There are several PCB software out there some which are free, while others are premium. It could be a daunting task choosing from several tens of software in the market. When selecting a design package to use, it is always advisable to use some of the latest tools with available support and community. In the EDA industry, some of the best and most popular tools are mostly not free. Nevertheless, there are still a couple of powerful free ones.

In this article, I will highlight some of the best free PCB design software you can find for designing your printed circuit board layout, and hopefully, this list will help you to pick what works for you. If you are interested in PCB design software, please check and read the content below for more information.

Wanna know PCB knowledge? Check and read for more. 

1.     What is KiCAD?

KiCAD is a Cross-Platform and Open Source Electronics Design Automation Suite. It includes a schematic editor for creating and editing schematic designs, a PCB Editor for making professional PCB layouts with up to 32 copper layers, and a 3D viewer which can be used to inspect the design in a 3D form. Unlike Eagle, KiCAD is entirely free, and no paywall is needed to use some of its features.

2.     What is ORCAD?

ORCAD is the EDA software developed by ORCAD in the late 1980s. It is as old as protel,but it is worse even than Protel. However, ORCAD’s principle enjoys great fame in the industry since its friendly user face, simply operation fuction, and strong function of simulation. Based on the input of the schematic diagram, a powerful component information system is added, which can be used to create, track and authenticate components, which is convenient for the reuse of the optimized library and the existing component library. Comparing to DX designer, I vote for Orcad. But DX designer has a better management function, better-integrated environment.

3.     What is PCB Artist?

Advanced Circuits is the leading PCB manufacturer with the industry’s largest active customer database and best on-time shipping record. Their PCB Artist is a reliable software tool for electronics engineers looking for an intuitive, easy to use solution. Electronics engineers also choose PCB Artist because it helps save time and money.

Key Features:

·  Components Library of more than 500,000 parts

·  Free Gerber format files

·  Integrated schematics

·  Parts list reports in CSV

·  Design rule check error report and between selected items

4.     What is DipTrace?

DipTrace is one of the most affordable and simple programs available, ideal for hobbyists but less suitable for professionals or complex schematics.

If you’re looking for something basic to get a 2-4 layer board made and some thru-hole or bulky surface mount components or are just starting out, DipTrace is a good start. It’s very intuitive with a low learning curve, but is limited in ability.

DipTrace features include:

·  Schematic capture with components linked to a library, an electrical rule check, and some importing/exporting functionality to trade files between other CAD programs.

·  PCB layout with a project menu linking the library, schematic, PCB, and a pattern editor, drag ‘n’ drop placement, fanout for BGAs and such, and an auto-router that works fairly well. It also has some 3D features if you decide to use STEP files.

·  A decent library editor that allows creation of patterns, schematic components, PCB footprints, and even 3D models.

·  Good support and tutorials available. It’s popular enough that if you have a question, chances are someone else had the same question and it can be looked up in an online forum.

5.     What is PartSim?

PartSim is a free and easy to use circuit simulator that includes a full SPICE simulation engine, web-based schematic capture tool, a graphical waveform viewer, and Digi-Key that runs in your web browser. PartSim consists of an integrated Bill-Of-Materials manager that lets you assign Digi-Key Part Numbers to your models.

Features:

·  SPICE Simulator

·  AC/DC/Transient Sims

·  Waveform Viewer

6.     What is Autodesk Circuits?

Autodesk Circuits empowers you to bring your ideas to life with free, easy to use online tools.If you are a beginner, you can start with simple experiments in the Electronics Lab or Circuit Scribe. Experienced users can skip ahead and go straight to PCB Design.

·  Simulate and program Arduino and breadboard components

·  Use standard modules to build complex circuits

·  Create and explore circuits then export to PCB design software

7.     What is Osmond PCB?

The designers of Osmond PCB promise flexible features. To live up to this promise, they have created software that allows users to use either Metric or Imperial units. Both units can also be used in the same design. The tool’s integrated Parts Editor makes it easy to alter existing parts or define new types of parts.  

Osmond PCB is an excellent program because it doesn’t come with any restrictions. This means that you can design boards of any size and with whatever number of layers you want. Once you are done with the design, Osmond provides the tools to help you check whether the finished product meets all specified design rules.  

Wanna know PCB knowledge? Check and read for more.