Ultiboard 7 User Guide

ultiBOARD 7
PCB Layout
User Guide
Ultiboard, Multicap, Multisim and Electronics Workbench copyright 1989, 1992-2003 Interactive Image Technologies Ltd. All rights reserved. All other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or organizations.
2003 Interactive Image Technologies Ltd. All rights reserved. Published November 2003. Printed in Canada.
Part # UB7-E-1723 Rev. 1
Preface
Congratulations on choosing Ultiboard 7 from Electronics Workbench. We are confident that it will deliver years of increased productivity and superior board designs. Electronics Workbench is the worlds leading supplier of circuit design tools. Our products are used by more customers than those of any other EDA vendor, so we are sure you will be pleased with the value delivered by Ultiboard 7, and any other Electronics Workbench products you may select.
About this User Guide

This user guide contains a general introduction to Ultiboard 7, an overview of the interface, and a series of sections that explain common functions. This is not a tutorial guide. For installation and configuration procedures as well as an introductory tutorial on the primary steps to follow when using Ultiboard 7, see the Ultiboard 7 Getting Started and Tutorial Guide. The contents of this user guide are also available electronically as a PDF file (UltiboardUserGuide.pdf). Online help is also available use the Help menu or press F1 from a screen for information on that specific screen. This user guide applies to all versions of Ultiboard 7. Functions that are available only in some versions are clearly marked with an icon in the left margin.
User Guide Conventions

For the purposes of illustration, most images in this guide are shown with black lines on a white background. In the product itself, screens show colored lines on a black background. This user guide uses the convention Menu/Item to indicate menu commands. For example, File/Open means choose the Open command from the File menu. When this user guide refers to a toolbar button, an image of the button appears in the left column. When this user guide says to click, it means to single-click the left mouse button. Right-clicks are clearly identified. When this user guide refers to a context menu, it means the menu that pops up when you right-click on an element on the screen. When this user guide says drag, it means to click and hold the left mouse button as you move the mouse.
License Agreement
Please read the license agreement included in the Ultiboard 7 Getting Started and Tutorial Guide carefully before installing and using the software contained in this package. By installing and using the software, you are agreeing to be bound by the terms of this license. If you do not agree to the terms of this license, simply return the unused software within thirty days to the place where you obtained it and your money will be refunded.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
1.1 1.2 1.3 About this Document . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1 What is Ultiboard 7? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 Ultiboard 7 Features Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
2. User Interface
2.1 Elements of the Ultiboard 7 User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3 2.1.1 Menus and Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 2.1.2 Birds Eye View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 2.1.3 3D Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 2.1.4 Design Toolbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6 2.1.5 Workspace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 2.1.6 Overview of Spreadsheet View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 2.1.7 Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8 2.1.8 Default Toolbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8 2.1.9 Additional Toolbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11 Common Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 2.2.2 Moving Selected Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 2.2.3 Using Selection Filters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17 2.2.4 Working with Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18 2.2.5 Searching for Design Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-18 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-19 Customizing the Ultiboard 7 User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21 2.3.1 Rearranging User Interface Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21 2.3.2 Customizing Menus and Toolbars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-22 2.3.3 Changing Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-31 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving . . . . . . . . 2-32 2.3.5 Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files . . . . . . . . . 2-34 2.3.6 Setting 3D Viewer Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-35
2.2
2.3
Ultiboard 7 User Guide
2.3.7 2.4
Showing/Hiding the Grid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-35
Spreadsheet View Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-35 2.4.1 Spreadsheet View: Errors Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-36 2.4.2 Spreadsheet View: Results Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-37 2.4.3 Spreadsheet View: Parts Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-38 2.4.4 Spreadsheet View: Part Groups Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-39 2.4.5 Spreadsheet View: Nets Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-40 2.4.6 Spreadsheet View: Nets Group Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-42 2.4.7 Spreadsheet View: SMT Pad Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43 2.4.8 Spreadsheet View: THT Pad Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44 2.4.9 Spreadsheet View: Via Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-46 2.4.10 Spreadsheet View: Copper Area Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-47 2.4.11 Spreadsheet View: Keepin/out Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-48 2.4.12 Spreadsheet View: Layers Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-49 2.4.13 Spreadsheet View: Statistics Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-49
3. Beginning a Design
3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 About Designs and Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-1 Creating a Design File and/or Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2 Creating a Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-2 Creating a Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3 Creating by Importing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 3.5.1 Understanding .net and .plc files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 3.5.2 Loading Technology Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5 Working with Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-6 Opening an Existing Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-7 Saving and Closing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-8 3.8.1 Saving Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-8
3.6 3.7 3.8
4. Setting Up a Design
4.1 Working with Layers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-2
ii
Electronics Workbench
4.1.2 4.2
Accessing Layers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Working with the Board Outline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 4.2.1 Using the Drawing Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 4.2.2 Importing a DXF File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6 4.2.3 Using a Pre-Defined Outline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7 Setting the Boards Reference Point. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11 Setting up the Boards Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 4.4.1 A General Introduction to Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 4.4.2 Working with Attributes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12 4.4.3 Using the Attribute dialog box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13 4.4.4 About Board Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15 4.4.5 Grids and Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-16 4.4.6 Board Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 4.4.7 General Layers Set-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20 Setting Default Elements for the Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.5.1 Setting Board Defaults. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24 4-25 4-26 4-27
4.3 4.4
4.5
4.6
Working with the Group Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
5. Working with Parts

5.1 Placing Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1.1 Dragging Components from Outside the Board Outline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1.2 Using the Parts Tab in the Spreadsheet View. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Viewing and Editing Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.2.1 Viewing and Editing Component Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.2.2 Viewing and Editing Attributes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.2.3 Viewing and Editing Shape Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Placing Other Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.3.1 Placing Mounting Holes and Connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.3.2 Placing Shapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.3.3 Working with Jumpers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 5-2 5-3 5-5
5.2
5-14 5-14 5-21 5-23 5-24 5-25 5-25 5-26
5.3
iii
5.3.4 5.3.5 5.4 5.5
Working with Test Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-28 Working with Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-29
Placing Parts from the Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-33 Editing Components and Shapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-34 5.5.2 Editing a Polygon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-35 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-36 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-38 Searching For and Replacing Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-41 5.6.1 Searching for Parts in Open Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-41 5.6.2 Locating a Part in a Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-42 5.6.3 Replacing Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-43 Cross-probing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-44 Creating New Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-44 5.8.1 Using the Library Manager to Create a Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-44 5.8.2 Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-46 Managing the Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-53 5.9.1 Working with Library Categories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-55 5.9.2 Adding Parts to the Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-57
5.6
5.7 5.8
5.9
6. Working with Traces and Copper

6.1 Placing Traces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-2 6.1.1 Working with Traces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 6.1.2 Placing a Trace: Manual Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3 6.1.3 Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4 6.1.4 Placing a Trace: Connection Machine Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-4 6.1.5 Placing a Bus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-5 6.1.6 Working with Density Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-6 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-8 6.1.8 Equi-Spacing Traces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-9 6.1.9 Deleting a Trace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-10 Working with Other Copper Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11 6.2.2 Placing Powerplanes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-11 6.2.3 Splitting Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-12
6.2
iv
6.2.4 6.2.5 6.2.6 6.3 6.4
Converting a Copper Shape to an Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-12 Deleting All Copper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-13 Adding Teardrops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-14
Viewing and Editing Copper Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15 Working with Vias . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-16 6.4.1 Placing Vias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-16 6.4.2 Viewing and Editing Via Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-18 Placing SMD Fanouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-20 Working with Nets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21 6.6.1 Using the Nets Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-21 6.6.2 Using the Netlist Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-23 6.6.3 Highlighting a Net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35 Swapping Pins and Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35 6.7.1 Swapping Pins. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-36 6.7.2 Swapping Gates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-36 6.7.3 Automatic Pin/Gate Swapping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38 6.7.4 Real-Time Pin/Gate Swapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-39
6.5 6.6
6.7
7. Autorouting
7.1 Using the Internal Autorouter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 7.1.1 About the Internal Autorouter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2 7.1.2 Pre-routing Traces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2 7.1.3 Running the Internal Autorouter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 7.1.4 Internal Autorouter Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4 An Introduction to Ultiroute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
7.2
8. Preparing for Manufacturing/Assembly

8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 Placing and Editing Text . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-2 Renumbering Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3 Backannotation to Multisim/Multicap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4 Mitering Corners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
8.5 8.6
Manually Re-Running the Design Rules and Netlist Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6 Cleaning up the Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6 8.6.1 Deleting Open Trace Ends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6 8.6.2 Deleting Unused Vias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6 Exporting a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-6 8.7.1 Using Export Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-8 8.7.2 Viewing and Editing Export Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 8.7.3 Exporting a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-16 Printing your Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-17 Previewing the Printed Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-18
8.7
8.8 8.9
9. Viewing Designs in 3D
9.1 9.2 9.3 Setting 3D Viewer Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-2 Viewing the Board in 3D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-4 Manipulating the 3D View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-5 9.3.1 Controlling the Elements Viewed in 3D . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6 9.3.2 Showing an Objects Height . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-7 Exporting to 3D DXF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-8
9.4
10. Using Mechanical CAD

10.1 Creating Mechanical CAD Projects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2 10.2 Creating Mechanical CAD Design Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2 10.2.1 Importing a DXF File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4 10.3 Setting Mechanical CAD Properties and Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4 10.3.1 Setting Mechanical CAD Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-4 10.3.2 Setting Mechanical CAD Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-5 10.3.3 Controlling Workspace Elements for Mechanical CAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-6 10.3.4 Setting Paths for Mechanical CAD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-7 10.3.5 Setting Mechanical CAD Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-8
vi
Appendix
vii
viii
Introduction
Chapter 1 Introduction
This section introduces you to the Ultiboard 7 product and its interface. For information on installing Ultiboard 7 and for an introductory tutorial, see the Ultiboard 7 Getting Started and Tutorial Guide. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject About this Document What is Ultiboard 7? Ultiboard 7 Features Summary Page No. 1-1 1-2 1-2
1.1
About this Document

This document is written for all users. It explains, in detail, all aspects of the product. This document describes a number of functions that are available only in some editions of Ultiboard 7, or only to users who have purchased optional modules. Such functions are identified by the icon shown in the column to the left. To order optional modules, contact Electronics Workbench. For a list of the features in each product, see 1.3 Ultiboard 7 Features Summary on page 1-2. This document assumes that you are familiar with Windows applications and know how, for example, to choose a menu from a command, use the mouse to select an item, and enable/ disable an option box. If you are new to Windows, see your Windows documentation for help.
1-1
Introduction
Introduction
1.2
What is Ultiboard 7?
Ultiboard 7 is a powerful printed circuit board design package from Electronics Workbench used to produce high-quality, multi-layer printed circuit boards. With tight and seamless integration with Electronics Workbenchs Multisim, Ulticap, and/or Ultiroute, you can quickly bring well-designed boards to production.
1.3
Ultiboard 7 Features Summary

Function Professional Edition Power Professional Edition
User Library Corporate Libraries Push and Shove Trace Placement Object Information with Tool-tip Label Paste Special Standard Selection Filters Additional Selection Filters (copper areas, SMD pads, other objects) Standard Clearance Option (clearance to traces) Multiple Clearance Options (clearance to pads, vias and copper areas) Additional Net Options (e.g., max & min width) 3D Preview in Main Screen 3D Preview in Component 3D Properties 3D Printing
1-2
Introduction
Function
Professional Edition
Power Professional Edition
Copper Amount Report Test Points Report SVG Export Export 3D Information in DXF Format Protel PCB Import Orcad PCB Import IPC-D-356A Netlist Export Automatic Test Point Placement Fanout Option for Components Polar Grids Via Stack Inside SMD Pad Differential Pair Routing Routing Topology Choices: Shortest, Daisy Chain, Star Equi-Space Traces Support Placement of Objects in a Predefined Array Automatic Tear Dropping Replica Place Pin Necked Trace Support Net Shielding Technology Files (Load & Save) Nets/Parts/Output/Results/Statistics Window
1-3
Introduction
Introduction
Function
Spreadsheet View Filter Errors/Warning in Spreadsheet Output Windows Forward/Backward Annotation Pin and Gate Swap Cross Probing Between Ultiboard and Multisim/Multicap Keep-in and Keep-out Save Design Gerber Output Customization of Report Generator 3D Viewer (height, color, shape) Dimming Inactive Information to Background Gridless Follow-me Routing Multiple Open Documents Ruler Bar Alignments DXF Import Auto-Alignment Full Screen Mode Ruler Bar Measurements Dimensioning Show Drill Size in Pads Jump to Error Customizable Layers Viewing for Glue, Paste, Solder
1-4
Introduction
Function
Split Power Planes In-Place Footprint Editor Gridless Connection Machine Component Place Sequencer Push and Shove Component Placement 2D Design for Mechanical Drawing Test Point Insertion Auto-Jumper Placement - Inserts Jumper into a Net Permanent Grouping Microvias PCB Design Savable as a Reusable Component Ultiroute 7 Professional Ultiroute 7 Power Professional Gerbtool Pin Number Limit Add-on Add-on Add-on 1400 Add-on Add-on Add-on No Limit
1-5
Introduction
Introduction
1-6
User Interface
Chapter 2 User Interface

This chapter explains the basic components of the Ultiboard 7 Graphical User Interface (GUI) and briefly describes its menus, commands, and toolbars. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Elements of the Ultiboard 7 User Interface Menus and Commands Birds Eye View 3D Preview Design Toolbox Workspace Overview of Spreadsheet View Status Bar Default Toolbars Additional Toolbars Common Functions Selecting and Unselecting Elements Moving Selected Elements Using Selection Filters Working with Modes Searching for Design Elements Options for Viewing the Design Customizing the Ultiboard 7 User Interface Rearranging User Interface Elements Customizing Menus and Toolbars Changing Colors Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files Setting 3D Viewer Options Showing/Hiding the Grid Page No. 2-3 2-4 2-5 2-5 2-6 2-7 2-7 2-8 2-8 2-11 2-16 2-17 2-17 2-17 2-18 2-18 2-19 2-21 2-21 2-22 2-31 2-32 2-34 2-35 2-35
2-1
User Interface
Subject Spreadsheet View Details Spreadsheet View: Errors Tab Spreadsheet View: Results Tab Spreadsheet View: Parts Tab Spreadsheet View: Part Groups Tab Spreadsheet View: Nets Tab Spreadsheet View: Nets Group Tab Spreadsheet View: SMT Pad Tab Spreadsheet View: THT Pad Tab Spreadsheet View: Via Tab Spreadsheet View: Copper Area Tab Spreadsheet View: Keepin/out Tab Spreadsheet View: Layers Tab Spreadsheet View: Statistics Tab
Page No. 2-35 2-36 2-37 2-38 2-39 2-40 2-42 2-43 2-44 2-46 2-47 2-48 2-49 2-49
User Interface 2-2
Elements of the Ultiboard 7 User Interface
2.1

Ultiboard 7s user interface is made up of several elements.
The menus and toolbars give you access to the necessary commands.
The Birds eye View shows you the design at a glance and lets you easily navigate around the workspace. The 3D preview shows you a 3-dimensional view of the board The Design Toolbox lets you show, hide, or dim elements of your design. The Spreadsheet View gives you useful information on the status of your design. The status bar displays useful and important information.
User Interface
The workspace is where you build your design.
This section explains the elements that appear on the Ultiboard 7 user interface. It contains the following topics: 2.1.1 Menus and Commands on page 2-4 2.1.2 Birds Eye View on page 2-5 2.1.3 3D Preview on page 2-5 2.1.4 Design Toolbox on page 2-6 2.1.5 Workspace on page 2-7
2-3
User Interface
2.1.6 Overview of Spreadsheet View on page 2-7 2.1.7 Status Bar on page 2-8 2.1.8 Default Toolbars on page 2-8 2.1.9 Additional Toolbars on page 2-11 User Interface Each of these items can be moved or resized, as explained in 2.3.1 Rearranging User Interface Elements on page 2-21. Elements with an x in the top left or right corner can be independently closed by clicking on the x. Elements can be shown or hidden using the View menu.
2.1.1
Menus and Commands

The menus and the commands within them are used like those of any other Windows program. Their functionality is described in Appendix A. Menus can be fully customized see 2.3.2 Customizing Menus and Toolbars on page 2-22 for details.
2-4
2.1.2
Birds Eye View

The Birds eye View gives you an overview of your complete design, with components shown as outlines. It allows you to quickly navigate through your board or to display a specific area of the design, sized as you wish.
User Interface
Selecting an area in the Birds eye View...
...zooms in on the selected area of the design.
To toggle the Birds eye View on and off, use View/Birds eye. To use the Birds eye View: 1. In the Birds eye View, click at one corner of the area you want to view. 2. Drag the pointer to the opposite corner of the area you want to view, and release the mouse button. The area you selected is displayed in the workspace. For panning, hold down the right mouse button and drag the cursor in the Birds eye View to change the area displayed.
2.1.3
3D Preview
The 3D Preview shows you a three-dimensional preview of the board. For a full-featured 3D view, refer to 9.2 Viewing the Board in 3D on page 9-4.
2-5
User Interface
2.1.4
Design Toolbox
The Design Toolbox is a vital part of the user interface. You will use it often to manage your design efforts by controlling major parts of Ultiboard 7s functionality. To toggle it on or off, use View/Design Toolbox.
User Interface
Design Toolbox
Projects tab Layers tab
The Design Toolbox is made up of two tabs, which are used as follows: The Projects tab lets you view the projects that are currently open. Double-click to make a particular view the current view. You can also click on the desired tab below the workspace, for example, Tut2 in the above diagram. For more information, see Section 3, Beginning a Design. The Layers tab lets you move between layers of your design, control the appearance of layers, and perform several other functions, as explained in Section 4, Setting Up a Design.
2-6
2.1.5
Workspace
The workspace displays the actual PCB design while you work on it. This is the part of the user interface on which your footprints, traces, and other elements appear. You can display more than one design at a timeeach design appears in a separate workspace window that can be maximized to use the whole working area, or resized so you can see other open designs. User Interface
2.1.5.1 Tool-tip Label

To change your cursor to a tool-tip label that contains object information, hold down the CTRL key as you move your mouse over the workspace. The information in the label will change depending on the type of component over which it hovers.
Tool-tip Label
2.1.6
Overview of Spreadsheet View

The Spreadsheet View allows fast advanced viewing and editing of parameters including component details such as footprints, Reference Designators, attributes and design constraints. By default, the Spreadsheet View does not appear until you have opened a project. To toggle the Spreadsheet View on and off, use View/Spreadsheet View.
For details on the Spreadsheet View, see 2.4 Spreadsheet View Details on page 2-35.
2-7
User Interface
2.1.7
Status Bar
The status bar at the bottom of the user interface provides useful information about your design. For example, if you have a component selected, the status bar shows the components name, value, and shape. If a segment of a trace is selected, the status bar shows the trace width and clearance. In all cases, the status bar displays the current coordinates of the pointer. To toggle the status bar on and off, use View/Status Bar.
User Interface
2.1.8
Default Toolbars
The toolbars provide a quick, convenient way for you to access the most common Ultiboard 7 functions. You can toggle toolbars on and off using the View/Toolbars menu. This section includes information on the toolbars that are turned on by default when Ultiboard is shipped (Standard, View, Main and Select toolbars). Additional toolbars can be turned on using View/Toolbars. For details, see 2.1.9 Additional Toolbars on page 2-11. You can customize all the toolbars to suit your purposes, as described in 2.3.2 Customizing Menus and Toolbars on page 2-22.
2.1.8.1 The Standard Toolbar

The Standard toolbar contains buttons for basic editing functions, and appears by default when you run Ultiboard 7.
The Standard toolbar buttons are described in the table below:

New file Creates a new project (if none are currently open) or a new design if a project is currently open. For details, see 3.2 Creating a Design File and/or Project on page 3-2 or 3.4 Creating a Design on page 3-3. Opens an existing project. For details, see 3.7 Opening an Existing Project on page 3-7. Saves the active design to its current name and directory. For details, see 3.8 Saving and Closing on page 3-8. Cuts the selected element from the design and places it on Windows Clipboard. Copies the selected element from the design and places it on Windows Clipboard.
Open file Save file Cut Copy
2-8
Paste Undo Redo
Pastes the element from Windows Clipboard to the design. Undoes the last action. Redoes the last action (used after undoing).
User Interface
2.1.8.2 The View Toolbar

The View toolbar contains buttons for modifying the way the screen is displayed, and appears by default when you run Ultiboard 7.
The View toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Redraw the screen Redraws the currently active design workspace. For details, see 2.2.6.3 Refreshing the Design on page 2-20. Toggle Full Screen Adjusts the size of the workspace so it displays the entire design. For details, see 2.2.6.1 Using the Full Screen on page 2-19. Toggle Grid on/off Zoom Window Toggles the grid on and off. For details, see 2.3.7 Showing/Hiding the Grid on page 2-35. Magnifies a selected part of the design. For details, see 2.2.6.2 Magnifying and Shrinking the View on page 2-20. Zooms in on the design, providing a closer view. For details, see 2.2.6.2 Magnifying and Shrinking the View on page 2-20. Zooms out on the design, providing a broader view. For details, see 2.2.6.2 Magnifying and Shrinking the View on page 2-20.
Zoom In
Zoom Out
Layers List Makes a design layer active. For details, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3.
2-9
User Interface
2.1.8.3 The Main Toolbar

The Main toolbar contains buttons for common board design functions.
User Interface
The Main toolbar buttons are described in the table below:

Select Show or Hide Spreadsheet Bar Place Part from Library Toggle In-Place PCB Part Edit Update the netlist and check for errors Start the Component Wizard Place Line De-activates any selected mode (for example, for placing traces) and allows you to select an element on the board. Shows or hide the Spreadsheet View. For details, see 2.4 Spreadsheet View Details on page 2-35. Allows you to browse the library for a part to place. For details, see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33. Activates In-Place Edit for Placed PCB components. For details, see 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34. Runs the design rule check and places results in the Results tab. For details, see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20. Starts the Component Wizard. For details, see 5.8.2 Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part on page 5-46. Places a straight line on the design (or places a trace, if the active layer is a copper one). For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25 or 6.1.2 Placing a Trace: Manual Method on page 6-3. Places a follow-me trace. For details, see 6.1.3 Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method on page 6-4. Places text on the design. For details, see 8.1 Placing and Editing Text on page 8-2. Places a via on the design. For details, see 6.4 Working with Vias on page 6-16.
Follow-me
Place Text Place a via
Place copper area Places a copper area on the design. Show 3D Displays the current design in three dimensions. For details, see Section 9, Viewing Designs in 3D.
2-10
2.1.8.4 The Select Toolbar

The Select toolbar contains the functions used to control selection filters, and appears by default when you run Ultiboard 7. Please note that all filters are not available in all versions of Ultiboard. User Interface For details on the selection filters, see 2.2.3 Using Selection Filters on page 2-17.
The Select toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Enable Selecting Parts Enable Selecting Traces Enable Selecting Copper Areas Allow or prevent selection of components. Allow or prevent selection of traces. Allow or prevent selection of copper areas.
Enable Selecting Vias Allow or prevent selection of vias. Enable Selecting Pads Enable Selecting SMD Pads Enable Selecting Attributes Enable Selecting other objects Allow or prevent selection of pads. Allow or prevent selection of Surface Mount Device pads. Allow or prevent selection of attributes. Allow or prevent selection of other attributes on PCB.
2.1.9
Additional Toolbars
2.1.9.1 The Draw Settings Toolbar
The Draw Settings toolbar contains buttons for functions that control the appearance of lines and shapes drawn on any layer, except a copper layer.
2-11
User Interface
The Draw Settings toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:
Line Color Line Type Sets the color of the layers line, for example, Silkscreen Top. Sets the lines style, for example, solid, dashed. Sets the color of the layers fill. Sets the fill style, either transparent or solid.
User Interface
Fill Color Fill Style
Measurement List Sets the thickness and unit of measure of the line being drawn, or of the objects border.
2.1.9.2 The Edit Toolbar

The Edit toolbar contains the functions used for editing specific elements, including in-place editing and orientation.
The Edit toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Toggle In-Place Edit Allows you to edit the selected text. Text or Attribute Toggle In-Place PCB Part Edit Rotate Clockwise Rotate Counter Clockwise Swap Layer Activates In-Place Edit for Placed PCB components. For details, see 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34. Rotates selected item clockwise. For details, see 5.1.3.6 Orienting Components on page 5-9. Rotates selected item counter-clockwise. For details, see 5.1.3.6 Orienting Components on page 5-9. Places a component on mirror layer. For details, see 5.1.3.6 Orienting Components on page 5-9.
2-12
2.1.9.3 The Align Toolbar

The Align toolbar contains the functions used to align elements with each other. For more on the Aligning commands, see 5.1.3.7 Aligning Components on page 5-10. For more on the Spacing commands, see 5.1.3.8 Spacing Components on page 5-10. User Interface
The Align toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Align Left Align Right Align Top Align Bottom Align Center Horizontal Align Center Vertical Space Across Aligns the left sides of the selected components. Aligns the right sides of the selected components. Aligns the top edges of the selected components. Aligns the bottom edges of the selected components. Shifts the selected elements horizontally so their centers are aligned. Shifts the selected elements vertically so their centers are aligned. Spaces three or more objects beside each other evenly.
Space Across Plus Increases horizontal space between two or more objects. Space Across Min Space Down Space Down Plus Space Down Min Decreases horizontal space between two or more objects. Spaces three or more objects above each other evenly. Increases vertical space between two or more objects. Decreases vertical space between two or more objects.
2-13
User Interface
2.1.9.4 The Place Toolbar

The Place toolbar contains the functions used to place different elements such as traces, lines and polygons on the design. This toolbar excludes the placing of components, which is controlled through the Design Toolbox and the standard toolbar. User Interface
The Place toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Select Line De-activates any selected mode (for example, for placing traces) and allows you to select an element on the board. Places a line on the design (or place a trace, when used on a copper layer). For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places an arc on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a bezier on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a circle on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places an ellipse on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a pie-shape on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a rectangle on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a rectangle with rounded corners. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a polygon on the design. For details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Places a follow me trace, a trace that automatically draws a legal trace between two selected points. For more details, see 6.1.3 Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method on page 6-4. Use to connect multiple traces between multi-pinned devices such as ICs. For details, see 6.1.5 Placing a Bus on page 6-5. Places a polygon copper area on the design. For details, see 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas on page 6-11. A group array box is used to place components in an array. For details, see 5.1.3.9 Placing a Group Array Box on page 5-11. Places text on the design. Useful for annotation purposes. For more details, see 8.1 Placing and Editing Text on page 8-2.
Arc Bezier Circle Ellipse Pie Rectangle Rounded Rectangle Polygon Follow-me
Place Multiple Traces as a Bus Place Copper Area Place Group Array Box Place text
2-14
Place a Standard Places a dimension between any two selected points. For details, see 5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29. Dimension (All Angles) Place a Horizontal Dimension Place a Vertical Dimension Place a via Add one or more pins to your drawing Places a horizontally-oriented dimension between two selected points. For details, see 5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29. Places a vertically-oriented dimension between two selected points. For details, see 5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29. Places a via on the design. For details, see 6.4 Working with Vias on page 6-16. Places pins on the design when editing or creating a part in In-place Edit mode or Footprint Edit mode. For details, see 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34 or 5.8.1 Using the Library Manager to Create a Part on page 5-44. Removes copper islands. For details, see 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas on page 6-11 Splits copper areas and powerplanes. For details, see 6.2.3 Splitting Copper on page 6-12.
User Interface
Remove copper islands Polygon splitter
2.1.9.5 The Wizard Toolbar

The Wizard toolbar contains the wizard functions supported by Ultiboard 7. The Wizard
toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Board Outline Wizard Component Wizard Starts the Board Outline Wizard. For details, see 4.2 Working with the Board Outline on page 4-5. Starts the Component Wizard. For details, see 5.8.2 Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part on page 5-46.
2-15
User Interface
2.1.9.6 The Autoroute Toolbar

This toolbar is only available when you have installed Ultiroute, Electronics Workbenchs autoplacement and autorouting application. User Interface The Autoroute toolbar contains the autorouting and placement functions supported by Ultiboard 7.
The Autoroute toolbar buttons are explained in the table below:

Begin Autoplacing Starts automatically placing components using Ultiroute. For details, with Ultiroute refer to the Ultiroute 7 User Guide. Begin Autorouting with Ultiroute Start trace optimization with Ultiroute Stop Ultiroute Starts automatically placing traces using Ultiroute. For details, refer to the Ultiroute 7 User Guide. Starts trace optimization using Ultiroute. For details, refer to the Ultiroute 7 User Guide. Stops an Ultiroute process that is running. For details, refer to the Ultiroute 7 User Guide.
2.2
Common Functions
This section contains the following common functions: 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements on page 2-17 2.2.2 Moving Selected Elements on page 2-17 2.2.3 Using Selection Filters on page 2-17 2.2.4 Working with Modes on page 2-18 2.2.5 Searching for Design Elements on page 2-18 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design on page 2-19
2-16
Common Functions
2.2.1
Selecting and Unselecting Elements

To select a single element on a board, click the element. A dotted line around the element, or running through the trace, indicates that it has been selected. To select multiple elements on a board: Hold the SHIFT key down while clicking the elements that you want to select. or Click and drag to draw a box around the elements to be selected. When you release the mouse button, the elements that were inside the box are selected. To select all elements on a board, choose Edit/Select All or press CTRL+A. To select an entire trace, not just a trace segment: 1. Select a segment belonging to the trace you want to select. 2. Choose Edit/Select Entire Trace. The entire trace is then selected. To unselect one element, select another element. This unselects the first. To unselect one element in a group of selected elements, hold the CTRL key down while clicking the element to be unselected. User Interface
2.2.2
Moving Selected Elements

Once an element is placed on the board, you can move it around by selecting it and pressing the arrow keys on the keyboard, or by dragging it with your mouse.
2.2.3
Using Selection Filters

As you add more components and traces to a board, it can become more difficult to select just the elements which you want to use. Ultiboard 7 provides you with selection filters to allow controlled selections. The selection filters are found in Options/Selection Filter and the Select toolbar. By default, all the selection filters are on, that is, you can select any element. Use the filters to select or not select specific elements by toggling the choices on and off. For example, to select only traces, you would disable the other selection filters and enable only the traces one. As you work through your design, you will find different combinations of selection filters helpful to prevent accidentally selecting (and potentially modifying) elements.
2-17
User Interface
2.2.4
Working with Modes

Ultiboard 7 assumes that placing shapes, parts, or traces on a board are actions you are likely to repeat. As a result, when you place items on the board, you remain in place mode (the cursor has a small icon attached, indicating what is being placed) so that you can continue to place the same type of item repeatedly. After placing a shape, part, or trace on a board, the pointer continues to carry the icon, and is ready to place another object like the one you just placed. You must cancel this mode and return to select mode in order to perform other functions. To cancel the place mode and return to select mode: Right-click or Press ESC or Choose Place/Select.
User Interface
2.2.5
Searching for Design Elements

To find out if an element exists in an open project, you can search for it with the Edit/Find command. While this command works much like a Find function in other applications, it also allows you to search for an element by name, by number, by shape, by value, or by all variables. To find an element in an open design: 1. Choose Edit/Find. The Find dialog box appears.
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Common Functions
2. In the Find what field, enter what you want to search for. You can search for an element by specifying any of the values of its attributes (for example, name, number, shape), with or without wildcards. If you leave this field blank, you will find all elements in the design. Note The Find what drop-down list shows all the searches you have made in this session. 3. To constrain your search to only certain attributes, choose from the Find special drop-down list. For example, if you enter test in the Find what field, you will find all elements with the string test in any of their attributes. However, if you choose Name from the Find special drop-down list, you will find only elements with test in their name. 4. Optionally, enable the options to match the whole word or to match the case. 5. Click Find. The search results appear in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View. User Interface
6. Click on the Results tab. (The tab is red and flashing until it is selected). 7. To navigate to any of the found elements, double-click them in the Results tab. Or Right-click on the desired element and select Go to info position from the pop-up menu that appears. The element is selected and shown in the workspace. To clear the information in the Results tab, right-click anywhere in the Results tab and select Clear from the pop-up menu that appears.
2.2.6
Options for Viewing the Design

Your view of the design can be manipulated a number of ways to make things easier to see while editing, as well as to see what the finished design will look like.
2.2.6.1 Using the Full Screen

When you open Ultiboard 7 for the first time, the program displays the workspace with the menu and toolbars, the Birds eye View and the Design Toolbox. To get a better view of the
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User Interface
workspace, you can either use the zoom functions to magnify it (for more on the zoom functions, see Magnifying and Shrinking the View), or have the workspace take up the full screen. When you display a design on the full screen, everything except the design disappears (depending on your settings in the Preferences dialog box, a scrollbar may or may not appear). Menu functions can still be used through their keyboard equivalentsfor example, you can use F8 to zoom in, and F9 to zoom out. Again, depending on the Preferences dialog box settings, you may be able to pan through the design by moving your cursor over the outside edges. For more about the Preferences dialog box, see 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving on page 2-32. To switch the workspace to a full screen display, choose View/Full Screen. To return from the full screen display to the multi-screen display: 1. Locate the Full Screen Close button. It will be floating over the design:
User Interface
2. Double-click the Full Screen Close button to return to the multi-screen display.
2.2.6.2 Magnifying and Shrinking the View

You can use the zoom functions to magnify or shrink all or part of the design. To magnify part of the design, choose View/Zoom In, or press F8. You may need to adjust your view of the magnified design by using the scroll bars. To magnify a selected area on the design: Choose View/Zoom Window, or press F6, then click and drag a rectangular area on the board to define the area to be zoomed in on. or Define an area by clicking and dragging on the Birds eye View.
To shrink the view of the design, choose View/Zoom Out, or press F9. To return to the full view of the design after zooming in or out, choose View/Zoom All, or press F7.
2.2.6.3 Refreshing the Design

After adding and changing elements, the design can begin to look a little confusing, with bits and pieces of elements looking like they have been left behind on the design after being moved, for example. This can be for many reasons, including the limitations of the computer monitor being used, although it does not affect the design.
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Customizing the Ultiboard 7 User Interface
To clean up the design, removing any extraneous images that should not be there: Choose View/Redraw. or Click Redraw in the View toolbar or press F5. User Interface
2.3

Although the Ultiboard 7 user interface has been designed to offer maximum functionality and ease of use, it also offers the ability to change to meet your specific needs. You can customize the user interface in two basic ways: by rearranging elements of the user interface or by changing the contents of the toolbars and menus. This section contains the following subjects: 2.3.1 Rearranging User Interface Elements on page 2-21 2.3.2 Customizing Menus and Toolbars on page 2-22 2.3.3 Changing Colors on page 2-31 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving on page 2-32 2.3.5 Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files on page 2-34 2.3.6 Setting 3D Viewer Options on page 2-35 2.3.7 Showing/Hiding the Grid on page 2-35.
2.3.1
Rearranging User Interface Elements

The various parts of the Ultiboard 7 user interface, including toolbars, the Birds eye View, Design Toolbox, etc., can be moved to different locations on your screen simply by dragging them to the desired location. To move an element to a new location: 1. Select the element: for the workspace, Birds eye View, Spreadsheet View or Design Toolbox, click on the bars at the top of the element
for toolbars, click on the toolbar away from a button, or click the double bars on the
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User Interface
left of the toolbar
click here to select the toolbar itself
User Interface
2. Drag the element to a new location and release. Elements placed on the main window gain a title bar at the top, elements placed in the side or top of the screen become docked in those areas and gain a set of bars at the top or left side. (Prevent docking by pressing the CTRL key). Elements will remain in the new location until you move them to another location. You can also resize most user interface elements. Move your cursor to the edge of the element. The cursor changes to a two-headed arrow. Drag the arrow in the desired direction to resize the element. The element retains its new size until you change it again.
2.3.2
Customizing Menus and Toolbars

Although Ultiboard 7 is shipped with a series of default menus, toolbars, and other items, you can customize these items to suit your needs by changing their contents from the default settings. Note This user guide documents the default contents of menus and toolbars.
2.3.2.1 Modifying Contents of Menus and Toolbars

You can modify the contents of menus and toolbars by adding to, removing or rearranging their contents. To add commands to a menu or toolbar: 1. If youre adding to a toolbar, be sure the toolbar is displayed on the screen (use View/Toolbars to toggle toolbars on and off). 2. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 3. Locate the command to be added by doing one of the following on the Commands tab: Select the category in which the command to be added resides. The available commands for the selected category appear in the Commands panel on the right. or Select All Commands to see a list of all available commands. All available commands
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appear in the Commands panel on the right.

Select the category containing the command to be added to the toolbar
User Interface
or Select All Commands to browse through all available commands
Click and drag the command and its icon to the menu or toolbar where you want the icon to appear
4. Click and drag the command from the Commands list to the menu or toolbar where you want the command to be placed. As you move the pointer from the Customize dialog box, its shape changes depending on where the pointer is placed. When it is over a location where you cannot place the command, the pointer is a circle with a slash through it. When you move the pointer over an appropriate location, such as a menu or toolbar, the pointer changes to an I-beam (for a toolbar) or the menu opens (for a menu), allowing you to place the command in the specific location desired.
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User Interface
User Interface
Position the command exactly where you want it in the menu or toolbar.
Note To cancel the move, simply release the mouse over an invalid location. To remove a command from a toolbar or menu: 1. Make sure no design elements are selected, so that the function of the icon to be removed does not affect the design. 2. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 3. Drag the command in the menu or the button in a toolbar to the Commands tab. The pointer changes to display an X as you move it across the screen. 4. Release anywhere in the Commands tab. The menu or button disappears from the menu or toolbar. To change the position of a button in a toolbar or a command in a menu: 1. Make sure no design elements are selected, so that the function of the icon to be removed does not affect the design. 2. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 3. Click and hold the command or button to be moved until you see the I-beam indicator. 4. Drag the I-beam to the new location in the menu or toolbar and release. 5. The icon or command appears in its new position.
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2.3.2.2 Creating Toolbars

To create a toolbar: 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 2. Select the Toolbar tab. 3. Click New. You are prompted for a new for the new toolbar. 4. The new toolbar appears in the toolbars list and on the workspace (you may need to move the Customize dialog box in order to see it). 5. To add items to the toolbar, follow the instructions in 2.3.2.1 Modifying Contents of Menus and Toolbars on page 2-22. To delete the toolbar, highlight it and click Delete. To rename the toolbar, highlight it and click Rename. You are prompted for a new toolbar name. To define which toolbars appear by default when you start Ultiboard 7: 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 2. Click the Toolbars tab.
Selected toolbars appear by default when you run Ultiboard 7. Click to select or de-select.
User Interface
3. To indicate that a toolbar is to appear by default when you start Ultiboard 7, click the box beside that toolbar so that a check mark appears. To have a toolbar not appear by default, click to remove the check mark. To restore default settings for toolbars: 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 2. Select the Toolbar tab. 3. Click Reset All.
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User Interface
2.3.2.3 Controlling Toolbar Appearance

To change the appearance of toolbars: 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. User Interface 2. Click the Options tab.
Click to toggle screentips (descriptive text that appears when your cursor is on a toolbar button) on and off. Click to toggle display of shortcut key alternative in screentips on and off.
3. To have screentips (descriptive text that appears when your cursor is on a toolbar button) appear, enable the Show ScreenTips on toolbars option. To hide them, disable this option. To have shortcut keys appear in the screentips, enable the Show Shortcut Keys in
ScreenTips option. To hide them, disable this option.
To choose large icons for the toolbars, enable Large Icons.
2.3.2.4 Defining Keyboard Shortcuts

Many commands that appear in menus and/or toolbars can also be invoked from the keyboard. Ultiboard 7 comes with a default set of keyboard equivalents, although these can be changed. In addition, new keyboard commands can be created.
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To define keyboard equivalents: 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 2. Click the Keyboard tab. The tab shows the keyboard equivalents of existing menu commands, and lets you create or change the commands keyboard equivalents. User Interface
Shows the shortcut keys (if any) assigned to the currently selected command
Choose the category of command to show. Shows all available commands in the selected category
Select this field and press the new shortcut key combination to assign to the selected command
3. In the Category drop-down list, select the category corresponding to the command for which you are defining the keyboard equivalent. When you select a category, the commands that belong in it appear in the Commands list. 4. In the Commands list, select the command for which you want to define the keyboard equivalent. When you select a command, any existing keyboard equivalent appears in the Current Keys list. To remove a shortcut key, select it and click Remove. 5. Click in the Press New Shortcut Key field and enter the desired shortcut key combination (for example, press and hold the ALT key while pressing the G key). When you enter the new shortcut key, Ultiboard 7 tells you if the new keyboard equivalent is already assigned. If the key is already assigned, you can press a different keyboard equivalent. 6. When your new shortcut key does not conflict with another, click Assign to assign the new keyboard equivalent to the command.
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User Interface
2.3.2.5 Customizing the Context Menus

Context menus are the menus that appear when you right-click while working. These also can be customized. To customize the context menus: User Interface 1. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 2. Click the Menu tab.
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3. Choose the context menu to customize. If commands exist for a context menu, they will appear in a separate box on the screen.
User Interface
The context menu you select here
will appear here
If there are currently no commands in a context menu, an empty box will appear in this location.
4. Locate the command to be added by doing one of the following in the Commands tab: Select the category in which the command to be added resides. The available commands for the selected category appear in the Commands list on the right. or Select All Commands to see a list of all available commands. All available commands appear in the Commands list on the right.
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User Interface
Select the category containing the command to be added to the menu
User Interface
or Select All Commands to browse through all available commands
Click and drag the command and its icon to the context menu where
5. Click and drag the command from the Commands list to the context menu where you want the command to be placed. As you move the pointer from the Customize dialog box, its shape changes depending where the pointer is placed. When it is over a location where you cannot place the command, the pointer includes a square that contains an X. When you move the pointer over an appropriate location in the context menu, the pointer changes to an insertion line, allowing you to place the command in the specific location desired:
Position the command exactly where you want it in the menu or toolbar
Note To cancel the move, simply release the mouse over an invalid location.
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To remove a command from a menu: 1. Make sure no design elements are selected, so that the function of the icon to be removed does not affect the design. 2. Choose Options/Customize. The Customize dialog box appears. 3. On the Menu tab, select the context menu to be edited, then open the Commands tab. 4. Drag the command from the menu to the Commands tab. 5. Release anywhere in the Commands tab. The menu or button disappears from the menu. User Interface
2.3.3
Changing Colors
Ultiboard 7 allows you to set up color schemes for the workspace background and other displayed elements. To set up color schemes: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. Select the Colors tab:
Click to toggle the preview visibility on or off and select the degree of graying out
Preview of the selected color scheme
Choose the color scheme
Click to define a new color scheme
Choose the element whose color you want to affect
Click to define a new element
Click to display a palette from which you can select a color for the selected element
To apply an existing color scheme, either the default or one you have created, choose from the Color scheme drop-down list. To modify an existing color scheme, choose it from the Color scheme drop-down list. From the Color element drop-down list, choose the element whose color you want to
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User Interface
User Interface
modify. Click the color button (unlabelled) and choose a new color for that element. Your change is stored with the color scheme when you click Apply or OK. To create a color scheme, click New scheme and provide a scheme name. The element colors remain at the value they had in the most recently loaded scheme. Modify the element colors as described above, and save your changes by clicking Apply or OK. To add a color element, click New element and enter a name. The element appears in the Color element list, and you can choose a color for the element. 3. To apply your changes but leave the Preferences dialog box open, click Apply. To apply your changes and close the Preferences dialog box, click OK. To cancel your changes, click Cancel. The other tabs in the Ultiboard 7 Preferences dialog box set defaults used when placing certain parts and other elements on the board. For more information on these tabs, see 4.5 Setting Default Elements for the Board on page 4-24.
2.3.4
Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving

You can control whether cross hairs are shown in normal view. This tab also lets you specify options for the full screen view, have Ultiboard 7 load your last project automatically, and have Ultiboard 7 automatically save your project at specified intervals.
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To view or change workspace options: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. 2. Select the General Settings tab: User Interface
Enable or disable the items you want shown. Enable to automatically load last project when Ultiboard 7 starts up Enable to have changes automatically saved (at the specified interval)
3. To show or hide an element in the standard or full screen view, enable or disable the desired options. For more on the full screen view, see 2.2.6.1 Using the Full Screen on page 2-19. To have Ultiboard 7 automatically load the last project you were using, select Load last project on startup. To have Ultiboard 7 automatically save your changes at a specific interval, select Enable auto save and enter the desired time interval for automatic saves.
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User Interface
2.3.5
Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files

The Ultiboard 7 installation puts specific files in specific locations. If necessary you can point Ultiboard 7 to a new location to find, for example, component libraries. You can also use this dialog box to create and specify user settings files that contain individuals preferences for all options. To set up file locations: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. 2. Select the Paths tab and navigate to the appropriate locations for the different elements:
User Interface
Click to navigate to a new location for the files
3. To use a different configuration file, navigate to the appropriate user settings file. To create a new user configuration file, click New user config file from template. You are prompted to select the configuration file to use as a template, then to enter a name for the new configuration file. All options changed in the Preferences dialog box are saved in the new configuration file.
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Spreadsheet View Details
2.3.6
Setting 3D Viewer Options

The Preferences dialog box also allows you to set options for the 3D viewer. For more information on setting 3D viewer options, see Section 9, Viewing Designs in 3D. User Interface
2.3.7
Showing/Hiding the Grid

You can display a grid in the background of your design. The grid can be toggled off or on. To toggle the grid off or on, choose View/Grid. For more information on specifying grid units, see 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16.
2.4

The Spreadsheet View allows fast advanced viewing and editing of parameters including component details such as footprints, Reference Designators, attributes and design constraints. By default, the Spreadsheet View does not appear until you have opened a project. To toggle the Spreadsheet View on and off, use View/Spreadsheet View.
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User Interface
2.4.1
Spreadsheet View: Errors Tab

The Errors tab displays errors (e.g., Design Rule Errors) and warnings as they occur while you work. Double-clicking on an error will take you to the error on the workspace.
User Interface
For more on the Design Rule Check process, see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20.
Error
Warning
When you right-click on an item in the Errors tab, the following pop-up menu displays:
Copy copies all items in the Errors tab and places them on the clipboard. Clear non critical errors click to clear all non-critical errors. Go to Error/Tag click to go to the highlighted error on the workspace. Add to Filter click to filter out the selected error/warning type. This type of error/warning will no longer show in the Errors tab. Remove all filters click to remove all error/warning types from the filter. All errors and warnings will now show in the Errors tab.
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Start Filtermanager click to start the Filter Manager.

List displays errors & warnings that are filtered out of Errors tab Displays Add Filters dialog (below)
User Interface
Removes selected error type from filter Removes all error types from filter
Select error types to add to the filter. You can use the CTRL and SHIFT keys to select multiple iterms.
Click to add selected items to the filter manager
2.4.2
Spreadsheet View: Results Tab

The Results tab displays the results of searching for elements in the design. For details, see 2.2.5 Searching for Design Elements on page 2-18. It also displays the results of running a connectivity check. Note The Results tab flashes red when it contains new data.
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User Interface
Double-click a line in this tab to zoom in on the corresponding area of the design. For details, see A.5.2 Design/Connectivity Check on page A-15.
Right-click an item to display pop-up.
User Interface
Double-click an item to zoom to the corresponding area on workspace
2.4.3
Spreadsheet View: Parts Tab

The Parts tab lets you work with the parts in your design, as explained in 5.1.2 Using the Parts Tab in the Spreadsheet View on page 5-3.
Column (unlabelled)
Description The color indicator beside the part indicates whether the part has been placed on the board outline (bright green), or is off to the side awaiting placement (dark green). Orange indicates the part has been locked. The components unique identifier. The components value, for example, 150 pF for a capacitor. The physical footprint of the component. Locked indicates that the component cannot be moved. Unlocked components can be moved.
Refdes Value Footprint Locked
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Column Trace Clearance
Description This is the minimum spacing allowed between the component and any trace. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
User Interface
Component Spacing
This is the minimum spacing allowed between components. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. If enabled, allows like-pins to be swapped during the routing process. You can choose either No (not enabled), Yes or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. If enabled, allows like-gates, to be swapped during the routing process. You can choose Internal Gates Only, which will swap gates within the same IC; No Swapping; Advanced Swapping, which will swap gates between ICs (both devices must be set to Advanced Swapping); or Use Group Settings (for details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29). The group in which the part is placed. You can select No Group or an existing group from the drop-down list. Parts groups are created in the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
Pin Swap
Gate Swap
Part Group
2.4.4
Spreadsheet View: Part Groups Tab

The Part Groups tab lets you work with part groups as described in the table below.
Column Part Group
Description This is the group in which the part is contained. You can either enter the group name here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. This is the minimum spacing allowed between the components in the group and any trace. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
Trace Clearance
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User Interface
Column Component Spacing
Description This is the minimum spacing allowed between components in the group. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. If enabled, allows pins for like-components to be swapped during the routing process. If enabled, allows like-gates, to be swapped during the routing process. You can choose Internal Gates Only, which will swap gates within the same IC; No Swapping; or Advanced Swapping, which will swap gates between ICs (both devices must be set to Advanced Swapping). Locked indicates that the component cannot be moved. Unlocked components can be moved.
User Interface
Pin Swap
Gate Swap
Locked
2.4.5
Spreadsheet View: Nets Tab

The Nets tab lets you work with the net lists in your design, as explained in 6.6.1 Using the Nets Tab on page 6-21.
Column (unlabelled)
Description The color indicator beside the net indicates whether the copper for the net has been routed, i.e., placed on the board outline (bright green), or is awaiting placement (dark green). Orange indicates the copper for the net has been locked. You cannot lock the net until it has been routed. The nets unique identifier. Locked indicates that the net cannot be moved. Unlocked nets can be moved. You cannot lock a net until it has been routed. The default width of the trace that is placed during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
Net Name Locked
Trace Width
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Column Max Width
Description The maximum width to which a trace will be laid during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
User Interface
Min Width
The minimum width to which a trace will be laid during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. The topology of the net as set in the Netlist Editor. Choices are Shortest, Daisy Chain and Star. For details, see 6.6.2 Using the Netlist Editor on page 6-23. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard. Length of the routed net. Maximum allowable length of copper in a net. Not applicable (N/A) if Topology is set to Shortest. MInimum allowable length of copper in a net. Not applicable (N/A) if Topology is set to Shortest.
Topology
Trace Length Max Length
Min Length
Column Trace Clearance
Description This is the minimum spacing allowed between the components in the group and any trace. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. The routing layers assigned to this net group. Click to display the Layers to Apply dialog box, where you set the layers to use for routing copper. This is the group in which the net is contained. You can either enter the group name here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. This is the bus group in which the net is contained. You can either enter the group name here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. Width of the nets shield. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard.
Routing Layers Net Group
Bus Group
Shield Width
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User Interface
Column Shield Net
Description Use the drop-down list to select the net to use to shield this net. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard.
User Interface
2.4.6
Spreadsheet View: Nets Group Tab

The Net Groups tab lets you work with net groups.
Column Net Group
Description This is the group in which the net is contained. You can either enter the group name here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. The default width of the traces in the group that are placed during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. The maximum width to which a trace in the group will be laid during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. The minimum width to which a trace in the group will be laid during routing. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29. Maximum allowable length of copper in a net group. Not applicable (N/A) if Topology is set to Shortest. MInimum allowable length of copper in a net group. Not applicable (N/A) if Topology is set to Shortest. This is the minimum spacing allowed between the traces in the group and any other trace. You can enter a value here, or use the Group Editor. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
Trace Width
Max Width
Min Width
Max Length
Min Length
Trace Clearance
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Column Routing Layers Type Locked
Description The routing layers assigned to this net group. Click to display the Layers to Apply dialog box, where you set the layers to use for routing copper. The type of net group. Locked indicates that the component cannot be moved. Unlocked components can be moved.
User Interface
2.4.7
Spreadsheet View: SMT Pad Tab

The SMT Pad tab lets you work with pad information for surface-mount devices.
Column Pad Name
Description The unique identifier for the pad, by Refdes and Pin Number. For example, U1, P1 is pin number one of the device with Refdes U1. The shape of the pad as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. The radius of the pad as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. The width of the pad as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. The height of the pad as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. The clearance of the trace to components. You can use net settings, or as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. The default length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. You can also enter the value here.
Pad Shape
Pad Radius
Pad Width
Pad Height
Trace Clearance
Neck Length
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User Interface
Column Neck Max
Description The maximum permitted length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. You can also enter the value here. The minimum permitted length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the SMT Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.4 Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties on page 5-38. You can also enter the value here. The minimum permitted trace width.
User Interface
Neck Min
Min Width
2.4.8
Spreadsheet View: THT Pad Tab

The THT Pad tab lets you work with pad information for through-hole technology devices.
Column Pad Name
Description The unique identifier for the pad, by Refdes and Pin Number. For example, U1, P1 is pin number one of the device with Refdes U1. The shape of the top layer pad as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. The shape of the inner layer pad as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. The shape of the bottom layer pad as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. The size of the annular ring for this pad as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36.
Top Pad Shape
Inner Pad Shape
Bottom Pad Shape
Annular Ring
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Column Pad Diameter
Description The diameter of the pad as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36.
User Interface
Drill Diameter
The diameter of the drill hole in the pad, as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. The minimum clearance permitted between the pad and traces, as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. The default length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. You can also enter the value here. The maximum permitted length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. You can also enter the value here. The minimum permitted length of the neck where the trace attaches to the pin, as set in the Through Hole Pin Properties dialog box. For details, see 5.5.3 Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties on page 5-36. You can also enter the value here. The minimum permitted trace width.
Trace Clearance
Neck Length
Neck Max
Neck Min
Min Width
2-45
User Interface
2.4.9
Spreadsheet View: Via Tab

The Via tab lets you work with via information.
User Interface
Column Assume Net
Description The unique identifier for the net to which the via is connected. Can be changed by using the drop-down list. The diameter of the via as set in the Via Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.4.2 Viewing and Editing Via Properties on page 6-18. The diameter of the drill hole in the via, as set in the Via Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.4.2 Viewing and Editing Via Properties on page 6-18. The minimum clearance permitted between the via and traces, as set in the Via Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.4.2 Viewing and Editing Via Properties on page 6-18. Locked indicates that the via cannot be moved. Unlocked vias can be moved.
Pad Diameter Drill Diameter Trace Clearance
Locked
2-46
2.4.10 Spreadsheet View: Copper Area Tab

The Copper area tab lets you work with information for copper areas. User Interface
Column Layer
Description The layer on which the copper area is found, as set in the Copper Area Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.3 Viewing and Editing Copper Properties on page 6-15. Locked indicates that the copper area cannot be moved. Unlocked copper areas can be moved. The unique identifier for the net to which the copper area is connected. The minimum clearance permitted between the copper area and traces, as set in the Copper Area Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.3 Viewing and Editing Copper Properties on page 6-15. The style of thermal relief for the copper area, as set in the Copper Area Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.3 Viewing and Editing Copper Properties on page 6-15.
Locked
Net Trace Clearance
Thermal Relief Style
2-47
User Interface
2.4.11 Spreadsheet View: Keepin/out Tab

The Keep In/Out tab lets you work with information for keepin or keepout areas. User Interface
Column Name
Description Name of the keepin/out. Can be entered here, or in the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8. Indicates whether the area is a keepin or a keepout. Can be set here or in the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8. Locked indicates that the keepin/out area cannot be moved or edited. Unlocked keepin/out areas can be moved. Double-click to display the Layers To Apply dialog box, where you select the layers to which you wish to apply the keepin/out. You can also set this in the the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8. Double-click to display the Select Groups dialog box, where you select the net group to which you wish to apply the keepin/out. You can also set this in the the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8. Double-click to display the Select Groups dialog box, where you select the component group to which you wish to apply the keepin/out. You can also set this in the the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8. Assign a height (z-axis) value to the keepin/out. Can be entered directly, or in the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. For details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8.
Type
Locked
Layers To Apply
Net Group
Component Group
Heights Bigger Then
2-48
2.4.12 Spreadsheet View: Layers Tab

The Layers tab lets you work with layer information. User Interface
Column Layer Name Routable Layer Trace Bias
Description The name of the layer, for example, Copper Top. Select Yes to allow trace routing on the layer; select No to prevent trace routing on the layer. Set the trace bias by selecting H for horizontal; V for vertical; or None.
2.4.13 Spreadsheet View: Statistics Tab

This tab displays the statistics shown below.
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User Interface
User Interface 2-50
Chapter 3 Beginning a Design

This chapter explains how to start a design in Ultiboard 7 and explains the use of designs and project files. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject About Designs and Projects Creating a Design File and/or Project Creating a Project Creating a Design Creating by Importing Understanding .net and .plc files Loading Technology Files Working with Projects Opening an Existing Project Saving and Closing Saving Technology Page No. 3-1 3-2 3-2 3-3 3-4 3-4 3-5 3-6 3-7 3-8 3-8
Beginning a Design
3.1
About Designs and Projects

Designs are stored inside projects, allowing you to group them together for easier access. A project is a single file in which your designs are stored. Typically you would group designs within a project when there is a logical connection between them (that is, they may all relate
3-1
Beginning a Design
to a specific piece of work). Depending on your version of Ultiboard 7, you can have as many designs and project files open as you wish.
3.2
Creating a Design File and/or Project

In Ultiboard 7, designs can exist only within projects. As a result, projects must be created first, and then designs created within them. This section contains procedures for creating PCB projects and designs. The procedure for creating mechanical CAD projects and designs is similar, but is discussed in Section 10, Using Mechanical CAD. The following subjects are described in this section:
Beginning a Design
3.3
Creating a Project
To create a new project: 1. Choose File/New Project (you can also use File/New, if no project is currently open). The New Project dialog box appears:
Type a name for the project
Accept the default location for the project Select PCB Design or Click the Browse button to select a location
Note The New File icon on the Standard toolbar creates a new project if none are currently open; if a project is currently open, the icon creates a new design. 2. Type the project name in the Project Name field. 3. From the Design Type drop-down list, select PCB Design. The other option allows you to use Ultiboard 7s mechanical CAD capabilities (for front panels, enclosures, etc.). For more on these capabilities, see Section 10, Using Mechanical CAD. 4. Indicate the folder where the project is to be kept. Either accept the default shown in the Location field, or click the browse button to select a different location.
3-2
Creating a Design
5. Click OK. The New Project dialog box disappears, and a blank design is opened, with the same name as that of the project. The project you just created is also shown in the Projects tab, along with its corresponding design. Note To give a new name to a project or design, right-click on it and choose Rename.
3.4
Creating a Design
A design is created automatically when you create a project. You can also create a design and assign it to an existing project: 1. Choose File/Open and open the project to which the design is to be added, if it is not already open. 2. Choose File/New. The New Design dialog box appears:
Type a name for the design
Beginning a Design
Select PCB Design
Select the project where the new design is to be added
Note The New File icon on the Standard toolbar creates a new project if none are currently open; if a project is currently open, the icon creates a new design. 3. Type the design name in the Design Name field. 4. From the Design Type drop-down list, select PCB Design. (For more information on the Mechanical CAD Design file type, see Section 10, Using Mechanical CAD.) 5. Choose which of the open projects is to contain the design. The Add to project drop-down list shows only the open projects. 6. Click OK. The New Design dialog box disappears, and a blank design with the name that you specified is opened. The Projects tab shows that the new design is a part of the project that you specified.
3-3
Beginning a Design
3.5
Creating by Importing
You can create a design based on a netlist file. A netlist contains information about a given board's nets (the electrical connections between pins). Multisim generates both a .net file and a .plc file which have all the details required to import the schematic into Ultiboard 7. These two files make up a netlist. See 3.5.1 Understanding .net and .plc files on page 3-4 for more details.
3.5.1
Beginning a Design
Understanding .net and .plc files

Multisim (and Multicap), the schematic capture programs from Electronics Workbench, generate a .net file. The .net file contains information about a given boards connections. The .plc file contains information about components. It is possible to edit these files to add new components and change reference values before loading/importing them into Ultiboard 7. The .net file also contains Trace Width Analysis results if you checked the Set Node Trace Widths Using the Results from This Analysis check box when doing the Simulation in Multisim. If trace width analysis was not done, the trace width defaults to 1.00, and you are prompted to select a new default trace width in Ultiboard 7. The following shows the contents of a .net file:
Trace width Net name Reference Designator pad Name
++++ Generated by multiSIM (Electronics WorkBench) =3 * 0 (WIDTH=10.00) C3--,R6-2,R1-2,R3-2,Q1-1,C1-2, * 5 (WIDTH=10.00) D2-A,R4-1,U1-6,R2-1, * 6 (WIDTH=10.00) C3-+,R5-2,Q1-3,
3-4
Creating by Importing
In the .plc file, the components reference designator, alias, shape, coordinates, angle of rotation and number of pads are listed. The following shows the contents of a .plc file generated by Electronics Workbench Multisim:
Version # Revision # Reference Points for Shape x0 y0
* VERSION 6 0
Net Name
D2,1N4733A,DIO_DO41,0,0,0,1N4733A; D1,1N4148,DIO_DO35,0,0,0,1N4148; C3,1.0uF,ELKO5_5R2_5,0,0,0,1.0uF;

Alias Shape Rotation
Beginning a Design
3.5.2
Loading Technology Files

You can load technology from a technology file that you saved earlier, or from another project. To load technology into the active file: 1. Select File/Load Technology. A standard Windows Open dialog appears.
3-5
Beginning a Design
2. Navigate to the desired folder and highlight the desired technology file and click Open. The following dialog displays.
3. Select the desired items to load into your open design file and click OK. For details on saving technology, see 3.8.1 Saving Technology on page 3-8. Beginning a Design
3.6
Working with Projects

The hierarchy of designs and projects appears on the Projects tab of the Design Toolbox. You can expand and collapse the hierarchy as with other Windows applications.
Project
Design
To open a file (project or design) shown in the Projects tab, double-click on it or right-click on it and, from the context menu, choose Open View. To rename a design file or project, right-click on it and, from the context menu, choose Rename. You can then type a new name for the project or file. To delete a design shown in the Projects tab, right-click on it and, from the context menu, choose Remove Design. (To delete a project, delete the project file from its current location on the system.)
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Opening an Existing Project
3.7
Opening an Existing Project

To open an existing project: 1. Choose File/Open. A standard file section dialog box appears, with the Files of Type list defaulted to Ultiboard 7 project files. 2. In the Files of Type list, choose the kind of file to open. You can open the following: Ultiboard 7 Project files (*.ewprj) Orcad files (*.max) Orcad Library (*.llb) Protel files (*.pcb, *.ddb) Gerber files (*.g) DXF files (*.dxf) Ultiboard V5.x Design files (*.ddf) Ultiboard V5.x Libraries (*.l55) Netlist files (*.ewnet, *.net, *.NT7) Calay Netlist files (*.*.net) TC7 files (*.tc7) All files, both those created by Electronics Workbench software and any other software (*.*). 3. Select a file from the list displayed and click Open. The file opens, along with its associated project. If you opened a project, you see the designs within that project in the Projects tab:
Beginning a Design
If you opened a version 5 .ddf file, you see the design appear in the workspace. A project with the same name is created automatically.
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Beginning a Design
3.8
Saving and Closing

To save a project, right-click on the project name in the Projects tab and, from the context menu, choose Save Project or choose File/Save. Saving a project also saves the designs in the project. You can also select a design in the Projects tab and click the save icon. Saving a design also saves a project (and therefore any other designs in the project). To save a project with a new name and/or location, choose File/Save As and provide the new name and/or location. All designs in the project are saved in the new location. To save all open projects and designs, choose File/Save All. To close the current projects and its designs, choose File/Close or File/Close Project. If you have any unsaved changes in the project or designs, you are prompted to save the project and/ or designs. To close all open projects and designs, choose File/Close All. If you have any unsaved changes in the project or designs, you are prompted to save the project and/or designs. To close a file (project or design) shown in the Projects tab, right-click on it and, from the context menu, choose Close View.
Beginning a Design
3.8.1
Saving Technology
You can save the technology specifications from a current design into a technology file. This technology file can be used to import technology settings into another design.
3-8
Saving and Closing
To save technology: 1. Select File/Save Technology. The Technology File Settings dialog box appears.
Beginning a Design
2. Select the technology parameters you want to save and click OK. A standard Windows Save dialog appears. Select the desired filepath for the technology file, enter its name in the File name field and click Save. For details on loading a technology file, see 3.5.2 Loading Technology Files on page 3-5.
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Beginning a Design
Beginning a Design
3-10
Chapter 4 Setting Up a Design

This chapter explains the basic functions you need to perform to get your board set up. These tasks should be performed before you begin placing components and/or traces. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Working with Layers Defining Copper Layers Accessing Layers Working with the Board Outline Using the Drawing Tools Importing a DXF File Using a Pre-Defined Outline Using the Board Outline Wizard Setting the Boards Reference Point Setting up the Boards Properties A General Introduction to Properties Working with Attributes Using the Attribute dialog box About Board Properties Grids and Units Board Settings General Layers Set-Up Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check Setting Default Elements for the Board Setting Board Defaults Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions Working with the Group Editor Page No. 4-2 4-2 4-3 4-5 4-6 4-6 4-7 4-7 4-11 4-12 4-12 4-12 4-13 4-15 4-16 4-17 4-18 4-25 4-24 4-20 4-26 4-27 4-29
Design Setup
4-1
Setting Up a Design
4.1
Working with Layers

The following are discussed in this section: 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3
4.1.1
Defining Copper Layers

Ultiboard 7 lets you define boards from 2 to 64 layers thick. Before you can create multi-layered boards, you need to know how they are to be manufactured. First, some terminology: Blind via any via that connects the top or bottom layer of a board to one of the internal layers. Buried via any via that connects internal layers. Normal through-hole via any via that connects all layers (top, bottom, and internal). Micro via a via that is less than 5 mils in diameter, that connects a maximum of two build-up layers only. Your initial design decisions are important because it is difficult to change the design, for example, from a 6-layer with blind and buried vias to a normal feed-through design, after the board has been completed. Your decisions are also important in terms of manufacturing cost. A 6-layer board with blind and buried vias will cost significantly more to manufacture than a 4-layer board with normal feed-through vias. When setting the number of copper layers you also select the lamination settings that will be used when the board is manufactured. This is important as these settings are used by Ultiboards internal Design Rule engine when placing blind and buried vias or micro vias. There are two methods of fabricating a PC board (both methods can be used in combination): The first method uses layered pairs of copper on a substrate (usually cured fiberglass/resin) that have been etched and are then laminated together with a partially cured fiberglass/resin substrate (prepreg). Heat and mechanical pressure are used to activate the prepreg and bond layered pairs with other layered pairs. The other method typically uses a layered pair as a core to which single layers of copper foil are added to build up the board. Prepreg is also used to bond the layers. Build-up layers are usually added in equal numbers to the top and bottom of the core to prevent warping of the final product. The lamination sequence used determines the acceptable layer combinations for placing blind and buried vias or microvias. For example, if all layers are layered pairs then blind vias can only be placed between an outer layer and completely through a layered pair (see diagram for an example). Once the lamination sequence is determined Ultiboard 7 will calculate the
Design Setup
4-2
Working with Layers
acceptable layer combinations for blind and buried vias or micro vias. You then choose which ones to use in your design from these possible combinations.
Cross-section of multi-layer PCB
Normal through-hole via Blind vias Buried via
The number of copper layers in a board can be set in either the Board Outline wizard (see 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard on page 4-7), or in the Board Settings (see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17).
4.1.2
Accessing Layers
The Layers tab of the Design Toolbox allows you to move through the layers of your design, as well as control their appearance. To display the Layers tab, click Layers (in the Design Toolbox). The tab appears, as shown here:
Layers with a check mark are displayed on the workspace. Layers with a check mark in a grey box are displayed in the workspace, but are dimmed. The highlighted layer is the active layer, the one you are working with.
Design Setup
Layers with no check mark are not displayed in the workspace, but are available to be used.
Use the color icons to control the layers color.
The tab is divided into four sections: PCB these are the working layers of your design. For more information on setting up
4-3
Setting Up a Design
the properties of the PCB layers, see 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2 and 4.4.7 General Layers Set-Up on page 4-18. Assembly these are the layers associated with production of your board. Information these are virtual layers, which provide useful design information but are not part of the physical board itself. For details on using the information layers, see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20 and 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5. Mechanical layers these are the layers to be used for documentation (e.g. showing dimensions) or other mechanical CAD-related properties. You can also set up projects and files that contain mechanical CAD information. For details, see Using Mechanical CAD on page 10-1. The layer highlighted in red is the active layer the one which any functions you choose will affect. Before you can work on a particular layer, you must ensure that layer is active. Depending on what layer is active, your available commands and toolbars may change. Tip Ultiboard 7 presents only those functions that are appropriate for the current layer. For example, if you are on a Paste Mask layer, you cannot use the Place menu to place a copper area. To make a layer the active layer, double-click on the name of the layer in the Design Toolbox. You can also affect the visibility of layers by making them visible, dimmed or hidden. To dim a layer in the workspace, making it easier to see the elements on other layers, click the layers check box. The check box turns gray, and the elements of that layer dim. Design Setup To hide a layer in the workspace, click the layers check box twice. The check mark disappears, and the elements on that layer are hidden.
dimmed hidden
Note While this action removes the elements of the layer from view, neither the layer nor the elements are deleted from the design. To change the color of the elements in a layer, click the color box beside the layer name and, from the dialog box that appears, choose a color. All existing elements on that layer, and any elements added to that layer, are displayed in that color, with the exception of shapes where
4-4
Working with the Board Outline
you can chose the line or fill color from the toolbar prior to placing them (see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25).
4.1.2.1 Setting Favorite Layers

You can assign numbers to up to ten layers using the Favorite layers dialog box. You can then type the number for a layer to make it active. To assign numbers to layers: 1. Select Options/Set Favorite Layers. The Favorite layers dialog box appears.
2. Select the layer from the drop-down list beside each layer. For example, you may wish to assign Layer 2 to the Copper Bottom Layer. 3. Click OK. Design Setup To make a layer active, type the number that you assigned to the layer on your keyboard. The layer becomes active and is highlighted in the Layers tab of the Design Toolbox.
4.2

If you have created a new design, the board outline layer will be empty. You can create a board outline in one of the following ways: draw a board outline using the drawing tools (see 4.2.1 Using the Drawing Tools on page 4-6) import a DXF file (see 4.2.2 Importing a DXF File on page 4-6) place a predefined outline from the library (see 4.2.3 Using a Pre-Defined Outline on page 4-7) use the Board Outline Wizard (see 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard on page 4-7).
4-5
Setting Up a Design
4.2.1
Using the Drawing Tools

To create a new board outline using the drawing tools: 4. Double-click the Board Outline layer in the Layers tab of the Design Toolbox. 5. Using Place/Shape, draw the shape you want for your board outline. For example, choose Place/Shape/Rectangle and drag the mouse until the rectangle is the desired height and length. Click to anchor it in place. Note To draw the shape based on precise coordinates, press the asterisk key (*) on the numeric keypad. The Enter coordinate dialog box appears. Enter the x and y co-ordinates and press OK. Continue to use the asterisk key (*) for the remaining co-ordinates. You can mix the use of the asterisk key (*) and clicking to position each corner.
4.2.2
Importing a DXF File

To import a DXF board outline from a CAD program such as AutoCAD. 1. Choose File/Import/Import DXF. A standard file selector appears. 2. Select DXF file (.dxf) from the Files of type drop-down list, navigate to the correct location for the .dxf file, select it and click OK.
Design Setup
3. The DXF import settings dialog box appears.

Creates layer names that correspond to the original DXF file
Merges DXF file layers into the layer chosen from the list
Sets measurement units used in the original design Indicates if the imported data should be scaled to fit the current board outline
Indicates if closed objects are to be converted to filled objects
4-6
4.2.3
Using a Pre-Defined Outline

To use one of the commonly-used board outlines provided in Ultiboard 7s library: 1. Choose Place/From Library to start the library manager. 2. Navigate to the Boards section and select the outline you want to use. 3. Click OK to finish.
4.2.4
Using the Board Outline Wizard

To use the Board Outline Wizard: 1. Choose Tools/Board Wizard. The first wizard dialog box appears.
Design Setup
2. Enable the Change the Layer Technology option. Choose the board technology and click Next. For more information about the board technology, see 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2. The next step of the wizard depends on which type of technology you chose.
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Setting Up a Design
3. If you chose Multi-layers constructed with double sided board (layer pairs), define the lamination settings for the board:
Set the number of layer pairs you intend to use by entering the value or using the spin selector in the Layer Pairs field. There should be at least one layered pair to act as a core. Select the blind, buried, or microvias checkboxes to use these in your design. As you make changes to the layer settings, the information window shows the acceptable layer combinations for blind and buried vias or microvias. In this window, select the layer combinations you want to allow in your design. Click Next. These settings can be changed later (but before you start your design); see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17. For more information about board layers and lamination settings, see 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2.
Design Setup
4-8
4. If you chose Multi-layers constructed with double sided boards and single layer stack-ups, define the lamination settings for the board as follows:
Set the number of layer pairs you intend to use by entering the value or using the spin selector in the Layer Pairs field. There should be at least one layered pair to act as a core. Set the number of single layer build-ups for both the top and bottom. There should be at least one layered pair to act as a core. Select the blind, buried, or microvias checkboxes to use these in your design. As you make changes to the layer settings, the information window shows the acceptable layer combinations for blind and buried vias or microvias. In this window, select the layer combinations you want to allow in your design. Click Next. These settings can be changed later (but before you start your design); see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17. For more information about board layers and lamination settings, see 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2.
Design Setup
4-9
Setting Up a Design
5. If you chose single or double-sided boards, or upon clicking Next after defining the lamination settings for a multi-layer board:
Define the default units of measurement for the design. This can be changed later; see 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16. Define the board reference point. This can be changed later; see 4.3 Setting the Boards Reference Point on page 4-11. Define the shape and size of the board. Set the default clearance for the board the distance from the edge of the board that is to be kept free of any other elements. Trying to run a trace through a clearance, or trying to place a part so that a pad is put within a clearance, for example, results in a design rule error. This can be changed later; see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17. Click Finish. The board outline is placed on your design.
Design Setup
4-10
Setting the Boards Reference Point
4.3
Setting the Boards Reference Point

The reference point of the board is important for relating physical dimensions to PCB layouts, since all measurements are shown relative to the origin. The Visible grid, Component grid, and Grid all use the reference point. If you used the Board Outline Wizard, this reference may already have been set. For more details, see 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard on page 4-7. The reference point looks like this:
To set a reference point: 1. Choose Options/Set Reference Point. Your cursor changes to look like this:
2. Click to place the reference point. Alternatively, press the asterisk key (*) to enter set the reference point at precise X,Y coordinates. Enter the coordinates and units of measurement. To have the reference point snap to the closest grid, select Snap to grid.
Design Setup
4-11
Setting Up a Design
4.4
Setting up the Boards Properties

This section discusses the following: 4.4.1 A General Introduction to Properties on page 4-12 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12 4.4.3 Using the Attribute dialog box on page 4-13 4.4.4 About Board Properties on page 4-15 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17 4.4.7 General Layers Set-Up on page 4-18 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20
4.4.1
A General Introduction to Properties

Every element in your design has a set of properties you can modify to suit your needs. These properties are described throughout this document, and differ depending on what kind of element is selected (for example, the properties for a trace are different from those for a part). You display an elements properties by doing one of the following: double-clicking on the element (or, for the PCB design properties, double-clicking on an empty area of the board) right-clicking on the element (or, for the PCB design properties, right-clicking on an empty area of the board) and choosing Properties from the context menu clicking on the element (or, for the PCB design properties, clicking on an empty area of the board) and choosing Edit/Properties
Design Setup
4.4.2
Working with Attributes

All properties dialog boxes for all elements have an Attributes tab. Parts are, in general, the only elements that already have attributes, typically including a name, a value, and a shape. For other elements, you can add attributes. All attributes can be changed or added. In the Attributes tab, you can change an attributes: tag (the name for the attribute) value (the value of the attribute) visibility (invisible, value shows, value and tag show).
4-12
Note Even invisible attributes can be displayed if you choose to do so, using Options/Preferences. For details, see 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving on page 2-32. You make these changes by clicking on a row to make it active and entering new information or, for visibility, choosing from the drop-down list.
Design Setup
Note You can sort attribute information by clicking on the column header. You can also make these changes through the Attribute dialog box, described below. To delete an attribute, select it and click Remove.
4.4.3
Using the Attribute dialog box

To add or modify an attribute: 1. Select the attribute you want to modify and click Change. or Click New. 2. You are prompted to choose from the list of available layers for the attribute.
4-13
Setting Up a Design
3. The Attribute dialog box appears.
4. Do some or all of the following: Change or set the attributes tag by choosing from the Tag list. Change or set the attributes value by entering it in the Value field. Choose the attributes visibility by enabling the desired option. Visible attributes are previewed in the Alignment area of the dialog box. Use the Alignment area to set the attributes alignment (when visible) relative to the component footprint. Use the Font area of this dialog box to specify the weight of font used to display the attribute (when visible). Your choices are reflected in the preview area. Set the height and rotation of the attribute (when visible). Your choices are reflected in the preview area. Choose the color of the attribute when visible on a specific layer. Choose the layer from the Layer drop-down list, the color by clicking Color. 5. To save your changes, click OK. To cancel them, click Cancel.
Design Setup
4-14
4.4.4
About Board Properties

Many characteristics of your PCB design are controlled through the board's properties including number of layers, design rules and grid settings. These settings are saved with the design and will be in effect if the design is later reopened. Board properties let you control: The units of measurement used in your design and the settings for the Ultiboard 7 grids. For details on setting units of measurement and grids, see 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16. The general board settings, which include the lamination method used to determine how layers are bonded together and the default board clearance. These lamination settings are used by the design rule checking engine for determining the acceptable combinations of layers when placing vias, including blind and buried vias or microvias. For details, see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17. The layers available on the board; see 4.4.7 General Layers Set-Up on page 4-18. Design rules for the board. See 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20. With nothing selected on the board, right-click on an empty portion of the board and choose Properties from the context menu that appears. Click on an empty portion of the board and choose Edit/Properties. Double-click on an empty portion of the board.
To display the Board Properties dialog box for the board, do one of the following:
Design Setup
4-15
Setting Up a Design
4.4.5
Grids and Units

Use the Grid & Units tab of the PCB Properties dialog box to control Ultiboard 7 grids and set the unit of measurement for your design.
Preview shows results of choices for visual grid.
Design Setup
Ultiboard 7 offers three grids: the visible grid provides a visual reference for you to visually align components and traces the component grid determines the increments by which elements (parts and shapes) can be placed on the board the grid determines the increments by which traces can be placed on the board.
To set the units of measurement to be used by default in Ultiboard 7, choose from the Design Units list. If you used the Board Outline Wizard, this may already have been set. For more details, see 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard on page 4-7. To choose the type of grid, choose from the Grid Type list. Choices are Standard or Polar. To change the style of the visible grid, choose from the Visible Grid Style list. The results of your choice show in the preview window. To change the increments of any of the grids, enter the value in the field or choose from the appropriate list. To show or hide the visual grid, use View/Grid.
4-16
4.4.6
Board Settings
Use the Board Settings tab of the PCB Properties dialog box to determine the layer pairs that are acceptable for blind or buried vias. This is used when you try to place a via. Your choices of lamination affect the cost of the board, and should be confirmed with the board manufacturer. For more information about board layers and lamination settings, see 4.1.1 Defining Copper Layers on page 4-2. This tab also allows you to set the default clearance for the board the distance from the edge of the board that is to be kept free of any other elements. Trying to run a trace through a clearance, or trying to place a part so that a pad is put within a clearance, for example, results in a design rule error. If you used the Board Outline Wizard, the layer information and clearance may already have been set. For more details, see 4.2.4 Using the Board Outline Wizard on page 4-7.
Design Setup
1. Set the number of layer pairs you intend to use by entering the value or using the up/down arrows in the Layer Pairs field. There should be at least one layered pair to act as a core. 2. Set the number of Single Layer Build-ups for both the top and bottom. There should be at least one layered pair to act as a core. 3. Select the blind, buried, or microvias checkboxes to use these in your design.
4-17
Setting Up a Design
4. As you make changes to the layer settings, the information window shows the acceptable layer combinations for blind and buried vias or microvias. In this window, select the layer combinations you want to allow in your design. 5. Enter the value and units to be used as the board clearance.
4.4.7
General Layers Set-Up

Use the General Layers tab of the PCB Properties dialog box to control which layers are available on the board.
Design Setup
4-18
If you are in a Mechanical CAD file, the General Layers tab appears as follows:
To control the numbers of layers in the board, do the following: Add layers to the board by selecting the checkbox beside the layer name. Remove layers from the board by clearing the checkbox beside the layer name. Note You can have a layer available on the board but temporarily dim or hide it. For details, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3. Note There are up to ten mechanical CAD layers in PCB design. These layers allow you to provide information that is directly related to the PCB. You place elements on them to represent the mechanical elements of your design for example, cabinet casing or mounting brackets.
Design Setup
4-19
Setting Up a Design
To rename layers: 1. Click Rename Layers. The Select Layer for Renaming dialog box appears.
2. Select the layer that you wish to rename and click OK. The Layer dialog box appears.
Design Setup
3. Enter the new layer name and click OK.
4.4.8
Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check

Ultiboards constraint-driven layout requires the contraints, or design rules to be entered before laying out the board. Design Rule Check constraints are set up as described below. Note Other constraints are entered in the Spreadsheet View. For details, see 2.4 Spreadsheet View Details on page 2-35. For a discussion of constraint-driven layout, refer to the Ultiboard 7 Getting Started & Tutorial Guide. Use the Design Rules tab of the PCB Properties dialog box to set: the design-specific annular ring for through-hole devices (e.g. DIP) the design-specific settings for vias the design-specific settings for microvias
4-20
surface mount pad oversize.
4.4.8.1 Through Hole Pad Annular Ring

Footprints in the library have been designed with pad sizes in according with the manufacturers recommendations. To change these settings you can edit the footprint in the library or directly on the design using the In-place Part Edit command. Alternatively, you can apply a set of design rules to specific footprints or to the entire design. The annular ring setting (the ring of copper around the drill hole of a pad or via) allows you to specify either an absolute value (e.g. 50 mils) or a relative value that depends on the radius of the drill hole size. For example, a 50 mil drill hole (radius of 25 mils) with a relative value of .6 (60%) will create an annular ring of 15 mils (60% of 25 mils). When using relative settings, it is important to choose Min and Max values to ensure that the annular ring will never go beyond those bounds.
Design Setup
4-21
Setting Up a Design
To enter an annular ring setting: 1. Click the button beside the desired field (Top, Inner or Bottom). The Through Hole Pad Properties dialog box appears.
Choose Fixed and enter the fixed value. or Choose Relative and enter the relative setting. Be sure to choose Min and Max values. For more on absolute and relative values, see earlier in this section. To apply the design rules to a footprint: 1. Select the footprint and choose Edit/In-Place Part Edit. 2. Select the pads to which the rule should apply. Design Setup 3. Right-click and, from the context menu, choose Properties. 4. On the Pad tab of the properties dialog box, enable the Use Design Rules option.
4.4.8.2 Vias
The Vias setting sets the default via dimensions to be used when a via is placed during trace placement. This setting will also apply to vias that have already been placed in the design.
4.4.8.3 Microvias
The Microvias setting sets the default via dimensions to be used when a microvia is placed during trace placement. This setting will also apply to microvias that have already been placed in the design. The Capture Land Diameter field determines the land diameter where the microvia starts, while Target Land Diameter determines the diameter where the microvia ends. These terms are in accordance with the IPC and JPCA joint standard IPC/JPCA-2315, Design Guide for High Density Interconnects (HDI) and Microvias. The maximum layer span is either one or two layers.
4-22
4.4.8.4 Surface Mount Pads Oversize

Depending on the manufacturing process you are using, you may wish to enlarge the size of all surface mount pads by a fixed amount. This can be set independently for the top and bottom layers. The setting refers to the amount that will be added to the pad. In the case of a circular pad this amount is added to the radius. In the case of a rectangular or square pad the amount will be added to the width and length.
4.4.8.5 Design Rule Errors

Design rule errors appear in the Errors tab of the Spreadsheet View as they occur, and disappear as they are corrected.
Double-click on an error in the list to zoom in on the affected area on the design (indicated with a red circle). This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard.
Design Setup
Depending on what you are doing on the board, you may see the following kinds of errors if you keep the Errors tab open while you work: Component [refdes](value) has an unknown shape (shape name) The given component has a shape defined that does not exist in the library
4-23
Setting Up a Design
Component [refdes] is Not On the design The component with the given refdes was specified in the netlist but is not present on the design Pin [Pin number] from Component [refdes](value) in Net [Net name] is missing from shape [shape name] A pin belonging to the specified component was given in the netlist but does not exist in the shape that was given for the component. Unused Pin [Pin name] is {close to, connected to} {Unused Pin, Copper} The given pin that was not assigned to a net is close to or connected to another unused pin or copper (which can be traces, powerplanes, copper areas, etc.) Design Rule Error: Net [Net1 name] { connected to} { Net2 name, Unused pin, copper, Board outline } The given net was connected to another net, an unused pin, copper or the board outline. Design Rule Error: Net Gnd Close to Net [Net name] [RefID:PIN#-netname] The given net was too close to another net. You can set up whether the design rule check runs in real time, and define the actions to be taken when Ultiboard 7 encounters a design rule error, such as cancelling the current action, asking for confirmation, or overruling the error. For details, see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27.
4.5
Design Setup
Setting Default Elements for the Board

You can set up defaults for a variety of board elements, including: Board defaults. For details, see 4.5.1 Setting Board Defaults on page 4-25. The default dimensions used by Ultiboard 7. For details on setting up default dimensions, see 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics on page 4-26. The default actions for some Ultiboard 7 functions. For details, see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27.
4-24
4.5.1
Setting Board Defaults

To set the board defaults: 1. Select Edit/Properties to display the PCB properties dialog box and click on the Board Defaults tab.
Design Setup
2. Use the Board Defaults tab in the PCB properties dialog box to set the following parameters as desired: Trace Width Settingsset trace width and minimum and maximum trace width. Trace Length Settingsset minimum and maximum trace length. Trace Corner Settingsset default trace corner style and minimum angle between traces. Trace Neck Settingsset minimum and maximum trace neck length. Clearance Settingsset clearance to traces, pads, vias and copper areas. For all of these clearances to be active, and display in the Spreadsheet View, the Use multiple clearances checkbox must be selected. Otherwise, only clearance to traces will be operational. Annular Ring Settingsset minimum annular ring size. Component Spacing Settingsset minimum distance between components. Pin & Gate Swapping Settingsset parameters for pin and gate swapping. Thermal Reliefset the thermal relief shape.
4-25
Setting Up a Design
4.5.2
Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics

Use the Dimensions tab of the Preferences dialog box to define the characteristics to be used for any dimensions placed in the board (for information on placing dimensions, see 5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29). To define the default dimension characteristics: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. Select the Dimensions tab.
A preview of the results of your choices appears here.
Design Setup
3. Choose the units of measurement to be used and displayed on the dimension, the length of the dimensions stub (the length of the lines defining the dimension) and style of its arrow and text, its alignment, position and orientation. The results of your choices are previewed on the tab. 4. To apply your changes without closing the dialog box, click Apply. Existing dimensions are not affected. To apply your changes and close the dialog box, click OK. To cancel your changes, click Cancel.
4-26
4.5.3
Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions

Use the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box to define a variety of actions associated with the overall PCB design. To define the default actions: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. Select the PCB Design tab.
Design Setup
3. Set the viewing options in the View area: Show pin 1 mark enable to display pin 1 of a device with a special marking. Show Copper Areas enable to display copper areas. This applies to copper areas only, not regular polygon shapes on non-copper layers. Show pin info in pin enable to display the pin number and hole size when zoomed in. 4. In the Default pin diameters area: Units select unit of measurement from drop-down list. Jumpers enter the default pin diameter for jumpers. Testpoints enter the default pin diameter for testpoints. 5. In the Action on DRC error area, set the actions to be taken when Ultiboard 7 encounters a Design Rule Error:
4-27
Setting Up a Design
Cancel the current action enable to prevent the current operation from being completed. For example, placing a trace over a pad that is part of a different netlist will not be permitted. Ask for Confirmation enable so that if an invalid operation is attempted a prompt is given asking if the operation should be completed even though a Design Rule will be violated. Overrule enable to permit the operation to be completed. For details about Design Rules, see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20. 6. In the On trace deletion area: Auto delete Via (standard) enable to have vias automatically deleted when you delete the trace associated with that via. Auto delete teardrop enable to have teardrops automatically deleted when you delete the trace associated with that teardrop. 7. In the On trace placement area: Auto add teardrop enable to add a teardrop when a trace is placed. Auto trace narrowing enable to allow traces to narrow as necessary during routing. 8. In the DRC & Net check area: No Realtime Check enable to prevent a DRC and netcheck in real time as you place objects, for example, parts. Check on action end enable to perform a DRC and netcheck after each action, for example, part placement. Full Realtime Check enable to perform DRC checks and ratnest updates to your work in real time (as you place objects, for example, parts). 9. In the Follow me router area: Continuous place enable to have the next trace begin from the finish point of the previous trace when placing a Follow-me trace. If this is not selected, you must click to start a new trace. For more details about Follow-me traces, see 6.1.3 Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method on page 6-4. 10.In the Crosshair area: Trace snap enable to have the pointer snap to the nearest trace. For details about using the trace snap, see 6.1.1 Working with Traces on page 6-3. 11. In the Post processing area: Show fiducial marks enable to show fiducial marks when you postprocess this design.
Design Setup
4-28
Working with the Group Editor
4.6

The group editor lets you create and edit net groups, part groups, bus groups and differential pairs. To create a group: 1. Select Tools/Group Editor.
Selected tab determines name of this field
Design Setup
2. Select one of the following tabs:

Net Groups groups consisting of selected nets. Part Groups groups consisting of selected parts. Bus Groups bus groups consisting of selected nets. Differential Pairs groups consisting of selected pairs of nets. This feature is only present
if you have Ultiroute installed with your Ultiboard installation. 3. Click Add. The Add group dialog box appears.
4. Enter the desired name and click OK.
4-29
Setting Up a Design
If you are entering a Net or Part group, the Change group settings dialog box appears. Change information in the Group Settings area as desired and click OK.
5. The Edit Groups dialog box appears with the new group name displayed in the Groups field.
Design Setup
New group
4-30
6. Highlight the new group to display a list of elements you can add to the group.
Click checkboxes to assign parts to highlighted group.
Highlight group to populate Assign list
7. Click checkboxes beside desired components and click Apply to add them to the group. 8. Click OK to close the Edit Groups dialog box. To edit a group: 1. Select Tools/Group Editor to display the Edit Groups dialog box. 2. Select the tab for the type of group you wish to edit. 3. Highlight the desired group in the Groups list. 4. Change net or part assignments as desired and click Apply. 5. For net or part groups you can also highlight the desired group in the Groups list and click the Properties button to display the Change group settings dialog box. Make the required changes in the Group Settings area and click OK. To delete a group: 1. Select Tools/Group Editor to display the Edit Groups dialog box. 2. Select the tab for the type of group you wish to edit. 3. Highlight the desired group in the Groups list and click Delete. Design Setup
4-31
Setting Up a Design
Design Setup
4-32
Chapter 5 Working with Parts

This chapter explains how to work with parts as you create and edit designs. It covers the ways that you can place parts on the board, as well as the tools included to help you with part location and placement. It also includes information on Ultiboard 7s library of parts, and editing the parts in the library and on the board. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Placing Parts Dragging Components from Outside the Board Outline Using the Parts Tab in the Spreadsheet View Tools to Assist Part Placement Viewing and Editing Properties Viewing and Editing Component Properties Viewing and Editing Attributes Viewing and Editing Shape Properties Placing Other Elements Placing Mounting Holes and Connectors Placing Shapes Working with Jumpers Working with Test Points Working with Dimensions Placing Parts from the Library Editing Components and Shapes Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) Editing a Polygon Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties Page No. 5-2 5-2 5-3 5-5 5-14 5-14 5-21 5-23 5-24 5-25 5-25 5-26 5-28 5-29 5-33
Parts Parts
5-34 5-34 5-35 5-36 5-38
5-1
Working with Parts
Subject Searching For and Replacing Components Searching for Parts in Open Designs Locating a Part in a Design Replacing Parts Cross-probing Creating New Parts Using the Library Manager to Create a Part Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part Managing the Library Working with Library Categories Adding Parts to the Library
Page No. 5-41 5-41 5-42 5-43 5-44 5-44 5-44 5-46 5-53 5-55 5-57
5.1
Placing Parts
You can place parts on the design: by dragging parts from outside the board outline (see 5.1.1 Dragging Components from Outside the Board Outline on page 5-2) by using the Spreadsheet View (see 5.1.2 Using the Parts Tab in the Spreadsheet View on page 5-3) by importing a netlist (see 3.5 Creating by Importing on page 3-4) by selecting parts from the library (see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33) Note Before placing a part, make sure that you are on the layer where the part is to be placed. For information on selecting a layer, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3.
5.1.1
Parts
Dragging Components from Outside the Board Outline

By default, components are placed outside the board outline when you open a netlist from Multisim or another schematic capture program. These can be dragged to the appropriate location on the board. To drag a component from outside the board outline: 1. Click on the component and drag it to the appropriate location. 2. The placed component remains highlighted. Click anywhere on the workspace, or right-click, to de-select the component.
5-2
Placing Parts
5.1.2
Using the Parts Tab in the Spreadsheet View

5.1.2.1 About the Parts Tab
The Parts tab in the Spreadsheet View shows a list of all the parts in your design. The color indicator beside the part indicates whether the part has been placed on the board outline (bright green), or is off to the side awaiting placement (dark green). The Parts tab allows you to select parts, to lock parts so they cannot be accidentally moved, and to place parts on the board. It also contains functions to help you find parts on the board, and to preview what a part looks like.
Dark green indicates the part has not been placed within the board outline. If all are dark green, there may be no board outline defined. Find and Select the Part button Lock the Selected Parts button Start the Part Sequencer button Show or Hide the Preview button Selected part
Orange indicates the part has been locked.
Light green indicates the part has been placed within the board outline.
Preview of the selected part
5.1.2.2 Using the Parts Tab to Place Parts

To place a single part on the board: 1. Click-and-drag the part from the list to the design. The selected part will be attached to the pointer as you move it over the board. 2. Release the left mouse button to drop the part onto the board. The part can then be adjusted or moved further into position if necessary. For more information on moving parts and adjusting their placement, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5. Parts
5-3
Working with Parts
To place a series of parts on the board using the Parts Sequencer: 1. Click an unplaced part in the list (a part with a dim button). The Start Placing the Unpositioned Parts button is activated on the Parts tab. 2. Click the Start Placing the Unpositioned Parts button. 3. Move the pointer over the board. The selected part will be attached to the pointer as you move it over the board. 4. When the part is in position, left-click to drop the part on the board. The next part in the list appears on the mouse pointer. Continue left-clicking to drop a part and pick up the next until you have placed as many as you planned to. Note Right-click to drop the last part or to cancel the action. Parts that you place this way can then be adjusted or moved further into position if necessary. For more information on moving parts and adjusting their placement, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5.
5.1.2.3 Using the Parts Tab for Other Functions

To select a part using the Parts tab: Double-click the part in the list. The part appears selected in the design. Note For more on selecting parts and other elements, see 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements on page 2-17. To lock and unlock parts: 1. Click a part in the list to select it. To select multiple parts, click one part, hold the SHIFT key down, then click the last part you want to select. The two parts that you clicked, and any parts listed between them, are now selected. 2. Click the Lock the Selected Part button to lock all selected unlocked parts or to unlock the selected locked parts.
Parts 5-4
Placing Parts
To find a part in the design: 1. Click the part in the list. 2. Click the Find and Select the Part button. The view zooms in on the part, which appears selected. To preview a part: 1. Click the Preview button to toggle the Preview function on, if required. 2. Click the part in the list. A picture of the part displays. You can use the Parts tab to place parts when the part is not on the board but is listed in the Parts tab. Parts listed on the tab are either placed on the board or have been imported but not yet placed within the board outline. Parts that are listed in the Parts tab but are not on the board are indicated with a dim button, while parts that have been placed on the board are indicated with a bright button.
5.1.3
Tools to Assist Part Placement

This section tells you how to use the tools that Ultiboard 7 provides to help you place parts and other elements on the design.
5.1.3.1 Working with Ratsnests

A ratsnest is a straight line connection between pads, indicating their connectivity. The ratsnest identifies the pads which should be connected according to the netlist, but which are not yet connected with traces. Because these represent logical connections, and not the physical copper connections referred to as traces in Ultiboard 7, they are just straight line connections that can overlap components and other ratsnest lines. In Ultiboard 7, ratsnests are represented by colored lines, although they can be dimmed so that they appear gray. They appear by default, exist on their own layer, and can be controlled through the Information part of the Layers tab in the Design Toolbox. For more information on dimming and hiding ratsnests, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3. Parts
5-5
Working with Parts
The following diagram illustrates the ratsnests as they connect pads in a design without regard to running through components:
5.1.3.2 Working with Force Vectors

Force vectors are powerful aids that help you place components with optimum intelligence. When you place components manually on the board, you should pay careful attention to the force vectors coming from that component. They allow you to place the component as close as possible to other components that are part of the same net. You should try to minimize the ratsnest distances from that component to other pads on the board. Force vectors work by treating the force vector lines coming from each component as if they were vectors, adding them together as a vector sum, and producing a resultant force vector. The resultant force vector has a length and direction. By moving the component in the direction of the force vector, and trying to minimize the force vector length, you are moving the component to a location that results in the shortest possible combination of ratsnest lines. Note Force vectors are extremely valuable as a guide, but you should not follow them blindly. By the nature of the algorithm, all force vectors have a natural tendency to point toward the center of the board, because all ratsnests would have their shortest connections if every component were located directly on top of each other in the very center of the board. In Ultiboard 7, force vectors are represented by colored lines, although they can be dimmed. They appear by default, but can be controlled through the Information part of the Layers tab in the Design Toolbox. For more information on dimming and hiding force vectors, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3. Parts 5-6
Placing Parts
The following diagram illustrates force vectors coming from components:
5.1.3.3 Dragging Components

Depending on your settings in the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box, design rule check may be enabled while you drag. It monitors for potential short circuits and clearance errors. If the move would cause short circuits or clearance errors, the connections are not made. If connections are lost, they can be restored by putting the component's pad back on the trace to which it belongs (same net name). For more on design rule checks, see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20. To drag a component, click on the component you want to move, and drag it to the location where you want it placed. To specify the x / y coordinates to which the part is to move, press the * key on the numeric keypad or use the x / y coordinates on the status bar to get a precise reading on the location of the cursor. When you are on the exact location of the component, release the mouse button.
5.1.3.4 Shoving Components

Component shoving allows you to move one component and have Ultiboard automatically push other components on the board out of the way to create enough available space for the component. The amount of space considered for this shoving is set in the component properties, as described in 5.2 Viewing and Editing Properties on page 5-14. Note Shoving does not work if there is any copper connected to the component. The Shoving command is a toggle, and defaults to off. To toggle the Shoving command on and off, choose Options/Part Shoving. To adjust the shove spacing around a part: 1. Select the part.
Parts
5-7
Working with Parts
2. Choose Edit/Properties. The Component Properties dialog box for the part appears. 3. Click the Component tab. This tab allows you to adjust the distance of component shove spacing:
Change the spacing
Select the units of measurement
Set minimum allowable space between component and traces
To enter swapping parameters for the selected component: 1. In the Swapping area of the Component tab: Pin select Yes, No or Use Group Settings from the drop-down list. Gate select Internal Gates only to permit swapping of gates between gates within the same component; No Swapping to prohibit gate swapping for this component; Advanced Swapping to permit gate swapping between this component and another (both components must have Advanced Swapping selected); Use Group Settings to use group swapping options.
5.1.3.5 Using Ruler Bars

Use the ruler bars to place guides on the design, or to measure distances.
Click the ruler bar to set or control the guides Guides appear like this Dotted lines appear on the design when a guide has been set
Parts
Elements on the design will snap to the dotted lines representing the guides on the design.
5-8
Placing Parts
To toggle the ruler bars off or on, choose View/Ruler bars. To place a ruler guide on the workspace, click in the ruler bar at the measurement where you want the guide placed. To move a guide, click on its location on the ruler bar, and drag it to a new location. Note If a guide crosses elements on the design, moving the guide will also move the elements. To remove a guide, right-click on its location on the ruler bar, and choose either Clear (for a single guide) or Clear All (for multiple guides). To use a guide to measure, click on its location on the ruler bar. Measurements from the edge of the window and other guides appear, and change if you move the guide.
5.1.3.6 Orienting Components

Components are placed on the board in a certain orientation, which may not be the orientation in which you need them. You can, however, orient them by rotating them, or by swapping them to another layer. Make sure that the part to be oriented is selected and choose the following commands from the Edit/Orientation menu to orient components:
Button Menu command Flip Horizontal Flip Vertical 90 Clockwise 90 CounterCW Angle Swap Layer Result Flips the component from left to right. Flips the component from top to bottom. Rotates the component 90 degrees clockwise. Rotates the component 90 degrees counter-clockwise. Rotates the component at an angle that you define. Swaps the selected component to the mirror layer (e.g. from Silkscreen Top to Silkscreen Bottom).
Parts
Note You can toggle the Edit toolbar on and off.
5-9
Working with Parts
5.1.3.7 Aligning Components

Shapes and components can be aligned with other shapes and components. Select the elements to be aligned and choose the following commands from the Edit/Align menu to align the elements:
Button Menu command Align Left Align Right Align Top Align Bottom Align Center Horizontal Align Center Vertical Result Aligns the left edges of the selected elements. Aligns the right edges of the selected elements. Aligns the top edges of the selected elements. Aligns the bottom edges of the selected elements. Shifts the selected elements horizontally so their centers are aligned. Shifts the selected elements vertically so their centers are aligned.
Note You can toggle the Align toolbar on and off.
5.1.3.8 Spacing Components

Shapes and components can be spaced relative to each other on the board. Select the elements to be spaced and choose the following commands from the Edit/Align menu to space the elements:
Button Menu command Space Across Result Spaces three or more objects beside each other evenly. Increases horizontal space between two or more objects. Decreases horizontal space between two or more objects. Spaces three or more objects above each other evenly.
Parts
Space Across Plus
Space Across Min
Space Down
5-10
Placing Parts
Button
Menu command Space Down Plus
Result Increases vertical space between two or more objects. Decreases vertical space between two or more objects.
Space Down Min
Note You can toggle the Align toolbar on and off.
5.1.3.9 Placing a Group Array Box

A group array box is used to place components in an array, such as memory chips. You create the array box first and then place the parts. To place a group array box: 1. Select Place/Group Array Box.
Enter desired X and Y spacing for the array.
Select if you wish to use group centers
If you wish to enter the number of rows and columns instead of the x-y spacing, enable
Enter number of columns and rows.
Enter desired number of columns and rows for the array.
Parts
5-11
Working with Parts
2. Click OK and click and drag the mouse to place the array as desired.
Use handles to size a selected box as desired
Placed Group Array box
3. Begin selecting and dragging components. As they are placed, the components snap to the array.
Placed component
Next component will be placed here
Place the part in the bottom left cell. The other parts will be placed at the same relative position in the other cells, beginning in the bottom left row. (This depends on whether Use Group Centers is selected). 4. Continue placing components.
Parts 5-12
Placing Parts
5.1.3.10 Replicating a Group

You can make the positioning of a group of components the same as the positioning for another selected group by using the Group Replica Place command. This example uses the following design:
Group 1 consists of U1, U2 & U3
Group 2 consists of U4, U5 & U6
To replicate the positioning of a group of components: 1. Select Design/Group Replica Place to display the following dialog box.
The Group to be Replicateds positioning will be changed to match that of the Primary Group
Parts
2. In the Primary Group drop-down list, select the group whose positioning is to be copied.
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Working with Parts
3. In the Group to be Replicated drop-down list select the group whose positioning you wish to change to match the Primary Group. 4. Click OK. The dialog closes and the Group to be Replicated (in this example, group 2) is placed on your cursor in the shape of the Primary Group.
Primary Group (group 1) Shape of Group to be Replicated (group 2) changes to match Primary Groups shape.
5. Drag your mouse to the desired location and click to place the group.
5.2
Viewing and Editing Properties

Once a shape or a part has been created, its properties can be viewed and edited. This section explains how to display the property dialog boxes of components, attributes, and shapes, and what each tells you about the element.
5.2.1
Viewing and Editing Component Properties

To view and edit the properties of a component: 1. Select the part. 2. Choose Edit/Properties. The parts Component Properties dialog box appears.
Parts 5-14
The Position tab is the default, and appears when you choose Edit/Properties. It displays the coordinates of the selected part:
Lock the part in place Select the units of measurement
Change the X-axis coordinate Change the Y-axis coordinate Select the angle
Select the board side
Parts
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Working with Parts
The Attributes tab appears when you choose Edit/Properties. It allows you to edit the properties of the selected part:
Click a column header to sort the column
Click to select Visibility from a list
For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12.
Parts 5-16
The 3D data tab allows you to control the properties of the 3D image of the selected part. Any changes to the 3D properties are reflected in the Preview area.
Must be enabled for the component to appear in the 3D view
Enable checkbox to have the preview update as changes are made in the General, Material, Pins or Cylinder tab
For slower computers, disable checkbox and click Update button when you wish to refresh the preview.
General Tab To specify the distance between the component and the board: 1. In the Height field, enter the distance to the top of the component from the surface of the board. 2. In the Offset field, enter the distance from the component underside to the board. To produce the 3D image by projecting the silkscreen information upwards according to the height and offset specified for the component: 1. Enable the Use 2D Data to create 3D shape option. 2. Choose the type of object to be created: Parts
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Working with Parts
for a hole, enable the Hole option (the hole extends from the Offset to the Height) If you want to make the selected part a hole in the 3D view, the part must be completely enclosed (e.g. a circle or rectangle) and contained within another larger object. For example, this could be used to create a notch or dimple in a DIP (dual-in-line package.) These settings should be applied by first editing the component (using either In-place Edit or the Library Manager) and choosing the object to which the settings apply. for a sphere, enable the Create Sphere option and enter a value in the Radius field. Material Tab
To choose the colors to display for the component, click on the color box beside each of the following field labels, and choose a color from the dialog box that appears: Parts
Component the color used when the components face is viewed at right angles to a line from the viewer to the component. Backlight the color used on any component face for which the light source is not directly incident. Reflection the color used for reflected light. This works in conjunction with the Surface setting. The more shine, the more the component will display reflected light. Illumination the color used when the component emits light, for example, a light emitting diode.
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Pins Tab
To choose the pin model to be used in the 3D rendering, choose from the Type list. By default the pin will attach at the mid-point of the body of the component. Enable the Height option and enter a height value to use a value other than the default.
Parts
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Working with Parts
Cylinder Tab
To model a component in a cylindrical package such as a resistor or diode: 1. Enable the Cylinder between pins option. 2. If the component is a resistor, enable the Color code option. 3. To place a band to indicate polarization (e.g., for a diode), enable the Polarization marking option and choose the pin to mark. 4. To set an offset for the cylinder, enable Use custom cylinder offsets and enter the Start Offset and End Offset values.
Parts 5-20
The Component tab allows you to adjust the distance of component shove spacing and also enter pin and gate swapping settings. For details, see 5.1.3.4 Shoving Components on page 5-7.
5.2.2
Viewing and Editing Attributes

The attributes associated with a component that are visible on the workspace (typically this is the components Refdes) also have properties. These are made up of three tabs: General, Position and Attribute. To edit an attributes display style, use the General tab.
Set the line style for the attributes text line Set the attributes color
Set the width of the attributes text line and the units of measurement
Parts
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Working with Parts
To edit an attributes coordinates, angle and layer, use the Position tab.
Lock the attribute in place Change the X-axis coordinate Change the Y-axis coordinate Select the units of measurement
Select the angle Select the layer on which the attribute appears
To edit an attributes visibility, alignment, and so on, use the Attribute tab. For information on this tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12.
Parts 5-22
5.2.3
Viewing and Editing Shape Properties

As with components and traces, the properties of shapes can be viewed and edited. To edit the properties of a shape that you have placed on the design: 1. Select the shape. 2. Choose Edit/Properties. or Right-click, and select Properties from the context menu that appears. To edit a shapes attributes, use the Attributes tab:
Name of this tab changes depending on object selected Click a column header to sort the column
For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12. To edit a shapes line style, use the General tab.
Set the width of the shapes border line Select the clearance
Parts
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Working with Parts
To change the layer on which a shape exists, use the Position tab:
Select the layer Use to lock the shape to the layer
The fourth and final tab is used to change the selected shapes size. The name and contents of this tab change depending on the shape selected.
Parts
5.3
Placing Other Elements

This section explains about placing the following other elements: 5.3.1 Placing Mounting Holes and Connectors on page 5-25 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25 5.3.3 Working with Jumpers on page 5-26 5.3.4 Working with Test Points on page 5-28
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5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29
5.3.1
Placing Mounting Holes and Connectors

Mounting holes and connectors are added from the library. For details, see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33.
5.3.2
Placing Shapes
Ultiboard 7 allows you to place various shapes on your design, and to move them once they have been placed. Depending on your active layer, the set of available shapes for placement, and what they represent, may differ. Choose the following commands to place shapes:
Button Command Description Left-click two points to draw a line between them. Continue clicking to draw another segment of the same line, or right-click to stop. Left-click two points to draw an arc between them, then move the pointer to change the degree of arc. Left-click two points to draw a bezier curve between them, then move the pointer to change the degree of arc. Left-click two points that define the ellipses focuses, then move the pointer to define the ellipses size.
Place/Line
Place/Arc Place/Bezier Place/Shape/Ellipse
Place/Shape/Rectangle Left-click to define the opposite corners of the rectangle. Place/Shape/Circle

Left-click two points that define the circles diameter.
Place/Shape/Rounded Left-click to define the opposite corners of the rectangle, then move the pointer towards the middle of the rectangle to define the Rectangle
roundness of the corners.
Place/Shape/Pie
Left-click to define two points that define the diameter of the pie, then move the pointer back and forth to define whether the shape looks like a single slice of pie or like a pie with a slice missing. Left-click all points that are to define the polygon, ending with the starting point.
Parts
Place/Shape/Polygon
After creating a shape, right-click to cancel the Place command. Note Shapes can be moved, oriented, and aligned like components, and their properties can also be viewed and edited. Use the properties to change the line color, style, and width,
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Working with Parts
and fill color and style if applicable. For details, see 5.2.3 Viewing and Editing Shape Properties on page 5-23.
5.3.3
Working with Jumpers

5.3.3.1 Placing Jumpers
Default jumper pin settings are defined on the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box (see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27). The default pad settings are based on the design rules defined on the Design Rules tab of the PCB Properties dialog box (see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20). They can be manually set to use the annular ring specification or pad diameter settings by setting the properties of the pad when the jumper has been placed on the design. To place a jumper: 1. Be sure a copper layer is selected. 2. Choose Place/Jumper. 3. Move the pointer over the design. The pointer has the first prong of the jumper attached. 4. Click to drop the first prong of the jumper, then move the pointer to where the second prong should be placed. 5. Click to drop the second prong of the jumper. 6. Click to drop the first prong of another jumper, or right-click to cancel the Place/Jumper command. Once both prongs have been placed, jumpers can be moved, oriented, and aligned like parts. For more information on moving parts, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5.
5.3.3.2 Viewing and Editing Jumper Properties

Jumper properties consist of three tabs: Attributes, Points and Jumper. Parts To edit a jumpers attributes, use the Attributes tab. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12.
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To control the coordinates for the jumpers starting and ending points, use the Line tab:
Units of measurement
The X coordinate of the jumpers starting point
The Y coordinate of the jumpers starting point
The X coordinate of the jumpers ending point The Y coordinate of the jumpers ending point
To control the jumpers wire and pin type, use the Jumper tab:
Set the wires diameter. The Preview area changes accordingly. Indicate whether the wire is isolation Indicate the side of the board on which the jumper appears Choose the type of technology for the jumper. The Preview area changes accordingly. Units of measurement
Parts
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Working with Parts
5.3.4
Working with Test Points

5.3.4.1 Placing Test Points
Default test point pin settings are defined on the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box. For more information, see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27. The default pad settings are based on the design rules defined on the Design Rules tab of the PCB Properties dialog box (see 4.4.8 Using and Configuring the Design Rule Check on page 4-20). They can be manually set to use the annular ring specification or pad diameter settings by setting the properties of the pad when the test point has been placed on the design To place a test point: 1. Be sure a copper layer is selected. 2. Choose Place/Test Point. 3. Move the pointer over the design. The pointer has a test point attached. 4. Click to drop the test point on the design. Test points can be moved, oriented, and aligned like parts. For more information on moving parts, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5.
5.3.4.2 Viewing and Editing Test Point Properties

A test point is made up of both the test point itself, and a through hole pin. Be sure you select the test point (on the silkscreen layer) to display the test point properties.
Parts 5-28
To control the test points wire and pin type:

Set the wires diameter. The Preview area changes accordingly. Indicate on which side of the board the test point appears.
Set the rotation for the test point. The Preview area changes accordingly.
Choose the type of technology for the test point. The Preview area changes accordingly.
5.3.5
Working with Dimensions

5.3.5.1 Placing Dimensions
Dimensions can be placed on a silkscreen (top or bottom) layer. To set Dimensions parameters, including arrow style, text style, position, orientation, and alignment, choose Options/Preferences and select the Dimensions tab. For more information on setting Dimensions parameters, see 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics on page 4-26. To place a dimension on the board: 1. Be sure you have selected the silkscreen (top or bottom) layer. Parts 2. Choose Place/Dimension and choose the type of dimension to be placed:
Standard: If the dimension is to be placed at an angle. Horizontal: If the dimension is to be placed horizontally. Vertical: If the dimension is to be placed vertically.
3. Click to define the starting point of the dimension.
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Working with Parts
4. Move the pointer to the end point of the dimension. Ultiboard 7 measures as you move the pointer. 5. Click to indicate the end point. Ultiboard 7 stops measuring the length, and draws an arrow between your start and end points. 6. Move the pointer to position the stub line, and click when youre done. For example:
The vertical dimension of part RPACK1 has been moved to the outside of the board outline.
5.3.5.2 Viewing and Editing Dimension Properties

Dimension properties consist of five tabs: Attributes, General, Position, Line and Dimension. To edit a dimensions attributes, use the Attributes tab. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12. To edit a dimensions display style, use the General tab.
Set the line style for the dimensions border Set the dimensions color
Parts
Set the width of the dimensions lines and the units of measurement
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To change the layer on which a dimension exists, use the Position tab:
Select the layer Lock the shape to the layer
To control the coordinates for the dimensions starting and ending points, use the Line tab:
Units of measurement The X coordinate of the dimensions starting point
The X coordinate of the dimensions ending point
The Y coordinate of the dimensions starting point The Y coordinate of the dimensions ending point
Parts
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Working with Parts
To control the various aspects of the dimension, use the Dimensions tab.
Specify position of dimension. Preview changes accordingly.
Units of measurement Set length of dimensions stub Set characteristics of arrow Set width and height of text. Specify if dimension to be mirrored. Preview changes accordingly.
Specify alignment of dimension. Preview changes accordingly.
Specify orientation of dimension. Preview changes accordingly.
Parts 5-32
Placing Parts from the Library
5.4
Placing Parts from the Library

To place parts from the library: 1. Choose Place/From Library. The Get a part from the library dialog box opens:
2. In the Library panel, expand the categories until you find the category where the part is. The parts appear in the Available Parts panel. 3. In the Available Parts panel, select the part you need. The part is previewed in the Preview panel. 4. Click OK. The Get a part from the library dialog box disappears, and you are prompted to enter the RefDes and Value.
5. Enter the parts reference designator and value and click OK. 6. Move the pointer over the board. The selected part is attached to the pointer. 7. When the part is in position, click to drop the part on the board. 8. If necessary, you can then adjust or move the part further into position. For more information on moving parts, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5. When you place parts from the library you will want to add them to the netlist. For more information, see 6.6.2 Using the Netlist Editor on page 6-23.
Parts
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Working with Parts
5.5
Editing Components and Shapes

After placing an element, it might be necessary to change the part somehow. While removing the part and replacing it with another is an option, an easier way to deal with small changes is to use the In-Place Edit capability.
5.5.1
Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit)

In-place editing on a part allows you to add, delete, or change a part and the items that make it up. You can add, delete, or move pads, change or move the lines that define a part, or place new shapes or lines in the part. To use In-Place Edit on a part: 1. Select the part and choose Edit/In-Place Part Edit. An editing window opens, showing the selected part. The window also shows the surrounding area of the board and the other components, which cannot be edited:
Unselected parts are dimmed
The selected part is bright
Parts
2. Edit the part using the Place and Draw tools described in 2.1.8 Default Toolbars on page 2-8. Note The In-Place Editor does not support Edit/Lock.
5-34
To add a pin, choose Place/Footprint Pins. The Place Pins dialog box opens.
Indicate the pad type (THT or SMD) and its dimensions and spacing. A preview of the pad appears in the Preview panel. When you have made the necessary settings, click OK. The pad is attached to the pointer. Click on the part to place it. 3. When finished, choose Edit/In-Place Part Edit again to end the In-Place Edit function. The part appears with its changes. You can save your edited part in the library for future use; for details, see 5.9.2.2 Adding Parts using the Add Selection to Library Command on page 5-58.
5.5.2
Editing a Polygon
You can add or remove vertices from polygons, whether copper or non-copper. To add a vertex to any line segment of a polygon select the line (a selected line segment will have filled selection boxes while the other selection boxes in the polygon will be open) and choose Edit/Vertex/Add Vertex. A vertex is added in the middle of the segment, and you can now move that vertex to change the shape of the polygon. To remove a vertex click on the point to be removed and choose Edit/Vertex/Remove Vertex. The vertex is removed, and the vertices on either side are joined by a straight line.
Parts
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Working with Parts
5.5.3
Viewing and Editing Through Hole Pin Properties

Through hole pin properties consist of five tabs: Attributes, General, Pad, Autorouting Layers and Thermal Relief. To edit a through hole pins attributes, use the Attributes tab. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12. To edit a through hole pins display style, use the General tab:
The net this through hole pin is on. (Read-only) Set the X-axis coordinate Set the Y-axis coordinate Select the units of measurement
Set the angle for the pin
Set the board side on which the through hole pin resides
Set the clearance
Parts 5-36
Use the Pad tab to control the shape and size of the through hole pin. The Pad Preview on this tab shows the pad as it was created; the Selection Preview shows how the pad appears on the workspace.
Choose options to control the shape of the through hole pin. Preview changes accordingly. Set the drill diameter and units of measurement.
Choose the appropriate option and, where necessary, value for the pad size. The Preview changes accordingly.
Choose the solder mask layer where the pad appears
Use the Autorouting Layers tab to choose which layers the through hole pin connects. Use the Thermal Relief tab to choose what type of thermal relief the through hole pin will use when connecting to a copper area or power plane. Parts
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Working with Parts
5.5.4
Viewing and Editing SMT Pin Properties

SMT pin properties consist of four tabs: Attributes, General, Pad and Thermal Relief. To edit an SMT pins attributes, use the Attributes tab. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12.
Parts 5-38
To edit an SMT pins display style, use the General tab:

The net this SMT pin is on. (Read-only). Set the X-axis coordinate Select the units of measurement
Set the Y-axis coordinate
Set the angle for the pin
Set the board side on which the SMT pin resides
Set the clearance
Parts
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Working with Parts
Use the Pad tab to control the shape and size of the through hole pin. The Pad Preview on this tab shows the SMT pin as it was created, the Selection Preview shows how the SMT pin appears on the workspace.
Choose options to control the shape of the SMT pin. The Preview changes accordingly.
Set the appropriate values. The Preview changes accordingly.
Choose the layer on which the SMT pin appears
Use the Thermal Relief tab to choose what type of thermal relief the SMT pad will use.
Parts 5-40
Searching For and Replacing Components
Use the Pin Neck tab to enter dimensions for the pin necks.
5.6

Ultiboard 7 allows you to search for parts in two ways: Searching for parts in open designs. This method tells you if a specific part exists in all of the designs that are currently open. Locating a part in a design. This method finds a specific part in the design where you are currently working, and zooms in on the part. You can also replace a part with one from the library.
5.6.1
Searching for Parts in Open Designs

To find out if a part exists in the open designs, you can search for it with the Edit/Find command. While this command works much like a Find function in other applications, it also allows you to search for a part by name, number, shape, value, or by all variables. Parts
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Working with Parts
To find out if a part exists in the open designs: 1. Choose Edit/Find. The Find dialog box opens.
Type the part name Select a definition variable Click to start search
Select to match whole word only Select to match case
2. Enter your search criteria. You can search by all or part of the name of a part, or by variables that define parts: name, number, shape, or value. You can also refine the search by selecting the check boxes to match the whole word or to match the case. 3. Click Find. The search results appear in the Results tab of the Speadsheet View. 4. Double-click the item in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View to zoom in and display the item in the workspace.
5.6.2
Locating a Part in a Design

To help you find specific parts in the open design, use the Parts tab:
Find and Select the Part button
Parts 5-42
To display the Parts tab, click the Parts tab at the bottom of the Spreadsheet View. To find a part in the design: 1. Click the part in the list. 2. Click the Find and Select the Part button above the list of parts. The view zooms in on the part, which appears selected.
5.6.3
Replacing Parts
To replace a part on the design with a part from the library: 1. Select the part. 2. Choose Tools/Change Footprint. The Get a Part from the Library dialog box opens.
3. In the Library panel, expand the categories until you find the category where the part is. The parts appear in the Available Parts panel. 4. In the Available Parts panel, select the part you need. The part is previewed in the Preview panel when it is selected. Parts 5. Click OK to replace the selected part on the design with the part you chose from the library.
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Working with Parts
5.7
Cross-probing
To highlight a selected component or group of components in Multisim or Multicap: 1. Launch Multisim or Multicap and open the file that corresponds to the design you have open in Ultiboard. 2. Select the components that you wish to highlight in Multisim/Multicap. 3. Select Tools/Highlight Selection in Multisim. The components are highlighted in Multisim/ Multicap.
5.8
Creating New Parts

You can design your own parts if necessary, either through the Library Manager, or using the Component Wizard.
5.8.1
Using the Library Manager to Create a Part

To design a part: 1. Choose Tools/Library Manager. 1. In the Parts panel of the Library Manager, click in the text line just below the row of buttons. 2. Click the New button above the Parts panel. The Select the part you want to create dialog box appears. 3. Select the type of part you want to create: a custom pad shape, PCB part or mechanical CAD part and either double-click or click OK. The Edit Mode dialog box opens:
Parts
4. Design your part using the Place and Draw tools described in 2.1.8 Default Toolbars on page 2-8.
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Creating New Parts
5. To add a pin to a PCB part, choose Place/Footprint Pins. The Place Pins dialog box opens.
Indicate the pad type (THT or SMD) and its dimensions and spacing, and click OK. The pin is attached to the pointer. Click on the part to place it. 6. When finished designing the part, choose File/Save to library as. The Insert the selected Item(s) into the library dialog box appears, with a cursor in the Existing Parts field. 7. Type a name for the new part. The name must be unique. 8. Click OK. The Insert the selected Item(s) into the library dialog box disappears, but the edit mode dialog box stays visible. The part can be placed from the library. For details, see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33. To return to the design screen: Click the design in the Projects tab of the Design Toolbox. or 1. Select the PCB part in the Projects tab of the Design Toolbox. 2. Choose File/Close. Parts
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Working with Parts
5.8.2
Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part

The Component Wizard assists you in creating a part. When the wizard is finished, you can further edit it in Footprint edit mode and add it to the user library. To use the Component Wizard: 1. Choose Tools/Component Wizard.
Choose the mounting type (Through Hole or Surface Mount), and click Next.
Parts 5-46
Creating New Parts
2. Select the package type and click Next. The types available are dependent on the mounting type selected in Step 1.
Through Hole
Surface Mount
Parts
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Working with Parts
3. Select the units of measurement and the package dimensions and click Next. Depending on the package type selected in Step 2, the fourth dimension option will be either Corner Cutoff or Notch.
Notch
Corner Cutoff
Parts 5-48
Creating New Parts
4. Select the shininess and colors for the 3D View and click Next.
Parts
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Working with Parts
5. Select the drill hole diameter and shape and size of the pads (if you chose Through Hole mounting in Step 1), or shape and size of pads (if you chose Surface Mount in Step 1) and click Next.
Through Hole
Surface Mount
Parts 5-50
Creating New Parts
6. Select the number of pins and the distances between them and click Next.
7. Select the type and direction for pad numbering, and click Finish.
Parts
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Working with Parts
8. The wizard closes, and the part is available for further editing in the Footprint edit mode screen using the Place and Draw tools described in 2.1.8 Default Toolbars on page 2-8. For example, select and delete extra pads in a BGA. 9. When you are finished, choose File/Save to library as. The Insert the selected Item(s) into the library dialog box appears, with a cursor in the Existing Parts field. 10.Type a name for the new part. The name must be unique. 11. Click OK. The Insert the selected Item(s) into the library dialog box disappears, but the Footprint edit mode screen stays visible. The part can be placed from the library. For details, see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33. To return to the design screen: Click the design in the Projects tab of the Design Toolbox. or 1. Select the PCB part in the Projects tab of the Design Toolbox. 2. Choose File/Close.
Parts 5-52
Managing the Library
5.9

The Library Manager allows you to add, organize, view, create, and manage all the parts and components that Ultiboard 7 stores in its library. To open the Library Manager, choose Tools/Library Manager. The Library Manager appears.
Library panel buttons Parts filter Parts panel buttons
Library panel Preview panel Click to show subtree contents
Parts panel
Preview panel
Parts
There are three panels in the Library Manager: The Library panel, which lists the root category (Ultiboard Library) and the sub-categories. The Library panel contains the following buttons to help you work with the categories and sub-categories. For more information on these functions, see 5.9.1 Working with Library Categories on page 5-55.
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Working with Parts
New Delete Rename Copy Move
Create a new library category or sub-category. Delete a library category or sub-category. Rename a library category or sub-category. Copy a library category or sub-category. Move a library category or sub-category.
In addition, the Add button in the Library panel allows you to add parts to the library. For details, see 5.9.2.1 Adding Parts using the Library Manager on page 5-57. The Parts panel, which lists the parts in the selected sub-category. The Parts panel contains the following buttons to help you work with the parts:
New Edit Delete Rename Copy Move Create a new part. See 5.8.1 Using the Library Manager to Create a Part on page 5-44. Edit a part. See 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34. Delete a part. Rename a part. Copy a part. Move a part.
The Preview panel, which allows you to preview the part you selected in the Parts panel. In addition, there are two functions that allow you to control the information that appears in the Library and Parts panels: Parts The Filter allows you to display only PCB parts, custom PAD shapes, and mechanical CAD parts in the Parts panel. The Show subtree contents option lets you control the display of the subtree contents in the Library panel.
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5.9.1
Working with Library Categories

To make parts in the library easier to locate, the library organizes parts into categories and sub-categories. You can expand and collapse the categories and sub-categories in the Library Manager just as you would in similar Windows applications: click the plus (+) to expand a category or subcategory, and click the minus (-) to collapse it. While there are default categories and sub-categories, you can create new ones if necessary. These are stored in the User Library. You can copy any library category and its contents to another category or sub-category. The sub-categories that appear by default cannot be deleted, renamed, or moved, but you can delete, rename, or move the ones that you have added. To create a new library category: 1. Open the Library Manager. 2. In the Library panel, click the root or a subcategory to indicate where the new category belongs. The new category will be created as a sub-category of the item you select. 3. Click the New button above the Library panel. A new category is created with New Object-Group as the name. 4. Type a name for the new category and press ENTER. To copy a library category: 1. In the Library panel, select the category to be copied. 2. Click the Copy button above the Library panel. The Select Destination in Library dialog box appears.
Parts
3. Select the category or sub-category where the category is to be copied. The copied category will go under the item you select.
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Working with Parts
4. Click OK. The category is copied to the location you specified, and the Select destination in library dialog box disappears. To delete a library sub-category: 1. In the Library panel, select the sub-category to be deleted. 2. Click the Delete button above the Library panel. You are prompted to confirm the deletion. The sub-category disappears from the list. To rename a library sub-category: 1. In the Library panel, select the sub-category to be renamed. 2. Click the Rename button above the Library panel. The name of the sub-category is highlighted, and you can change the name the same way you would in Windows Explorer. To move a library category or sub-category: 1. In the Library panel, select the category or sub-category to be moved. 2. Click the Move button above the Library panel. The Select destination in library dialog box appears.
3. Select the category or sub-category where the category is to be moved. The moved category will go under the item you select. 4. Click OK. The category is moved to the location you specified, and the Select destination in library dialog box disappears.
Parts 5-56
5.9.2
Adding Parts to the Library

Parts that appear on a design but do not exist in the library can be added to the library two ways: By using the Library Manager. By using Tools/Add Selection to Library. Note You can only add parts to the User Library (or a sub-category of the User Library).
5.9.2.1 Adding Parts using the Library Manager

To add parts to the library using the Library Manager: 1. In the Library panel, select the category (within the User or Corporate Library) you want to add the part to. 2. Click the Add button above the Library panel. The Add new parts to library dialog box appears.
If you selected one or more parts on the design before opening the Library Manager, the part(s) are shown in the Preview panel and the Current selection as one part option is selected at the top of the dialog box. Parts If you want to add the parts individually, select the Complete design contents option (this is the default if no parts were chosen on the design prior to opening the Library Manager). The dialog box lists the parts in the design along with a preview of each. Use the Target Database function to have the list show only PCB parts, custom pad shapes, or mechanical CAD parts. 3. Select the part to be added. To select all parts, click the Select All Items button (or press CTRL + A). To deselect all parts, click the Unselect All Items button.
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Working with Parts
4. To rename a part, highlight it and click the Rename button. The part name must be unique regardless of the library category you want to place it in. 5. Click OK. The part is added to the library
5.9.2.2 Adding Parts using the Add Selection to Library Command

To add a part to the library using the Add Selection to Library command: 1. In the design, select the part to be added. You can also select multiple parts that will be added as a group. 2. Choose Tools/Add Selection to Library. The Insert the Selected Items into the Library dialog box opens, with the part illustrated in the Preview panel, and the parts name in the Existing parts field (unless multiple parts were selected).
3. If necessary, enter or edit the parts name. The part name must be unique for the selected database, regardless of the category it will be stored in. 4. Select the library category or sub-category where the selected part is to be kept. Parts 5. Click OK.
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Chapter 6 Working with Traces and Copper

The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Placing Traces Working with Traces Placing a Trace: Manual Method Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method Placing a Trace: Connection Machine Method Placing a Bus Working with Density Bars Working with Keepin/out Areas Equi-Spacing Traces Deleting a Trace Working with Other Copper Elements Placing Copper Areas Placing Powerplanes Splitting Copper Converting a Copper Shape to an Area Deleting All Copper Adding Teardrops Viewing and Editing Copper Properties Working with Vias Placing Vias Viewing and Editing Via Properties Placing SMD Fanouts Working with Nets Using the Nets Tab Using the Netlist Editor Highlighting a Net Page No. 6-2 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-5 6-6 6-8 6-9 6-10 6-11 6-11 6-11 6-12 6-12 6-13 6-14 6-15 6-16 6-16 6-18 6-20 6-21 6-21 6-23 6-35
Traces
6-1
Working with Traces and Copper
Subject Swapping Pins and Gates Swapping Pins Swapping Gates Automatic Pin/Gate Swapping Real-Time Pin/Gate Swapping
Page No. 6-35 6-36 6-36 6-38 6-39
6.1
Placing Traces
Use the ratsnests to show the pads that are to be connected with traces. You place the traces on the board by using one of the manual methods explained here, or by using the Autorouter or Ultiroute. For more information on the Autorouter, see Section 7, Autorouting. The following are the ways to place traces:
Manual trace. This method allows you the maximum control in trace placement. You select the pads and vias to be connected, and dictate the path the trace takes to the next connection. Follow Me router. This method allows you to select the next pad or via to be connected by having Ultiboard 7 follow your mouse movement as it places a trace. Ultiboard 7 routes the resulting trace around most obstacles. Connection Machine. This method connects two pads or vias with a trace that is automatically routed around obstacles. All methods of placing traces support the ratsnest selection method. This method starts the trace when the ratsnest is selected (the start a ratsnest feature) and auto-connects the trace to the nearest destination pad (the magnetic attraction at pads feature).
All methods except Connection Machine support continuous trace placement. That is, when a trace is placed between two pads, the trace placement will continue from the last pad connected. As you place a trace, and before you click to place it, you can always remove a segment by backing up over it. Each time you click while placing a manual trace, or each time a Connection Machine trace changes direction, a separate segment of that trace is created. When performing operations on traces, be sure to select either the appropriate segment or, if you wish, the whole trace. Clearance is the distance from the edge of the board and around pads and traces that is to be kept free of any other elements. Trying to run a trace through a clearance, or trying to place a part so that a pad is put within a clearance, for example, results in an error. The board outline clearance is defined in the Board Settings. For more details, see 4.4.6 Board Settings on page 4-17. Clearances for other copper elements are defined in the General tab of the Traces
6-2
Placing Traces
elements properties. For more details, see 6.3 Viewing and Editing Copper Properties on page 6-15. To view clearances, choose View/Clearances. The clearances are shown as fine blue lines around pads and traces.
6.1.1
Working with Traces

Ultiboard 7s default trace measures 10 mil wide and has a clearance of 10 mil. Clearances are measured from the outside edge of an object: a 10 mil trace with a 5 mil clearance would measure 20 mil across from edge to edge (5 mil clearance on one side, the 10 mil trace, and 5 mil clearance on the other side). You can define Ultiboard 7 to have the pointer snap to the nearest trace when editing traces. For details, see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27.
6.1.2
Placing a Trace: Manual Method

When you place a trace manually, you click pads and vias, and you must also click the traces pivot points. This means that you have the most control over where the trace lies, but you must avoid placing the trace through parts and over other traces. If you try to place a manual trace through a part or over another trace, an error is generated in the Errors tab of the Spreadsheet View. To place a trace manually: 1. Choose a copper layer. 2. Choose Place and select either Line, Arc, or Bezier. Note These commands are used to create lines, arcs or beziers on any layer. The results differ depending on the layer selected. For example, if the selected layer is silkscreen, you will actually draw on the PCB. If the selected layer is a copper layer, then you will draw a trace. 3. Click a pad on the board. The net the pad is a part of is highlighted, and the pads in the net are each marked with an X. 4. Make your way to the next pad in the net. Remember that you have to avoid parts and other traces. Click to glue the trace to the board each time you change direction. 5. Click the next pad in the net. Continue in this way from pad to pad, clicking the points on the board where you must route the trace around obstacles. 6. When you place the final trace in the net, cancel trace placement by either pressing ESC or by right-clicking. Traces
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6.1.3
Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method

When you place a Follow Me trace, you click pads and vias, and the trace follows the route you do. However, Ultiboard 7 routes a Follow Me trace around most of the obstacles that lie along the route. To place a Follow Me trace: 1. Choose a copper layer. 2. Choose Place/Follow-me. 3. Click a pad on the board. The net the pad is a part of is highlighted, and the pads in the net are each marked with an X. 4. Make your way to the next pad in the net. The trace follows the pointer, routing itself around most obstacles. 5. When you place the final trace in the net, cancel trace placement by either pressing ESC or by right-clicking.
6.1.4
Placing a Trace: Connection Machine Method

The Connection Machine command is the simplest and fastest method of connecting two pads, but it cannot be used to connect more than two pads at a time. While this function draws a trace between two pads, routing the trace around any obstacles, you can change this default routing if necessary. To place a Connection Machine trace with default routing: 1. Choose a copper layer. 2. Choose Place/Connection Machine. 3. Click a segment of a ratsnest on the board. The two pads connected by the segment of the ratsnest are connected with a trace that has been routed around obstacles. 4. Press ESC twice to end trace placement. To place a Connection Machine trace with custom routing: 1. Choose a copper layer. 2. Choose Place/Connection Machine. 3. Click a segment of a ratsnest on the board. The two pads connected by the segment of the ratsnest are connected with a trace that has been routed around obstacles. 4. Drag the trace segment to change the default routing around obstacles. The middle of the trace will move, although the trace remains anchored to the two specified pads. 5. Click to lock the moved trace segment in place.
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Placing Traces
6. Press ESC twice to end trace placement.
6.1.5
Placing a Bus
Use to connect multiple traces between multi-pinned devices such as ICs. The procedure below uses the following example.
Bus 1 consists of these five nets and is set up in the Edit Groups dialog or the Spreadsheet View
To place the copper for the bus in the above example: 1. Be sure that you have not selected any pins. 2. Select Place/Bus. The cursor changes to a bus symbol. Click on a pin on each of the nets that you wish to place in the bus and then move the cursor towards the target IC.
Click on a pin from each of the nets
The traces in the bus are drawn as you move the cursor.
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3. Move the cursor toward the buss destination pins and double-click to complete copper placement.
Double-click to finish....
... connection of copper in bus
6.1.6
Working with Density Bars

Density bars use color to indicate the connectivity density at cross-sections of your board. The higher the connection density at any given cross-section, the more difficulty you will have routing traces through that section of the board and the more copper is used in that area. When placing parts you should strive to achieve relatively equal density distributions to avoid difficult-to-route areas.
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Placing Traces
If you toggle the density bars on, they appear on the right side and underneath the design. The following diagram illustrates a design with density bars:
Light green shows an area of low density
Bright red shows an area of high density
As the designs connectivity density gets heavier, the color of the density bars changes from green to red. It will probably not be possible to achieve truly equal density distributions. The center of the board always has a relatively higher density than the perimeter areas. Your strategy should be to try to avoid areas that appear to exhibit higher density distributions than normal. When you start Ultiboard 7, the density bars are toggled off by default. To toggle the density bars on, or off again, choose View/Density bars.
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6.1.7
Working with Keepin/out Areas

6.1.7.1 Placing Keepin/out Areas
The Keepin/out Properties dialog box lets you place a polygon that will act as either a keepin or a keepout area. By default, a keepout is placed. To change to a keepin area, or change any other properties, use the Keepin/out tab. To add a restricted area: 1. Choose Place/ Keepin/out Area. 2. Left-click all points that are to define the polygon, ending with the starting point. To display the Keepin/out Properties dialog box, select the desired keepin/out and select Edit/Properties. (The Keepin/out layer must be active).
6.1.7.2 Viewing and Editing Keepin/out Properties

Keepout area properties consist of two tabs: Attributes and Keepin/out. The Attributes tab allows you to edit the properties of the selected keepout area. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12. The Keepin/out tab lets you set specific parameters.
Select keepout or keepin Set advanced options by clicking checkbox and then active button
Check layers to which the Keepin/out applies Optionally, enter name of keepin/out area selected
To set advanced options: 1. Click on one of the following checkboxes in the Advanced options area and then click the Options button when it becomes active:
Net group displays the Select Groups dialog box where you select the net groups to
which you wish to apply the keepin/out.
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Placing Traces
Component Height displays the Component Height Ranges dialog box where you enter the height of components to which you wish the keepin/out area to apply.
Component Group displays the Select Groups dialog box where you select the
component groups to which you wish to apply the keepin/out area. 2. Click OK in the Keepin/out Properties dialog box. If no Advanced options are set: A keepin area will keep all objects within the keepin area or report a DRC error if an object is outside the area. A keepout area will keep all objects outside the keepout area or report a DRC error if an object is inside the area. If there are multiple keepins or keepouts, the objects may be divided amongst the different areas at your discretion. Multiple areas then behave as a single disjointed area. If any Advanced options are set: A keepin area will keep all specified objects within the keepin area or report a DRC error if an object is outside the area. A keepout area will keep all specified objects outside the keepout area or report a DRC error if an object is inside the area.
6.1.8
Equi-Spacing Traces
This option lets you set the spacing between traces to be equal. To equi-space traces: 1. Select two traces that surround at least one other trace.
Selected traces
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2. Select Design/Equi-space traces. The spaces of the traces is made equal.
Note The selected traces must be between two objects (i.e., two pins, two traces); initial spacing between traces must not be equal; traces must belong to a net in the same layer. Rubber-banding does not work with this feature, hence some traces may become disconnected.
6.1.9
Deleting a Trace
Traces can be deleted like other objects. When you delete a trace, you are not asked to confirm the deletion, but you can undo the deletion by choosing Edit/Undo immediately after making the deletion. Note Depending on your setting in the PCB Design tab of Options/Preferences, vias associated with a trace will be deleted when the trace is deleted. To delete a trace that you have just placed: Choose Edit/Undo Place Trace Segment. To delete an existing trace: 1. Select the trace. 2. Choose Edit/Delete. or 1. Select the trace. 2. Right-click. A context menu appears. 3. Choose Delete from the context menu. or 1. Select the trace. 2. Press the DEL key.
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6-10
Working with Other Copper Elements
6.2

This section contains the following subjects: 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas on page 6-11 6.2.2 Placing Powerplanes on page 6-11 6.2.3 Splitting Copper on page 6-12 6.2.4 Converting a Copper Shape to an Area on page 6-12 6.2.5 Deleting All Copper on page 6-13 6.2.6 Adding Teardrops on page 6-14
6.2.1
Placing Copper Areas

Use the Place/Copper Area command to define copper polygons. To place a copper area: 1. Choose a copper layer. 2. Choose Place/Copper Area. The pointer has a polygon shape attached. 3. Left-click all points that are to define the copper area, ending with the starting point. 4. Right-click to cancel the Place command. To delete a copper area, choose Edit/Copper Delete/Delete copper island and then click on the copper area you want to delete.
6.2.2
Placing Powerplanes
Powerplanes are copper areas that cover the entire plane. To place a powerplane: 1. In the Layers tab, select the layer to be used as a powerplane. 2. Choose Place/Powerplane. The Choose Net and Layer for Powerplane dialog box appears.
3. Specify the net and the layer for the powerplane. Traces
6-11
4. Click OK. The Choose Net and Layer for Powerplane dialog box disappears and the powerplane is placed on the layer that you specified.
6.2.3
Splitting Copper
If you need to split copper areas or powerplanes, Ultiboard 7 allows you to use the Polygon Splitter. To split a copper area or powerplane: 1. Choose Design/Polygon Splitter. 2. Move the pointer to the polygon you want to split. 3. Click at the point where you want to begin the split. 4. Move the pointer over the polygon. A line will appear to indicate where the split will occur. When its in the place you want, click to finish the split. 5. Right-click to cancel the Polygon Splitter function.
6.2.4
Converting a Copper Shape to an Area

Use to convert to a polygon that supports voiding around unconnected nets. To shape a copper shape to an area: 1. Select a copper shape in your workspace.
Selected copper area
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6-12
2. Select Design/Shape to Area.

Copper is cut out to avoid other elements within its area
6.2.5
Deleting All Copper

If you want to delete all copper elements (traces, copper areas, and powerplanes) and start over, make sure the design is open and choose Edit/Copper Delete/All Copper. This deletes all copper elements in the design.
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6-13
6.2.6
Adding Teardrops
To add teardrops: 1. Select Design/Add teardrops. The Teardrops dialog box displays.
Select units for teardrop length Enter preferred and minimum length of teardrop Display changes as lengths are changed
Select pad types to apply teardrop to
Select options for action to take when a DRC error occurs
Click to ignore pads that are not connected to a net
2. Set lengths and options as desired and click OK. Teardrops are added.
6.2.6.1 Removing Teardrops

To remove all teardrops select Edit/Copper Delete/All teardrops.
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Viewing and Editing Copper Properties
6.3
Viewing and Editing Copper Properties

All copper elements (traces, copper areas, and powerplanes) share the same three properties tabs (Attributes, General, and Position). The fourth tab for traces is Line, and the fourth tab for copper areas and powerplanes is Copper Area. The General tab is the default, and appears when you choose Edit/Properties. It allows you to change the width and the clearance of the selected copper element, and to define the units of measurement:
Trace width Units of measurement Set the clearance
The net the trace is a part of Trace type (fixed or variable)
The Attributes tab allows you to edit the properties of the selected copper element. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12. The Position tab allows you to change the layer the selected copper element is on. You can also use this tab to lock the copper element on the layer:
Select the layer from the drop-down list
Click to lock the trace to the layer
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The Line tab is the default when the selected copper element is a trace. It allows you to control the coordinates for the traces starting and ending points:
The X coordinate of the traces starting point The Y coordinate of the traces starting point The Y coordinate of the traces ending point
The X coordinate of the traces ending point
When a copper area is selected, the Copper Properties dialog box includes a Copper Area tab. To set a copper areas net and parameters, use this tab:
Select to have the area void over traces Select the net Select the thermal reliefs and styles allowed
Select the parameters to remove islands
6.4
Working with Vias

This section contains the following topics: 6.4.1 Placing Vias on page 6-16 6.4.2 Viewing and Editing Via Properties on page 6-18
6.4.1
Placing Vias
Vias are used to connect two or more layers, as well as the top and bottom surfaces of the board.
Traces
6-16
Working with Vias
Once placed, a via can be moved like a part. For information on moving and adjusting objects, see 5.1.3 Tools to Assist Part Placement on page 5-5. To place a via: 1. Choose Place/Via and click on the board where you want to place the via. A dialog box appears listing all copper layers available on the board.
2. Select the top and bottom layers that the via is to run between. 3. Click OK. The dialog box disappears. 4. Right-click to cancel the Place Via command, or click in another location to place another via. Note Depending on your setting in the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box, vias associated with a trace will be deleted when the trace is deleted.
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6.4.2
Viewing and Editing Via Properties

Via properties consist of four tabs: Attributes, General, Via and Thermal Relief. The General tab is the default, and appears when you choose Edit/Properties. It allows you to change the X/Y coordinates, the size of the clearance, the via angle, the side of the board the via is on, and to define the units of measurement.
Units of measurement
X/Y coordinates of the via The net the via is a part of
Set the clearance
Set the angle
The side of the board the via appears on
The Attributes tab allows you to edit the properties of the selected via. For more information on editing properties in the Attributes tab, see 4.4.2 Working with Attributes on page 4-12.
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Working with Vias
The Via tab lets you identify the layers on which the via appears.
The Thermal Relief tab lets you choose if the via uses a thermal relief and, if so, what kind.
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6.5
Placing SMD Fanouts

To place a fanout from an SMD component: 1. Optionally, select the component(s) to which you wish to apply fanouts.
Selected component
2. Select Design/Fanout SMD. The Fanout Options dialog box appears.

Select whether fanout applies to entire board or selected component Fanout for Board Grid Array testing
Enter via parameters
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Working with Nets
3. Enter options as desired and click Start Fanout. The Fanout Options dialog box disappears and the fanout vias are placed on the design.
Placed SMD via fanout
6.6
Working with Nets

This section contains the following subjects: 6.6.1 Using the Nets Tab on page 6-21 6.6.2 Using the Netlist Editor on page 6-23 6.6.3 Highlighting a Net on page 6-35
6.6.1
Using the Nets Tab

The Nets tab buttons in the Spreadsheet View allow you to preview a net in relation to the board, find a net, highlight a selected net, lock and unlock a selected net, set the width and clearance of a selected net, and remove the copper of a selected net.
Traces
6-21
To preview a net: 1. Click the Show or Hide the Preview button to toggle the Preview function on if it is not already. 2. Click the net in the list. A small picture of the path the net makes on the board displays in the preview area. To find a net in the design: 1. Click the net in the list to select it. 2. Click the Find the selected net button. The view zooms in on the net. To highlight a selected net: 1. Click the net in the list to select it. 2. Click the Highlight selected nets button. The selected net is highlighted in white on the design. To lock and unlock any copper placed for a net: 1. Click the net in the list to select it. 2. Click the Lock the selected net button to lock an unlocked net, or to unlock an locked net. To remove the copper of a selected net: 1. Click the net in the list. 2. Click Remove Copper. You are prompted to confirm the removal. 3. Click Yes to remove the copper, or No to cancel the deletion.
Traces
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Working with Nets
6.6.2
Using the Netlist Editor

The Netlist Editor can be used to view the nets in the design and to view the pins in the nets. You can also use it to add and remove nets from the design, add/delete pins from an existing net, adjust trace widths in a net and set high speed parameters. To open the Netlist Editor, choose Tools/Netlist Editor. The Net edit dialog box opens.
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6.6.2.1 Adding a Net

To add a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor.
Click to add a net
2. Click New. The Add net dialog box displays.
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Working with Nets
3. Enter a name and click OK.

New net name displays here. The light green lamp indicates that there are no pins connected to the net.
New net has no pins connected. See below to add pins to net.
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To add a pin to a new or previously existing net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on the button to the right of the drop-down list and then clicking on one of the pins from that net in the workspace. To do this, there must already be pins connected to the net.
Select net by using drop-down list or button as described above.
Select topology of net. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard. Click to add pins to net using Add Pins to Net dialog box. See next step.
Add Pins button. Click to add pins to net by clicking on them in the workspace. See next step.
The remainder of this section uses the following sample components:
These components are not connected to any net.
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Working with Nets
2. Click the Add pins button and click the desired pin in the workspace. Continue until all pins for the net are listed in the Pins area.
As pins are clicked, they are highlighted in the workspace. At the same time, their identifiers appear here.
Or Click Add. The Add Pins to the Net dialog box displays.
Pins can be selected using a combination of the CTRL and SHIFT keys and the left mouse button.
Highlight the pins to be added and click Add. The dialog box closes and the Net edit dialog box shows the added pins in the list of pads for the displayed net.
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3. Click OK in the Net edit dialog box. The dialog box closes and the net information is added in the workspace.
Force vectors for new net
Ratsnest for new net
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Working with Nets
To change a nets topology. 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. 2. Click either Shortest, Daisy chain or Star in the Topology area and click OK. The ratsnest placement on the workspace changes to reflect the new topology.
Shortest
Daisy chain
Star
Shortest When connections are made, the shortest distance possible will be maintained. The order for the connection is not considered. Daisy chain The connection between pins is based on the order in which the pins are selected. The connection distance between pins is not considered. Star Pins are connected with a reference point, which is the first selected pin. Other pins will only be connected to the reference source. The effect is like a star, with connections shooting out to other pins. Orders in which the pins are selected or the distance between pins are not considered. If the first pin is deleted from the net, then the pin below the reference point will become the source.
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6.6.2.2 Renaming a Net

To rename a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on Screen in the Net area and then clicking on one of the pins from the desired net in the workspace. 2. Click Rename in the Net edit dialog box. You are prompted for the new net name. 3. Type a name for the net. 4. Click OK to save the new name or Cancel to cancel the operation. The new net name appears in the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box, and in the Nets tab in the Spreadsheet View.
6.6.2.3 Removing a Net

To remove a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and click Remove in the Net edit dialog box. The Select the net to delete dialog box opens.
2. Select the net(s) to be deleted. 3. Click Delete to delete the net(s). The Select the net to delete dialog box closes, and the net no longer appears in the Net drop-down list of the Net edit dialog box, or the Nets tab in the Spreadsheet View. The net is also removed from the board, but while the net disappears, the traces stay on the board. Note There is no deletion confirmation. To cancel the deletion before you click Delete, click Close. Traces
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Working with Nets
6.6.2.4 Deleting a Pin from a Net

To delete a pin from a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on Screen in the Net area and then clicking on one of the pins from the desired net in the workspace. 2. Highlight the pin you wish to delete and click Remove.
Highlight the pin to be deleted and click Remove.
The pin disappears from the list of pins for the net displayed. Note There is no deletion confirmation. 3. Click OK to close the Net edit dialog box.
6.6.2.5 Setting Net Widths

To set net widths: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on Screen in the Net area and then clicking on one of the pins from the desired net in the workspace.
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2. Click on the Width tab.
Enter parameters or choose Use Group Settings from the drop-down lists
3. Click OK to save changes.
6.6.2.6 Setting High Speed Parameters

To set high speed parameters for a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on Screen in the Net area and then clicking on one of the pins from the desired net in the workspace.
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Working with Nets
2. Click on the High speed tab.
Checkbox is only active if Daisy chain or Star topology is selected. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard.
Enter the following as required:

Parallelism check click checkbox and enter Maximum length that traces can run in parallel. Enter size of Gap (allowable distance) between parallel traces on Same layer and Adjacent layer. Route length check click checkbox and enter Minimum and Maximum lengths for the length of copper between connected pins for Daisy chain and Star topologies.
3. Click OK to close dialog box and accept changes.
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6.6.2.7 Setting Miscellaneous Net Parameters

To set miscellaneous parameters for a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. 2. Click on the Misc tab.
Use checkboxes to select layers to use for routing copper for the selected net. Shields are used to place copper around a selected net to act as a buffer or shield the net from signal interferance. The Net fields selects which net is used for the shield. Enter shield information for the selected net. Width field becomes active when a selection is made in the Net field. This feature is not available in all versions of Ultiboard.
3. Enter desired parameters and click OK.
6.6.2.8 Setting Group Parameters

To enter group information for a net: 1. Select Tools/Netlist Editor and select the desired net from the Net drop-down list in the Net edit dialog box. You can also select the net by clicking on Screen in the Net area and then clicking on one of the pins from the desired net in the workspace.
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Swapping Pins and Gates
2. Click on the Groups tab.
Select net group from drop-down. To enter a group for a bus and/or differential pair for the selected net, click the Bus and/or Differential pair radio button and select the group from the drop-down list. (These groups are created in the Edit Groups dialog box).
3. Enter desired group parameters and click OK.
6.6.3
Highlighting a Net
To highlight a net: 1. Click on a segment of the net that you wish to highlight. 2. Select Design/Highlight Selected Net. The entire net is highlighted on the workspace and also in the Preview area of the Nets tab of the Spreadsheet View.
6.7

Pin and gate swapping are done between like pins and gates to reduce the amount of copper needed to route a given net. The following sections document manual pin swapping, manual gate swapping and automatic pin/gate swapping. For these functions to work, the pin groups must be set up in the Footprint tab of the Component Properties dialog box in Multisim or Multicap, before the circuit is exported to Ultiboard.
Traces
6-35
Refer to the Multisim 7 User Guide or the Multicap 7 User Guide for details.
6.7.1
Swapping Pins
This feature works between allowed pins in the same gate (section of an IC). Swapping of pins between gates in the same IC or between similar ICs is not allowed. The following design is used in this example. To swap pins between gates: 1. Select Design/Swap pins. 2. Click on the first pin that you wish to swap.
3. Click on the second pin to complete the action. Note Error messages will display if the selected pins cannot be swapped, or if there is no PINGROUP information for a pin.
6.7.2
Swapping Gates
This feature allows you to swap similar gates, and works for the following which are set in the Board Defaults tab of the PCB properties dialog box: Internal Gates Only Allows gate swapping in the same IC only. Advanced Swapping Allows gate swapping intenally and between similar ICs. Group settings for swappable gates can be set into component groups in Ultiboard. Each new component group will have its own swapping information, which Ultiboard will follow.
Traces
6-36
The following design is used in this example:
To swap gates between components: 1. Select Design/Swap Gates. The workspace changes to reflect the gates.
2. Select the first gate that you wish to swap by clicking on the corresponding letter.
Traces
6-37
3. Click on the letter corresponding to the gate with which you want to exchange the gate you selected above. The ratsnest changes to reflect the swap.
6.7.3
Automatic Pin/Gate Swapping

This feature lets you swap pins and/or gates after moving component(s) on the workspace. Note For this feature to function, you must allow pin/gate swapping in the Spreadsheet View, and in the Board Defaults tab of the PCB properties dialog box. To swap pins and gates automatically between components: 1. Move desired components on the workspace.
Traces
6-38
2. Select Options/Automatic Pin/Gate Swap. Pins and gates are swapped to achieve the most efficient routing of nets possible.
Before the automatic pin/gate swap is done. Note the position of the ratsnests.
After the automatic pin/gate swap is done. Note the new position of the ratsnests.
6.7.4
Real-Time Pin/Gate Swapping

This feature allows Ultiboard to swap pins and/or gates automatically in real-time as you move components on the workspace. Note For this feature to function, you must allow pin/gate swapping in the Spreadsheet View, and allow real-time swapping in the Board Defaults tab of the PCB properties dialog box.
Traces
6-39
Traces
6-40
Autorouting
Chapter 7 Autorouting
This chapter describes how to automatically route traces by using the internal autorouter included with Ultiboard 7. Ultiroute, which offers state-of-the-art autorouting for highly optimized routing of boards of all complexity, is also documented. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Using the Internal Autorouter About the Internal Autorouter Pre-routing Traces Running the Internal Autorouter Internal Autorouter Options An Introduction to Ultiroute Page No. 7-1 7-2 7-2 7-3 7-4 7-10
7.1
Using the Internal Autorouter

This section contains the following subjects: 7.1.1 About the Internal Autorouter on page 7-2 7.1.2 Pre-routing Traces on page 7-2 7.1.3 Running the Internal Autorouter on page 7-3 7.1.4 Internal Autorouter Options on page 7-4
7-1
Autorouting
Autorouting
7.1.1
About the Internal Autorouter

The internal autorouter is a grid-based router using a powerful rip-up and retry algorithm to route traces. The program runs as a separate application from Ultiboard 7, so design files are automatically translated to and from the autorouter program. Note It is recommended that you use a 25 mil grid. The internal autorouter is a grid-based router, which means that finer grids increase the amount of memory required to route the board, and decrease the router speed.
7.1.2
Pre-routing Traces
If you use thicker traces for power and ground, we suggest that you manually pre-place these traces before using the internal autorouter. If you are going to use copper areas in your designs, we suggest that you place these after you have routed the board using the internal autorouter. Drawing the copper areas first will only introduce extra overhead (and these areas can usually be created just as easily after autorouting is completed).
7-2
Autorouting
7.1.3
Running the Internal Autorouter

To run the autorouter: 1. Choose Autoroute/place/Start Internal Autorouter. The layout is translated to a format which can be read into the autorouter. The file is loaded into the autorouter, and opens in a new window.
7-3
Autorouting
Autorouting
2. Select Route. The Select routing strategy dialog box appears. The internal autorouter allows you to set different parameters for costing and routing strategies. For more details, see 7.1.4.2 Strategy Setting on page 7-7. 3. Make the necessary settings and click OK. The autorouter begins placing and moving traces. When it is finished, the word DONE appears in the lower left corner of the window. 4. To return to Ultiboard, choose File/Exit. 5. You are prompted to read the results.
7.1.4
Internal Autorouter Options

Several options may be set for the router: costs for horizontal, vertical and diagonal routing trace hugging on/off and hugging pull cost temporary violation cost degree corner cost degree corner cost initial via cost additional via cost for crossing extra layers offset vias on/off (for 25 mil grid only) buried vias on/off allow T-connections allow 45 degree pad entries.
7-4
Autorouting
7.1.4.1 Costing Parameters

The grid-based router is cost-driven. When evaluating a number of possible trace placements, the router tries the option having the lowest cost. The costs associated with various options are defined in cost tables. To change costing parameters, choose Parameters/Costing parameters from the internal autorouter screen. The Costing parameters dialog box appears.
Costing for horizontal, vertical and diagonal routing

Each layer is assigned costs for a move in horizontal, vertical and diagonal directions. To edit the directional costs, select the layers from the list, and then choose Edit layers. The Direction costs dialog box appears.
Adjust by moving scroll bars
When a layer will be used predominantly for horizontal traces, the X-step cost is lower than the Y-step cost. The diagonal step cost is normally set to the sum of the X-step and Y-step cost. If you prefer no diagonal trace bends, you may set the diagonal step cost higher. Disabling the Routable option in the Direction costs dialog box disables the layer for routing. This is done automatically for powerplane layers.
7-5
Autorouting
Autorouting
Trace Hugging
Trace hugging is a mechanism that packs traces close to each other so that free areas are not fragmented. It is recommended that normal and dense boards have trace hugging enabled. Hugging should be disabled only for boards that are not densely packed (such as many analog boards). This will save some time during the optimizing of the board.
Temporary violation
The internal autorouter is capable of routing traces while crossing existing (fixed) traces. This is part of the rip-up and retry algorithm. However, crossing an existing trace causes a very high penalty. When this value is set too low, crossing a trace may be cheaper than making a detour or using vias. This can cause the undesirable situation where the global and local rip-up phases become unstable and only continue to create more violations instead of fewer.
90 degree corner
If the design does not have 90 corners, this value must be set to a high value. The default value (relative to the 45 corner cost) prefers 45 corners.
45 degree corner
If the design does not have 45 corners, this value must be set high. The default setting (relative to the 90 corner cost) prefers 45 corners.
Initial cost
This is the cost for a via, relative to a 100 mil detour. Each via gets this cost. If a via crosses multiple layers on a multi-layer board, the extra cost per layer is added for each layer-pair that will be crossed.
Extra per layer

When a via crosses any layer, it takes up routing space on that layer. This cost will account for that space and, on multi-layer boards, will help to avoid useless layer crossing by vias. It only works when buried vias are allowed.
Offset Vias (for 25 mil grid only)

When this option is enabled, vias are shifted 1/2 grid step to the upper right direction. The via size must be chosen so that the via, including its clearance, is smaller than 2 grid cells.
Buried Vias
When this option is enabled, buried vias may be generated. This is only relevant for multi-layer boards.
7-6
Autorouting
T-Connections
When this option is enabled, T-connection or copper sharing is allowed. When deselected, connections are routed from Pin to Pin, not sharing any copper of the same net. For some high-speed applications (ECL or high-speed buses), this may be necessary.
45 degree Pad Entry

When this option is enabled, a trace may start and end on a pad with a 45 segment. For designers who prefer 90 entry and exit on pads, this option must be deselected.
7.1.4.2 Strategy Setting

The internal autorouter has a fixed sequence of routing strategies. The normal sequence is: 1. initial routing 2. rip-up 3. optimize 4. options 5. automatic backup 6. unroute failures. You may also allow strategies to run separately by enabling or disabling each strategy. To run strategies separately, choose Parameters/Strategy from the Ripup & Retry screen. The Select routing strategy dialog box appears.
Set strategy by selecting or deselecting the Enable checkboxes
7-7
Autorouting
Autorouting
Initial routing
The initial routing strategy routes connections in a special order. This order is determined by the width, length and class of connection. Sorting is done by width, class (bus or non-bus) and length, approximately in that order. There are four initial sub-strategies: generation of via-fanouts, fast initial route (initial 1), intensive initial route (initial 2), and removal of superfluous via-fanouts followed again by an intensive initial route (initial 3). If the Allow violations option is enabled, this strategy will leave no unrouted connection, but may create some violations.
Rip-up
The rip-up strategy is used to resolve violations while optimizing the number of vias and the wire length. This is the most powerful algorithm within the internal autorouter. Very often, a board can only be completed as 100% failure-free when a number of vias are removed and the length of some wires is reduced. The rip-up strategy looks for connections that might be improved by rerouting, and removes them. These connections are then scheduled for routing in a different order from that in which they were routed originally. After each pass, the total quality of the routing is computed and compared to the previous solution. When the new routing solution is an improvement over the previous one, it is kept as the current best solution. In this way, progress is guaranteed.
Optimize
The optimize strategy removes unnecessary bends and straightens detours caused by unnecessary trace hugging. This strategy is run last and should only be run when completion has reached 100% and no failures are left. When Via reduction is enabled (by default), it will remove vias by allowing routing on all layers in all directions at the same cost.
Passes sets the number of iterations.
Automatic Backup
When this option is selected, the internal autorouter saves the design to disk after the completion of a strategy. Note that this will not occur during execution of a strategy, even when a routing phase takes a long time to complete (like the rip-up strategy).
Unroute Failures
When this option is selected, the internal autorouter focuses on violations or failures left by the rip-up and retry passes.
7-8
Autorouting
7.1.4.3 Notes on Performance

The internal autorouter is influenced by certain factors. If you want to change router settings, you should bear in mind the following factors that influence router speed.
Memory Requirements
The amount of memory required for routing is determined by the grid size and the number of routing layers. The formula is: Memory = NrOfLayers * Xsize * Ysize * (1000 / gridsize)2 * 2 bytes In this formula Xsize and Ysize are given in inches and gridsize (usually 50) is given in mil.
Routing Speed
The speed of the router is not the same for the different strategies. Differences in speed are caused mainly by the time it takes to redraw the traces and pads in the map, which is necessary after each rip-up action.
Initial Routing Speed

This strategy is the fastest when only one redraw is necessary at the beginning of the routing pass. However, when traces wider than one grid cell need to be routed, the routing map is redrawn before and after this trace, which causes a significant slowdown of the initial routing.
Rip-up Speed
During global and local rip-up, the routing map is redrawn after some wires have been removed, allowing you to view the routers progress but causing a slight delay. Another reason these strategies are slower than the initial strategy is that the router now rips up many wires which must be rerouted. This is done to find a better solution to the routing problem.
Optimize Speed
During the optimize strategy, nets are removed and re-routed one by one. Especially on nets with only one connection, the redraw time of the router map may dominate.
7-9
Autorouting
Autorouting
7.2
An Introduction to Ultiroute
Ultiroute is an advanced autorouting and autoplacement tool from Electronics Workbench that interfaces with and is accessed from Ultiboard 7. It offers advanced autoplacement with state-of-the-art autorouting for optimal layout of your printed circuit boards. Please note that autoplacement is not included with all versions of Ultiroute. Ultiroute, once installed, is accessed from within Ultiboard 7. Ultiroute does not place a separate icon on your desktop for Ultiroute. Ultiroute supports placement of parts and traces both on and off the grid. Parts and traces placed off the grid in Ultiboard 7 remain off the grid in Ultiroute. Parts placed by Ultiroute itself during autoplacing are placed only on the grid. Traces placed by Ultiroute during autorouting are normally placed on the grid, with automatic switching to gridless as necessary.
7-10
Manufacturing
Chapter 8 Preparing for Manufacturing/Assembly

This chapter explains the basic functions you need to perform to prepare your board for manufacturing. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Placing and Editing Text Renumbering Parts Backannotation to Multisim/Multicap Mitering Corners Manually Re-Running the Design Rules and Netlist Check Cleaning up the Board Deleting Open Trace Ends Deleting Unused Vias Exporting a File Using Export Settings Viewing and Editing Export Properties Exporting a File Printing your Design Previewing the Printed Design Page No. 8-2 8-3 8-4 8-4 8-6 8-6 8-6 8-6 8-6 8-8 8-9 8-16 8-17 8-18
8-1
Preparing for Manufacturing/Assembly
8.1
Manufacturing
Placing and Editing Text

Text can be placed anywhere on the design and on any layer, regardless of what element is selected. To place text on the design: 1. Choose Place/Text. The Text dialog box opens:
Type the text to be placed Preview the text and adjust its alignment Select the height of the text Choose whether to mirror the text Set the thickness of the text Select a layer for the text Select a color for the text
Select the visibility
2. Type the text in the Value field. As you type, the text appears in the preview dialog box. 3. Define the other parameters for the text. Your choices are reflected in the preview dialog box. 4. Click OK. The Text dialog box disappears; the cursor now has your text on it. 5. Move the cursor where you want the text placed, and left-click to drop the text. 6. Right-click to cancel the Place/Text command. To edit text: 1. Double-click the text. The Copper Attribute Properties dialog box opens. 2. Click on the Attribute tab. 3. Edit the text. 4. Click OK. The Copper Attribute Properties dialog box disappears and your changes are applied to the text in the design.
8-2
Renumbering Parts
8.2
Renumbering Parts
As parts are added to, moved in, and deleted from the design, the numbering of the parts changes. Renumbering components automatically renames all components in the order that you specify. It is easier to produce, service, and troubleshoot boards when components are ordered in a logical manner. Renumbering is primarily for assembly, to help locate all the elements. You can select the corner of the board in which you want the renumbering to start, and whether you want the components to be renumbered incrementally in a vertical or horizontal fashion. You can preview your renumbering strategy and change it before applying it. To renumber the parts in the design: 1. Optionally, select the parts you want renumbered. 2. Choose Design/Renumber. The Renumber components dialog box appears. Manufacturing
3. Use the drop-down lists to select the direction and start corner for the renumbering and type a component mask if you want to rename only certain elements (for example, all those that start with U). The Preview panel illustrates the numberings direction and start corner as you define the settings. 4. If you only want to renumber parts you selected prior to opening this dialog box, select the Change selected components only option. 5. To apply your changes and keep the dialog box open, click Apply. To apply your changes and close the dialog box, click OK. In either case, you are prompted to save the design file with the changes. To cancel your changes, click Cancel.
8-3
8.3
Manufacturing
Backannotation to Multisim/Multicap
Backannotation is a highly automated process which ensures that modifications made to an Ultiboard 7 design are transferred to the boards schematic in Multisim. This process helps keep your schematics and board layouts consistent with one another. Backannotation is an important feature of CAD design software. Component renaming or removing cause inconsistencies between the schematic and the PCB design. Backannotation can overcome these inconsistencies. To backannotate, Multisim reads the log file in which Ultiboard reports all the changes that are made to a PCB. The log file has the same name as the project, but with the extension .log. Not all changes that are made to the PCB can be backannotated to Multisim. The following changes can be backannotated: component removing component renaming netlist renaming
To backannotate your revisions: 1. Save and close your design in Ultiboard. 2. Open Multisim. 3. Follow the Back Annotation procedure documented in the Multisim 7 User Guide.
8.4
Mitering Corners
Corner mitering is used to reduce or remove sharp angles for placed traces by creating 135 angles in their place. This is important for manufacturing purposes. You can apply corner mitering to the entire design or just the currently selected traces. To miter the corners of traces prior to manufacturing: 1. Optionally, select the traces to which you want mitering to apply.
8-4
Mitering Corners
2. Choose Design/Corner Mitering. The Corner Mitering dialog box appears.
Manufacturing
3. To apply the changes to just the selected traces, enable the Current Selection option. To apply the changes to the whole design, enable the Whole Design option. 4. To set a minimum length for the mitering, enable the Minimum Length option and enter a length and units of measurement. Any corner that is to be mitered will have two trace segments forming the corner. The Minimum Length refers to the shortest length of a segment that should be mitered. For example, say a corner is formed from a 6 mm segment and an 8 mm segment. A minimum length setting greater than 2 mm will cause the trace to not be mitered. The default is 0, that is, all traces will be mitered regardless of the minimum length of any one segment. 5. To set a maximum length for the mitering, enable the Maximum Length option and enter a length and units of measurement. The Maximum Length setting refers to the maximum length of the mitered segment. The longest length of the component of the mitered segment in the horizontal or vertical direction will not exceed the Maximum Length or one third of the shortest segment. Using the example of a corner formed from a 6 mm segment and an 8 mm segment, a Maximum Length setting of 3 mm will cause the trace to be mitered to 2 mm (i.e. one third of 6 mm). The default is 0, that is, all traces will be mitered regardless of the maximum length of any one segment. 6. To set the angle of corners to be affected by mitering, enable the Angle option and enter a value. For example, a setting of 95 will mean that all angles less than 95 will be mitered to 135. 7. To have an arc placed when doing the mitering, enable the Place Arcs option. 8. To save your changes and miter the corners, click OK. To cancel them, click Cancel.
8-5
8.5
Manufacturing
Manually Re-Running the Design Rules and Netlist Check

The design rules and netlist check normally runs automatically, but you may want to force a final check of the board's integrity prior to saving or exporting the design. To do this, use Design/Netlist and DRC Check.
8.6
Cleaning up the Board

Before sending the board for manufacturing, you should clean up any open trace ends and unused vias that have been left on the board.
8.6.1
Deleting Open Trace Ends

Open trace ends are trace segments that do not have any terminating connections in the design. To delete open trace ends, make sure the design is open and choose Edit/Copper Delete/Open
Trace Ends. This deletes all open trace ends in the design.
8.6.2
Deleting Unused Vias

Normally, you would delete unused vias after deleting any open trace ends. To delete any unused vias, make sure the design is open and choose Edit/Copper Delete/Unused Vias to delete all vias that do not have any trace segments or copper areas connected to them.
8.7
Exporting a File
Exporting a file refers to producing an output from Ultiboard 7 in a format that can be understood by the equipment at the board manufacturer. An exported file contains complete information describing how a finished board is to be manufactured. There are many different manufacturing techniques used to produce printed circuit boards and Ultiboard 7 can produce a wide variety of outputs to meet these needs.
8-6
Exporting a File
It is important to talk to your production house and identify all the files and formatting information they need to support their manufacturing process. You can export a file in the following formats. Some of the following cannot be exported in all versions of Ultiboard: Gerber photoplotter 274X or 274D DXF 3D DXF (see 9.4 Exporting to 3D DXF on page 9-8) IPC-D-356A Netlist NC drill SVG You can also export text files that contain: Board Statistics Part Centroids Bill of Materials You can also create reports on: Copper Amounts Test Points Layer Stackup Exporting a file begins by opening the Export dialog box. You can also use the Export dialog box to create and delete export settings, and to view and edit the properties of the export settings. Manufacturing
8-7
8.7.1
Using Export Settings

Export settings are useful for establishing different parameters as required by different manufacturers or for different purposes (e.g. to export only copper layers, or mechanical drawings). To create a new export setting: 1. Choose File/Post Process. The Export dialog box appears.
Manufacturing
2. Click New. The New settings dialog box appears. 3. Enter the new name and click OK. The New settings dialog box disappears and the new setting is displayed in the Export settings drop-down list. The new setting uses the same properties as the Default setting, or the setting that was last loaded. To change the properties stored in the new setting, see 8.7.2 Viewing and Editing Export Properties on page 8-9. To delete an export setting: 1. Choose File/Post Process. The Export dialog box appears. 2. Select the setting to be deleted from the Export settings drop-down list. 3. Click Delete. The setting is deleted from the Export settings drop-down list.
8-8
Exporting a File
8.7.2
Viewing and Editing Export Properties

Properties can be viewed and edited for each device or type of export. This is done through the property dialog boxes that correspond to the devices or types listed in the Export dialog box: Gerber RS-274D Gerber RS-274X DXF Board Statistics Bill of Materials Parts Centroids NC Drill
Manufacturing
To display the properties dialog box for a type of export: 1. Select the item in the list displayed in the Export dialog box. 2. Click Properties. The items property dialog box appears.
8-9
8.7.2.1 Setting Gerber Properties

The Gerber RS-274X or RS-274D properties dialog box allows you to select the layers to be exported, the number of digits in numerals, and the kind of measurements: Manufacturing
Click to move the selected layer to the Export Layers side Layers available to be exported Export and Merged Layers Select one or more export layers and click to merge/unmerge
Choose the kind of units of measurement
Define the number of integers and decimal places
Specify oversize parameters for solder mask and paste.
Specify export options
8-10
Exporting a File
8.7.2.2 Setting DXF Properties

The DXF export settings dialog box allows you to select the layers to be exported and the units of measurement to be used.
Layers available to be exported Click to move the selected layer to the Layers to Process side
Manufacturing
Choose the units of measurement
Layers to process
8.7.2.3 Setting NC Drill Properties

The Drill export properties dialog box allows you to specify measurement units, and to specify the number of digits for integers and decimals:
Click to specify Imperial measurements Click to specify Metric measurements Specify the number of integers
Specify the number of decimal places
8.7.2.4 Working with SVG Properties

The SVG Export Properteis dialog box allows you to specifiy whether Scaleable Vector Graphic files will be compressed or not when they are exported.
8-11
8.7.2.5 Working with other Properties

Working with Board Statistics Properties
Manufacturing The Board Statistics dialog box allows you to view the statistics on the board being exported as well as to filter the file types to be exported and to define the units of measurement in the statistics:
Statistics, including DRC violations
Select the types of files to be included in the statistics
Select the units of measurement
8-12
Exporting a File
Working with Bill of Materials Properties

The Bill of Materials dialog box displays the bill of materials, and includes facilities for sorting the information displayed:
Drag the column headers to change the column order
Manufacturing
Click column headers to sort the columns
Bill of Materials
Select the file types to export as
Define a new column
Select a column to delete
Other attributes that have been defined for objects can be assigned to columns for reporting purposes (e.g. preferred component supplier, etc.).
8-13
Working with Parts Centroids Properties

The Parts Centroids dialog box provides a list of all parts on the boards and their coordinates, and includes facilities for sorting the information displayed:
Drag the column headers to change the column order
Manufacturing
Click column headers to sort the columns
Properties
Select the file types to export as
Select the units of measurement Define a new column Select a column to delete
8-14
Exporting a File
Working with Test Point Properties

The Report Test Points dialog box provides a list of all test points on the boards and their coordinates, etc. Manufacturing
8-15
Working with Copper Amount Properties

The Report Copper Amounts dialog shows the amount of copper used on the board.
Manufacturing
Working with Layer Stackup Properties

The Report Layer Stackup dialog lets you set which file types to export.
8.7.3
Exporting a File
To export a file: 1. Select File/Post Process to display the Export dialog box. 2. Select the export setting to be used. 3. If desired, change any properties stored in the export setting. 4. Select the type of export from the list.
8-16
Printing your Design
5. Click Export. A dialog box opens where you can define the export files name and path. If you are exporting more than one file, you must define the name and path of each file. 6. Select the path that defines the export files location and type the files name. 7. Click Save. The file has been exported. Manufacturing
8.8
Printing your Design

To print a design file: 1. Choose File/Print. The Print dialog box appears.
2. Choose from the list of available printers and, if necessary, set the printers properties appropriately. 3. To print a negative image, enable the Print Negative Image option. 4. To print the reflection (mirror image), enable the Print Reflection option. 5. To leave drill holes open, enable the Leave Drill Holes Open option. 6. Select the layers you want to print in the Available layers list and click the arrow to move them to the Layers to print list.
8-17
7. For each layer you choose to print, you can enable or disable the Outline option to specify whether or not to include the board outline with the layer.
Manufacturing
Once you have more than one layer selected, you can choose to print layers on separate sheets. You can also choose to print a header at the top of each page, containing the design name, date, and layer name. Finally, you can use the arrows to change the order in which layers will be printed. 8. When you have finished setting the print parameters, click Print. To print a 3D image of your design: 1. Select Tools/View 3D. The 3D view of the design appears. 2. Scale the image to the desired size and orientation. For details, see Viewing Designs in 3D on page 9-1. 3. To set up the printing of the 3D image, select File/Print Setup. 4. To preview the printing of the 3D image, select File/Print Preview. 5. Select File/Print and click OK.
8.9
Previewing the Printed Design

To preview the way a design will look when printed: 1. Choose File/Print. The Print dialog box appears. 2. Click Preview. The Preview screen appears, displaying an image of what the printed file will look like.
8-18
Previewing the Printed Design
Note A blank page in a preview dialog box usually indicates an empty layer is being previewed. If the preview displays a blank page, go back and make sure that you are previewing a layer that has something on it.
View the next page Print all pages. If you only want to print certain pages, click Close to return to the Print dialog box and modify the Layers to Print. View the previous page Preview two pages, side by side Zoom in Zoom out
Manufacturing
Close the Preview and return to the Print dialog box
8-19
Manufacturing 8-20
Chapter 9 Viewing Designs in 3D

Ultiboard 7 allows you to see what the board looks like in three dimensions (3D) at any time during the design. This chapter explains how to set up the options for 3D viewing, how to view the board in 3D, and how to manipulate the view. The following are described in this chapter.
Subject Setting 3D Viewer Options Viewing the Board in 3D Manipulating the 3D View Controlling the Elements Viewed in 3D Showing an Objects Height Exporting to 3D DXF Page No. 9-2 9-4 9-5 9-6 9-7 9-8
3D Viewer
9-1
Viewing Designs in 3D
9.1

To set 3D viewer options: 1. Choose Options/Preferences and select the 3D Options tab:
Select to show copper and silkscreen while moving the 3D view
3D Viewer
Click to change background color in 3D viewer
9-2
2. To change the background color in the 3D viewer, click on Background color. The Color dialog box appears.
3D Viewer
3. Select the desired color and click OK in the Color dialog box. 4. To apply the new color, click Apply in the Preferences dialog box.
9-3
9.2
Viewing the Board in 3D

To view the board in three dimensions, choose Tools/View 3D. A new window opens displaying a 3D representation of the board:
3D Viewer
The Projects tab in the Design Toolbox indicates that you have a 3D view open, in addition to the design from which the 3D view was taken:
Original design
3D view
9-4
Manipulating the 3D View
To close the 3D view, right-click on the 3D view in the Projects tab and choose Close View from the context menu. To return to the design without closing the 3D view, open the Window menu and choose the design file:
Select the Window menu
The 3D view The design file
3D Viewer
The Window menu lists both the 3D view and the design file name, and can be used to toggle back and forth between the 3D view and the design. You can also use the tabs below the workspace. Note If you loaded a file from Ultiboard 2001, before you can use the 3D view you must use Tools/Update Shapes. The 3D appearance of individual parts is controlled by the 3D properties of those parts. For details, see 5.2.1 Viewing and Editing Component Properties on page 5-14.
9.3

When you choose Tools/View 3D, the view appears so that you are looking at a three dimensional rendition of the top of the board on an angle. You can manipulate this view to show you all points on the board, top and bottom, at any angle you choose. You manipulate the 3D view with the mouse pointer, which represents your viewing position and the light source that illuminates the component. You can click and drag the mouse to rotate the board, and you can change the angle at which it displays, allowing you to flip it over to see the bottom. The view rotates around the center of the board. When you let go of the mouse button, the board stays in its most recent view. To manipulate the 3D view: 1. Select Tools/View 3D Position. This is the default setting when you enter the 3D view. 2. Click and hold the mouse button down on the board in the 3D view. The pointer becomes a four-headed arrow.
9-5
3. Still holding the button, move the pointer as follows: Down to the bottom of the screen to view more of the top of the board. Up to the top of the screen to view the edge and then the underside of the board. To the left or right to view the board from either end. To turn the board over: 1. Click and hold on the board. 2. Move the pointer up, towards the top of the screen. As the view of the edge passes, release the mouse button and catch the underside of the board. 3. Continue until you can see the underside of the board fully. To zoom in a 3D design do one of the following: 3D Viewer Click and hold the right mouse button. Roll the mouse up to zoom in and down to zoom out. Or Use View/Zoom In and View/Zoom Out. You can also use your mouse wheel, if available.
9.3.1
Controlling the Elements Viewed in 3D

The Design Toolbox in the 3D view also has a Layers tab. The layers on this tab do not necessarily correspond to the layers in the design, but they work the same way as the Layers tab does in designing: the 3D Layers tab allows you to dim or remove elements from the board. For details on dimming and removing layers, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3. The following is a typical 3D Layers tab:
9-6
9.3.2
Showing an Objects Height

While in the 3D view, you can show an objects height. To show an objects height: 1. Select Tools/Show or Hide Height. 2. Click the cursor on a 3D component. A callout with the components height appears. 3. Repeat on as many components as desired.
3D Viewer
9-7
To hide a components height, click on the component. Its the callout with the height disappears. To rotate or magnify the board, select Tools/View 3D Position. For details on this command, see 9.3 Manipulating the 3D View on page 9-5.
9.4
Exporting to 3D DXF
Ultiboard can export a 3D DXF file for your design. To export a designs 3D properties: 1. Select File/Export.
3D Viewer
2. Highlight 3D DXF and click Properties. The DXF export settings dialog box appears.
3. Select the desired parameters to export and click OK. You are returned to the Export dialog box. 4. Click Export. A standard Windows Save dialog appears.
9-8
Exporting to 3D DXF
5. Select the desired filepath and enter the 3D DXF filename (the file extension must be .DXF). 6. Click Save.
3D Viewer
9-9
3D Viewer
9-10
Chapter 10 Using Mechanical CAD

Ultiboard 7s mechanical CAD utility can be used to design enclosure boxes, front panels, or any other mechanical part associated with your PCB design. Mechanical CAD functionality in Ultiboard 7 takes two forms: You can create multi-layer mechanical CAD design files. You can have mechanical CAD layers as part of your PCB design files. Design files can include up to 10 mechanical CAD layers. These are accessed through the Layers tab and can be used in the same way as other layers in your design. For details, see 4.1.2 Accessing Layers on page 4-3. For the most part, you work with mechanical CAD designs the same way that you do with PCB designs, although you cannot place traces or use the Autoroute function in mechanical CAD designs. This section explains the major differences when using mechanical CAD. The following are described in this chapter. CAD
Subject Creating Mechanical CAD Projects Creating Mechanical CAD Design Files Importing a DXF File Setting Mechanical CAD Properties and Options Setting Mechanical CAD Properties Setting Mechanical CAD Colors Controlling Workspace Elements for Mechanical CAD Setting Paths for Mechanical CAD Setting Mechanical CAD Dimensions Page No. 10-2 10-2 10-4 10-4 10-4 10-5 10-6 10-7 10-8
10-1
Using Mechanical CAD
10.1
Creating Mechanical CAD Projects

To create a new project: 1. Choose File/New Project. The New Project dialog box appears.
Type a name for the project Accept the default location for the project Select Mechanical CAD Design or Click the Browse button to select a location
2. Type the project name in the Project name field. 3. From the Design type drop-down list, select Mechanical CAD. 4. Indicate the folder where the project is to be kept. Either accept the default shown in the Location field, or click the Browse button to select a different location. 5. Click OK. The New Project dialog box disappears, and a blank unnamed mechanical CAD design is opened in that project. The project you just created is also shown in the Projects tab. CAD
10.2
Creating Mechanical CAD Design Files

To create a new mechanical CAD design, you can either use the new design that appears when you create a mechanical CAD project, or you can create a new design and assign it to an existing project. To create a new design and assign it to an existing project: 1. Open the project that the new design is to be added to.
10-2
Creating Mechanical CAD Design Files
2. Choose File/New. The New Design dialog box appears.

Type a name for the design Select the project where the new design is to be added Select Mechanical CAD Design
3. Type the design name in the Design name field. 4. From the Design type drop-down list, select Mechanical CAD. 5. Indicate the project where the design is to added. The drop-down list shows only the open projects. To include this design in another project, open the project so that it appears in the Add to project drop-down list. 6. Click OK. The New Design dialog box disappears, and a blank mechanical CAD design with the name that you specified is opened as a separate window. The Projects tab shows the mechanical CAD design is a part of the open project that you specified during the designs creation the dialog box:
Projects
CAD
PCB design Mechanical CAD design
Mechanical CAD design
Note Mechanical CAD designs can be part of a project containing PCB designs. Projects are independent of design file types.
10-3
10.2.1 Importing a DXF File

To import a DXF file into a mechanical CAD design: 1. Choose File/Open. A standard file selector appears. 2. Select DXF file (*.dxf) in the Files of type drop-down list and navigate to the correct location for the .dxf file, select it and click OK.
10.3
Setting Mechanical CAD Properties and Options
10.3.1 Setting Mechanical CAD Properties

To set mechanical CAD properties: Choose Edit/Properties. or Right-click on an empty area of the design and choose Properties from the context menu. Working with mechanical CAD properties is done the same way as with PCB properties, except that mechanical CAD designs have only two grids. CAD
10-4
For details on setting properties, see 4.4.1 A General Introduction to Properties on page 4-12, 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16, and 4.4.7 General Layers Set-Up on page 4-18.
10.3.2 Setting Mechanical CAD Colors

1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. From the Preferences dialog box, click the Colors tab:
Preview of the selected color scheme
Adjust view of greyed out items
Select the color scheme
Select the element from the drop-down list
CAD
Click to define a new element
Click to define a new color scheme
Click to display a palette from which you can select a color
Except for default elements being slightly different, this dialog box works the same way as for PCB designs. For details on using the Colors tab, see 2.3.3 Changing Colors on page 2-31.
10-5
10.3.3 Controlling Workspace Elements for Mechanical CAD

The General Settings tab allows you to control whether or not invisible attributes or cross hairs are shown in normal view, and options for full screen view. This tab also allows you to have Ultiboard 7 load your last project automatically, and to have Ultiboard 7 automatically save your project at specified intervals. To view or change workspace options: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. From the Preferences dialog box, click the General Settings tab:
Enable or disable the items you want shown. Enable to automatically load last project when Ultiboard 7 starts up Enable to have changes automatically saved (at the specified interval)
CAD
This tab works the same way as the one for PCB designs. For details on using the General Settings tab, see 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving on page 2-32.
10-6
10.3.4 Setting Paths for Mechanical CAD

The Ultiboard 7 installation puts specific files in specific locations. If necessary you can point Ultiboard 7 to a new location. To set up file locations for mechanical CAD files: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. From the Preferences dialog box, click the Paths tab:
Click to navigate to a new location for the files
CAD
This tab works the same way as the one for PCB designs. For details on using the Paths tab, see 2.3.5 Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files on page 2-34.
10-7
10.3.5 Setting Mechanical CAD Dimensions

To set mechanical CAD dimensions: 1. Choose Options/Preferences. The Preferences dialog box appears. 2. Click the Dimensions tab and set the parameters for dimensions:
A preview of the results of your choices appears here.
CAD
This tab works the same way as the Dimensions tab for PCB designs. For details on using the Dimensions tab, see 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics on page 4-26.
10-8
Appendix
A.1
A.1.1
This section contains brief descriptions for the commands in the Ultiboard 7 menus.
File Menu
File/New (Ctrl+N)
Creates a new design (if a project is open) or project (if no project is open). For details, see 3.2 Creating a Design File and/or Project on page 3-2.
A.1.2
File/Open (Ctrl+O)
Opens an existing project and/or design file. For details, see 3.7 Opening an Existing Project on page 3-7.
A.1.3
File/Save (Ctrl+S)
Saves the current design file and project.
A.1.4
File/Save As
Saves the current design file with a name and location that you specify in the Save As dialog box. Appendices
A.1.5
File/Save All
Saves all open design files and projects.
A.1.6
File/Close
Closes the current design file.
A-1
A.1.7
File/Close All
Closes all open design files.
A.1.8
File/New Project
Creates a new project. For details, see 3.2 Creating a Design File and/or Project on page 3-2.
A.1.9
File/Close Project
Closes the current project.
A.1.10
File/Load Technology
Lets you load a technology file that contains the design rules and configuration options for both Ultiboard and Ultiroute. For details, see 3.5.2 Loading Technology Files on page 3-5.
A.1.11
File/Save Technology
Lets you save a technology file based on the current design that contains the design rules and configuration options for both Ultiboard and Ultiroute. For details, see 3.8.1 Saving Technology on page 3-8.
A.1.12
Appendices
File/Import
Use to import an Ultiboard netlist or DXF file.
A.1.13
File/Export (Ctrl+E)
Exports Ultiboard 7 files for post-processing. For details, see 8.7 Exporting a File on page 8-6.
A-2
A.1.14
File/Print Setup
Sets up the printing paramaters required to print the Ultiboard 7 design file. For details, see 8.8 Printing your Design on page 8-17. This is found in the 3D view only.
A.1.15
File/Print Preview
Lets you preview the design file before printing. For details, see 8.8 Printing your Design on page 8-17. This is found in the 3D view only.
A.1.16
File/Print
Prints the Ultiboard 7 design file. For details, see 8.8 Printing your Design on page 8-17.
A.1.17
File/[Recent Projects]
Displays a list of the most-recently-opened projects.
A.1.18
File/Exit
Exits Ultiboard 7. You are prompted to save any unsaved design files and/or projects.
A.2
A.2.1
Edit Menu
Edit/Undo (Ctrl+Z)
Undoes your most recent action (for example, undoes the last component move). Command name changes to reflect what will be undone. Appendices
A-3
A.2.2
Edit/Redo (Ctrl+Y)
Redoes your most recent undone action. Command name changes to reflect what will be redone.
A.2.3
Edit/Cut (Ctrl+X)
Removes the selected element(s) from the board. Element is placed on the Windows Clipboard and can be pasted again.
A.2.4
Edit/Copy (Ctrl+C)
Copies the selected elements and stores them on the Windows Clipboard so they can be pasted again.
A.2.5
Edit/Paste (Ctrl+V)
Pastes the item on the Windows Clipboard to its original layer (regardless of what layer is currently active). Creates new duplicate object(s) without the netlist information. New components will have RefDes that increment from the next available for that component type. For example, if the last resistor was R34, and a resistor is pasted, its RefDes will be R35.
A.2.6
Edit/Paste Special/Paste with net

Pastes the item on the Windows Clipboard into the design with the same connectivity as the source. New components will have RefDes that increment from the next available for that component type.
Appendices
A.2.7
Edit/Paste Special/Paste to active layer

Pastes the item on the Windows Clipboard to the active layer (regardless of what layer it used to reside on).
A-4
A.2.8
Edit/Delete (Delete)
Use to delete the selected design elements. You are prompted to confirm the deletion.
A.2.9
Edit/Copper Delete
Deletes open trace ends, unused vias, or all copper elements.
Open Trace Ends Unused Vias
Use to delete all open trace ends in the design. Use this command to clean up the design after design completion. For details, see 8.6.1 Deleting Open Trace Ends on page 8-6. Use to delete all vias that do not have any trace segments or copper areas connected to them. Use this command after Tools/Copper Delete/Open Trace Ends to clean up the design. For details, see 8.6.2 Deleting Unused Vias on page 8-6. Use to delete all copper in the design, including traces, copper areas, or powerplanes. For details, see 6.2.5 Deleting All Copper on page 6-13. Use to delete all teardrops on your design. For details, see 6.2.6.1 Removing Teardrops on page 6-14. Use to remove copper islands. For details, see 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas on page 6-11
All Copper All teardrops Delete copper island
A.2.10
Edit/Select Entire Trace

Use to select a trace. For details, see 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements on page 2-17.
A.2.11
Edit/Select All (Ctrl+A)

Use to select everything on a board, no matter what layer the elements are on. For details, see 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements on page 2-17.
Appendices
A-5
A.2.12
Edit/Find
Use to find an element in the design. For details, see 2.2.5 Searching for Design Elements on page 2-18.
A.2.13
Edit/Group Selection
Groups selected elements together. Grouped elements can be moved together.
A.2.14
Edit/Ungroup Selection
Ungroups the selected group.
A.2.15
Edit/Lock
Locks the selected elements in place so they cannot be moved.
A.2.16
Edit/Unlock
Unlocks the selected elements.
A.2.17
Edit/Move to Grid
Use to move the selected object(s) to the nearest grid point to each object.
Appendices
A.2.18
Edit/Orientation
Use these commands to adjust the orientation of parts as they are placed on a design. For more details on the Orientation commands, see 5.1.3.6 Orienting Components on page 5-9.
Flip Horizontal Flip Vertical
Flips the selected elements horizontally. Flips the selected elements vertically.
A-6
90 Clockwise (Ctrl+R) 90 CounterCW (Ctrl+Shift+R) Angle Swap Layer (Alt+S)
Flips the selected elements 90 degrees clockwise. Flips the selected elements 90 degrees counter-clockwise.
Allows you to specify the angle of rotation for the selected elements. Swaps the selected elements from a layer to its mirror layer (e.g., from Copper Top to Copper Bottom).
A.2.19
Edit/Align
Use these commands to align the edges of the elements. For more on the Aligning commands, see 5.1.3.7 Aligning Components on page 5-10. For more on the Spacing commands, see 5.1.3.8 Spacing Components on page 5-10.
Align Left Align Right Align Top Align Bottom Align Center Horizontal Align Center Vertical Space Across Space Across Plus Space Across Min Space Down Space Down Plus Space Down Min
Aligns the left edges of the selected elements. Aligns the right edges of the selected elements. Aligns the top edges of the selected elements. Aligns the bottom edges of the selected elements. Shifts the selected elements horizontally so their centers are aligned.
Shifts the selected elements vertically so their centers are aligned. Spaces three or more objects beside each other evenly. Increases horizontal space between two or more objects. Decreases horizontal space between two or more objects. Spaces three or more objects above each other evenly.
Appendices
Increases vertical space between two or more objects. Decreases vertical space between two or more objects.
A-7
A.2.20
Edit/Vertex
You can add or remove vertices from all polygons, whether copper or non-copper.
Add Vertex Remove Vertex
Add a vertex to a polygon segment. For details, see 5.5.2 Editing a Polygon on page 5-35. Remove a vertex from a polygon. For details, see 5.5.2 Editing a Polygon on page 5-35.
A.2.21
Edit/In-Place Part Edit

Use to edit a part that has already been defined and placed on the board. For details, see 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34.
A.2.22
Edit/Properties
Displays the properties of the selected element. Results will differ, depending on what is selected. If no element is selected, displays the board properties. Properties are described throughout this guide.
A.3
A.3.1
View Menu
View/Full Screen
Use to fill the screen with the design only (hide menus, workspace, other windows). Click the Close Full Screen button to return to normal view.
Appendices
A.3.2
View/Grid
Use to toggle the visual grid on and off. For more on the grid, see 4.4.5 Grids and Units on page 4-16.
A-8
A.3.3
View/Clearances
Use to toggle the clearances around pads, traces and other objects on and off. For more details, see 6.1 Placing Traces on page 6-2.
A.3.4
View/Redraw (F5)
Use to refresh the screen. For more details, see 2.2.6.3 Refreshing the Design on page 2-20.
A.3.5
View/Zoom Window (F6)

Use to magnify a selected part of the board. Use this command when you want precise control over the workspace view. See also 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design on page 2-19.
A.3.6
View/Zoom Full (CTRL+F7)

Use to return to the full view of the design after zooming in or out. CTRL+F7 zooms out so that the entire design is visible and centered. This includes the board outline and any objects that may be either inside or outside the board. F7 zooms out so that the board is visible and centered. Any objects outside the board outline will be outside the visible region. See also 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design on page 2-19.
A.3.7
View/Zoom In (F8)
Use to zoom in on the design so you see more details. For details, see 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design on page 2-19. Appendices
A.3.8
View/Zoom Out (F9)

Use to zoom out of the design so you see more of the design. For details, see 2.2.6 Options for Viewing the Design on page 2-19.
A-9
A.3.9
View/Ruler Bars
Use to toggle the ruler bars on and off. For more details, see 5.1.3.5 Using Ruler Bars on page 5-8.
A.3.10
View/Status Bar
Use to toggle the status bar on and off. For details, see 2.1.7 Status Bar on page 2-8.
A.3.11
View/Density Bars
Use to toggle the density bars on and off. For more details, see 6.1.6 Working with Density Bars on page 6-6.
A.3.12
View/Birds eye
Use to toggle the Birds eye View on and off. For more details, see 2.1.2 Birds Eye View on page 2-5.
A.3.13
View/Design Toolbox
Use to toggle the Design Toolbox on and off. For more details, see 2.1.4 Design Toolbox on page 2-6.
A.3.14
Appendices
View/Spreadsheet View
Use to toggle the Spreadsheet View on and off. For more details, see 2.4 Spreadsheet View Details on page 2-35.
A.3.15
View/3D Preview
Toggles the 3D preview pane on and off.
A-10
A.3.16
View/Toolbars
Use to turn toolbars on or off.
Standard View Main Draw Settings Edit Align Place Select Wizard Toolbar Autoroute
Use to toggle the standard toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.8.1 The Standard Toolbar on page 2-8. Use to toggle the view toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.8.2 The View Toolbar on page 2-9. Use to toggle the main toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.8.3 The Main Toolbar on page 2-10. Use to toggle the draw settings toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.1 The Draw Settings Toolbar on page 2-11. Use to toggle the edit toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.2 The Edit Toolbar on page 2-12. Use to toggle the align toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.3 The Align Toolbar on page 2-13. Use to toggle the place toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.4 The Place Toolbar on page 2-14. Use to toggle the select toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.8.4 The Select Toolbar on page 2-11. Use to toggle the wizard toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.5 The Wizard Toolbar on page 2-15. Use to toggle the autoroute toolbar on and off. For more details, see 2.1.9.6 The Autoroute Toolbar on page 2-16.
A.4
A.4.1
Place Menu
Appendices
Place/Select (CTRL+Shift+S)
Use to change from placing elements to selecting elements. For more details, see 2.2.4 Working with Modes on page 2-18.
A-11
A.4.2
Place/Line (CTRL+Shift+L)
Use to place a line or a trace, depending on the active layer. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25 or 6.1.2 Placing a Trace: Manual Method on page 6-3.
A.4.3
Place/Arc (CTRL+Shift+A)
Use to place an arc or a trace, depending on the active layer. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25 or 6.1.2 Placing a Trace: Manual Method on page 6-3.
A.4.4
Place/Bezier (CTRL+Shift+B)
Use to place a bezier or a trace, depending on the active layer. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25 or 6.1.2 Placing a Trace: Manual Method on page 6-3.
A.4.5
Place/Follow me (Ctrl+T)
Use to place a follow me trace, a trace that automatically draws a legal trace between two selected points. For more details, see 6.1.3 Placing a Trace: Follow Me Method on page 6-4.
A.4.6
Place/Connection Machine
Use to place a trace between two pads. For more details, see 6.1.4 Placing a Trace: Connection Machine Method on page 6-4.
Appendices
A.4.7
Place/Copper Area
Use to define a copper area polygon. For more details, see 6.2.1 Placing Copper Areas on page 6-11.
A-12
A.4.8
Place/Powerplane
Use to define layers as Power/Ground planes or to clear layers that were previously defined as Power/Ground planes. For more details, see 6.2.2 Placing Powerplanes on page 6-11.
A.4.9
Place/Bus (CTRL+B)
Use to connect multiple traces between multi-pinned devices such as ICs. For details, see 6.1.5 Placing a Bus on page 6-5.
A.4.10
Place/Shape
Use to place shapes of different types.
Ellipse Rectangle Circle Rounded Rectangle Pie Polygon
Use to place an ellipse. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Use to place a rectangle. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Use to place a circle. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Use to place a rounded rectangle. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Use to place a pie shape. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25. Use to place a polygon. For more details, see 5.3.2 Placing Shapes on page 5-25.
A.4.11
Place/Group Array Box

Use to place components in a grid array. For details, see 5.1.3.9 Placing a Group Array Box on page 5-11.
Appendices
A-13
A.4.12
Place/Keepin/out Area
Use to define a polygon to restrict elements from either exiting or entering the area. For more details, see 6.1.7 Working with Keepin/out Areas on page 6-8.
A.4.13
Place/Footprint Pins
Used in In-Place Editing of a part to place a footprint. For more details, see 5.5.1 Editing a Placed Part (In-Place Edit) on page 5-34.
A.4.14
Place/Via
Use to place a via. For more on placing vias, see 6.4 Working with Vias on page 6-16.
A.4.15
Place/Test Point
Use to place a test point. For more on placing test points, see 5.3.4 Working with Test Points on page 5-28.
A.4.16
Place/Automatic Test Points

This function is only available when Ultiroute is installed. For details, refer to your copy of the Ultiroute 7 User Guide.
A.4.17
Appendices
Place/Jumper
Use to place a jumper. For more on placing jumpers, see 5.3.3 Working with Jumpers on page 5-26.
A.4.18
Place/Text (CTRL+ALT+A)
Use to place text on the design. Useful for annotation purposes. For more details, see 8.1 Placing and Editing Text on page 8-2.
A-14
A.4.19
Place/Dimension
For details on setting up dimension parameters, see 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics on page 4-26. For details on placing dimensions, see 5.3.5 Working with Dimensions on page 5-29.
Standard
Use to place a standard dimension (a dimension to be placed at an angle). Dimension parameters (arrow style, text style, position and so on) are set through Options/Preferences. Use to place a horizontal dimension. Dimension parameters (arrow style, text style, position and so on) are set through Options/Preferences. Use to place a vertical dimension. Dimension parameters (arrow style, text style, position and so on) are set through Options/Preferences.
Horizontal Vertical
A.4.20
Place/From Library
Use to place parts from the library. For details, see 5.4 Placing Parts from the Library on page 5-33.
A.5
A.5.1
Design Menu
Design/Netlist & DRC Check
Use to run the design rules and netlist check utility. Results are displayed in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View. For details, see 2.4.2 Spreadsheet View: Results Tab on page 2-37. Depending on your settings in the PCB Design tab of the Preferences dialog box, this utility may run automatically. You can use this command to force a check of the board's integrity, and may want to use it prior to saving or exporting the design.
Appendices
A.5.2
Design/Connectivity Check
Runs a connectivity check on the design.
A-15
When this command is selected, the following dialog displays.

Select the net on which you wish to run the connectivity check and click OK.
Results are displayed in the Results tab of the Spreadsheet View. For details, see 2.4.2 Spreadsheet View: Results Tab on page 2-37.
A.5.3
Design/Polygon Splitter
Use to split a copper area or powerplane. For details, see 6.2.3 Splitting Copper on page 6-12.
A.5.4
Design/Shape to Area
Use to cut out areas in a copper shape to avoid other elements within its area. For details, see 6.2.4 Converting a Copper Shape to an Area on page 6-12.
A.5.5
Design/Fanout SMD
Use to place a via fanout for a SMD component. For details, see 6.5 Placing SMD Fanouts on page 6-20.
A.5.6
Appendices
Design/Swap pins
For details, see 6.7.1 Swapping Pins on page 6-36.
A.5.7
Design/Swap Gates
For details, see 6.7.2 Swapping Gates on page 6-36.
A-16
A.5.8
Design/Renumber
Use to renumber components for production. For details, see 8.2 Renumbering Parts on page 8-3.
A.5.9
Design/Add teardrops
Use to add teardrops to pads. For details, see 6.2.6 Adding Teardrops on page 6-14.
A.5.10
Design/Equispace Traces
Use to equally space selected traces. For details, see 6.1.8 Equi-Spacing Traces on page 6-9.
A.5.11
Design/Shield nets
This function is only available once you have installed Ultiroute. For details, refer to your copy of the Ultiroute 7 User Guide. Use to shields nets.
A.5.12
Design/Group Replicate Place

Use to copy and place a group of components. For details, see 5.1.3.10 Replicating a Group on page 5-13.
A.5.13
Design/Corner Mitering
Appendices Use to apply corner mitering before production. For details, see 8.4 Mitering Corners on page 8-4.
A.5.14
Design/Highlight Selected Net

Use to select and highlight an entire net when you have selected one trace segment of that net. For details, see 6.6.3 Highlighting a Net on page 6-35.
A-17
A.6
A.6.1
Tools Menu
Tools/View 3D
Displays the design in 3D mode. For details, see Section 9, Viewing Designs in 3D.
A.6.2
Tools/View 3D Position
This is only available when viewing the design in the 3D mode. For details, see 9.3 Manipulating the 3D View on page 9-5.
A.6.3
Tools/Show or Hide Height

Shows or hides the height of selected objects in 3D mode. This is only available when viewing the design in the 3D mode. For details, see 9.3.2 Showing an Objects Height on page 9-7.
A.6.4
Tools/Component Wizard
Assists you in creating a part and adds it directly to the user library. For details, see 5.8.2 Using the Component Wizard to Create a Part on page 5-46.
A.6.5
Appendices
Tools/Board Wizard
Assists you in creating a board outline. For details, see 4.2 Working with the Board Outline on page 4-5.
A.6.6
Tools/Netlist Editor
Use to remove or add nets and pads. For details, see 6.6.2 Using the Netlist Editor on page 6-23.
A-18
A.6.7
Tools/Group Editor
Use to set up and edit various group types. For details, see 4.6 Working with the Group Editor on page 4-29.
A.6.8
Tools/Library Manager
Use to manage the library of parts available to you. For details, see 5.9 Managing the Library on page 5-53.
A.6.9
Tools/Set Library Password

Use to set a password for access to library functions that make any changes to a library. To set a password for a library: 1. Select Tools/Set Library Password.
2. Select the desired database from the Database drop-down list. 3. Enter the new password in the Password field and re-enter it in the Confirmation field. 4. Click OK to save the password. Appendices
A.6.10
Tools/Add Selection to Library

Use to place the selected part in the library. For details, see 5.9.2 Adding Parts to the Library on page 5-57.
A-19
A.6.11
Tools/Merge Library
Use to convert existing component libraries to Ultiboard 7 format.
A.6.12
Tools/Change Footprint
Use to substitute a part from the library for the current selected part. For details, see 5.6.3 Replacing Parts on page 5-43.
A.6.13
Tools/Update Shapes
Use if you loaded Ultiboard V. 5 files into Ultiboard 7 and plan to use 3D. Adds the necessary 3D information to the footprints in the file.
A.6.14
Tools/Highlight Selection in Multisim

Highlights a component selection in Multisim 7. For details, see 5.7 Cross-probing on page 5-44.
A.7
A.7.1
Appendices
Options Menu
Options/Selection Filter
Use these toggles to prevent accidentally selecting a particular type of element, for example, selecting a component when you meant to select a trace. For more information on the selection filters, see 2.2.3 Using Selection Filters on page 2-17.
Enable Selecting Parts Enable Selecting Traces Enable Selecting Polygons Enable Selecting Vias
When enabled, allows parts to be selected. When enabled, allows traces to be selected. When enabled, allows polygons to be selected.
When enabled, allows vias to be selected.
A-20
Enable Selecting Pads Enable Selecting SMD Pads Enable Selecting Attributes Enable Selecting other objects
When enabled, allows pads to be selected. When enabled, allows Surface Mount Device pads to be selected.
When enabled, allows attributes to be selected.
When enabled, allows other objects on the PCB to be selected.
A.7.2
Options/Automatic Pin/Gate Swap

For details, see 6.7.3 Automatic Pin/Gate Swapping on page 6-38.
A.7.3
Options/Part Shoving
Use to toggle shoving on and off. When shoving is on, components shove any others out of the way when being moved or placed. For details, see 5.1.3.4 Shoving Components on page 5-7.
A.7.4
Options/Set Favorite Layers

Use to assign numbers used to quickly access a layers. For details, see 4.1.2.1 Setting Favorite Layers on page 4-5.
A.7.5
Options/Set Reference Point

Use to define the reference point for your board. For details, see 4.3 Setting the Boards Reference Point on page 4-11. Appendices
A.7.6
Options/PCB Properties
Use to define the general parameters of your PCB design. For details, see 4.4 Setting up the Boards Properties on page 4-12.
A-21
A.7.7

Options/Preferences
Use to control how Ultiboard 7 works, including: setting up color schemes for the workspace background and other displayed elements (see 2.3.3 Changing Colors on page 2-31). controlling display of invisible attributes or cross hairs in normal view, options for full screen view, having Ultiboard 7 load your last project automatically, or having Ultiboard 7 automatically save your project at specified intervals (see 2.3.4 Controlling Workspace Elements, Autoloading and Autosaving on page 2-32). specifying paths for associated files, or creating user settings files that contain individuals preferences for all options (see 2.3.5 Specifying Ultiboard 7 File Locations and User Settings Files on page 2-34). setting options for the 3D viewer (see 9.1 Setting 3D Viewer Options on page 9-2). setting options for the mechanical CAD design (see 10.3 Setting Mechanical CAD Properties and Options on page 10-4). defining the characteristics to be used for any dimensions placed in the board (see 4.5.2 Setting Up Default Dimension Characteristics on page 4-26). defining the action for placing a follow-me trace, actions to be taken upon encountering design rule errors, or whether trace snap is on or off (see 4.5.3 Setting Up Default PCB Design Actions on page 4-27).
A.7.8
Options/Customize
Use to customize your menus, toolbars and context menus. For more details, see 2.3.2 Customizing Menus and Toolbars on page 2-22.
A.8
Appendices
Autoroute/place Menu
Note For other Autoroute/place menu options, which are added when Ultiroute is installed, see the Ultiroute User Guide.
A.8.1
Autoroute/place/Start Internal Autorouter

Use to transfer to the internal autorouter. For details, see 7.1 Using the Internal Autorouter on page 7-1.
A-22
A.8.2
Autoroute/place/Reload Internal Autorouter Results

Use to reload the results of the most recent autorouting that was performed by the internal router (any changes made since the last autorouting are lost). For details, see 7.1 Using the Internal Autorouter on page 7-1.
A.9
Window Menu
Use these commands to arrange multiple designs open at a time.
A.9.1
Window/New Window
Use to display a new window containing a full view of the design currently open.
A.9.2
Window/Close
Use the close the current window.
A.9.3
Window/Close All
Use to close all open windows.
A.9.4
Window/Cascade
Use to cascade the open windows, so they are arranged one on top of the next while remaining separately selectable. Appendices
A.9.5
Window/Tile Horizontal
Use to adjust two or more windows so that they sit one on top of the other.
A-23
A.9.6
Window/Tile Vertical
Use to adjust two or more windows so that they sit beside each other.
A.9.7
Window/Windows
Use to move a window forward and make it active. You are presented with a dialog box showing the open windows. Select the desired one and click Activate.
A.10 Help Menu

A.10.1 Help/Contents
Use to display the contents of the online help.
A.10.2
Help/Release Notes
Use to display Ultiboard 7 release notes.
A.10.3
Help/About
Use to display the version numbers of your copy of Ultiboard 7.
Appendices
A.11 Context Menus

Depending on the action, the following context sensitve menus display when the right mouse button is clicked: Select Menu Right-drag Menu Place Trace Menu
A-24
A.11.1
Select Menu
When you select an object or objects in a design and then right-click your mouse, a context menu with the following options displays.
Cut
Removes the selected element(s) from the board. Element is placed on the Windows Clipboard and can be pasted again.
Copy
Copies the selected elements and stores them on the Windows Clipboard so they can be pasted again.
Paste
Pastes the item on the Windows Clipboard to its original layer (regardless of what layer is currently active). Creates new duplicate object(s) without the netlist information. New components will have RefDes that increment from the next available for that component type. For example, if the last resistor was R34, and a resistor is pasted, its RefDes will be R35.
Quick Layer Toggle

Use to toggle between the last copper layer or to the opposite copper layer if the last layer was not copper.
Select Entire Trace

Use to select a trace. For details, see 2.2.1 Selecting and Unselecting Elements on page 2-17.
Lock
Locks the selected elements in place so they cannot be moved.
Unlock
Appendices Unlocks the selected elements.
Move to Grid
Use to move the selected object(s) to the nearest grid point to each object.
Orientation
Use these commands to adjust the orientation of parts as they are placed on a design. For more details on the Orientation commands, see 5.1.3.6 Orienting Components on page 5-9.
A-25
Align
Use these commands to align the edges of the elements. For more on the Aligning commands, see 5.1.3.7 Aligning Components on page 5-10. For more on the Spacing commands, see 5.1.3.8 Spacing Components on page 5-10.
Vertex
You can add or remove vertices from all polygons, whether copper or non-copper.
Add Vertex Remove Vertex
Add a vertex to a polygon segment. For details, see 5.5.2 Editing a Polygon on page 5-35. Remove a vertex from a polygon. For details, see 5.5.2 Editing a Polygon on page 5-35.
Place
Displays a number of place options from the main Place menu.
Properties
Displays the properties dialog box for the type of element selected. For details, see 5.2 Viewing and Editing Properties on page 5-14.
A.11.2
Right-drag Menu
When you select an area by dragging and releasing the right mouse button, a context menu appears with the following selections.
Select all in rectangle

Selects all objects in the rectangle that you drew by dragging and releasing the right mouse button. Appendices
Select objects on active layer

Selects only those objects in the rectangle that you drew by dragging and releasing the right mouse button that are on the active layer as defined in the Layers tab of the Design Toolbox.
Select objects on specified layers

Displays the Select layer(s) dialog box.
A-26
To select the layers on which you wish to select the objects: 1. Highlight the desired layers in the Select layer(s) dialog box and click OK.
2. All items that are on the selected layers that appear within the rectangle that you drew by dragging the right mouse button are selected.
A.11.3
Place Trace Menu

If you click the right mouse button when you are placing a trace a context sensitive menu displays with the following options.
Cancel
Cancels the placement of the trace segment being drawn.
Quick layer toggle

Use to toggle between the last copper layer or to the opposite copper layer if the last layer was not copper.
Narrow
Narrows the trace that you are drawing. Should be within Minimum Width when set.
Appendices
Widen
Widens the trace that you are drawing. Should be withing Minimum Width when set.
A-27
Appendices A-28
Glossary
Active Layer
The layer on which any actions you choose will be performed.
All Angle Routing

Routing that allows both 90 and 45 angles.
Aperture Code
Identifies the type of aperture to be used by the Gerber output.
Birds Eye View

The small window that appears, by default, at the top left of the screen. Gives you an overview of your complete PCB, with components shown as outlines. Allows you to quickly navigate through your board or display a specific area of the design, sized as you wish.
Blind Via
A via that connects the top or bottom layer with any inner layer.
Buried Via
A via that connects inner layers.
Chamfer Corners
Corners at an increment of 45 on the trace routes.
Component Grid
Determines the increments by which elements (parts and shapes) can be placed on the board.
Copper Area
A copper polygon.
Glossary
Copper Island
A copper area.
Design Toolbox
By default, appears on left side of screen. Consists of multiple tabs used to manage a design.
DRC
Design Rule Check
Feedthrough Via
A normal via that connects all layers, top, bottom and inner.
Force Vector
A line that indicates the optimal location for a component, considering all the connections of the component to achieve the shortest possible connections.
Grid
Determines the increments by which traces can be placed on the board.
Internal Rip-up and Retry Autorouter

A rip-up and retry grid-based utility that rips up poorly placed connections and retries them until it finds the most optimal design. Slower than Ultiroute, but will achieve higher completion rates on very dense boards.
Mouse Grid
Controls the increments by which the cursor moves and where items are placed.
Net
A network of traces, to which you can add pins and copper areas.
Netlist
Contains connectivity information about pins and components.
Normal Feed-Through Via

Any via that connects all layers (top, bottom, and internal).
Output Window
Gives you useful information on the status of your design. By default, is turned off. Glossary
ii
Pad Stack
The connections between layers of the board.
Ratsnest
Visual display showing linear connections between pins, using the shortest possible line. A guide for pin connections, not a realistic representation of the board.
Refdes
Reference designator, the unique name given to a net.
Reference Point
The point from which coordinates are calculated, in normal mode. Set using Tools/Reference Point.
SMD Pad
A pad without a drill hole (drill diameter property in the pad code set to 0).
Status Bar
Displays useful and important information at the bottom of your screen.
Thermal Relief
Area around a pin where no copper appears, but which is crossed by copper lines to make connections. A thermal relief is used to dissipate heat during the soldering process.
Through-Hole Via
Normal via.
Trace Code
The system provides 32 trace codes, each with a width and clearance. Clearance describes the space required between pads and pads, between traces and pads, and between traces and traces. This free space is continuously checked by the real-time design rule check. Trace code specifications can be exported as part of the design rules.
Glossary
iii
Ultiroute
An advanced autorouting and autoplacement tool from Electronics Workbench that interfaces with and is accessed from Ultiboard. Offers advanced autoplacement with state-of-the-art autorouting for optimal layout of printed circuit boards. Combines grid and gridless autorouting algorithm.
Visual Grid
Provides a visual reference for you to visually align components and traces.
Workspace
The part of the screen where you build your design.
Glossary
iv
Index
Numerics
3D data for parts (Ultiboard) 5-17 3D view (Ultiboard) controlling elements in 9-6 manipulating 9-5 using 9-4 Viewer options 9-2 alignment (Ultiboard) 4-14 changing (Ultiboard) 4-14 color (Ultiboard) 4-14 copper (Ultiboard) 6-15 deleting (Ultiboard) 4-13 font (Ultiboard) 4-14 height (Ultiboard) 4-14 modifying (Ultiboard) 4-13 parts (Ultiboard) 5-16 rotation (Ultiboard) 4-14 screen (Ultiboard) 4-14 setting (Ultiboard) 4-14 shape (Ultiboard) 5-23 tag (Ultiboard) 4-14 value (Ultiboard) 4-14 via (Ultiboard) 6-18 visibility (Ultiboard) 4-14 autodelete via on delete trace (Ultiboard) 4-28 autoloading (Ultiboard) 2-33 autorouter (Ultiboard) 7-1 costing parameters 7-5 initial routing speed 7-9 optimize speed 7-9 options 7-4 performance 7-9 routing speed 7-9 autorouting combined grid and gridless 7-10 autosaving (Ultiboard) 2-33
A
active layer Ultiboard 4-4 Add Group dialog 4-29 Add net dialog 6-24 Adding teardrops 6-14 Align command (Ultiboard) A-7, A-26 Align toolbar Ultiboard 2-13 alignment of parts (Ultiboard) 5-10 angle attribute (Ultiboard) 5-22 assembly layers (Ultiboard) 4-4 attribute (Ultiboard) angle 5-22 color 5-21 layer 5-22 line color 5-21 line style 5-21 line width 5-21 locked 5-22 position 5-22 properties 5-21 style 5-21 attribute names (Ultiboard) 4-12 attribute values (Ultiboard) 4-12 attribute visibility (Ultiboard) 4-12 attributes about (Ultiboard) 4-12 adding (Ultiboard) 4-13
B
backannotation (Ultiboard) 8-4 bezier placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 Bill of Materials exporting (Ultiboard) 8-13 Birdseye (Ultiboard) 2-5 board (Ultiboard) adding layers 4-19
cleaning up before manufacturing 8-6 default clearance 4-17 number of layers 4-19 removing layers 4-19 statistics export properties 8-12 board outline (Ultiboard) creating 4-5 drawing 4-6 from library 4-7 importing 4-6 using wizard 4-7 board properties (Ultiboard) about 4-15 displaying 4-15 grid style 4-16 grids 4-16 grids and units 4-16 units of measurement 4-16 board settings (Ultiboard) tab 4-17
shape (Ultiboard) 5-23, 5-37, 5-40 combined grid/gridless autorouting 7-10 component grid setting (Ultiboard) 4-16 Component Wizard (Ultiboard) using 5-46 components - see parts (Ultiboard) connection machine trace (Ultiboard) about 6-2 placing 6-4 using 6-4 Connectivity check A-15 Connectivity tab (Ultiboard) 2-38 connectors(Ultiboard) placing 5-25 context menus, customizing (Ultiboard) 2-28 continuous trace placement (Ultiboard) 6-2 coordinates attribute (Ultiboard) 5-22 copper deleting 6-13 copper (Ultiboard) C layer 6-15 CAD - see mechanical CAD lock to layer 6-15 Change Group Settings dialog 4-30 Choose Net and Layer for Powerplane dialog 6- copper area net (Ultiboard) 6-16 11 parameters (Ultiboard) 6-16 circles copper properties (Ultiboard) placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 attributes 6-15 clearance (Ultiboard) clearance 6-15 effect on traces 6-3 net 6-15 for board 4-17 trace type 6-15 Close All command (Ultiboard) A-2 trace width 6-15 Close command (Ultiboard) A-1 units of measurement 6-15 Close Project command (Ultiboard) A-2 Copy command (Ultiboard) A-4, A-25 color corner mitering (Ultiboard) 8-4 attribute (Ultiboard) 5-21 costing parameters (Ultiboard) 7-5 controlling (Ultiboard) 2-31 45 degree corner 7-6 dimensions (Ultiboard) 5-30 45 degree pad entry 7-7 mechanical CAD design (Ultiboard) 10-5 90 degree corner 7-6 of layers, changing (Ultiboard) 4-5 buried vias 7-6 schemes, setting up (Ultiboard) 2-31 directions 7-5 color (Ultiboard)
ii
extra via per layer 7-6 initial via 7-6 offset vias 7-6 T-connections 7-7 temporary violation 7-6 trace hugging 7-6 cross-probing 5-44 Cut command (Ultiboard) A-4, A-25
D
Delete command (Ultiboard) A-5 density bars (Ultiboard) 6-6 design (Ultiboard) adding parts to library 5-58 adding to project 3-3 closing 3-8 creating 3-3 preview print 8-18 printing 8-17 refreshing 2-20 saving 3-8 viewing in 3D 9-4 design files, CAD - see mechanical CAD design (Ultiboard) design rule check running 8-6 design rule check (Ultiboard) configuring 4-21 type of errors 4-23 using 4-23 design rule errors (Ultiboard) actions taken 4-27 viewing 4-23 Design Toolbox overview (Ultiboard) 2-6 using (Ultiboard) 5-3 dimensions (Ultiboard) color 5-30 default 4-26 line style 5-30 line width 5-30 position 5-31
properties 5-30 start and end point 5-31 type 5-29 Draw Settings toolbar (Ultiboard) 2-11 DRC (Ultiboard) running A-15 DRC check (Ultiboard) enabling or disabling 4-28 DXF export properties (Ultiboard) 8-11 importing into mechanical CAD design (Ultiboard) 10-4 DXF (Ultiboard) importing 4-6
E
Edit Groups dialog Net Groups tab 4-29 Edit Groups Part Groups tab 4-30 Edit menu (Ultiboard) A-3 Edit toolbar (Ultiboard) 2-12 editing net widths 6-32 elements moving (Ultiboard) 2-17 searching for (Ultiboard) 2-18 selecting (Ultiboard) 2-17 unselecting (Ultiboard) 2-17 ellipses placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 equi-space traces 6-9 Errors tab (Ultiboard) 2-36 Exit command (Ultiboard) A-3 export properties (Ultiboard) 8-9 Export command (Ultiboard) A-2
F
Fanout Options dialog 6-20 Favorite Layers dialog 4-5 feature summary (Ultiboard) 1-2 fiducial marks, showing or hiding (Ultiboard) 4-28
iii
file export properties (Ultiboard) 8-9 exporting - about (Ultiboard) 8-6 exporting (Ultiboard) 8-16 locations (Ultiboard) 2-34 File menu (Ultiboard) A-1 Find command (Ultiboard) A-6 Find tab (Ultiboard) 2-37 follow me router (Ultiboard) 6-2 follow me trace (Ultiboard) about 6-4 placing 6-4 force vectors (Ultiboard) about 5-6 illustration of 5-7 full screen view (Ultiboard) 2-20
in-place edit (Ultiboard) using 5-34 In-Place Part Edit command (Ultiboard) A-8 interface elements (Ultiboard) 2-3 internal autorouter (Ultiboard) setup 7-4
J
jumper properties (Ultiboard) 5-26 jumpers (Ultiboard) default pin diameters 4-27 pin type 5-27 start and end point 5-27 wire 5-27
K
keepout areas properties (Ultiboard) 6-8 keyboard shortcuts (Ultiboard) 2-26
G
Gerber export properties (Ultiboard) 8-10 grid autorouting 7-10 component (Ultiboard) 4-16 increments (Ultiboard) 4-16 setting (Ultiboard) 4-16 showing or hiding (Ultiboard) 2-35 style, setting (Ultiboard) 4-16 visible (Ultiboard) 4-16 grid (Ultiboard) 4-16 gridless autorouting 7-10 Group command (Ultiboard) A-6 guides (Ultiboard) moving 5-9 placing 5-9 removing 5-9 using 5-9
L
lamination settings 4-2 layer (Ultiboard) attribute 5-22 layers pairs (Ultiboard) 4-17 via (Ultiboard) 6-19 layers (Ultiboard) active 4-4 adding to board 4-19 assembly 4-4 changing color of 4-5 choosing how many 4-2 dimming 4-4 hiding 4-4 information 4-4 lamination settings (Ultiboard) 4-2 mechanical 4-4 multi--layered boards 4-2 number on the board 4-19 PCB layers 4-4
H
highlighting in Multisim/Multicap 5-44
I
information layers (Ultiboard) 4-4
iv
removing from board 4-19 swapping parts on 5-9 tab, using 4-3 Layers tab about (Ultiboard) 2-6 Layers tab (Ultiboard) using 4-3 leave drill holes open (Ultiboard) 8-17 library adding parts to from design (Ultiboard) 5-58 adding parts to using Library Manager (Ultiboard) 5-57 categories, about (Ultiboard) 5-55 categories, copying (Ultiboard) 5-55 categories, creating (Ultiboard) 5-55 categories, removing (Ultiboard) 5-56 managing (Ultiboard) 5-53 placing parts from (Ultiboard) 5-33 sub-categories, deleting (Ultiboard) 5-56 sub-categories, removing (Ultiboard) 5-56 sub-categories, renaming (Ultiboard) 5-56 library categories about (Ultiboard) 5-55 copying (Ultiboard) 5-55 creating (Ultiboard) 5-55 removing (Ultiboard) 5-56 Library Manager (Ultiboard) about 5-53 panels of 5-53 using to create parts 5-44 library sub-categories deleting (Ultiboard) 5-56 removing (Ultiboard) 5-56 renaming (Ultiboard) 5-56 line style dimensions (Ultiboard) 5-30 line width dimensions (Ultiboard) 5-30 lines attribute (Ultiboard) 5-21 placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 shape (Ultiboard) 5-23, 5-37, 5-40
Lock command (Ultiboard) A-6, A-25
M
manual trace (Ultiboard) about 6-2 placing 6-3 measurement guides (Ultiboard) 5-9 mechanical CAD (Ultiboard) colors 10-5 dimensions 10-8 functionality 10-1 paths 10-7 properties 10-4 workspace elements 10-6 mechanical CAD design (Ultiboard) creating 10-2 importing DXF file 10-4 mechanical CAD projects (Ultiboard) creating 10-2 mechanical layers (Ultiboard) 4-4 menus and toolbars (Ultiboard) controlling appearance 2-25 creating 2-25 customizing 2-22 modifying 2-22 mitering corners (Ultiboard) 8-4 modes (Ultiboard) 2-18 mounting holes placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 multi-layered boards (Ultiboard) 4-2
N
NC drill properties (Ultiboard) 8-11 net adding (Ultiboard) 6-24 adding pad to (Ultiboard) 6-26 deleting pad from (Ultiboard) 6-31 files (Ultiboard) 3-4 finding in design (Ultiboard) 6-22 highlighting (Ultiboard) 6-22 lock copper (Ultiboard) 6-22
previewing (Ultiboard) 6-22 remove copper from (Ultiboard) 6-22 removing (Ultiboard) 6-30 renaming (Ultiboard) 6-30 unlock copper (Ultiboard) 6-22 Net Edit dialog Groups tab 6-35 Net edit dialog High Speed tab 6-33 Misc tab 6-34 netlist importing (Ultiboard) 3-4 netlist check running 8-6 netlist check (Ultiboard) running A-15 Netlist Editor (Ultiboard) about 6-23 opening 6-23 Nets tab (Ultiboard) about 2-6 using 6-21 New command (Ultiboard) A-1 New Group Array Properties dialog 5-11 New Project command (Ultiboard) A-2
angle of 5-9 attributes 5-16 centroids properties 8-14 creating using Library Manager 5-44 creating using the Component Wizard 5-46 dragging 5-7 finding 5-5 flipping 5-9 locating in open design 5-42 locking 5-4 orienting 5-9 placing from the library 5-33 placing multiple 5-4 placing single 5-3 placing using Design Toolbox 5-3 position 5-15 previewing 5-5 properties 5-14 relocating 5-7 rotating 5-9 searching for in open designs 5-41 spacing 5-10 swapping layer 5-9 unlocking 5-4 Parts tab (Ultiboard) about 2-6 using 5-4 O Paste command (Ultiboard) A-4, A-25 Open command (Ultiboard) A-1 Paste to active layer command (Ultiboard) A-4 open trace ends, deleting (Ultiboard) 8-6 PCB Options command (Ultiboard) A-22 layers (Ultiboard) 4-4 Orientation command (Ultiboard) A-6, A-25 toolbar (Ultiboard) 2-10 PCB design (Ultiboard) P default actions 4-27 pads viewing options 4-27 adding to net (Ultiboard) 6-26 PCB Properties deleting from net (Ultiboard) 6-31 Board Default tab 4-25 parts (Ultiboard) pcl files (Ultiboard) 3-4 3D data 5-17 pie adding to library from design 5-58 placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 adding to library using command 5-58 pin type (Ultiboard) 5-27 adding to library using Library Manager 5-57 test point 5-28 aligning 2-13, 5-10
vi
Place toolbar Ultiboard 2-14 placing powerplanes 6-11 Placing SMD Fanouts 6-20 placing vias 6-16 polygon editing (Ultiboard) 5-35 placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 position of dimensions (Ultiboard) 5-31 of parts (Ultiboard) 5-15 of shapes (Ultiboard) 5-24 powerplanes (Ultiboard) placing 6-11 pre-routing traces (Ultiboard) 7-2 print (Ultiboard) negative 8-17 reflection 8-17 print (Ultiboard) leave drill holes open 8-17 Print command (Ultiboard) A-3 print negative (Ultiboard) 8-17 print reflection (Ultiboard) 8-17 projects (Ultiboard) closing 3-8 creating 3-2 opening 3-6, 3-7 removing design from 3-6 renaming 3-3, 3-6 saving 3-8 Projects tab (Ultiboard) 2-6 properties about (Ultiboard) 4-12 shape (Ultiboard) 5-23
check (Ultiboard) realtime DRC check (Ultiboard) enabling or disabling 4-28 rectangles placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 Redo command (Ultiboard) A-4 reference point (Ultiboard) 4-11 rip-up and retry autorouter (Ultiboard) about 7-2 automatic backup 7-8 costing parameters 7-5 global rip-up 7-8 initial routing 7-8 optimize 7-8 options 7-4 performance of 7-9 pre-routing traces 7-2 running 7-3 strategy setting 7-7 rounded rectangles placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 ruler bars (Ultiboard) toggling on and off 5-9 using 5-8
S
Save All command (Ultiboard) A-1 Save As command (Ultiboard) A-1 Save command (Ultiboard) A-1 Select a Net dialog A-16 Select All command (Ultiboard) A-5 Select Groups for Replica Place dialog 5-13 Select toolbar (Ultiboard) 2-11 Select Trace command (Ultiboard) A-5, A-25 Selection Filter command (Ultiboard) A-20 selection filtering Ultiboard 2-18 Setting library password A-19 shape (Ultiboard) attributes 5-23 color 5-23, 5-37, 5-40 line color 5-23, 5-37, 5-40
R
radius shape (Ultiboard) 5-24 ratsnest (Ultiboard) about 5-5 illustration of 5-6 using when placing traces 6-2 realtime design rule check - see design rule
vii
thermal relief 5-38 line style 5-23, 5-37, 5-40 line width 5-23, 5-37, 5-40 tolerance oversize value (Ultiboard) 4-23 position 5-24 Tool-tip label 2-7 properties 5-23 trace (Ultiboard) deleting open ends 8-6 radius 5-24 style 5-23, 5-37, 5-40 trace ends, deleting open (Ultiboard) 8-6 shapes trace spacing placing (Ultiboard) 5-25 equi-space 6-9 shoving (Ultiboard) trace type (Ultiboard) 6-15 toggling on and off 5-7 trace width (Ultiboard) 6-15 SMT pin (Ultiboard) trace, connection machine - see connection display style 5-39 machine trace (Ultiboard) trace, follow me - see follow me trace (Ultiboard) properties 5-38 trace, manual - see manual trace (Ultiboard) thermal relief 5-40 traces (Ultiboard) spacing of parts (Ultiboard) 5-10 connection machine, about 6-2 Spreadsheet View (Ultiboard) 2-7, 2-35 status bar continuous placement 6-2 Ultiboard 2-8 deleting 6-10 strategy setting (Ultiboard) 7-7 follow me router, about 6-2 surface mount pad oversize, setting (Ultiboard) 4manual, about 6-2 23 net belongs to 6-15 pre-routing 7-2 removing segment 6-2 T start and end point 6-16 Teardrops dialog 6-14 Technology File Settings dialog 3-9 U test points (Ultiboard) pin type 5-28 Ultiroute properties 5-28 about 7-10 wire type 5-28 Undo command Ultiboard A-3 testpoints (Ultiboard) default pin diameters 4-27 Ungroup command (Ultiboard) A-6 text units of measurement for board (Ultiboard) 4-16 placing (Ultiboard) 8-2 Unlock command (Ultiboard) A-6, A-25 thermal relief unused vias, deleting (Ultiboard) 8-6 via (Ultiboard) 6-19 user interface (Ultiboard) customizing 2-21 thermal relief (Ultiboard) SMT pin properties 5-40 rearranging 2-21 through hole pin properties 5-38 user settings files (Ultiboard) 2-34 through hole pin (Ultiboard) display style 5-36 V layers 5-37 Vertex command (Ultiboard) A-8, A-26 properties 5-36 via properties (Ultiboard) 6-18
viii
attributes 6-18 layers 6-19 thermal relief 6-19 vias (Ultiboard) about 6-16 automatically deleting when traces deleted 428 deleting unused 8-6 placing 6-17 setting up for use 4-17 view full screen (Ultiboard) 2-20 magnifying (Ultiboard) 2-20 shrinking (Ultiboard) 2-20 visible grid setting (Ultiboard) 4-16
W
wire type (Ultiboard) test point 5-28 Wizard toolbar (Ultiboard) 2-15 workspace options (Ultiboard) 2-33
ix

Ultiboard 7 User Guide

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