Diptrace Software User Manual

Diptrace is a comprehensive EDA (Electronic Design Automation) software suite for creating schematic diagrams and printed circuit boards (PCBs). It features schematic capture, PCB layout, component library management, autorouting, 3D visualization, and support for various output formats. Below are key sections covering installation, features, workflow, tools, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting with Other Tools 7. Working with Projects 8. Accessibility Features 9. Maintenance & Updates 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Schematic Editor, PCB Layout, Component Editor, Pattern Editor, Autorouter, 3D Viewer.

Feature	Description
Schematic Editor	Create and edit electronic circuit diagrams
PCB Layout	Design multi-layer printed circuit boards
Component Editor	Create and modify component libraries
Pattern Editor	Design PCB footprints and patterns
Autorouter	Automatic routing of PCB traces
3D Viewer	Visualize PCB designs in 3D
Design Rule Check	Verify design integrity and manufacturability
Netlist Import/Export	Compatibility with other EDA tools
Gerber Output	Generate manufacturing files
Bill of Materials	Generate component lists

Installation

Download and install Diptrace software package.

System Requirements: Check minimum system requirements for your version.
Download: Obtain installer from official Diptrace website.
Run Installer: Follow installation wizard prompts.
License Activation: Enter license key if applicable.
Complete Installation: Restart computer if required.

WARNING! Ensure adequate disk space and administrative privileges for installation.

First-Time Setup

Launch Diptrace; configure initial settings.

Workspace Setup: Choose default workspace layout and toolbars.
Library Management: Load standard component libraries.
Grid Settings: Configure measurement units and grid spacing.
Design Rules: Set up default design rules for PCB projects.
Template Selection: Choose project templates for new designs.

CAUTION! Save configuration settings to avoid reconfiguration.

Specifications

Platform: Windows, Linux
License Types: Freeware, Non-profit, Commercial
Maximum Layers: Up to 64 signal layers (depending on license)
Maximum Pins: Up to 1000 pins per component
Supported Formats: DXF, Gerber, Excellon, Netlist, STEP
Grid Resolution: Down to 0.1 mil (0.00254 mm)
Autorouting: Shape-based and grid-based algorithms
3D Models: Support for STEP and VRML formats
Design Rules: Customizable clearance and width rules

Controls and Settings

Access tools via main menu, toolbars, or keyboard shortcuts.

Main Toolbar: New, Open, Save, Print, Undo, Redo, Zoom, Grid Settings.

Schematic: Place components, wires, buses, ports, net labels. PCB Layout: Place tracks, vias, pads, copper pours, dimensions. Common Settings: Units (mm/mil), grid size, snap settings, layer management. Design Rules: Clearances, track widths, via sizes, pad shapes.

Connecting with Other Tools

Import/export compatibility with various EDA formats.

Netlist Import: Import from other schematic tools.
Gerber Export: Generate manufacturing files for PCB fabrication.
DXF Import/Export: Exchange mechanical data with CAD software.
3D Model Import: Import STEP models for component visualization.
Library Conversion: Convert libraries from other EDA formats.

Tip: Verify imported data integrity before proceeding with design.

Working with Projects

Complete design workflow from schematic to PCB.

Schematic Design: Create circuit diagram using component libraries.
Component Placement: Arrange components on PCB layout.
Routing: Manual or automatic routing of connections.
Design Rule Check: Verify design against manufacturing rules.
3D Visualization: Check mechanical fit and appearance.
Output Generation: Create Gerber, drill files, and documentation.
Bill of Materials: Generate component list for procurement.

WARNING! Always run DRC before generating manufacturing files.

Accessibility Features

Keyboard Shortcuts: Customizable hotkeys for frequent operations. High Contrast Themes: Improved visibility options. Zoom and Pan: Flexible viewing controls for detailed work.

Maintenance & Updates

Regularly check for software updates and maintain component libraries.

CAUTION! Backup projects and libraries before updating software.

Regulatory Information

Diptrace software complies with international software standards. Copyright © Novarm Ltd. All trademarks are property of their respective owners. For technical support, visit www.diptrace.com or contact support through the official website.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Software won't start	Corrupted installation	Reinstall software; check system requirements.
Components missing	Library not loaded	Load required libraries; check library paths.
DRC errors	Design rule violations	Adjust clearances; modify track widths.
Autorouter fails	Insufficient space	Increase board size; adjust component placement.
Export errors	File format issues	Verify export settings; check file permissions.

Reset: Restore default settings through preferences menu.

Support: www.diptrace.com; official support forums