I'm using protel for my schematic, PCB and autorouteing needs.  I have found
it to be the best that I've used.  I draw up the schematic, port it to the
PCB editor run the AutoRoute and I'm done.  Except of course if I make some
stupid mistake.  :)  The latest board that I did had these devices on it
PGA52, 17c756, 16c54, and some more small chips.  It took about 10 minutes
to AutoRoute, it would be slower if you don't worry about rules like wanting
certain tracks wider then others.  e.g. VCC, GND.  There are too many good
features to list.  Check it out at http://www.protel.com/


Jason

-----Original Message-----
From: pic microcontroller discussion list
[mailto:PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU]On Behalf Of Andres Tarzia
Sent: Monday, March 29, 1999 1:12 PM
To: PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU
Subject: [OT] PCB/Schematic Design Software
Sensitivity: Private


Up to now, I've been using ExpressPCB (an entry-level free software) to
design my boards. But now, I am facing a rather complicated project and I'm
finding that ExpressPCB is not up to the task: if I move an IC, the traces
end up so tangled that I have to start all over.

So I am searching for a better software. Ideally, it should be able to cope
both with schematics and PCB design/layout. Autorouting would be a big plus.
And fully automated PCB design based on the schematic would be a dream.

Could anybody recommend a package like this (if possible based on actual
usage as opposed to brochure claims)?
What are YOU using for more-than-average complex designs?

Thank you very much in advance!

Regards,
Andres Tarzia
Technology Consultant, SMART S.A.
e-mail: atarzia@smart.com.ar