Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are created by layering insulating material and electrical conductors. The circuit boards are either single or multiple sided. PCB design tools allow designers to create the layouts for these boards. While there are some free PCB design software programs, most of these programs require a fee to use.
FreePCB
FreePCB is an open-source program, which means that a community of designers work on these projects. FreePCB is compatible with Microsoft Windows. The program operates under the GNU General Public License, which means that users can share and manipulate the program as they see fit. The target audience for this software program is beginners, but it does have some advanced features that professionals can use. Users can create boards with up to 16 copper layers and boards up to 60x60 inches. The system features autosave, which automatically saves a user's work as he is working. The program also comes with both a Footprint Wizard and Footprint Editor. This way, users can quickly create and edit footprints (data for component parts). The system comes with a user guide to help new users.
ExpressPCB
The target audience for ExpressPCB is new designers. The program is free to use the design software, but users must pay for the circuit boards if they decide to manufacture them. Users can design either a two- or four-layer board. ExpressPCB uses a drop-and-drag design interface, which allows users to drop in component footprints; users simply drag them into place. Individual components (pins) are connected using a drawing tool. The program can also point out pins that should be connected, which will show up in blue. The system uses a graphical user interface (GUI) to allow beginners to create designs without ever having to write code.
EAGLE Version 5.10
The EAGLE tool is compatible with the three major operating systems: Linux, Mac and Windows. While users must buy the full version, a freeware version is available that allows users to create simple designs for free. The system uses a graphical user interface and a PCB wizard. When a user starts a new project, a window will open up with an outline based on the default settings. This tool uses a drag-and-drop feature to pick up and move components to their correct location. Users can also select and move multiple components. Users have the choice to route their own signals (lines between components) using the Route command, or they can let the software do it via the Autorouter command.
