Autodesk EAGLE

Autodesk EAGLE is an amazing, easy-to-use tool for electronic engineers. PCB layout and schematic editing tools, library content, and community-driven features.

Note: EAGLE is available only with a Autodesk Fusion subscription.

Make anything with Autodesk EAGLE. Bring your next spark of an idea to life with powerful, easy-to-use PCB design software made for every engineer.

Autodesk EAGLE (Easily Applicable Graphical Layout Editor) is a powerful electronic design automation (EDA) software specifically tailored for PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design. It has been a popular tool among electronics engineers, hobbyists, and makers for creating schematic diagrams and designing complex PCBs with ease.

Since Autodesk acquired EAGLE, it has been integrated into their suite of design tools, bringing enhanced features and improved functionality, making it more versatile for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Highlights

SPICE simulator
Quickly test your ideas and validate circuit performance with a complete suite of SPICE simulation methods.

Modular design blocks
Drag-and-drop reusable design blocks between your projects, complete with synchronized schematic and PCB circuitry.

Electronic rule checking
Validate your schematic design with a complete set of electronic rule checks, so your schematic can stay on track.

Real-time design synchronization
All changes stay automatically in sync between your schematic and layout, so you can focus on the creative process.

Push and shove routing
Adhere to all your design rules while the adaptive interactive router pushes and shoves your PCB traces.

Intuitive alignment tools
Precisely arrange and order PCB design objects with a complete set of alignment tools.

Obstacle avoidance routing
Route complex PCB layouts and maneuver around your design to easily get your trace to its destination.

New routing engine
Create beautiful PCB layouts quickly with this Autodesk app. Explore tools for loop removal, cornering, and via placement while you route.

Simpler selection and editing
The quickly select, group, and edit objects in your schematic and PCB layout. Group and edit grouped objects globally.

Design rule checking (DRC)
Control your design flow and avoid unexpected surprises with fully customizable PCB design rules and constraints.

Managed online libraries
Worry-free libraries are ready for your next design. Find and place parts dynamically linked to the growing catalog.

3D PCB models
Don’t rely on luck to fit your board in its enclosure. Accurate 3D models enable the PCB to fit the first time.

Complete components
Out-of-the-box component libraries include symbols, footprint, 3D model, and parametric.

Manufacturable parts
Component libraries link directly to manufacturers, so you can avoid a last-minute scramble to find replacements.

One-click make
PCB manufacturing without the headache. Push complete outputs to the hub, connecting with your manufacturer directly.

Fusion 360 Integration
Design the PCB object directly in Fusion 360 and synchronize bidirectional changes to your PCB design seamlessly.

User language programs (ULPs)
Enhance usability and capabilities with one of the scripts or programs created by the vast online PCB community.

Main Features

Schematic Editor: The Schematic Editor in this program allows users to design intricate circuit diagrams using a wide array of components from its extensive library. It supports hierarchical designs, making it easier to manage complex projects.

PCB Layout Editor: EAGLE’s PCB Layout Editor is where the actual board design takes place. It offers advanced routing tools, including manual and auto-routing options, and supports multi-layer PCB designs.

Component Library: The software comes with a rich library of components, including parts from major manufacturers. Users can also create custom components or import them from other sources.

Design Rule Check (DRC): It includes a robust DRC system that helps users ensure their designs meet manufacturing requirements. It checks for errors in trace widths, spacing, and other parameters critical to PCB fabrication.

CAM Processor: The CAM Processor in the app enables users to generate the necessary files for PCB manufacturing, including Gerber files, drill files, and assembly drawings. It also supports various export formats.

Simulation Tools: It integrates with other Autodesk tools, such as Fusion 360, for running simulations and mechanical design integration. This feature allows users to verify their designs before moving to the manufacturing stage.

User Interface

EAGLE’s user interface is designed with functionality in mind, offering a clean, professional layout that caters to both beginners and seasoned professionals. The main window is divided into several panes, including the schematic editor, PCB layout editor, and libraries.

The toolbar provides quick access to essential tools, while the properties panel allows for detailed customization of components and design parameters. Although the interface can feel overwhelming initially, especially for beginners, the learning curve is manageable with the help of Autodesk’s extensive documentation and online tutorials.

How to Use

Creating a Schematic: Start by creating a new project and selecting the schematic editor. Add components from the library and connect them using wires. Utilize hierarchical blocks if needed to manage complex designs.

Designing the PCB Layout: Once the schematic is complete, switch to the PCB layout editor. It will automatically import your schematic. Arrange the components on the board and use the routing tools to connect the components according to your design.

Running DRC: Before finalizing the design, run a Design Rule Check (DRC) to ensure there are no errors that could affect the manufacturing process.

Generating CAM Files: Use the CAM processor to generate the necessary files for PCB fabrication. It allows you to customize the output based on your manufacturer’s requirements.

Integration and Simulation: If needed, integrate your design with Autodesk Fusion 360 for mechanical simulation and further testing.

FAQ

Can I use Autodesk EAGLE for free?
Yes, Autodesk offers a free version of this software with some limitations, such as the number of layers and board size. For more advanced features, you’ll need to subscribe to one of their paid plans.

Is Autodesk EAGLE suitable for professional use?
Absolutely. The app is widely used by professionals for designing complex PCBs. It’s suitable for both small-scale and large-scale projects.

How does EAGLE integrate with other Autodesk tools?
It integrates seamlessly with Autodesk Fusion 360, allowing you to perform mechanical simulations and verify your designs within a unified environment.

Can I import libraries from other PCB design software?
Yes, it supports importing libraries from various formats, making it easy to switch from other PCB design tools.

What are the limitations of the free version of EAGLE?
The free version is limited to two schematic sheets, two signal layers, and an 80cm² board area. These limitations are generally suitable for hobbyist projects but might be restrictive for more complex designs.

Alternatives

KiCad: A free and open-source PCB design tool that offers a robust feature set, including 3D visualization and multi-layer PCB support.

Altium Designer: A professional-grade EDA software with advanced features but at a higher price point. It’s ideal for complex and large-scale PCB designs.

Fritzing: Geared more towards beginners and hobbyists, Fritzing offers an easy-to-use interface for creating simple PCB designs.

Pricing

This program is available in both free and paid versions. The free version, as mentioned, comes with limitations. Paid plans start at around $15 per month, offering more layers, larger board sizes, and additional features like cloud storage and collaboration tools.

For professional use, Autodesk also offers EAGLE as part of their Fusion 360 subscription.

Purchase Autodesk Fusion

Save 33% with a 3-year plan compared to the monthly rate.

• 3-Year Plan: $2,040 (Best Value)
• 1-Year Plan: $680 (Most Popular)
• Monthly Plan: $85

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 7/8/10/11 (64-bit)
• Processor: 64-bit multi-core processor
• RAM: 4 GB minimum, 8 GB recommended
• Storage: 1 GB of available hard-disk space
• Graphics: 1 GB GPU with OpenGL support
• Internet: Required for installation, activation, and cloud-based features

PROS

• Powerful schematic and PCB layout tools
• Extensive component library
• Seamless integration with Autodesk Fusion 360
• Cross-platform support

CONS

• Free version has significant limitations
• Subscription-based pricing might not be ideal for occasional users

Note: Includes 2 schematic sheets, 2 signal layers, and 80 cm2 board area in the demo version.

Also Available: Download Autodesk EAGLE for Mac