Circuit schematic and stripboard layout software. I could have certainly done with one of these veroboard layout program a 'few' years ago when I was doing a lot of experimenting. These days, time is not of the essence, and I can do reasonably good layouts on the fly. Circuit schematic and stripboard layout software. By Martin Walker.
VeeCAD free version is a capable layout editor ready for hard work. It is file compatible with the full version. After numerous releases, this software is better than ever. Feature Matrix Free Version Full Version Library files provided pre-built for use with TinyCAD, Kicad, DesignSparkPCB and XL Designer.
VeeCAD libraries supplied for instant component creation during netlist import. Accessible library system allows new outlines and libraries. Multiple track patterns, including SMD components.
Editor moves, rotates, connects components. Editor places components diagonally. Connectivity Check shows errors. Rotate a selected block through 180 degrees.
Component Text. (Shows and prints designators (eg 'R14') and values (eg '120R') for easy schematic reference and board loading. Placeable Text. Trace Nets: highlights pins & strips on the same net. Grouped Components act as a unit during editing. Auto Router for strip pattern boards. Track Editor for drawing new board patterns Download Latest Release.
WinXP thru Win10, and Wine/WinOnX/CrossOver on Linux, FreeBSD, OSX. Download the latest free version here. (5.0 MB, 19 April 2018). Run the Windows installer, start VeeCAD, then hit F1 for full information.
Look for In Things To Do. Stripboard By Tim Surtell Control your Meccano models (or anything else) from your Windows PC! Take a look at my new MECControl project at Stripboard is similar in design to breadboard, in that it has a regular matrix of holes for component leads, arranged into parallel copper tracks. The difference is that the components must be soldered to the tracks, meaning that you can use stripboard to produce your final circuits. Unlike breadboard, stripboard can be cut and drilled to meet the size requirements of your model.
Related Articles Designing a Stripboard Layout Always design your stripboard layout on paper before you attempt any soldering! A grid such as the Stripboard Layout Planning Sheet which you can download below should make designing stripboard layouts easier.
Please note that the PDF version of this sheet can take a long time to print. Downloads - Microsoft Publisher 2000 format - zipped (32kb) - Microsoft Publisher 2000 format - uncompressed (165kb) - PDF format (377kb) The Stripboard Layout Planning Sheet Generally, it is best to start by designating two tracks to carry the power supply for the circuit, in the same way as you would for prototypes. Next, position the ICs, marking crosses (X) where the tracks should be broken, and connect up each pin in turn to the rest of the components in the circuit.
Don't be too fussy about the exact positioning at this stage. Use tinned copper wire links, or surplus leads from components, to make connections from track to track. On your second draft of the design, try to minimise these links and place components closer together, saving board space. Using Stripboard The underside of a piece of stripboard has rows of copper tracks like those on Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs). The tracks have holes spaced at 0.1' intervals so that components may be pushed through the board and soldered. Integrated Circuits (ICs) are placed at a right-angle to the direction of the tracks so that each pins has a section of track to itself.
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Normally, you will need to cut the tracks between the IC pins so that they are not connected. This is done using a special tool called a Spot Face Cutter. Do not apply great force when using this tool - let it do the work so that you end up with a clean, round cut. Check that there are no small pieces of copper left over joining or shorting the tracks. Using a Spot Face Cutter Don't solder ICs directly onto the stripboard as you may need to remove them later. The heat from your soldering iron would also be likely to damage the IC, so always solder in an IC holder and do not insert the IC into it until all soldering on the board is complete.
Finally, when you have built the circuit, remember not to mount it where any Meccano parts can touch the tracks! Shopping List Many sizes of stripboard are available. The size given below is one of the smaller sizes. Part Description Quantity Required Rapid Code Unit Price Total Price 1 34-0515 £1.66 £1.66 1 34-0600 £3.37 £3.37 Grand Total £5.03 Order the above items from Rapid Electronics via our Circuits Shop and help support the Electronics in Meccano website, without affecting the price you pay! Just click on an item for information about it and/or to add it to your Rapid order.
Orders can also be placed by telephoning Rapid on 01206 751 166 or visiting their website at. Prices quoted include VAT at 20%. Post your questions and comments about this article to the. We also have many other for your comments, advice and suggestions. Join and receive email when your favourite articles and topics are updated.
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