Thanks Dave, so WinQCad is easier than Eagle, and you do not hear about
people using Protel (light) often.
There is a program for linux at pcb.sourceforge.net, and that looks
interesting, although I think there is no auto-rout.
The one drawback, appears to be having a database table of all the
components (basically millions of chips, although the packages are
relatively few), I guess people add their own specific chips without too
much difficulty, etc...
Still, I guess that Gerber files are the standard for PCB production
companies.
Whatever program I use, I will probably stay with, because, as I said, I
am only beginning and have limited CAD (circuit layout) experience. The
coolest feature I see is the "auto-rout" where you simply place the
components and connections (I guess), and the program finds the best
routes between pins, that is awesome.
Ted
Dave Mucha wrote:
> --- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, Ted Huntington <thunting@u...>
> wrote:
> > I am new to making my own PCBs, is there free software that is a
> > standard (I use Linux and Windows XP)? I have heard of Eagle and
> > Protel, I see that Gerber files appear to be the standard for PCB
> > houses.
>
>
>
> Eagle and WinQCad both offer free demo versions that allow you a
> limited package.
>
> I am using Qcad as it seems to be much easier.
>
> the demo if fully functional for a 2.3 x 2.3 board and up to 500
> pads/pins.
>
> not sure what Eagle offers as the free output version.
>
> QCad (google winqcad or qcda pcb) is not the linux Qcad.
> for $99.00 you get any size board but are still limited to 500 pins,
> then the price goes up.
>
> it's got some clunkieness, but it just seems easier than Eagle.
>
> Also the auto-rout is a great product.
>
> Dave
>
> <snip>
>
--
Ted Huntington
Programmer Analyst I
Main Library
University of California, Irvine
PO Box 19557
Irvine, CA 92623-9557
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