5 Free And Open Source Software For PCBs

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Looking for free alternatives for your PCB related software? These free and open source software might help you out. Make awesome boards!

Atithya Amaresh

1. PCB

Download Link: click here

Supported OS: Windows,linux,MAC

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License: Freeware

PCB is an interactive printed circuit board editor for Unix, Linux, Windows, and Mac systems. PCB includes a rats nest feature and schematic/netlist import, design rule checking, and can provide industry standard RS-274X (Gerber), NC drill, and centroid data (X-Y data) output for use in the board fabrication and assembly process, as well as photorealistic and design review images.

2. Fido CadJ

Download Link: click here

Supported OS: Windows, Linux, Mac OSX

License: GPL

FidoCadJ is an easy to use graphical editor, with a library of electrical symbols and footprints. It aims to be an agile and effective small EDA tool for hobbyists.

3. Gerb

Download Link: click here

Supported OS: Linux, Windows

License: GPL

Gerbv is a viewer for Gerber RS-274X files, Excellon drill files, and CSV pick-and-place files.

4. PHDL

Download Link: click here

Supported OS: Windows

License: GPL

An HDL alternative to PCB graphical schematic capture tools.

5. Qautoroute

Download Link: click here

Supported OS: Windows

License: GPL

Qautorouter is an open source batch PCB auto-router that can read and write specctra files that can be used with PCB design software.

The writer is a senior correspondent at EFY, Gurgaon