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  • Author Author: antosh
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Altium CS installed - review underway

antosh

Quick update - I have installed Circuit Studio (CS) using a trial license on my Win7 32-bit desktop and experienced a few minor issues that were resolved with a reboot of the system. I'll document details in the review. I installed CS on my Win7 64-bit laptop using the one year license and had no issues at all. I'm using that while on the road now. I'm using it with and without internet access and capturing the difference in functionality.

 

I did some work last week to change some Altium Designer SchLib and PcbLib libraries into IntLibs that I read CS required. I was pleasantly surprised that after I installed CS and was greeted with the initial screen, that CS will also use SchLib and PcbLibs, so I will try that out as part of my review.

 

So far, I'm spending most time finding where things are at in the new user interface - that is not to say it is difficult, just it is different. I can see myself missing this new UI if I ever go back to AD. Some things are easier to find and much clearer.

 

Cory

  • in reply to otto-shop

    Andy,

     

         Here is a screenshot that shows the file types and formats CS will import. I have not tested any of these.

     

         image

     

         Hopefully this is helpful.

     

         Cory

  • in reply to otto-shop

    Andy,

     

    CS does install on your computer and you do need to be connected to the Internet to install the software. It took about 6 minutes to download on my machine. I have confirmed that after it is installed, it will run without Internet connectivity. I have the licensed version on my laptop and did some of the roadtest while on an airplane w/o Internet service. While it did run, a non-surprising result was that datasheet links didn't work.

     

    I have not yet tried import / export, but it does have support for Eagle, Protel99SE, Orcad, PADS, and Autocad PCB. I was also happy to see an announcement for support of Altium SchLib and PcbLib files, in addition to IntLib files. I will try importing some of those files. As for export, I will dig around some more, but all I see is the option to save files in the Altium formats (SchDoc, SchDot, and a new format for the PCB files: CSPcbDoc). Projects are saved as PrjPCB files.

     

    I will also say Gerber and NC Drill files generation is super easy with a "Generate Outputs" button right on the ribbon interface.

     

    Keep in mind you can obtain a free 30 day license. That is what I have running on my desktop machine for now.

     

    Cory

  • Cory,

    I am very interested in CS.  I too have used Altium in the past and am looking for a stripped down version for my personal use and it appears that CS is just that.  but I have a few question.  Does CS load onto your computer or does it rest in the Cloud?  Otherwise do I need to have access to the internet when using CS?   Can you import Protel99SE files?  What other formats  can you import?  What formats can you export. 

     

    I look forward to reading your Blog as you test out this new software.

    andy.