Software for circuit layout

Updated October 28, 2006

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Layout software has long been integrated into the microwave vendor design suites. The problem with this integration is twofold: usually the interface is often frustrating, and often, a mechanical engineer is responsible for final layout of a design, and he sure as heck isn't gonna go for using a microwave analysis tool when there are lots better ME packages available that he might want to learn to build his (or her resume).

The layout software that you use depends on what product you are developing. Let's divide layout software into three categories:

Laying out thin-film networks

Laying out printed wiring boards

Free PWB software!

Laying out MMICs

The one thing that is wrong (in our opinion) in the printed-circuit industry today is the use of the Gerber interface. Dating back to the 1970s, this arcane language asks you to define apertures and flashes, just as if you were drawing the artwork with a miniature flashlight (in the old days you were indeed doing that!) Today's modern photo-plotter uses a laser raster scan, but quite often the laser must be driven from a .gbr file. Not many software packages can read Gerber files. Want a free Gerber previewer? Graphicode has one for you!

Laying out thin-film networks

One of our favorite layout software tools is AutoCAD. The same software that you might use to plant bushes on your next house plot plan. AutoCAD does it all, it isn't hard to learn, and it fits onto your PC with room to spare. The output of a file can be put into different formats such as .dxf, which are "readable" in many other CAD programs.

Laying out printed wiring boards

If you want to generate a multilayer layout from a schematic, AutoCAD is too limited. Try Protel. Or try some freeware... see below!

Free printed circuit board software

Thanks for the correction , John! Here's two links to suppliers that will etch prototype boards cheaply. They get free links on this page, just because we like this kind of service!

Express PCB not only will etch three boards for you for $51, they'll give you free layout software!. Check them out!

PCBExpress offers a similar service, with two boards etched for $60. Check them out! Their site offers a ton of freeware, and a PCB tutorial. Tell them that Microwaves101 sent you!

Laying out MMICs

Some of the more expensive EDA tools can at least get your layout started. Chances are you will have to finish the design in Cadence.

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