Create Component Step Models in Altium

Below is a Step Model for a Panasonic Cap (FK Series) P/N EEE-FK1K330P which I created in Altium using a few clever tricks.



The tricks required to create Component Step Models are:

1. Create a PcbDoc and place extruded shapes.
2. Using the Layer Stack Manager Create a Zero Height PCB with no Solder mask.
3. Create Board Outline which is smaller than perimeter of the extruded bodies.
4. Save (Export) the PcbDoc as a Step Model.

Trick 1. Place extruded shapes in a PcbDoc.  

If your footprint already has extrude shapes, copy and paste those shapes in the PcbDoc.



As shown above extruded shapes were placed. 

For convenience the Origin should be set to align with the Origin in the Target Footprint.

Trick 2.  Create the Zero Height PCB with no Solder Mask.



Trick 3. Create a tiny Board Outline.



Define the Board Outline using a small circle placed at the Origin.

Trick 4.  Save (Export) the PcbDoc as a Step Model.



The step model is now ready be placed in a PCB or a Footprint Library.



2D view of the Extruded Shape model (left) and the Step Model (right).



3D view of the Extruded Shape model (left) and the Step Model (right).



Below is a view of the Step Model embedded in a PcbLib Footprint.



Randy Clemmons
July 7, 2012