ExpressPCB is a CAD (computer aided design) software designed to help you create layouts for printed circuit boards. The program can be really useful for engineers but also students that need to create PCB's for personal projects.
It is free to use and the interface allows you to get accustomed to its functions while designing the first PCB layout. The first step in order to create a fresh PCB is to have a good knowledge of its purpose and the electronic components that you need on it. You should figure that out before starting to design the circuit board.
Next you need to select the board that can accommodate all the components and the number of copper layers. The application includes a few templates to get you started. After this you should add all the electronic components by selecting them from the available list and placing them on the board.
If you are not sure about the component name you can use the Component Manager that provides the list with all the available components and the preview of each item. You can also design you own custom components if you need something that is not available in the program.
When all the components are added you need to arrange them in order to fit all of them on the board. The program allows you to drag and drop the components, to rotate them and to group certain items that need to stay together.
Some of the components need to be connected and the application enables you to create all the connections required for a fully functional PCB. You can add text to the board in order to define a certain area or name a component.
After you have finished the PC board the program is able to export the output as a mechanical drawing file or an image file. These might be enough for the user that are just trying out a board layout. However, you can use Layout menu to estimate the cost and the shipping time of the board if you need the actual PCB.
ExpressPCB has all the required functions to design a computer board. You should try this program if you need to design or even to order PC boards.
