Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "km6vv" <KM6VV@...> wrote:
>
> Hi list,
> 
> Is anyone using Eagle to draw schematics and design a PCB?  I just got
> started with Eagle, and while I had enough experience with Orcad
> Capture drawing schematics to get the schematic drawn, and the board
> arranged, I'm not doing very well in creating or editing library
parts.  
> 
> One of my problems is the PWR labeling for the PIC18F2520 that I want
> to use.  It uses VDD and VSS for power, while the remainder of the
> parts (EEPROM, MAX232 and some 74HCT595 gates) all use VCC and GND. 
> Now I don't care what you call 'em, but apparently Eagle does.  It
> dislikes connecting them together, and won't route them automatically
> (well, not very well).  And because of that, caps that I place near
> the appropriate power pins of the packages don't get seen and
> connected properly...  At least that's what I think is happening.
> 
> I've actually spent considerable time in the manual and tutorial. 
> I've tried making a simple 8 resistor, 16 pin package, and although I
> got through it, it looks terrible on the schematic (I know, try
> again).  If I could just copy one from the Bourns library, and change
> the package out to a DIP, I'd have it.  But although there is a way to
> copy an existing library entry, I haven't figured it out.  I couldn't
> seem to edit existing parts either. 
> 
> Can anyone help?
> 
> Alan  KM6VV
> P.S  Project is a PIC version of Michael Dvorsky's SSC32 servo
> controller (March 2006 "Circuit Cellar", pg 80).
>

Hi Alan,

I just stumbled through my first two schematics and boards with Eagle
freeware.   I am a newbie and cannot offer you advice on integrating
the PIC into your schematic, as my first two circuits were just
passives and transistors.  Haven't yet modified a library or created a
new part.    I haven't even made my first board yet.

However, there are some good notes on making pads/streamlining
libraries at 12675.    When I get a chance, I will consolidate the
other Eagle Howto's into a file for easier access.   I know I will
need access to this information too!

Just wanted to say welcome.    Like you, my only previous experience
with CAD was OrCAD schematic capture & board layout.   If you're
patient, you'll get help from other posters.  At least, that's been my
experience.

Alan N3JIY