Date: 20/01/2012

CAD app generates complex PCB footprint models

EMA Design Automation says its new FootprintGen - an app which accurately automates the generation of complex PCB footprint (land pattern) models in a fraction of the time compared to typical manual methods. Both user-defined and the IPC-7351 standard settings are fully supported across a broad range of component families.

"Footprint creation is a constant challenge for PCB designers," said Manny Marcano,
president and CEO of EMA. "Today's complex components have upwards of 2,000 pins
or more, many with unique pad stack configurations, specific corporate drafting
specifications, and manufacturing requirements. FootprintGen simplifies the task and
saves designers critical project time."

The set of component families supported includes BGA, CHIP, CHIPARRAY, DIP, LCC, LGA, PLCC, QFN, QFP, SOJ, and SOP.

FootprintGen supports multiple user settings with user configurable line and text widths for solder mask, assembly, pad, and other layers. Designers can select from D-shape, EMA's footprint generation tool with Allegro PCB Editor oblong, or rectangular pad shapes, or they can customize a specific pad shape with rounding or chamfering specifications. Pad stacks are user configurable and can be assigned to unique locations including corner pads or specific row/column positions.

FootprintGen integrates with popular PCB board design softwares such as Cadenc OrCAD and Allegro PCB design solutions, complementing existing apps including SymbolGen. Using FootprintGen, PCB footprint models can be verified and correlated to the schematic symbol models, immediately identifying any errors or discrepancies.

FootprintGen is available for $999 from the OrCAD Capture Marketplace, where OrCAD users worldwide can download free and paid apps to add functionality and customize their OrCAD products. For more info visit www.emaeda.com/orcadapps