export to a few other formats that you mightimport easier.

author: soFPG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2019, 10:17:38 am
content: Thanks for the help guys!I tried various things and just couldn't get it to work. So I decided that I can look at the layout in the PADS Viewer (which is free to download) if I need to but I am probably unable to import it into Altium.

author: dzseki
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2019, 10:22:24 am
content: The other question is what to expect from the import?Because it may result you in a "drawing" that is visually correct and perhaps be able to process it to a somewhat decent documentation. But even if you'd only want to change one resistor the thing will fall apart badly.

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 02, 2019, 12:23:46 pm
content: I had trouble with OrCAD, wrote to Altium support, and they sent me a .bat file to convert it to something that Altium can read. I would try contacting them, they could have some tools that are only there if you request it.
LTspiceXVII.ini confusion - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: iMo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2018, 11:52:10 am
content: With my latest LTspice XVII upgrade (reinstall) the LTspice stops writing the .ini settings into the LTspicexvii.ini file.Previously it was located inC:\Users\user\AppData\Roaming\LTspiceXVII.iniNow I've found it in C:\Windows with limited access rights to the User, however.After enabling the access rights, it started working again..Is it a bug, a feature, or have I messed something with my installation?Win7 64bit here.

author: SiliconWizard
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2018, 05:22:25 pm
content: Still at the same location on my Win7/64 box (and last modification date is today, so I can see that it's the one being used), I update LTSpice from within the app on a regular basis, but haven't done a reinstall in a while. That may be a bug with the installer.Have you tried manually moving this .ini file back to the usual location ( C:\Users\user\AppData\Roaming\ ) ?

author: iMo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: December 24, 2018, 07:35:58 pm
content: When I move the .ini from C:/Windows/ to the ../Roaming/, it does not use it upon start or exit (ie. the list of recent files in the File menu is empty)..

author: Tom.VanHeuklon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: June 07, 2019, 07:11:02 pm
content: I just got a new Windows 10 machine and have the same problem. My machine did not have an LTspiceXVII.ini file until I copied one from my old machine. I put it at %APPDATA%, but that did not work. I did find a file suspiciously named XVII.ini in the C:\Windows directory, but oddly, that was 0 bytes. I tried changing a configuration that would historically be stored in LTspiceXVII.ini and then searched on *.ini modified today, and could not find anything. Seems like configuration may be stored differently on Windows 10?

author: Tom.VanHeuklon
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: August 01, 2019, 02:10:11 pm
content: I took another look at this, and found the LTSpiceXVII.ini at %APPDATA% on my Windows 10 machine. I don't know what my prior problem was, but suspect it may have been some sort of file permissions issues.

author: iMo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 10:42:35 am
content: Based on a discussion on EZ ADI the issue is related to the way how you install the LTspice in Win7.They say it "should be installed under the user-login".Then you will get the .ini into the location as indicated in my first post.
LTspice Group on Yahoo - ends on 14th December 2019 - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: iMo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 06:37:38 pm
content: FYIQuoteNew group is thehttps://groups.io/g/LTspice, they try to copy the content from yahoo to that new site currently.Cross our fingers!
new version of Cadstar - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Eternauta
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2019, 08:31:53 am
content: Zuken is publicizing a new version of its cad.Cadstar has become "ecadstar".It seems that the biggest news is the integration with online pcb library suppliers.Other technical features and the sales chain remained the traditional ones (local resellers).I don't think there are any other big news

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 22, 2019, 10:37:05 am
content: Quote from: Eternauta on August 22, 2019, 08:31:53 amThe biggest news would have been that they had reduced the price by 75%.It is sooooooo expensive compared to its competitors ........................

author: Eternauta
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 03:42:12 pm
content: "With modular bundles and flexible authorization, eCADSTAR is always the right fit for your needs. eCADSTAR promotional pricing starts at under 2000 GBP / 2200 EUR / 2500 USD"The entry-level bundle is the BASE package which has all the flow from schematic to pcb, without pin limits, but no high-speed option.For price and functionality is more or less equivalent to Orcad PCB Standard

author: Mattylad
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 25, 2019, 10:33:51 pm
content: HA! This is Zukens new software that was supposed to be introduced a few years ago is it?Hey -its supposed to be 64 bit which not many are.I really don't want to soil my PC with it but I guess Ill give it a go if it ever surfaces on the web.
Suggestions for my backdriveable dual DC motor schematic/PCB - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AClockworkOran
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: October 08, 2019, 03:53:33 pm
content: Hi allFor a project I am assisting in I am working on a DC motor controller. The primary function of this board is to power motors at up to 10A at 24V while also allowing them to be backdrivable. A couple other features included are bi-directionial current sensing and a DC converter to power the control board that slots ontop.My first design was one of the first PCBs I have ever designed and had a number of issues which I hope to have resolved. The most embarrassing of which is the inclusion of a relay that I realised would be best if I left perminatly powered on.The main issues I hope I have fixed in the second design are:A3941 H-Bridge drivers frying, I think this was due to the lack of capacitance across the H-Bridges and lack of a "dirty" and "clean" groundplane sections I also added additional recurculation diodes as recommended to my by one of my university professors.The output from the current sensors was incredibly noisy (unusable levels). I have fixed this by including beads and capacitors on the incoming signal, using a proper voltage reference and including an ADC on the board as opposed to routing the output signals elsewhere. Would this be enough? I would like it to be clean enough to be used as a reference for current based control in the future.Here is the old circuit:https://imgur.com/a/8hdoJK4Here is my new design:https://imgur.com/a/HiuTpUnI would really appreciate any feedback or suggestions on my new design, I'm proud of how much better it seems from the previous version but I don't want to have to make a revision 3.

author: teksturi
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: October 13, 2019, 10:10:20 am
content: You seem to have many decoupling caps. In schematic but decoupling caps close to pins where your going to but them in your layout. That way you don't over do them.In your new design many lines are way too smalls. Thous are even hard to see. Some off your lines go through mounting holes.I like your first layout way more. It looks more that can even work.
Simulating a 3 phase motor controller design - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: c10yas
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 10:37:35 pm
content: To preface this, this is my first post on the forum and I'm not familiar with all the posting rules. I apologize in advance for any transgressions and welcome feedback.I have been trying to simulate a 60V 95A wide-bandgap 3phase motor controller using the EPC2053 GaNFET using LTSpice. However, I am having issues with reconciling the theoretical numbers and the simulation outputs. I'm using 4x paralleled FETs on each leg of each half-bridge.To simulate switching losses, I'm using a double pulse test as described here -https://gansystems.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/GN008-GaN_Switching_Loss_Simulation_LTspice_20180523.pdf. I used this to understand the dependence of switching losses on gate current since a paper from TI (http://www.ti.com/lit/an/slyt664/slyt664.pdf) explained the relationship as linear which it clearly wasn't from simple observations. I have attached the graph I got at 80V and 24A.The losses naturally aren't linear since gate inductance and capacitor charging curves prevent the gate from charging at maximum current the entire time. Notice that the switch-off losses barely reduce, since the majority of the losses come from the Coss charging. 1/2CV^2 gives me an approximate value of 2uJ stored in the Coss cap which lines up with the values calculated. To get realistic switching losses since that is the loss at 80V and 24A, I assumed a linear relationship between Idrain and the losses, therefore, the losses are scaled by 2/pi.For conduction losses, I take the RMS current of a sine wave peaking at 24A and get 17A as the RMS current through the FET. This current at any point in time is flowing through either the top or bottom fet, resulting in a total conduction loss in the bridge of I^2*R = 1W.I wanted to know if the methods I am using to calculate the losses are accurate and if there is any better way of verifying my calculations. I have attempted to create a single-phase inverter that charges an inductor with a sine-shaped current waveform, peaking at 24A at 1ms (250Hz wave). I am still working out the kinks with this but am not sure if this is a good way of doing it, below is an example of a waveform that I get -Here is the circuit I usedThis simulation does not account for Back EMF from the inductor, or that when the sync phase of the lower mosfet is active, the inductor current is reducing in an actual inverter. However, I wasn't sure how to simulate these, and whether they affect the losses in the FETs in a significant mannerI also have another question, as if this post wasn't long enough. How do I calculate the parasitic inductances in the PCB layout? I was using this document(https://www.researchgate.net/publication/324511689_Calculation_of_PCB_Power_Loop_Stray_Inductance_in_GaN_or_High_didt_Applications) to give me an approximate idea of how to calculate it, but if my layout involves visa cutting through the planes and other such stuff, how do I account for these? Do I need to?
Altium / Gerber directly to STL - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: sixtimesseven
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 24, 2019, 09:12:19 am
content: I'm looking into using my MSLA printer (Elegoo Mars) as a PCB exposing tool.Unfortunatly, the printer uses a custom file format...There is a somewhat bothersome way to convert via gerber_to_scad and then scad to stl via the openScad stl export function, but I was wondering if there is a more direct method of exporting STL files of the top layer directly from gerber / altium?
Help with PoE controller buck topology - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Cordoba_AKS
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 10:24:06 am
content: Hello everybodyI´m triying to make my project PoE

author: up8051
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 10:36:35 am
content: And ?

author: Cordoba_AKS
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: September 21, 2019, 12:52:18 pm
content: Sorry for thatI´m triying to make my project PoE powered with the SI3402B. I looked for schematics and i got one from an evaluation board.When designing the PCB, should i place components on the output power traces in a linear order?Can i just create a plane and attach all the components to it?I mean in the picture attached there´s Vpos rail that ends in 5v. There aren´t any components in series on this rail. Can i connect every component to a VPos plane?On the negative rail there are components in series so i must place some components like D1 before L1 and so on.
Protel 99SE - autoroute all except GND net? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:01:30 am
content: I want to autoroute an entire board except the ground net, then pour a ground polygon. I can't seem to find a way to exclude the ground net from the autorouter. Any ideas?

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:06:44 am
content: Route just the ground net leaving appropriate spacings to then Autoroute all the other nets.Then do your polygon ground pour.

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:14:49 am
content: That kinda worked, but when I autorouted the other nets it disturbed the positions of the ground tracks. What I want to do is give the other tracks the greatest freedom of placement without any ground tracks present.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:24:58 am
content: Been a while since I’ve used 99SE but can’t you lock a net once routed ?Lock Primatives ?Or turn OFF Shove ?

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:25:59 am
content: I found a way that partially works. Pour the ground polygon first, then autoroute the other stuff. Then regenerate the polygon. For the most part it sees the ground points are all connected to the polygon so it leaves them alone, but in a number of places it still puts tracks from one ground pad to another despite these pads beeing connected to the polygon.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:29:56 am
content: Tweaking the layout should fix that.

author: Circlotron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:32:19 am
content: ^^ Those unnecessary tracks were bottom side tracks. The topside ones I couldn't see because of the topside polygon. So the basic problem still exists - the ground tracks running all over the place take up lots of space when they don't need to be there, and make the signal routes messy for no good reason.

author: tautech
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 23, 2019, 07:40:31 am
content: You should be able to turn OFF layers so to better see what’s going on.IIRC for my first board with a pour I’d routed the ground then poured over it.
Simetrix SPICE software recommendation - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 19, 2019, 05:43:52 pm
content: Hello guys,I want to drop a product recommendation for SimetrixI have been using this Pspice tool for two years now. I found it much easier to use then LTSpice and similar software. In particular for the following reason:* the included library is very good, I actually never had to import any components* The graphs are nice, although not very intuitive* The Montecarlo analysis is easy to use (it's needed to calculate the effect of component tolerances)* the included probes are very easy to set up, for example the pre set-up bode plot with phase and gain margin calculation* Never had weird errors, those that came up were easy to debug* No writing spice commands (although you can if you want)In theory, it integrates with Altium, but I have not yet tried

author: Zucca
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 20, 2019, 10:38:51 am
content: LTspice is free as I know, how much is this one?

author: ddavidebor
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 20, 2019, 01:49:30 pm
content: Basic version is free, with size limitations, the classic is around 1000something usd if I remember correctlyThe other versions I imagine are probably really expensive
100w RGB LED CC driver design help - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Eth7an
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2019, 11:53:15 am
content: Hey, I'm looking to use an arduino to control a 100w rgb led, each channel 3.5a. I know I have to drive it with constant current, but I also want to use pwm and have full control over the lights via a digital pin from the arduino.Does anyone know an IC or something I can use to CC 3.5amps at 36v with a control input? Something power efficient as I plan on connecting a bunch of these and don't want big losses.Thanks a lot,Ethan White

author: bogdan2014
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2019, 01:03:10 pm
content: If you use arduino, have you thought about implementing pwm, drive a mosfet and have some sort of current sensing circuit?Sent from my POCO F1 using Tapatalk

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2019, 01:18:46 pm
content: Found this:https://www.tindie.com/products/robg/pixelflood-100w-rgb-led-ws2811-mega-pixel/Some TI solutions:http://www.ti.com/power-management/led-drivers/products.html?pqs=paqs&familyid=480#p2823=3000;5000

author: ledtester
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2019, 01:47:50 pm
content: Some more ideas:https://www.amazon.com/Channel-Controller-Decoder-Dimmer-DC5V-24V/dp/B072JSMSVChttps://www.aliexpress.com/item/32756497514.html

author: Eth7an
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 25, 2019, 02:34:00 pm
content: Thanks for all the help. I'm looking to design a PCB for it. I just have no idea how to make a circuit that works for this cause. Basically which chip can I use to make a 3.5a CC PWM driver from scratch? Do you guys think this would work?https://www.ti.com/store/ti/en/p/product/?p=TPS92692QPWPRQ1I think it looks about right, but I really am not sure.
Unexpected output from Altium Footprint - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: TeddyPython
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2019, 12:49:46 am
content: I'm trying to generate a footprint for a EP4CE10 FPGA, however i can only find the package dimensions not any recommended footprint. Thereforr Ive tried using the IPC footprint wizard in Altium, but I think somewhere I have stoofed up the dimensions. Ive tried looking at this for a while, but cant see where I might be wrong... Any advice would be appreciated. I used the PQFP wizard as there was no EQFP option - is that the problem maybe?The data sheet is here:https://www.intel.com/content/dam/altera-www/global/en_US/pdfs/literature/packaging/04R00402-01.pdfWhilst Ive attached what I see on Altium...

author: Psi
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 12, 2019, 01:53:48 am
content: hm.. I cant see anything wrong with your numbers.But i've never used the wizard before myself.However, you will have to edit it anyway as EP4CE10 has a ground pad in the center and i don't think the wizard has options for that.

author: TeddyPython
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 13, 2019, 06:30:19 pm
content: Thanks for your help. I ended up just making it from scratch.

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 15, 2019, 08:35:35 am
content: Quote from: Psi on August 12, 2019, 01:53:48 amyes it does
Need help to find 4 layer short - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Radiosonde
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 11:27:12 am
content: HelloAfter I received my first 4 layer PCB from JLC I realised that I have a short between GND and PWR (5V) Layer...my stackup is:Signal (RF)GNDPWR (5V)SignalI allready tried to drill out vias, but I didnt show any effect, I am also running 5A trough the board since 10min, also no effect.It would be nice if someone could take a quick look at my gerbers.Best Regards

author: ludzinc
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 11:36:07 am
content: Tried running a DRC on your design?

author: Radiosonde
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 11:39:52 am
content: HiYes, indeed, on both schematic and pcbBut it doesnt show anytrhing usefull, only stuff like, to near where there is clearly enough space.Regards

author: tszaboo
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 11:56:20 am
content: You have some weird artefacts on your GND plane.Looks like your inner annular rings have some things going on. Look at those ones which are between the SMA connector, little bit to the left.

author: Radiosonde
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 01:01:27 pm
content: Ok, because the 5V plane is only connected with 39 pins i cut all the traces from the plane (vias) to the ICs, the short is still here, so what does this mean?There must be a short directly between planes?Regards

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 08, 2019, 12:35:07 pm
content: Quote from: Radiosonde on August 07, 2019, 11:39:52 amIf there are DRC errors then you have to solve these. Sending a board out which has DRC errors is asking from problems. Did you check the Gerbers using a gerber viewer?You may be able to find the short using a thermal camera or multimeter (measuring the voltage between gnd and 5V) while running current through the board but it might be hard when solid planes are involved.
Microcap 12 is free - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: spudboy488
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2019, 12:00:54 pm
content: From another forum (user janoc) so I don't want to take credit but it is a really nice find so I wanted to share it.QuoteFrom the EULA:Quote

author: oPossum
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2019, 12:35:21 pm
content: Already a thread herehttps://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/microcap-12-is-free-(as-in-beer)-now/

author: spudboy488
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2019, 08:22:03 pm
content: I'll try and delete this one. Thanks.

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 06, 2019, 08:49:01 pm
content: You quoted from the first post of that already existing thread?

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 12:49:30 am
content: Quote from: Gyro on August 06, 2019, 08:49:01 pmMaybe not. Maybe he quoted from the same user's post in a thread from another forum.

author: wilfred
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 12:53:00 am
content: Quote from: spudboy488 on August 06, 2019, 08:22:03 pmYou can't delete the first post in a thread. No need to. Posting in good faith to help others is no sin.

author: PKTKS
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 10:44:51 am
content: Don't bother. It is a sad notice in any post for thoserelated somehow to that nice piece of work2 cents of NOSTALGIAwhich btw i think it deserves a second or third post in memoryPaul

author: Gyro
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: August 07, 2019, 06:00:20 pm
content: Quote from: Gyro on August 06, 2019, 08:49:01 pmSorry @spudboy488, that was a petty comment, my apologies.It was a good idea to flag the fact in the EDA section as people might have been missed over in the Projects and Designs section. Maybe next time, just a link to the other thread would be good idea.The forum doesn't really seem to have a mechanism for "there's something interesting/relevant over there" and it is very partitioned these days. Maybe moving the original thread is appropriate, but then many people who don't tend to visit the EDA section very often (me included) would not have seen it.
Altium 17 Mechanical Layer Disable and can't enable. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: alexanderkf@yahoo.com
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 30, 2019, 06:36:49 pm
content: Hello Everyone.I have Altium 17 and is driving me a little bit crazy.I have imported a DXF on the Mechanical 1 layer, and some how manage to move it to a corner that can't access to deleted.And to top it of, I manage to disable my Mechanical_1 layer and I can't find how to enable it again.Can some one help ?I am not new to PCB design only new to AltiumThank you

author: Pseudobyte
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: August 05, 2019, 06:42:42 pm
content: When you import the DXF make sure that you set the origin of the import far enough away from the sheet origin. Depending on where the origin is in your DXF this can be 0,0 or maybe much further.Say you have a DXF with its orgin in the center of the sheet and it is an 11x17.Then the origin when you import should be greater than 5.5x8.5 otherwise your DXF will be out of bounds so to speak.Another option you have is to select everything on that layer and move it by x, y. Select it by filtering, single layer mode then selecting everything, then press M, then select move selection by x,y...Hope that helps otherwise i can give more detailed step by step with pictures.
smtstencil.co.uk closed!!   - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: max_torque
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 09:09:13 pm
content: http://www.smtstencil.co.uk/DOH! Anyone know what happened? They were my go-to source for cheap quick plastic stencils!What other stencil source are people using in the uk??

author: coppice
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 09:16:38 pm
content: How is a business selling only stencils supposed to work? Don't people want to get their stencils along with their PCBs, as a package from a single vendor? Perhaps this supplier's closing says "YES".

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 10, 2019, 10:47:38 pm
content: Quote from: coppice on September 10, 2019, 09:16:38 pmOSH Stencilsis still up and going.You're correct -- the PCB vendors like Seeed are now also offering stencils. But the last time I ordered boards from them, the price of shipping the stencil (from China to the southwestern US) was out of line compared with getting the thing from OSH Stencils.

author: IO390
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: September 27, 2019, 09:13:27 pm
content: Didn't stop them taking my money on an order for two stencils! Never heard back from them after sending maybe 10 emails.It's sad that they've closed as I've been a happy customer for some years, but for them to be taking orders apparently several months up until their closure, only to not fulfill them and ignore customers is totally unacceptable.***Edit***They contacted me today to say that the order has been refunded, which is decent of them.

author: OwO
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: September 28, 2019, 04:47:27 am
content: Quote from: IO390 on September 27, 2019, 09:13:27 pmIf that's the case it's possible the owner is deceased and only after family members got around to dealing with the website was the notice put up.
How to shorten a track? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Earentir
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: July 29, 2019, 08:39:56 am
content: Hi, I am able to copy paste a bundle of viers and tracks I have put on the PCB but then I can't find a way to shorten the pasted tracks. In the properties I can see the size of the segment but cant alter it in any way.JFY This is my first ever time touching a PCB software or doing any PCB work so I am probably being dump and its obvious, so sorry in advance
Drill chart Hole Tolerance  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: gogoman
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 28, 2019, 11:16:41 am
content: Hi the drill chart is missing the hole tolerance and I'm unsure what tolerance to use.The hole diameters range from 12 to 40 mils.Is there a standard hole tolerances to use?If a hole size is 25mils can it's tolerance be specified as -0 +7milthanks
EMC Shield standard reference designator - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: AloyseTech
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 26, 2019, 10:51:43 am
content: Hi,What is the standardreference designatorfor an EMC shield soldered on a PCB?Following DIN EN 81346-2 it seems to be "FE". What do you think?

author: Berni
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 26, 2019, 11:20:46 am
content: I think it could be classified as a mechanical part so "MP".Tho i tend to use just "M" for mechanical parts. Its not really a big deal what you call these oddball components. Just stick to a given standard for the more common components so that you don't call transistors "Q" "T" "TR" "NPN" on the same schematic and cause the BOM to look like a mess.There are other designator markings that are commonly used deviating from standards such as "U" and "IC" or calling voltage regulators just the same "U" ,calling zenner diodes with the same "D", calling ferites as "L", calling LEDs as "LED".. etc It really doesn't matter just make sure you are consistent across a whole schematic.
Easiest to script circuit layout tools and electromagnetic simulators - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: magicsmoke
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: July 25, 2019, 08:08:51 pm
content: Are there any circuit layout editors what allow for programmatic control of the layout? Ideally I would like to control the layout that is simulated in a fullwave EM simulator such as ANSYS HFSS, Keysight ADS/EMPro, or CST Studio, etc and couple it to an external optimizer.One potential path is to script the layout in a traditional PCB schematic capture and layout tool such as KiCad, Altium, PADs, etc. and then export an IPC-2581, ODB++, or other file into the EM simulator and script the application of boundary conditions etc. The other method I could forsee would try to create through scripting simple layouts/geometries directly in the EM simulators. I think the second method might be simpler overall as it would only involve one program ideally.Does anyone have any experience with the scripting abilities of PCB layout tools and EM simulators? Ideally I would prefer something that can be controlled through Python. I know that KiCad's PCBNew has some scripting ability through Python. Are there other PCB layout tools that can be scripted?For fullwave EM simulators ANSYS HFSS appears to have a COM interface. I would prefer something that could work on Linux. How is the scripting in Keysight ADS/EMPro or CST Studio? Any other recommendations for scriptable EM simulators? Something open source would be even better.
Getting Artwork onto double sided copper-clad PCB reliably? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Chris56000
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: March 17, 2019, 08:13:52 pm
content: Hi!Can anyone suggest a reliable method of getting these two artworks for a Z80 experimental PCB onto copper-clad board reliably?I've printed them on toner-transfer paper, mirrored for transfer, but when I tried using a laminator nothing got transferred!Chris Williams

author: KL27x
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: March 18, 2019, 01:02:02 am
content: What kind of printer did you use? And did you get any of the toner to stick, or did you end up with bare copper? How did you prep the board before transfer?Is this eBay china "toner transfer paper?"

author: David Cutcher CEG
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: April 17, 2019, 02:05:11 am
content: Wow, looks like you're having trouble.I just sent the same note to KL27x.It's all about the laser print toner and clay coated paper. I think I'm going to start a discussion thread about this.Find attached my method, from my book. "Electronic Circuits for the Evil Genius" 2nd ed. McGraw HillDavid Cutcher - Certified Evil Genius.

author: westfw
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2019, 06:25:02 pm
content: Convert to gerbers and send them off to China with about $25...

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 18, 2019, 06:37:55 pm
content: Quote from: westfw on June 18, 2019, 06:25:02 pmthis !

author: Chris56000
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 22, 2019, 10:36:56 pm
content: Hi!By the time I'd finalised the design for my friend's Z80 boards, JLC were doing a very good value C.N.Y. offer on these designs which worked out at approximately £2.65 per PCB as–delivered price, so I sent the Gerbers away to 'em, but a speaker protection module project from "Electronics Australia" has attracted my interest again, so I'll be looking at this problem afresh later in the year!Chris Williams
allegro design variants assembly drawing - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Alex Eisenhut
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 27, 2019, 07:33:31 am
content: Anyone use this function of Allegro? It keeps asking for a variants.lst file. According to the documentation this file is created by the HDL BOM tool, or by the CIS Part Manager.Try as I might, no tool generates this file and when I do get a file with the right name, Allegro says it's not the right format.What's the deal here?Anyone can point me to a user guide (cisug.pdf didn't help me) or sample file that works?

author: Neilm
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: July 27, 2019, 04:53:04 pm
content: I have not used this in anger as we don't use that at work for generating the drawings. However, I seem to recall if you open CIS part manager and look at the menu bar there is an entry for reports. I think it is in there.
How to add third party parts to LT spice - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: SK_Caterpilar_SK
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 26, 2019, 10:36:28 am
content: Hello. I have just downloaded LT spice because a lot of poeple kept recommending it to me. The issue is I need thrid party stuff there. More specifically vacuum tubes. But the program is extremely confusing even the videos i have tryed to watch are just 10 times more confusing. The vacuum tube models are in .inc format. That obviously is not going to be a drop inside the library and good to go. So how do I do this? Everything is extremely confusing.Thanks.

author: Bassman59
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 11, 2019, 06:05:22 pm
content: Quote from: SK_Caterpilar_SK on May 26, 2019, 10:36:28 amThe Help file which accompanies LTSpice has a section called FAQ, and within that section is "Third-party models."

author: chris_leyson
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 07:58:17 am
content: The easiest way to add third party models is to add an include directive to the schematic and place the .inc files in the same folder as the schematic, saves messing about with libraries. Example attached below. 6DJ8.inc is from Duncan Amps.

author: Ian.M
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 08:48:30 am
content: Even easier - if the model file is small (only a few lines), you can place its contents directly on the schematic as a multi-line SPICE directive.
I made a tool to render artwork into Gerber files (works with KiCAD/Altium etc.) - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: actuallyjaseg
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 12, 2019, 03:10:57 am
content: tl;dr: Try outhttps://gerbolyze.jaseg.net/So, I built gerbolyze (https://github.com/jaseg/gerbolyze). You can run it from the source as a command line tool or usehttps://gerbolyze.jaseg.net/(silk only atm). Gerbolyze reads a black-and-white png file and render it directly into an existing gerber file bundle, tested with both KiCAD and Altium. It can do solder mask and silkscreen layers. It renders a template image you can use to scale and align your artwork. Here is a detailed explanation of how to prepare grayscale graphics:https://github.com/jaseg/gerbolyze/blob/master/README.rst#image-preprocessing-guideI was quite annoyed by all existing tools. I use both KiCAD and Altium, and importing reasonably complex artwork into either of them is a pain. The best option IMO is svg2shenzhen (https://github.com/badgeek/svg2shenzhen). That works great for SVG vector graphics, but it can't do grayscale dithering of bitmap graphics into SVG to get pseudo-grayscale silkscreen. Inkscape isn't good at handling many (thousands) of primitives, and I am sure KiCAD wouldn't like it either.Gerbolyze is meant as a bitmap graphics complement to vector graphics tools like svg2shenzhen. With svg2shenzhen you can get really nice-looking precise shapes but you're limited in complexity. Gerbolyze will produce messier output, but can handle arbitrarily complex input. Gerbolyze can output 100k gerber primitives without any issues, and probably at that point your PCB manufacturer's toolchain will start to fall over anyway.
ZofzPCB - basic question. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: April 27, 2019, 09:33:47 am
content: I've been trying out ZofzPCB.How do I get it to display via holes and pad holes?I'm creating the Geber files from Protel 99SE.Am I not generating and loading a required drill file or something?Thanksedit - also what is shown in the 'verticals' in the back ground?

author: zofz
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: June 08, 2019, 12:40:21 pm
content: Hi DTJit looks to me that the board outline detection have detected the text label instead of the board outline. It could be that the automatically selected file (1) contains nothing but the label or the outline detection options does not match your outline drawing style (2). See pic below.

author: DTJ
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: June 09, 2019, 12:14:14 pm
content: Thanks for the response Zofz, I'll have another look at it.
Switching from using Eagle V5 to EasyEDA? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Jon Chandler
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 03:26:00 am
content: I am using Eagle Layout V5 Pro and Tinycad for schematic capture. I needed the pro version of Eagle to get the physical board size I needed but I didn't opt for the pro version of schematic capture because nothing I was doing was that complex.I've played a little with EasyEDA from JLCPCB. It seems pretty competent in using it for a couple hours and not that difficult to use. The huge range of parts available and total integration of schematic capture and board layout is awesome after spending many years connecting nets from the schematic "by eye" on the board since Eagle and Tinycad aren't always in agreement about pin names.Has anybody here switched from Eagle to EasyEDA? I'd appreciate any comments about the experience if you have. A y particular regrets or shortcomings?Thanks in advance for any comments you may have,Jon

author: DerekG
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 02, 2019, 11:20:40 am
content: Quote from: Jon Chandler on June 02, 2019, 03:26:00 amEasyEDA is actually pretty nice. It has come a long way over the past 3 or so years.Like the poster above, I also have an Altium license, however I reach for DipTrace for most board designs these days. It's easy to learn as its user interface is very logical.It's not as powerful as Altium but it is very, very capable. You could design a computer motherboard with it if you wished. DipTrace has user selectable keyboard shortcuts to make your transfer from EAGLE much easier.A discount is also offered for moving over from EAGLE ............... but you may not need to purchase the top end version.https://diptrace.com/buy/offer/Two things I like is the license is perpetual (like EAGLE used to be) & it all runs on my own computer, not someone else's server.
Best viewer for 3D PDF by Altium - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: maxpayne
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 05:40:58 am
content: Apart from the Acrobat Reader DC, is there any viewer for viewing 3D PDF , generated by Altium ?I am getting very slow performance by Acrobat. Sometimes the screen fridges while rotating the 3D board.

author: maxpayne
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 06:07:24 am
content: I tried Foxit reader with the plugin as well. It does nothing and only show a white screen...

author: ChunkyPastaSauce
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 06:17:35 am
content: It should be on by default, but check hardware render is enabled, edit->pref->3D&Multimedia->Preferred RenderAlso turn off double-sided rendering if its on

author: maxpayne
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 27, 2019, 06:47:48 am
content: I just changed my settings of Acrobat reader using from Nvidia processor to integrated graphics and it solved the problem !now I can smoothly do all the workings !

author: Lromine
author_rank: Contributor
timestamp: June 19, 2019, 06:32:54 pm
content: All, sorry if I'm a bit late in joining this thread, but I did want to go ahead and let you all know that you can now also use the online viewer that we've just released. All you have to do is drag and drop your individual or project files into the viewer and you can visualize your designs, no login or download required. This includes viewing in 3D and it will also link your library to Octopart for getting a sense of part lead time, cost, and availability across multiple vendors. It's pretty slick. Please give it a gohttps://www.altium.com/viewer
LASER PCB cutter  - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Massaoudi
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 29, 2019, 03:12:18 pm
content: Hi,please your help t find a Laser PCB cutter

author: Ysjoelfir
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: June 01, 2019, 10:46:41 pm
content: Please don't overburden the people trying to help you with those massive amounts of information!
Design Entry HDL 17.2 tutorial ?. - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: muthukural001
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 31, 2019, 10:45:29 am
content: Hello All,I want to learn Design entry HDL to draw schematics...I am looking for a formatted document that helps me to create symbols and draw schematics...Please suggest...Thanks,Muthu
Draw a 555 chip in Geda ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: fixit7
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 21, 2019, 07:54:44 pm
content: I have tried several circuit drawing programs, but Geda seems the easiest.I want to add a 555 chip but can not figure out how.I tried add a picture of the chip, but the pic was too small.Any other ideas?

author: golden_labels
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 21, 2019, 09:16:51 pm
content: That should be trivial:Press the “Add component” button;Enter “555” in the filter field;Select the chip;Press “OK” and place the component.

author: fixit7
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 22, 2019, 02:18:38 am
content: Thanks you very much. :-)
Wanted: Allegro BRD BINARY file format specification ? - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 02, 2019, 12:58:12 pm
content: Anyone have by chance the specification of the BINARY Allegro BRD file format? Would dearly love to write a module so I can support it in my software.I've been searching quite a bit over the last 12 months but still haven't found any reference document or implementation to work from.I've considered reverse engineering it but in spite of it lacking any encryption/encoding layers it's still a non-trivial task.Regards,Paul.

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2019, 05:00:31 am
content: :bump:Bumping for attention.

author: T3sl4co1l
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2019, 07:47:29 am
content: You'd probably be the first.I'm sure many would appreciate it! A free converter (or 3rd party, in any case) would be cool.Recommendation for all conversion processes, as far as I know, is to export ASCII format from $tool and go from there. If you can get both versions of a file, that should help greatly (even if the binary isn't structured the same way, the objects contained within likely are).Tim

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2019, 08:09:55 am
content: Been busy with a lot of other formats the last couple of months, but yes, this Allegro binary format is something I keep stumping my toe on, *especially* because there's a fair number of BRD files being sold/distributed for motherboards that are this Allegro binary format.The clear-text data in the ABRD file is fairly easy to read, it's just a case of trying to sort out how they're organising it; given that there's likely layers, pads, pad stacks, electrical simulation information, part outlines, BOM data etc all thrown in

author: nctnico
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2019, 09:50:25 am
content: Quote from: Inflex on May 11, 2019, 08:09:55 amAllegro calls a board file a database and yes, all the information for the board is contained in a single file so the .brd file is the only thing you need to work on a board (and changes in libraries don't break exisiting designs). Perhaps they use an existing b-trieve library to create the binary format.

author: Inflex
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: May 11, 2019, 09:59:47 am
content: Wouldn't surprise me one bit.I've encountered a format that is just MSAccess/FoxPro; while I can't read those in directly (legal/linkage reasons) at least it's comparatively trivial to decode them into a text format.btrieve has been around a long time; seems to have been mostly replaced now with SQLite (for new developments).Certainly working out the DB format, if it is, would be a nice start. A lot of times I wonder if these are also inhouse cooked solutions.
Tool for modelling LF 125 kHz antenna fields inside a vehicle - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / general

author: karthiks
author_rank: Newbie
timestamp: May 21, 2019, 02:33:09 pm
content: Hi all,I am working on designing a comprehensive TPMS/PEPS system.And right now in the process of analysing the LF antenna field patterns that operate on 125kHz and their coverage.What CAD tool is the best for modelling such low frequencies (125kHz) since its a magnetoquasistatic field?I am currently investigating FEKO and its pros and cons. I will update my findings here.Thanks in advance-Karthik

author: free_electron
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: May 21, 2019, 03:17:11 pm
content: Comsol ?