Do you currently use PCB design software in your workplace or when you are at home working on your own personal tech products? There are a few different packages to choose from with two of the most popular being Altium and Eagle – but which is better?
If you are currently a user of Eagle, then you should keep reading as we are going to tell you why you should make the switch to a new software package like Altium Designer. Find out more below.
Contents
Great Schematic Tools
When it comes to PCB design, Eagle is not the best on the market. One of the reasons for this is that it doesn’t come with state of the art schematic tools that will give your project the boost it needs. The schematic is one of the most important parts of the project so make sure to make the switch if you want to improve yours.
Free Download
Everyone knows that switching can be scary, especially when you don’t know if you are going to like the product. The great thing about switching to a new PCB design software like Altium is that you can actually get a free download. This means that you can test out the product and figure out if it is right for you. Then, you’ll make the switch as someone who is informed.
Unified Environment
One of the problems with the PCB design software Eagle is that the whole environment is not unified. You might need to switch between tools and programs in order to get your project completed and this can cause further problems. Having a unified environment can really improve your project overall so if you want to achieve this then you should switch to a new PCB design software.
Simulations
Another reason to make the switch from Eagle to Altium is that you can now run simulations. This means that you can see your project come to life and identify any sort of issues from the very beginning. Simulations can be very beneficial across many different kinds of projects and this is definitely the case in PCB design.
Auto Routing
Finally, you will find that newer PCB design software comes with auto-routing tools that will improve your board overall. This means that you can make everything as accurate as possible and get your project completed on time. Auto routing is very important so make sure to look out for this feature.
Conclusion
It can be easy to become comfortable with the package that you are using for your PCB design, but this is not always the best way to operate. If you are thinking about making the switch, then make sure to consider everything that we have discussed in this article. Look at the tools that are on offer and utilise a free download if you can. Altium is the future of PCB design with Eagle soon being left behind.
