Homebrew PCBs

>From: JGraham <jgraham@...>
>Reply-To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
>To: Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com
>Subject: Re: [Homebrew_PCBs] Re: PCB design software
>Date: 12 May 2003 10:33:08 -0700
>
>First a little background:
>I've been using Autotrax EDA as well, and it seems ok.  I've also tried
>eagle and vutrax.  All three don't really seem to meet my needs.
>There also seems to be a wealth of gnu/linux software out there gEDA,
>XRoadMaker, PCB, etc. here's a list.
>(http://www.opencollector.org/summary.php3#PCB)
>
>Ive also given altium protel DXP a shot.  The only package that i've not
>tried is Orcad.
>
>My question is, what is standard for design. in industry and for
>basement engineers.  Are some more cross compatible than others?  Are
>there autorouters out there that actually work? Are there any really
>complete schematic/footprint libriaries? or are most parts done in
>house?

There isn't any universal standard when it comes to PCB design tools. One 
important consideration is to choose a package that can read most of the 
other popular formats. Most designers create their own parts libraries. Even 
if parts one needs are provided in a particular package, the footprints 
often need changing as longer pads are usually needed for SMD parts if they 
are hand soldered as opposed to reflow soldered.


Leon
--
Leon Heller, G1HSM Tel: +44 1424 423947
Email:leon_heller@...
My web page: http://www.geocities.com/leon_heller

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