Erik,

Many people on the list like Eagle.  I've never used it (or even looked
at it) but I do have some recommendations based on the experience of
learning to use several of these packages.  Think long term.  Is this
the only electronics project you ever expect to do or are you taking it
up as a career?  If it's a short term one-off go with what's easy to
learn.  If it's a career, go with something that offers a real upgrade
path without requiring  you to learn a new package (Easy or not, they
all have a learning curve).  Get something that offers professional
level capabilities and professional level support.  I use Cadint
http://www.cadint.com .  They offer a free version that is upgradeable
in steps to a full unlimited professional version.  There isn't a
keystrokes difference between the packages except support and pin
count.  Integration between schematic capture and pcb layout is the best
in the industry.  It's not particularly easy to learn but most of these
systems are harder to learn than they claim (or, those who have already
learned them claim).  They do have an excellent manual and an excellent
tutorial.

On the issue of reading material, I'd recommend the technical tips
section of the online board vendor's websites.  Olimex has a great tech
tips file and I know that several people on the list have used their
service.

Hope this hasn't been too patronizing.

Best regards,
Dave

Erik Jacobs wrote:
>
> So my project is very small... and I've found a long list of free PCB
> software... but a list of software does you nothing without opinions...
> so... here's the list:
>
> http://www.epanorama.net/links/software.html (under PCB CAD)
>
> Have any of you used these freeware programs?  Which do you find is the
> easiest to use?  I've never done PCB layout before so one that offers the
> most help to a newbie (read: complete PCB idiot) would be best =)
>
> Also, any reading material on PCB design would be greatly appreciated!
>
> -Erik
>
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