DesignSpark PCB

DesignSpark PCB

DesignSpark
eCADSTAR

eCADSTAR

Zuken
+
+

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About

Our free DesignSpark PCB is here to help your company explore more design options, leading to increased innovation. At the core of this unique software is a powerful software engine that enables you to capture schematics and design PCB boards and layouts. Our range of free-of-charge design tools and resources take your brightest ideas all the way through to final production. Whether you're looking for a design alone tool, a range of technical information, a complete design ecosystem, our complete suite can be integrated seamlessly into your existing design workflow. Be free when creating your schematic, there is no limitation on your schematic size or number of your schematic sheets. Feel free to use as many layers as you need on your next PCB design. There are no limits on the maximum number of nodes or pads and no restriction on the number of connections. The maximum size your PCB can be is 1m X 1m.

About

Companies today are faced with complex design challenges and tight budgets. eCADSTAR is more than a PCB layout tool with simulation, 3D MCAD integration, and wire harness support all built on the latest technology for enterprise-level performance at an affordable cost. The modern intuitive UI makes eCADSTAR a compelling solution for all designers. Leverage eCADSTAR’s design capabilities to simplify and accelerate the design process. With the digitally connected library, intuitive schematic capture, and tools to accelerate PCB layout engineers spend less time manipulating the tool and more time doing what they do best, innovate creative solutions for today’s technological challenges. One of the most time-consuming parts of the design process is the test plan. The validation process can be costly in terms of time and money without adequate upfront simulation. eCADSTAR’s capabilities in Spice simulation and SI/PI analysis delivers test cycle time reductions.

Platforms Supported

Windows Supported
Mac Not Supported
Linux Not Supported
Cloud Supported
On-Premises Not Supported
iPhone Not Supported
iPad Not Supported
Android Not Supported
Chromebook Not Supported

Platforms Supported

Windows Not Supported
Mac Not Supported
Linux Not Supported
Cloud Supported
On-Premises Not Supported
iPhone Not Supported
iPad Not Supported
Android Not Supported
Chromebook Not Supported

Audience

Companies interested in a free PCB solution to capture schematics and design PCB boards and layouts

Audience

Designers and professionals in need of a solution to simplify and accelerate their design processes

Support

Phone Support Not Supported
24/7 Live Support Not Supported
Online Supported

Support

Phone Support Supported
24/7 Live Support Supported
Online Supported

API

Offers API Not Supported

API

Offers API Not Supported

Screenshots and Videos

Screenshots and Videos

Pricing

No information available.
Free Version Not Supported
Free Trial Not Supported

Pricing

$3,995 one-time payment
Free Version Not Supported
Free Trial Not Supported

Reviews/Ratings

Overall 4.0 / 5
ease 5.0 / 5
features 4.0 / 5
design 4.0 / 5
support 3.0 / 5

Reviews/Ratings

Overall 1.0 / 5
ease 1.0 / 5
features 2.0 / 5
design 1.0 / 5
support 2.0 / 5

Pros & Cons from Real Users

Pros

  • DS PCB came from EasyPC, an already established EDA development company. The product was commercialized and rapidly improved over time, primarily targeting hobbyists and small businesses. The transition to RS Components as a "freeware" version and "PRO" offering (<$500 USD perpetual license) is seamless, as are integration features with Designspark Mech and Electrical packages. Exporting 3D files and importing into other RS Component applications is what I like most. DS PCB has EDA power for low to mid range development applications. If computational/algorithmic power is needed (high end signal analysis, simulation, thermal FSA) using 3rd party software is an option. 16 layer, blind vias, enhanced DRC, onboard signal analysis calculators also come with the package. The UI and menu organization has been simplified, easy steps to create parts and libraries, or importing from a global components database exists, the navigation of the product is easy to remember and use. Bugs, design improvements, fixes are seamless to the use, since this product is commercialized, a team of developers/programmers maintain this product regularly.

Cons

  • Autorouting for any EDA (I also use Altium) is a bear and not as computationally smart as I would like. Not too many option s for quick key short cuts for various menu items, but not an issue if one is more visually connected to their work. No integration to SPICE simulation programs. No integration to computational FSA tools. Lack of multi user collaboration tools.

Pros & Cons from Real Users

Pros

  • It is very hard to give any pros to this product as every aspect of this SW I've seen better done in other PCB design CADs, even free ones.

Cons

  • - Each design is in fact a database, which means that collaboration is possible only if design files are opened from network location, which at the same time makes this CAD very slow and unstable. At the same time no repository is supported. Forget about downloading whole design each time, as whole project can be vey heavy. - Only one library can be open at a time AND you cannot change component values from the schematic. Which means that changing a resistor value requires: open library, make new component, load that library into the design (if you are prohibited to use your own library only by your company), restart app, replace old resistor with new component. - grid settings are crazy, you cannot cycle grid or change it on the fly. (just to list a few examples)

Training

Documentation Supported
Webinars Not Supported
Live Online Not Supported
In Person Not Supported

Training

Documentation Supported
Webinars Supported
Live Online Supported
In Person Supported

Company Information

DesignSpark
Founded: 2010
United Kingdom
www.rs-online.com/designspark/pcb-software

Company Information

Zuken
Founded: 1976
Germany
www.zuken.com/us/product/ecadstar/

Alternatives

Autodesk EAGLE

Autodesk EAGLE

Autodesk

Alternatives

OrCAD X

OrCAD X

Cadence Design Systems
MPLAB Mindi Analog Simulator

MPLAB Mindi Analog Simulator

Microchip Technology

Categories

Categories

Integrations

Pulsonix Not Supported

Integrations

Pulsonix Supported
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Claim DesignSpark PCB and update features and information
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Claim eCADSTAR and update features and information