ExpressSCH and LM13600

[dxm1]

Any ExpressPCB/ExpressSCH users have a custom component made up for the LM13600? I've got the four separate symbols (two opamps and two darlingtons) set up with pin numbers, but am having trouble grouping and saving them as a custom component.

Well, that's not entirely true - it saves easily enough. It's just that once placed, all four symbols are 'connected', and can't be individually placed, as when you add a dual opamp or digital gate package.

Thanks.

[CGDARK]

Hi dxm1,

You have to  "Group to make component" each section separately and then "Save a custom component" all sections together. In this way you can use the different sections anywhere in the schematic.

Reminder: All pin numbers must be different.

If you have any questions let me know.

CG

[dxm1]

Thanks CG,

That is what I initially tried - I've done this with multiple part packages before. In this case, each part in the package is not identical, and I believe that's what is causing the problem. Once placed, each part in the package requires an 'identifier' - U1, U2, etc. for the netlist. With  dual opamps, for example, each part is given the same identifier, and the program knows they are part of the same package.

With the LM13600 I created, giving each 'part' the same identifier causes netlist errors when the schematic is checked ('Duplicate use of U1', for example). This isn't the first time I've ran into the limitations of this program, but I was hoping someone had found a solution to this before I switch over to Eagle or OrCad...

[CGDARK]

Thanks CG,

That is what I initially tried - I've done this with multiple part packages before. In this case, each part in the package is not identical, and I believe that's what is causing the problem. Once placed, each part in the package requires an 'identifier' - U1, U2, etc. for the netlist. With  dual opamps, for example, each part is given the same identifier, and the program knows they are part of the same package.

With the LM13600 I created, giving each 'part' the same identifier causes netlist errors when the schematic is checked ('Duplicate use of U1', for example). This isn't the first time I've ran into the limitations of this program, but I was hoping someone had found a solution to this before I switch over to Eagle or OrCad...

Hey dxm1,

As long as you are using different pin numbers there won't be netlist errors. Take for example a quad op amp. You have to change the pin number for each part no matter if that pin will be used or not. I can help you if you want. I did an example and definitely it can be done.

CG

[John Lyons]

Hijack alert!

Is there a way to save/export layouts with express PCB?
I've been doing the "print screen" thing for a while now and copying to save and print my layouts.

Thanks. Sorry to derail this thread...

John

[dxm1]

Both 'Export' functions save only the compnent layout and silkscreen. I use 'Print Screen' as well.

http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w196/pbody_pics/circuits/GreenRinger.jpg

If you install GhostScript, you can 'print' the copper layer to a postsctipt file.
I then use a postscript-to-pdf converter to make it useful:

http://home.surewest.net/dxm1/images/omega.pdf

[John Lyons]

Thanks for the info Dave
I'll have to look into that.
BTW, that layout looks very tidy!!

John