Homebrew PCBs

--- In Homebrew_PCBs@yahoogroups.com, "teilhardo" <teilhardo@y...> 
wrote:
> Hi All,
> I just joined this group because I am planning to make a homemade
> motor controller using the LMD18201 H-Drive.  I am pretty new at
> circuit design but I wanted to attempt this project using the
> computer. Inevitably, I ran into some problems.  I tried PCB123 and
> some other "free" Cad programs on the net but they all have the
> handicaps that limited a succesful product.  What is the most 
popular
> software used on this forum for PCB schematic/layout design?  Are
> there any plugins for more common CAD programs like Rhino?
> Thanks,
> Tei


Hi Tei,

Eagle is by far the most popular free software.

Most vendors offer various types of demo packages.  some limit time 
of use (30 days) others limit no saving of files or other nonsense.

Check Olimex site for a list of 20 or more packages with links to 
their sites.

WinQCad is probably the easiest to learn, but lacks some of the 
expanded features of Eagle.

A hobbiest my never notice the difference.

Eagle limits board size, as does WinQCAD, but Eagle offers a larger 
board area.  4 x 3?  to Q's 2.35" x2.35"

Dave