Design Tools
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Bay Area Circuits offers several free design tools, some online and others downloadable, that can be useful to any level of circuit designer. Below is a list, with links, of all design tools offered and the typical users.
If you are in a pinch and need to outsource your design, please see our PCB layout services.
Array Calculator
For all PCB designers
This online tool generates an array drawing based on your board dimensions, target array size, and board spacing.
Link to Bay Area Circuits Array Calculator
Instant DFM
For all PCB designers without CAM software
Check your design for any manufacturing difficulties prior to submitting your files for quote or order. This service is NOT the same as a CAD design rule check (DRC); a design for manufacture system checks your actual output against manufacturing rules, the same way that the manufacturer will.
Link to InstantDFM
DXF to Gerber Conversion Guide
For designers who do not have PCB-specific CAD software, or who need need features on their board that cannot be easily drawn in a PCB CAD software
Upload a DXF file for conversion
DXF to Gerber Conversion Guide
Panelization Calculator
For PCB designers and buyers
Calculate number of boards per manufacturing panel by inputting simple dimensions and the PCB panel size
Link to Bay Area Circuits Panelizer Tool
PCB Design Tool
For beginning PCB designers
A free PCB design software, including schematic capture, component libraries, and PCB layout.
Link to PCB Creator
Gerber Viewer
For PCB designers whose CAD package does not include a Gerber viewer
View the files your CAD software outputs as your manufacturer will see them.
Link to Bay Area Circuits Gerber Viewer
If you are in a pinch and need to outsource your design, please see our PCB layout services.
Array Calculator
For all PCB designers
This online tool generates an array drawing based on your board dimensions, target array size, and board spacing.
Link to Bay Area Circuits Array Calculator
Instant DFM
For all PCB designers without CAM software
Check your design for any manufacturing difficulties prior to submitting your files for quote or order. This service is NOT the same as a CAD design rule check (DRC); a design for manufacture system checks your actual output against manufacturing rules, the same way that the manufacturer will.
Link to InstantDFM
DXF to Gerber Conversion Guide
For designers who do not have PCB-specific CAD software, or who need need features on their board that cannot be easily drawn in a PCB CAD software
Upload a DXF file for conversion
DXF to Gerber Conversion Guide
Panelization Calculator
For PCB designers and buyers
Calculate number of boards per manufacturing panel by inputting simple dimensions and the PCB panel size
Link to Bay Area Circuits Panelizer Tool
PCB Design Tool
For beginning PCB designers
A free PCB design software, including schematic capture, component libraries, and PCB layout.
Link to PCB Creator
Gerber Viewer
For PCB designers whose CAD package does not include a Gerber viewer
View the files your CAD software outputs as your manufacturer will see them.
Link to Bay Area Circuits Gerber Viewer