Creating a complete PCB design in OrCAD 16.6 involves a multi-step workflow spanning schematic capture, simulation, and physical layout. This tutorial outlines the core process from project setup to generating manufacturing files. 1. Project Initialization & Schematic Capture
The first step is using OrCAD Capture CIS to define your circuit's electrical connections.
Project Setup: Open Capture and select File > New > Project. Choose the PC Board Wizard to ensure the project is configured for PCB layout later.
Placing Components: Use the Place > Part menu (shortcut: P) to browse libraries for components like ICs, MOSFETs, and discrete parts.
Wiring: Connect pins using the Place > Wire tool (shortcut: W). Assign net names to critical lines to simplify the layout process.
Footprint Assignment: Each component must have a valid PCB Footprint property (e.g., SOT23, R0805) to transition to the layout stage. You can find manufacturer-specific models on sites like Mouser or SnapEDA. 2. Design Verification (DRC & Netlist) orcad 16.6 tutorial
Before moving to layout, you must ensure the schematic is logically sound.
Design Rule Check (DRC): Run a DRC by selecting your project file and choosing Tools > Design Rule Check. This identifies unconnected pins or shorted nets.
Generate Netlist: Use Tools > Create Netlist to produce the .dat files that tell the PCB Editor which pins are connected. Ensure there are no errors, or the layout tool will not import the data correctly. 3. PCB Layout in OrCAD PCB Editor upgrade projects from Orcad 9.2 to Orcad 16.6 - PCB Design
This covers the essential steps from schematic capture to PCB layout.
Tools > Quick Reports > Design Rules Check Report.Manufacture > DRC > Update DRC. Resolve any shorts or spacing violations.Even experts hit snags. Here is a "Doctor’s Notes" section for frequent issues.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution in 16.6 |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Capture crashes when placing net alias | Corrupted cache or font | Run C:\Cadence\SPB_16.6\tools\bin\cdsdoc.exe -refresh. |
| PCB Editor won't import netlist | Wrong path or missing .NET file | Regenerate netlist from Capture. Ensure no spaces in file path. |
| Dynamic copper pour doesn't connect | Shapes not set to "Smooth" | Shape > Global Dynamic Params > Update to Smooth. |
| Via-in-pad DRC error | Missing tenting setting | Setup > Constraints > Physical > Set vias to "Tented". |
| OrCAD 16.6 runs very slow | OpenGL issues | Setup > User Preferences > Display > disable "opengl". |
This OrCAD 16.6 tutorial has guided you through the complete PCB design flow—concept to Gerber. The key to proficiency is repetition. Start with simple 2-layer boards (e.g., an Arduino shield or a 555 timer circuit). Gradually incorporate hierarchical blocks, differential pairs, and high-speed constraints.
Remember: OrCAD 16.6 is a professional tool with a steep initial curve, but its logic is impeccable. Each failure (like a DRC error or a missing footprint) is teaching you the strict, beautiful rules of PCB manufacturing.
Next steps:
Help > Learning OrCAD PDFs (they are excellent).Now, go open Capture CIS and press P to place your first part. Happy designing.
Keywords integrated: OrCAD 16.6 tutorial, PCB design, schematic capture, netlist generation, PCB Editor, Gerber files, Capture CIS, design rules check, footprint mismatch.
You can use this as a template for a lab report, a training manual, or an educational assignment.
CAPSYM.olb.The standard design flow in OrCAD 16.6 consists of six phases: