Unpoured polygons found - endless loop

I recently reviewed a design where everytime  I ran the DRC check for the PCB I would get a prompt to rebuild an un-poured polygon.

I selected Yes to rebuild the polygon and finish running the DRC check.

However if tried to run the DRC again I would get the same prompt.  I was stuck in an endless loop.

To find and fix the problem I went to Tools > Polygons Pours > Polygon Manager.

Using the Polygon Pour Manager, I sorted and found the un-poured polygon.

Selected the polygon, right clicked > properties

And found the problem - Remove Dead Copper

Altium was pouring then un-pouring the polygon because there was no same net object, so the copper was dead and removed at the end of each pour.

I deleted the unused polygon and got off the merry go round.

That's It !

Altium DBLib Library - ROI

Altium's DBLIB Library is one the best returns on investment (ROI) that is available to Altium users.

Reasons include: 

1. Easier to setup compared to SVNDBLIB, SQL Server or the Vault.
2. DBLiib libraries are scalable. (simply copy and rename the database).
3. The database can be a simple Excel spreadsheet or an Access database.
4. Reuse existing Symbols and Footprints for commons parts (i.e. caps, resistors).
5. Simplifies library maintenance tasks.
6. DBLIB data can migrate to a SQL Sever or the Vault.

You can download an example Altium DBLIB library at pcbparts.blogspot.com.

This free download contains everything you need to quickly get an Altium DBLIB library up and running. 

The Parts DBLIB installation is simple, within 5 minutes or less you can be placing parts from the Parts DBLib.

There is also an optional Parts Frontend application (not required for Altium DBLib) that can be evaluated and purchased. 

The free backend database has no limits or restrictions for usage. If you wish to use the optional Frontend application license keys can be purchased for very reasonable prices.

You can also keep the free Parts backend and create your own Frontend application using Access or use Altium's built-in DBLib editor.

Spending a few minutes to install and evaluate the Parts DBLIB may be one the best investments you can make.

That's It !

File Templates - New Document Defaults

Using Templates can increase your productivity and produce consistent outputs.

DXP > Preferences >  New Document Defaults

Example: Template for New Schematic Pages in a Project

click on image to view

That's It !

Headers Standard Pin 1 Location

Unless specifically stated otherwise in the Manufacturer Datasheets !

Below are examples of standard pin 1 assignments for two row headers.

Male Header Surface Mounted




Female (Socket) Through Hole

Male Header (Through Hole)

click on image to view

Right Angle (Male Pins)

That's It !

What's New - Altium Designer - PCB Design Tool

What's New in Altium Designer  - Altium Link:



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