🚀 go-pugleaf

In <1992Oct5.150357.17668@kakwa.ucs.ualberta.ca> kim@ee.ualberta.ca (Kim Adams) writes:

>Hi!

>We would like to purchase packages for schematic diagrams and PC 
>board layouts.

>We have a 486 with OS/2, $2500 Canadian. Windows is coming soon.

>Autorouting would be nice, but, could do without it.  For now all we
>need is for the two programs to talk to each other and have an easy user
>interface.

>Thanks in advance for your advice on the best bang for the buck.

We use EE designer at our electronics design and manufacturing company
in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The package comes with a schematic capture section which allows the user
to input the schematic.  Front anotation is performed and the parts 
appear when the layout section is entered.

Back annotation is also posssible.  Parts can be added to the layout,
when you return to the schematic routine, they appear to be placed.
When you click on a pin, it highlights the pins it connects to.
This makes place and routing a fairly straight forward task.

Autoplace and autoroute are available, but generally not recommended.
The autoroute program will split the component side and 
solder side into vertical and horizontal traces.  In order to 
go down an inch, over 1/2 inch and back up, the program will create 2 vias
to go over the 1/2 inch, even if nothing is in the way.  Logic simulation
and thermal analysis are options.

EE designer packages range from $1500 to $6000 depending on options.
I believe the schematic and layout programs are around $1500.

According to our resident expert, EE designer is considerably faster at
redrawing than Autocad.  The most complex board we have
ever built using EE designer is  about 800 parts, through hole and SMT.

The package is fairly easy to use.  BUT, like any PCB design package,
there is lots to learn.  You have to learn to edit devices, symbols etc.
A library of components has to be maintained. This can become a large
task if you have any variety of parts.


Vern Nelson