Schematic capture/PCB layout software reccomendations.

[Buck Buchanan]

Hi all,

I appologize if this is a tired thread.

I'm looking for reccommendations for integrated schematic capture/pcb
layout programs.  It seems I can never get my hands on something that works
for half a crap (speaking of half a crap, Electronics Workbench, though a
good simulator for the price, is such a BAD schematic capture that I think
they're guilty of false advertising by calling it a schematic capture in
their adds).

There's got to be something between Easytrax (not enough) and OrCad (way
too much) that's good for me.

Here's some of the features I'm looking for:

Seamless (or relatively seamless - I'll take what I can get at this point)
connectivity between sch. capture and pcb layout.  If I have to manually
edit a netlist, it's not seamless.

In capture and pcb layout, want to be able to create new symbols quickly.  

In general, speed and ease of use are key features I'm looking for!

Only need 2 sided for pcb layout but do want gerber and drill file support.
 Don't really care about solder mask and silk screen layers (though I
realize most good programs have these features).

Autoroute would be a big plus.

Ability for global editing of symbols/parts/holes/etc.

Needs to be Zen with the the various Windows environments (95 & NT) so I
can us it at work and print to printers on the network.

Ground plane fill.

Various printing options: reverse, negative, scale, etc.

Reliable!  I've used some that are so full of bugs that you spend half your
time trying to work out stupid problems.

Whole package not more than $600 - I'd rather spend around $300.

Any input, reccomendations, personal experiences, sources, etc. would be
most appreciated!


Thanks much,



Buck Buchanan  V-209U   x84377
RF Eng. Tech  4GP

"Many Shubs and Zules knew what it was to be roasted in the depths of the
Slor that day!"   -Vince Glortho, Keymaster of Gozer-