ExpressPCB

[denny9167]

Has anyone had any experience with this software,and their production?

[jcx]

it works for simple stuff - the schematic-layout integration is minimal, no rubberbanding just lights up one circuit node on part outlines at a time

no soldermask or silkscreen on quick turn boards

but certainly better than diy pcb and better for the environment

most of these places also count days turnaround a little loosely - say 3 days after the day you submit to shipping so a working week is about what you get unless you really want to pay for premium service

[scott wurcer]

No problems with the service, as stated the software is not industrial strength. At the price there is not much to lose for a trial. I miss the solder mask the most.

[dd63]

Their software is simple and easy to use, but is not high powered. It is mostly a circuit trace drawing tool, but works well for prototypes and can work for more complex boards with some patience. I wouldn't try a controlled impedance differential routing or a multi-hundred connection BGA with Express PCB, but it has its place. I have used it many times for prototypes and test boards with good results. They have been reliable and their prices are very reasonable.

[relder]

Having no patience to learn the industrial strength products I rather like it as, for me, it's much easier to use. Ordered some of the 'Miniboards' last Tues, got them Fri w/ the 2 day shipping. For $25 more they'll give you the soldermask, I don't bother.

[dangus]

I had problems with vias that weren't plated all the way through, more than once. Maybe the vias were undersized, but if they can't make them reliably, the software should warn you.

[scott wurcer]

Originally Posted by dangus

I had problems with vias that weren't plated all the way through, more than once. Maybe the vias were undersized, but if they can't make them reliably, the software should warn you.

Was this the small size that they added in the last year or so? I found them a great addition for putting SOT23-8 on either side since the via now can be completely within the pad boundary. No problems yet.

[nigelwright7557]

I found the softwrae extremely basic even after using very cheap other packages.
It has very little functionality or error checking.
I also want solder mask and silk screen so it was useless for me.

[wintermute]

I haven't designed any pcbs, but use expresspcb to layout projects that I am making on verro or experimenter board. For that purpose I found it quite satisfactory

Tony.

[Ivey]

Danny:

Express PCB, is GREAT!

If you are beginner, and do not want go through the long and grinding learning curves of most pcb packages. Express PCB, is the one for you.

It is free and is very forgiving. Most problems can be solved with a little afford towards the problem or the issue. Yahoo has an outstanding user group and a large public pcb and schematic component library, for nearly all your needs and concerns.

It you want a solder mask, they will sell it to you. Silk screening as well. Nothing is free but the software. And it is a god send.

They even allow you to print out your designs and make them yourself. For that I recommend "Fab in a Box" it is on the web.

So please. Download it and run for day light.


Take Care


Ivey