Help, looking for a SW pack to document circuits

[flunki]

Hello,
I'm looking for a small (maybe freeware) software to document circuits like interface cables etc. Just schematics, no layouts. If it would run under Windos would be great. Any ideas ?

Add-ins for Visio also would help . . .

Recommendations are welcome.
Thanks in advance
Flunki

[TugBoat]

There is a free schematic software package on the PCB123 site (www.pcb123.com) - runs on Windows and does a good job (for free software).

Of course it is all geared at their own PCB production facilities, but if you only use the schematic software this doesn't matter.

Tim

[vintage1]

I use Corel Draw. Also for decals, and drawing up plans.

Usually a few old versions avaialble for silly money on Ebay.

Get one with the manuals though.

[flunki]

Thanks for the swift replys, two very good ideas.

Question on the Corel Draw: Which version does support output to HP 74XX plotters ? Want to use it for cutting logos etc.

Was using version 3 years ago, but such doesnt perform reasonable under Win XP. Just installed a version 8, this doesnt support output for plotters in HPGL (not HPGL/2) language.

Or should I say need a (freeware) HPGL driver for Win XP ?

Thanks in advance
flunki

[Malc C]

Hello,
I'm looking for a small (maybe freeware) software to document circuits like interface cables etc. Just schematics, no layouts. If it would run under Windos would be great. Any ideas ?

Add-ins for Visio also would help . . .

Recommendations are welcome.
Thanks in advance
Flunki

If you're looking for a program to design layouts, schematics and pcb's then have a look at Eagle. The freeware version has some restrictions, but should be ideal for most RC hobby projects

[vintage1]

Thanks for the swift replys, two very good ideas.

Question on the Corel Draw: Which version does support output to HP 74XX plotters ? Want to use it for cutting logos etc.

Was using version 3 years ago, but such doesnt perform reasonable under Win XP. Just installed a version 8, this doesnt support output for plotters in HPGL (not HPGL/2) language.

Or should I say need a (freeware) HPGL driver for Win XP ?

Thanks in advance
flunki

I dunno. I use Corel with an inkjet driver...on a big 'plotter' - not a moving pen plotter agreed - is that what you mean?

Most HP drivers are available as free dowloads on the HP site. I am sure thy have what you need.

I have version 8, and it DEFINITELY allows me to export as a HPGL file.

Or are you saying thats the wrong SORT of HPGL?

[Johan B]

I'd go for the freeware version of Eagle:

Eagle freeware PCB design (http://www.cadsoft.de/freeware.htm)

I've used it before. It takes a bit getting used to, but works well.

Johan - Eflight101.com (http://www.eflight101.com/)

[gedaso]

I've used ExpressPCB quite a bit, for doing both schematics and circuit boards layouts. In a way it is similar to PCB123 - both are simplified programs released by PCB manufacturers for free - but I found ExpressPCB to be better (nicer interface, more intuitive). Just my opinion...

[flunki]

Ok,
and thanks for all the good suggestions. Habe tried PCB123 . . . will test the others.

Vintage1,
unfortunately Win XP doesnt have drivers for HPGL nor can I find some to download. (Well, there are some expensive sources who claim they would . . .)

All the drivers I can get are for "Inkjet" type plotters, need pen plotter type drivers.

HPGL/2 is an enhanced version of HPGL and most old machines (like the HP7475 I'm using for cutting) dont understand. While I could always edit and than copy the file to the plotter . . . this is messy.

Would you mind to send me a Corel 8 file saved to HPGL ? Just a simple thing like the outlines of "ABC". This would be great. Many thanks in advace.

Brgds Flunki