15 Apr
2004
15 Apr
'04
4:04 a.m.
steve> I found this to be the case too, creating
libraires and
steve> getting around the weird quirks some of the CAD programs have
steve> takes LOTS of time.
I've watched engineers using high priced industrial CAD tools take
lots of time for this (so much that it's often contracted out).
On the other hand, I found the process with Eagle CAD to be both very
painless and very quick. Once I had the program for laying down the
SMD pad pattern, I could create a complete library entry for a 120-pin
ASIC in just an hour or so.
I think this is one of the things that makes or breaks the usability of CAD
software.
I was able to design library parts for a number of Gxxx, Mxxx, and Wxxx DEC
modules (needed for the TC08 dectape controller) in just a little over a day
with the Eagle CAD software. These parts need very elaborate symbol views
(essentially logic diagrams, needed to make the schematics that use them
readable).
Vince