BluePrint-PCB 5.1 has a new graphic user interface that aligns with Microsoft Ribbons user interface scheme. Ribbons interface flattens menu hierarchy to make access to common functions faster. Has a new “world view” to give users quick reference to current screen location. An optional pan-and-zoom function aligns viewing functions with most printed circuit board CAD tools; uses middle mouse button to zoom in and out of sheet-sized documents. Panning function quickly pans across drawing sheet while viewing or executing other drawing commands. User interface enhancements borrow design cues from SoloPCB design tools. Modifications were made to assembly panel functions. When panel design is executed, document view is replaced by a design view that allows color-coding of different panel objects. Assembly panel toolkit now features smart callouts that automatically detect pinning holes and board chamfer; automatically calculates number of instances these features are used in the design to minimize PCB fabrication errors. New online mill checking features have been added. DFMStream has been updated to include new analysis checks to verify anti-pads to adjacent layers to validate 100% ground plane reference and same net minimal spacing. Negative planes were expanded to include minimal width and gap between copper elements and anti-pads. Analysis functions have been upgraded to provide more options to manage the user workspace.

DownStream Technologies, www.downstreamtech.com  

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