KiCad, Free Open-Source (GPL), cross-platform (MAC too), schematic capture, project manager, part editors for schematics and footprints, library management, Autoroute, Auto-Annotate, 3D viewer (Open-Source Wings3D required). Generate netlists to various formats (works with free but no open-source and windows-only LTSpice), embedded Gerber viewer, export Gerbers for other viewers. Decent native part and footprint library, much more available online. Active user and development community.
That said, there are some small edges to KiCad. But they get addressed fairly soon once reported to the Community IMHO. I wish there were better tutorials for KiCad. Perhaps that's where I can contribute.
http://kicad.sourceforge.net/wiki/index.php/Main_Pagehttp://iut-tice.ujf-grenoble.fr/kicad/ --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Steve Greenfield <alienrelics@...> wrote:
>
> Interesting... it has been impossible to get a consensus about which software package(s) are "industry standard". However, Manpower.com lists two on their "skills" list, OrCAD and Eagle.
>
> Drat, Dip Trace has been really easy to use...
>
> OrCAD is out of the ballpark on cost. No way I can afford it.
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> Eagle has the free and cheaper versions, and has a lot of users of those cheap and free versions.
>
> Gosh darn it, I like Dip Trace!
>
> Steve Greenfield
> Electronic Engineering Technician student
> Electronic Technician 20+ years
> CET Computers and Consumer Electronics
> IPC-A-610D CIS Specialist
>