[sdiy] Free CAD

[Tim Parkhurst]

On Sun, Feb 20, 2011 at 1:50 PM, Matthew Smith <matt at smiffytech.com> wrote:
> Quoth Tim Parkhurst at 21/02/11 08:07...
>>
>> ... You can also run a check to make sure you haven't
>> missed any connections. It's not 100% bulletproof, but if your
>> schematic is correct, then your PCB layout should be too.
>
> I was saved by a design rule check only a couple of weeks ago - picked up
> two traces that were touching. This was just before I sent the file off to
> Futurlec to make the thing up. I can live with a PITA if it stops me making
> stupid mistakes.
>
> --
> Matthew Smith

Exactly! A Design Rule Check (DRC) will look for missed connections
AND you can set it up to look for a specified minimum clearance
between pads, traces, vias and whatnot. Can be a lifesaver, expecially
on more complex boards. Definitely worth the learning curve.

Tim (PITA... geat, now I want a sandwich) Servo
-- 
"Sire, the church of God is an anvil that has worn out many hammers."
- H.L. Hastings