Topic about autoroute in PCB designing

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the use of autoroute features in PCB design, particularly contrasting free software with premium options. Users generally find that free PCB layout tools like PCB123, ExpressPCB, and PCBArtist offer subpar autorouting capabilities, making manual routing preferable for simpler boards. In contrast, advanced software such as PADS provides effective autorouting that can be refined post-automation. The conversation also touches on the autorouting functionalities in Cadence and Altium Designer, suggesting that these tools may offer better performance for complex designs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of PCB design principles
  • Familiarity with PCB layout software (e.g., PADS, Altium Designer)
  • Knowledge of manual routing techniques
  • Experience with autorouting features in various PCB tools
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the autorouting capabilities of Altium Designer
  • Explore advanced features of PADS for complex PCB designs
  • Learn manual routing techniques for effective trace management
  • Compare free PCB layout software options for specific use cases
USEFUL FOR

PCB designers, electrical engineers, and hobbyists looking to optimize their PCB layout processes and understand the trade-offs between autorouting and manual routing techniques.

adream307
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Hi everyone:
I am new to PCB design, I want to how know often do you use autoroute, or just route the trace manually.
Someone tell me that, they route most of the traces automatically and then modify it manually.
Thanks
 
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It really depends on the scope of the board and the software you are using. All the free PCB layout software I have used have rubbish auto-routing features. Though more expensive software such as PADS have respectable auto-routing features that you could go back and correct any problems you see.

If you are just making a simple 2-8 layer board with free PCB software (PCB123, ExpressPCB, PCBArtist) I would recommend routing it yourself, it can be a rewarding experience. If you are making a much denser more complex board in software such as PADS I would recommend letting the auto-router have a go at it and then look over it.

Hope this helps!
 
crono1009 said:
It really depends on the scope of the board and the software you are using. All the free PCB layout software I have used have rubbish auto-routing features. Though more expensive software such as PADS have respectable auto-routing features that you could go back and correct any problems you see.

If you are just making a simple 2-8 layer board with free PCB software (PCB123, ExpressPCB, PCBArtist) I would recommend routing it yourself, it can be a rewarding experience. If you are making a much denser more complex board in software such as PADS I would recommend letting the auto-router have a go at it and then look over it.

Hope this helps!
Thanks
How do you think about the auto-router in Cadance and Altium Designer
 

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