Homebrew PCBs

Hi Dave, listies, 

I was having problems with some of the trace junctions when I started
from a TCi3 generated Gerber file.  Seems the order the pads and traces
are generated IS important to my converter.  I couldn't get over the
fact that an Eagle generated Gerber file for over 1800 nodes would come
out at or very near perfect (no missed connections).  While my trial
project "HPdriver" of 187 nodes (notes are either pads, or the ends of
traces w/o pads.  All traces connect between nodes) would have 3 or so
errors.  I did the test design again in Eagle, yes, I spent a little
time and figured out how to add pads and traces into a new project, and
was amazed how much better the output was!  OK, I'm no expert on board
layout, but for our hobby use, I think this better fits the bill.  True,
I was able to start putting down traces and pads in TCi3 within minutes,
but the extra effort needed to work initially in MM's, and limited
editing (Eagle's got some neat ones) make Eagle much more effective as a
design tool.  AND, it can even start with the schematics, net lists,
etc. (that I haven't even tried yet).  

I haven't figured out if there is some simple ordering I can do to
improve TCi3 generated Gerber files (which by the way, are not true
implementations of RS-274X as I found out), but as long as Eagle or
another commercial quality PCB layout program is used, it shouldn't be
necessary.  

I just observed the CNC code generated by Vector CAD/CAM (from imported
PLC file that my converter currently generates), and I found EXCELLENT
cut ordering.  Rapids are minimal and short!  I was going to ask if
anyone knew of a good ordering algorithm, but Vector (possibly with a
little help from Eagle) seems to be doing a good job without me!  But
then, If I generate Gcode directly from my converter program (as I
intend to do), I'll probably have to do some ordering myself.  SO, I'm
interested in doing some ordering.  The traveling salesmen lives! 
Basically, every trace I cut returns to the start, so what I have is a
set of "start points" to order.  Any Ideas?

I've just posted my generated test CNC file.  Please take a look!  I had
fun with it, I made angled corners on the traces, because it was so easy
in Eagle (4.01)!

	HPdriverSol.CNC 

Alan  KM6VV