protel99（Protel99 PCB Design Software An Overview）

Protel99 PCB Design Software: An Overview Protel99 is a powerful and popular printed circuit board (PCB) design software that has been around since the late 1990s. It was developed by the Australian company Protel International, which is now known as Altium Limited. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at Protel99, discussing its features, capabilities, advantages, and limitations. User Interface and Tools The user interface of Protel99 is intuitive and user-friendly, with a wide range of design tools that can be accessed easily from the main menu, toolbar, and right-click context menu. Some of the key tools include: - Schematic editor: This tool allows the user to create and edit electronic schematics, including symbols, components, nets, buses, labels, and annotations. It supports hierarchical design, multi-sheet design, cross-probing, and real-time error checking. - PCB editor: This tool enables the user to lay out and route the components and traces on the PCB, as well as define the board shape, size, layers, vias, pads, holes, and copper areas. It supports manual routing, auto-routing, constraint-driven routing, differential pair routing, 3D visualization, and design rule checking. - Library editor: This tool lets the user create and manage a library of components, footprints, and models, as well as import, export, and synchronize libraries from other sources or versions. It supports parametric models, 3D models, SPICE models, and integrated supply chain data. - Project manager: This tool provides a centralized view of the entire design project, including hierarchy, netlist, version control, release management, BOM, pick-and-place data, and production output. It supports collaboration, reuse, comparison, and revision history. Performance and Functionality Protel99 is known for its speed, accuracy, and versatility, thanks to its optimized algorithms, smart automation, and extensive customization options. Some of the notable features and functionalities include: - High-density design: Protel99 can handle complex and densely packed designs, with up to 32 copper layers, 10,000 pins, and 1 million pads per board. It can also generate multiple v-cut panels, panelization blocks, and arrayed boards, to maximize yield and efficiency. - Signal integrity analysis: Protel99 includes built-in tools for signal integrity analysis, such as crosstalk, impedance, timing, and power integrity. It can simulate and optimize the performance of high-speed digital, RF, and mixed-signal designs, using 2D and 3D field solvers, IBIS models, and SPICE simulation. - Design rules and constraints: Protel99 allows the user to define and enforce design rules and constraints, such as clearance, trace width, via style, net classes, and differential pairs. It can also automatically generate and verify high-speed constraints, such as length matching, delay tuning, and serpentine routing. - Third-party integration: Protel99 can integrate with a wide range of third-party tools and services, such as MCAD, ECAD, PLM, ERP, and simulation software. It also supports a variety of file formats, such as DXF, Gerber, NC Drill, ODB++, and IPC-2581, for interoperability and compatibility. Limitations and Drawbacks Despite its many strengths, Protel99 does have some limitations and drawbacks that may affect its usability and effectiveness for certain users or applications. Some of these include: - Old technology: Protel99 is a legacy software that uses outdated technologies, such as Windows 98, 32-bit architecture, and proprietary file formats. This may pose compatibility issues with newer operating systems, hardware, and software. - Limited support: Protel99 is no longer officially supported by Altium, which means there is no regular updates, bug fixes, or technical assistance available. However, there is still a community of users who share tips, tricks, and workarounds. - Steep learning curve: Protel99 has a steep learning curve, especially for beginners or users who are not familiar with PCB design terminology, concepts, and practices. It may take a significant amount of time and effort to master the software and produce high-quality designs. - Cost: Protel99 is not a free or open-source software, and it requires a license fee to use. The cost may vary depending on the edition, the duration, and the location. Conclusion Protel99 is a powerful and popular PCB design software that offers a wide range of features, capabilities, advantages, and limitations. It is an ideal tool for users who need to design complex and high-performance boards, and who are willing to invest time and money to learn and use the software effectively. However, it may not be suitable for users who want a more modern, user-friendly, and cost-effective solution, or who need regular support and updates.