Schematic capture + PCB program

[Dave Boland]

I need to do some test cards for software development. I don't do this
very often, so I'm looking for a suggestion for a program that will do a
4 in. by 6 in. card, about 512 pins, is very easy to learn an use, and
as low cost as possible. If it has the ability to do Spice analysis
then so much the better, but this feature is not required (I use LT
Spice). I use Windows most often, but it can be a Linux program as
well. Any suggestions?

I have been reviewing the comments in news groups and there doesn't seem
to be a clear winner, especially in the low cost end of the spectrum. I
have also looked at the gEAD (suite?), but it looks like a lot of work
to install, and learn to use, but I could be wrong.

Thanks for any help.

Dave,

 

[Leon Heller]

I need to do some test cards for software development. I don't do this
very often, so I'm looking for a suggestion for a program that will do a
4 in. by 6 in. card, about 512 pins, is very easy to learn an use, and
as low cost as possible. If it has the ability to do Spice analysis
then so much the better, but this feature is not required (I use LT
Spice). I use Windows most often, but it can be a Linux program as
well. Any suggestions?

I have been reviewing the comments in news groups and there doesn't seem
to be a clear winner, especially in the low cost end of the spectrum. I
have also looked at the gEAD (suite?), but it looks like a lot of work
to install, and learn to use, but I could be wrong.

Have a look at EasyPC:

http://www.numberone.com/

Leon

 

[JeffM]

I have been reviewing the comments in news groups and there doesn't seem

to be a clear winner, especially in the low cost end of the spectrum.

I'm looking for a suggestion
Dave Boland

OK. Stop doing what a hundred people have done already
and expecting a different result.
That would be the definition of *stupid*.
Read the archive and make a decision.
If that package doesn't suit you, try another.

I...looked at the gEAD...but it looks like a lot of work
to install, and learn to use

You sound lazy to me. Any package requires an investment in time.
SALESMAN: This book will do half your work for you.
CUSTOMER: Give me two.

as low [a] cost as possible

You've already named it.


Years ago, I licenced **only the Layout Editor** of Cadsoft EAGLE.
The autorouter sucks and I only needed 1-sheet schematics.
(Don't pay for extra capabilities beyound the free basics
if you don't need them anyway.)

 

[[email protected]]

Check Winboard at www.Ivex.com or Pulsonix at http://www.pulsonix.com/

 

[starfire]

Look at www.expresspcb.com

....free pcb layout and free schematic capture tools... downloadable.

 

[Dave Boland]

Thanks everyone (except the idiot Jeffm). Due to time constraints I
won't be able to try them all.

Dave,

 

[JeffM]

Thanks everyone (except the idiot Jeffm).

Dave Boland

I gave you a recommendation.

If hearing the truth about yourself hurts,
don't blame others--that's your problem.