If you like to dabble in PCB design software then you should always make sure that you have the best design software possible. This will allow you to always be certain that you can create the best PCB designs that you can.
Being held back by your software is something you should try to avoid if you can. Worried that your PCB software is not up to scratch? Here are some signs that you should upgrade.
1. You Are Using An Older System
There are many systems out there on the market which people try to hold out on for years simply because they were once top-of-the-line. This could be the case for something like PADS.
The PADS PCB layout was the industry standard for many years but there are now much better alternatives out there which receive regular support.
While it can be difficult to let go of something you have used for many years, you need to be able to recognise that there might be something better out there.
For example, Altium is one of the best PCB softwares on the market, and it receives regular updates and support to ensure that it can remain that way.
2. You Don’t Find Your Current Software Intuitive
PCB design is so often called an art rather than a science, and as a designer, you need to be able to change things easily. Your software should be intuitive to use and you should be able to search for any tools you might need easily.
If you have always found an aspect of your PCB software difficult to use then this is an excellent indicator that you need a new one. Don’t let the software itself hold you back from completing a difficult design.
Any frustration should be directed at the design itself and not the capabilities of the technology you are using. If you think it is the software which is holding you back, this is a sure sign that you should upgrade.
3. The Component Library Is Frustrating to Use
The component library is one of the most important databases you will have access to as a designer and it needs to be able to meet your needs. This means that it should update with new components as they are released, and it should also have the capabilities for you to design and store custom components as you need them.
It is supposed to be a help and not a hindrance. If you feel like the component library is never able to meet your needs, you should definitely think about finding a software which can support them. There are many great software solutions out there which have a brilliant component library attached and these might be able to help you.
PCB design software should always be easy and intuitive to use. If you feel like yours is letting you down, you should definitely think about searching for a new solution. There might be a system out there which is much easier for you to use.
