ExpressPCB

ExpressPCB software is a snap to learn and use. For the first time, designing circuit boards is simple for the beginner and efficient for the professional. ExpressPCB is a CAD (computer-aided design) free program designed to help you create layouts for printed circuit boards on your Windows PC.

ExpressPCB Classic is a versatile computer-aided design (CAD) software tailored specifically for designing printed circuit boards (PCBs). It offers a user-friendly interface coupled with powerful features to facilitate the PCB design process. Whether you're a hobbyist, a student, or a professional PCB designer, it aims to streamline the design workflow and bring your electronic projects to life.

It has been THE free PCB layout and design software for over 20 Years, used by Engineers, electronic Designers, students, and hobbyists. It has helped create designs to explore the bottom of the ocean, outer space, and everywhere in between. Design-Build-Manufacture all in one tool. As always, the Express PCB app is US-based for both technical support and manufacturing.

ExpressPCB Classic is perfect when ease of use is a must, and you need to knock something out quickly.  Schematic Link helps ease routing, and minimal setup is required to get your design completed and off to manufacturing!

Laying out PCBs is easy, even for first-time users. Here are the steps:

• Select the Components
• Position the Components
• Add the Traces
• Edit the Layout
• Order your PCBs

Highlights

• 2-4 Layers
• Schematic Link To Layout
• Min Via(drill)/Pad .008”(.0135”)/.026”
• Min Drill Hole .0135″
• Plane Layer On Internal Layers
• Top Silk Only
• Easy To Learn & Use

Key Features

• Intuitive Interface: It boasts an intuitive interface that makes it easy for users of all skill levels to navigate and utilize its features effectively.
• Schematic Capture: The software allows users to create schematics for their PCB designs effortlessly, with a range of tools and components readily available.
• Component Library: It comes with a comprehensive library of components, including resistors, capacitors, ICs, connectors, and more, making it convenient to design circuits without having to create each component from scratch.
• PCB Layout Design: Users can design PCB layouts using a variety of tools for placing components, routing traces, and optimizing the layout for performance and manufacturability.
• Gerber File Generation: The software enables users to generate Gerber files, which are standard files used by PCB manufacturers to fabricate the PCB design accurately.

User Interface

It features a clean and straightforward user interface, with intuitive toolbars, menus, and panels. The workspace is well-organized, allowing users to focus on their design tasks without being overwhelmed by cluttered elements.

Installation and Setup

Installing this software is a straightforward process. Users can download the software from the official website or FileHorse and follow the on-screen instructions to install it on their PC. The setup wizard guides users through the installation steps, and once completed, the software is ready to use.

How to Use

• Creating a New Project: To start a new PCB design project, users can select "File" > "New" from the menu and choose the desired project parameters.
• Schematic Design: Users can begin by creating a schematic diagram of their circuit by selecting components from the library and placing them on the canvas. Connections between components can be established using wires.
• PCB Layout: Once the schematic is complete, users can switch to the PCB layout view and transfer the components onto the PCB canvas. Tools for routing traces, adding vias, and optimizing the layout are available.
• Generating Gerber Files: After finalizing the PCB design, users can generate Gerber files by selecting "File" > "Export" > "Gerber" from the menu. The software prompts users to specify the output parameters before generating the files.

FAQ

Is ExpressPCB Classic compatible with Windows 11/10?
Yes, ExpressPCB Classic is compatible with Windows 11 and 10, as well as earlier versions of Windows.

Can I import components from other libraries into ExpressPCB Classic?
Unfortunately, ExpressPCB Classic does not support importing components from external libraries. However, the software's built-in library offers a wide range of components to choose from.

Is there a Mac version of ExpressPCB Classic available?
No, ExpressPCB is currently only available for Windows operating systems.

Does ExpressPCB Classic support multi-layer PCB designs?
Yes, it supports multi-layer PCB designs, allowing users to create complex circuit layouts.

Can I export my PCB designs to other CAD software formats?
The program primarily exports designs to Gerber file format, which is widely accepted by PCB manufacturers. However, direct export to other CAD software formats is not supported.

Plus VS Classic version

ExpressPCB Plus offers a feature-rich set of tools with enhanced manufacturing options, including integrated access to a robust online component parts library provided by SnapEDA, which offers verified symbols and footprints. This version is designed to streamline the process from concept to design.

ExpressPCB Classic, on the other hand, is the original software and is ideal for quick projects. It features Schematic Link to ease routing, requiring minimal setup to complete your design and send it off for manufacturing.

Alternatives

• Autodesk EAGLE
• Altium Designer
• KiCad
• Fritzing
• LTspice

Pricing

It offers a FREE version with limited features. The paid version, which includes additional features and support, is available for a one-time fee.

System Requirements

• Operating System: Windows 11, 10, 8 or 7
• Processor: Intel or AMD processor (1 GHz or faster)
• RAM: 1 GB or higher
• Hard Disk Space: 100 MB of available disk space

PROS

• Intuitive user interface
• Comprehensive component library
• Gerber file generation
• Suitable for users of all skill levels
• Free version available

CONS

• Limited platform support (only available for Windows)
• Lack of advanced features compared to other CAD software

Conclusion

ExpressPCB Classic for PC is a user-friendly PCB design software that caters to the needs of hobbyists, students, and professionals alike. With its intuitive interface, comprehensive component library, and Gerber file generation capabilities, it provides a convenient solution for designing printed circuit boards. While it may lack some advanced features found in other CAD software, its simplicity and ease of use make it a valuable tool for PCB design projects.