[sdiy] Schematic Capture & Layout Special! (fwd)

[Tony Clark]

   I think this is really meant for the list.

   Cheers,

   Tony

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---------- Forwarded message ----------
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001 00:34:43 +0200
From: Theo <t.hogers at home.nl>
To: Tony Clark <clark at andrews.edu>
Subject: Re: [sdiy] Schematic Capture & Layout Special!

I use this for over 15 years, but I am not familiar with Multisim.
Ulticap is very close to Orcad, originally the deal was: Orcad capture,
Ultiboard pcb design.

IMHO descent package BUT take a good look at the limitations of the
"Personal" versions.
I have the "Personal Design Solution" but got it before the price raise (was
$363, now $799!!!!)
In my version (5.72 personal unlimited pins)  the gerber output is disabled,
a real pain in the @ss
Also the spice simulation holds some annoying bugs as does the
"interconnections" between worksheets.

I think about a up grade, but with the resent price raise (they call it
sale) this will may be a competitive upgrade.
I got a nice letter where they offered me a upgrade for $600 to the
professional version (1200 pin),
Shoot 2 months earlier the same package was $600 and the upgrade $200 !!!
I might save myself serious bucks by down grading to Eagle, think it will be
good enough for me and I get the gerber!

Don't forget I am feeling a bit screwed by Ultimate tech/Electronics work
bench.
This is a very decent and complete package, good auto routers, nice complete
set of tools, fast user interface (need 3 button or scroll mouse).
Compare this to Orcad or Protell, not to Eagel or Winroute!

See for your self if you find it worth the money.

Regards,
Theo


From: Tony Clark <clark at andrews.edu>

>    Hi All,
>
>    Was just looking through my mail today and noticed a promotional sale
> being offered by Electronics Workbench.
>
>    www.electronicsworkbench.com
>
>    Now I don't endorse or even _use_ or own any of their software, but
> since I know that there are more than a couple of people interested in
> getting into a decent PCB package, I thought I would pass this on.
>    I checked out their website but their order forms show the old
> pricing, so you might have to call them to get the pricing.  Here's the
> list:
>
>    Multisim Personal  (capture)    $295
>             Professional           $695
>    Ultiboard Personal (layout)     $295
>              Professional          $695
>              PowerPro             $1395
>    Ultiroute Personal (autorouter) $295
>              Professional          $695
>              PowerPro             $2395
>    Package deals
>       Personal Design Solution     $799 <-- Not too bad
>       Professional                $1899
>
>    The package deals include the Personal or Professional versions of the
> Multisim/Ultiboard/Ultiroute.  There are restrictions built in, so you
> might want to consider that.  The Personal version is limited to 700 pins
> of routing (but probably more than most people will ever need).  My flier
> indicates limitation on routable layers, but the website doesn't show
> that, so better ask some questions if you are seriously considering it!
>    The sale is good to April 18.  You can call 1-800-263-5552 to order or
> possibly bug some salesperson.  :)
>
>    Again, I don't use it and am not affiliated with them in any way.
> Just passing the information along to anyone interested.
>
>    Cheers,
>
>    Tony
>
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