[sdiy] PCB/Schematic software

[David G Dixon]

> The open source community develops the software that they 
> need. The developers being users as well understand exactly 
> what is required. This model works because it : 
> 
> + provides a community to support and train users users tell 
> others in 
> + their profession and the word spreads users have the source 
> code and 
> + can modify it their requirements cuts out software piracy 
> challenges 
> + the need for software patents
> 
> 
> I discovered Linux in 1995 and having been using it ever 
> since. however I also use Apple Macs for music and web and MS 
> Windows for music.There is a staggering amount of good 
> quality free (as in free beer) software available for Linux 
> and some of it like Inkscape (vector graphics- like Adobe 
> Illustrator) Gnu Gimp (pixels - like Photoshop) and Open 
> Office (like MS Office) run on all three of these platforms.

Sounds great.  As I said, if you're young, probably unmarried, almost
certainly unburdened by children or homeownership, then working for next to
nothing on stuff that you're passionate about is a great way of life (one
that I envy, frankly).

Having said that, I must say that I've been somewhat less than impressed
with Open Office (which my wife has on her PC).  It has far less
functionality than MS Office.  In fact, I can't think of a single
"professional" person of my acquaintance who doesn't use MS Office.