Rimu PCB software?

[Flatpicker]

Earlier in the “Free circuit board designing software" thread, Martin recommended the Rimu PCB software (Thanks Martin!). I’ve been checking it out and am very impressed. I was considering PC Logic for ~$100, but it looks like Rimu is way better for the $.

I’m thinking about purchasing the PCB ($59) and the Standard Schematic capture ($65) sometime within the next couple of days and was just wondering if anyone else has tried it? (or if Martin had anything to add?) It looks like the greatest thing going for the $ and I thought I'd check around.

[martinholmes]

Yeah...I really like the Rimu software, particularly Rimu PCB, It's just nice and straightforward...just right for me!
In terms of stability it's definitely top of the pile as far as the cheap stuff goes (there's some amusingly crappy code out there [img]graemlins/.gif[/img] crikey! ) I've only used it for home-brew pcbs so I can't vouch for the compatibility of the CAM files but it uses standard formats so I guess it would be fine.
The schematic software produces legible, clear drawings, but they are a bit 'non standard' looking...this could easily be sorted out with a bit of customisation.

It would be great if you went for this one Flatpicker....I'd have someone to swap footprints with then :D

[Richard Hjemmen]

Hi,

I downloaded PCB123 for free. So far it looks good to me. Free library too. Lots of footprints and schematic symbols.

http://www.pcb123.com

Richard

[Flatpicker]

Originally posted by martinholmes:
It would be great if you went for this one Flatpicker....I'd have someone to swap footprints with then :D

Looks like I'm headed that way! I'm going to spend the weekend checking it out.

[Flatpicker]

Originally posted by Richard Hjemmen:
I downloaded PCB123 for free. So far it looks good to me. Free library too. Lots of footprints and schematic symbols.

Thanks, Richard. The software looks great, only problem is I need to own the Gerber files and would have to pay extra for them. I was using the PCB Express stuff and had the same problem there.

[vintagedesign]

I've been using the precedier to the Rimu PCB for a year or two now and I like it very much. Will update to Rimu PCB from PCB Designer very soon! After I have etched and tested my layouts I just mail the Gerber and drill files to my pcb company and it works fine! Easy to make custom parts too!

[Flatpicker]

Originally posted by Tekay:
I've been using the precedier to the Rimu PCB for a year or two now and I like it very much. Will update to Rimu PCB from PCB Designer very soon! After I have etched and tested my layouts I just mail the Gerber and drill files to my pcb company and it works fine! Easy to make custom parts too!

I remember seeing something about an upgrade from PCB Designer on their web site for about half of the regular price.