FreePCB free, open-source PCB editor

[Lester]

I was looking for some free PCB design software for the client who purchased our LPKF machine and I came accross this. It seems to work quite well and there is a good level of user support via the forum.

FreePCB is a free, open-source PCB editor for Microsoft Windows, released under the GNU General Public License. It was designed to be easy to learn and easy to use, yet capable of professional-quality work. It does not have a built-in autorouter, but it can use the FreeRoute web-based autorouter at www.freerouting.net. Some of its features are:

* 1 to 16 copper layers
* Board size up to 60 inches by 60 inches
* Uses English or metric units (i.e. mils or mm) for most functions.
* Footprint libraries courtesy of Ivex Design International Inc.
* Copper fill areas
* Footprint Wizard and Footprint Editor for creating or modifying footprints
* Imports and exports PADS-PCB netlists
* Exports extended Gerber files (RS274X) and Excellon drill files
* Design rule checker
* Autosave

[Tim]

Another Free cad system is KiCad

http://www.lis.inpg.fr/realise_au_lis/kicad/

[fanie]

Tim, I have had a look at KiCad. I must admit that it will drive me nuts. Too many clicks to get something done. The download is big and for some reason was very slow.

[Tim]

I agree I will never use it.

Isis/Areas I find very good

[fanie]

FreePCB has some missing .dll No can open.