I've been lazy, I've wanted to get and learn some "standard" software so I can use other services, as there are services that take standard PCB files and make one-off and low quantity boards for substantially less than ExpressPCB, though they have a lot longer turnaround (one service I've heard of, boards are palletized, sent to a Chinese PCB maker as a large board to be made, then cut apart and sent back to customers). This "makes sense" in that they give away their software and want you locked into using their service, but if you ever want to have your boards made somewhere else you have to use other software to enter/lay out your board again from the beginning. One big negative thing not yet mentioned is you're locked into their service: the ExpressPCB software and files are completely incompatible with industry-standard PCB software (some of it inexpensive or freeware) and services.
#Express pcb plus#
Software is free, easy to learn and use, and I've got the Mini-boards (only service I've used, $59 plus about $6 US shipping for three fixed-size boards) fast and with no problems. I've used it off and on for about seven years, I think the software and service has a lot of plusses that have already been discussed, generally for people who aren't hugely experienced in PCB design and just want to make a few for a project. Hell., I am a easy fellow to get along with. If you like, I could steer the new comers in that direction. I have discovered that in jolly old England, there is a company selling PCBCAD 30/40 for 14.99 pounds on eBay UK. I am sorry that we do not see eye to eye. All given to me, from my days in engineering.īut most guys have families, the cost (no matter how little) could be too much.
#Express pcb professional#
I have Protel 99SE, Protel DXP, CircuitMaker 2000, Eagle Professional 4.16, and PADS 4.0.
To me, that is worth more than just bells and whistles that comes in a PCB package. Rather than paying for a cut-rate PCB packages like Eagle Lite, Sprint, and others. It is free and they can use the $50-80.00 dollars they save to components and hardware, to get their projects off the ground. With Express PCB, the new comers can get help, guidance, and comradship. Not even you and I.Įagle Lite is not all that great, Altium is way too expensive, and that goes for PADS, CADSTAR, etc. There are always setbacks.You and I know, that nothing is perfect. As long as they have opportunity to do so. Whether it is successful or a total flop. To me, the thrill of watching someone make their first pcb, is exciting. They could not enter into the world of solid state, due to the complexity of home layout.
The cost was out of the price range of hobby goers. When I started making PCB's on lighted glass tables. To help keep their dreams and hopes alive. I want to be able to have a simple, yet capable software package available to anyone who wants it. I do not want to see my hobby go the way of model RC airplanes hobby, where it cost thousands and thousands of dollars to really enjoy it. But my position is that this is a hobby, and not a business.