SVNDBLIB Broken in AD17 - Bug #7364

If you are using SVNDBLIB you should be aware it is broken in AD17.0.9

Fixed in AD17.0.10

Please cast a vote to fix the bug.

See: https://bugcrunch.live.altium.com/#Bug/7364

Workaround:

Using File explorer open your working folder, Select the library, RgtClick and select Open

Parts Frontend Users:

No worries, just select edit.

That's it !

AD17.0.8 - Cross Select Mode

My current preferences for Cross Select Mode

click image to view

More new knobs to tweak in AD17.0.8

That's it !

Using SyncToy

I use SyncToy in combination with cloud drives like Dropbox and Google Drive. 

I prefer this to the live automatic (buggy and conflicted) saves to the cloud.
​
SyncToy can be used to synchronize folders. See Microsoft documentation for details.
Microsoft SyncToy is a Free Folder (files) Synchronizing Application.
Download SyncToy from Microsoft . . .

I use Preview in SyncToy before I commit to synchronizing files. Also SyncToy has error logging and error reports.

The SyncToy log is at: 

"C:\Users\userName\AppData\Local\Microsoft\SyncToy\2.0\SyncToyLog.log"

Command Line Syntax:

Run All Defined Folder Pairs: 

"C:\Program Files\SyncToy 2.1\SyncToyCmd.exe" "-R"

Run a Specific Folder Pair named 'Symbols X to X': 

"C:\Program Files\SyncToy 2.1\SyncToyCmd.exe" "-RSymbols X to X"

Windows Task Scheduler:

Windows task scheduler can be used to automate SyncToy.

click on image to view

File Locking:

Uncheck File Locking in DXP > Preferences to minimize 'Failed to Save' errors.

That's it !

Altium Designer Documentation | Online

Altium Designer Documentation | Online Documentation for Altium Products:





Altium has done a great job of centralizing documentation for Altium Designer.


'via Blog this'

NPTH - Non Plate Thru-Hole

Creating a NPTH requires proper soldermask expansion and copper pullback from the edge of the hole.

3D Color View

If the design calls for a NPTH as show above (P2) a circle arc can be used to create the ring around the un-plated hole.

Note that the soldermask was not pulled back from the edge of the hole for P1.

The designer of this NPTH will get a technical query from the PCB fabricator asking for permission to pull back the soldermask from the edge of the hole.

Shown in 2D the soldermask is correctly pulled back from the edge of the hole for P2.

Are we done Now ?

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Before answering that question, let's look at typical surface mount pad.

Note soldermask expansion, which is typically 4 mils.

The soldermask registration accuracy needs to be considered.

More work is needed to properly finish this NPTH.

Let's add a 5mil expansion to the arc (full circle)

Ok, now we are done. P2 is good to go.

There may be other factors to consider, like copper pours with same or different net than the ring around the hole.


That's It !