Your guide to getting started with PCB layout design software

If you are just starting with circuit board design, this blog is for you. Creating a functional PCB (Printed Circuit Board) can be challenging, but there is plenty of help and support in the form of printed circuit board design software. Before we go into detail about the whole process of PCB fabrication and layout design, you’ll need to know options for printed circuit board design software are available to you:


What software should you use for PCB layout design? 


Choosing the right software is essential for a successful outcome. Helpfully, various software tools are available to suit your needs, depending on your experience level and the complexity of your PCB layout design. Here are some of the most popular software solutions for both beginners and experienced PCB designers:

  1. Altium Designer
     Widely regarded as the market leader in PCB design, Altium offers powerful tools for both schematic capture and PCB layout. It’s perfect for professionals but can have a steep learning curve for beginners.

  2. WG
     WG is a professional layout tool that runs on Windows. It’s great for precise layout planning and offers advanced design rule checks, making it suitable for more complex designs.

  3. Gerbv
     Gerbv is a free and open-source Gerber file viewer. It allows you to view and verify your design files before sending them for fabrication. It’s beneficial for checking drill files, pick-and-place data, and more.

  4. ORCAD
     ORCAD has been around since the 1980s and remains one of the most respected tools for PCB design. It features an easy-to-use interface and powerful simulation capabilities.

  5. EasyEDA
     If you’re looking for a free, web-based tool, EasyEDA is a great option. It includes schematic capture, circuit simulation, and PCB layout tools in one place, making it a fantastic choice for beginners who want to create simple PCB designs.

  6. Fritzing
     Fritzing is an open-source tool that’s perfect for beginners and hobbyists. It allows you to create circuit diagrams and PCB layouts easily. It’s an excellent choice for transitioning from breadboard designs to prototypes.

Once you have chosen the most suitable software tool from the six listed above, you must create your design file and send it to your chosen PCB fabricator. The best-printed circuit board fabrication providers in the industry will have experts available to check your supplied file for errors and optimization, and this can save considerable time and money. 


Bay Area Circuits has over 45 years of experience. Whatever PCB project you have in mind, Bay Area Circuits will help make your design a reality. Head on over to BAC’s homepage and click on the contact button.
Location: United States

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