FreePCB layout software

[kinjalgp]

Hello All,
I just found a new open source PCB design software called freePCB. If anyone is interested can dowload it from http://www.freepcb.com

 

[i_build_stuff]

This is the one I've been using, as it is an open-source GPL release instead of an eval / student version (demo-package licenses usually specify "no commercial use").

 

[kinjalgp]

One more is there PCB123 available at www.pcb123.com. PCB editor is good but I don't like the schematic editor because of its poorly designed libraries. Pin orientations on schematic packages are bad.

 

[Pyroandrew]

the PCB123 one is not free. you cannot export gerber files and then use them to get a board manufactured, you have to use the company that designed the software. Well it is free but there's a very big catch.

The open source one is a very good idea I think. There's a lot of scope there.

 

[kinjalgp]

the PCB123 one is not free. you cannot export gerber files and then use them to get a board manufactured, you have to use the company that designed the software. Well it is free but there's a very big catch.

Are you sure there is a catch? As far as I know ExpressPCB has that problem. To my best knowledge PCB123V2 has an option for exporting Gerber Files.

 

[rvk2]

I used PCB123 just the other day...the only drawback I recall was the size of the board was limited in their "free" version.

 

[Pyroandrew]

I think that it exports a propriorty file type that only the company can read, ensureing that you use them to manufacture your PCB, I could be wrong!

 

[lord loh.]

There is a software called DipTrace. Supports multilayered PCB and a free ware version is available. The limitation exisis on the number of pins...150 pins max I guess... It might suffice for ordinary circuits boards.