DipTrace

Automated end-to-end design system for electrical circuits and printed circuit board layout.

Simple and user-friendly, DipTrace requires no learning curve and is ideal for small-scale DIY projects. The program consists of the following modules: Schematic (for creating multi-sheet, multi-level schematics with a built-in, basic simulator), PCB Layout (for designing boards using manual or automatic routing and systems for optimizing component placement and board dimensions), Pattern Editor, and Component Editor (for editing packages and components, respectively). DipTrace contains a minimal number of controls; editable objects are highlighted during operation, allowing for a clear overview. Changing one element of the schematic or board affects all dependent objects. The autorouter handles complex multi-layer boards with various types of radio components well, and support for Specctra DSN/SES files allows for the integration of a third-party routing tool. The program performs numerous design checks (for new elements in the library, the validity and integrity of connections, clearances, and dimensions) at various stages of development, allowing for the detection and correction of errors on the fly. Creating a SPICE netlist allows you to simulate your design on any external simulator. Export/import functions allow you to continue working in other applications (P-CAD, PADS, OrCAD, Eagle), as well as use netlists from Accel, Mentor, Allegro, Tango, and Protel. DipTrace exports boards to the necessary manufacturing formats: DXF, Gerber RS-274X (with support for TrueType fonts and raster monochrome images), and Excellon N/C Drill. The program’s standard libraries include over 100,000 components from leading manufacturers, and its user-friendly development tools allow you to manufacture electronic components of any size and complexity in minutes. A set of 3D enclosure models allows you to create a rotatable 3D image of the final product’s appearance.

Since DipTrace was developed by Russian programmers and electronics engineers, it’s only natural that the program itself, the tutorial, the help file, and other supplementary materials are all in Russian. DipTrace was created by specialists at Novarm LLC and is distributed in Russia through its partner, Softline CJSC.

In addition to the maximum version of DipTrace Full, there are Extended, Standard, Lite, and Starter versions, each with different numbers of available pins, signal layers, and, of course, price. To evaluate the program’s capabilities, you can download a 30-day trial version. It also includes a Russian-language translation of the program, an expanded library of 3D case models, and a detailed manual from the manufacturer in Russian, which walks you through all the steps of board development. A special free version, DipTrace Freeware, is also available, limited to 300 pins and two layers.

DipTrace runs on the following operating systems: Linux (Wine), Mac OS and Windows NT, 2000, XP, Vista, 7 (32- and 64-bit), 8. The manufacturer does not recommend running the package on Windows 95, 98 and ME.

Program distribution: Freeware (free with restrictions) and Shareware (paid), price – from 600 rubles

DipTrace official website: http://www.diptrace.com/rus

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