I can answer generally to Orcad. I don't Cadstar or if there is an
interface to a thermal tool.

Orcad Sch lib management is suspect but it works. It will work great if
you are able to take the time to assign the attributes properly.
Otherwise, while Orcad Layout User Interface is clumsy and the graphics
are not blazingly fast, the program works fairly well. I also use
PadsPowerPCB and always have to switch mindsets and I always seem to say
"I wish this pkg had this function that _____ has. Orcad has told me
some of the problems in UI and speed will be fixed when they can move
100% to a different software development platform. Might be next release
-- hopefully. I thought it was good investment. I have Layout Plus 9.0.

Output can be quick and painless with Orcad. It has previewer when you
create the output -- WSIWYG.

With good front end control over schematic and library, changes using
ECO function aren't to horrible. Everything could always work better.
Orcad's philosophy on sch-pcb is that they will match. You can see the
potential problems there I hope -- from the pcb designer viewpoint.

Library mgmnt from the pcb side is simple. Generic footprints, cuts down
the hassle of of elaborate lib nameing schemes. Also, during the
compiling of a netlist, if a part doesn't exist, a dialog appears, and
have have the opportunity to create one then or choose from the library.
this is a great feature.

Back annotation to the sch is another great feature although it can be
confusing. There is a lot of info that can go backwards like comp
locations line width, etc.

Let me know if you have more questions,

Scott
IDS
www.southbound.com



Tom Kropski wrote:
>
> I'm presently looking at new schematic/pcb layout tools to include
> schematic capture and pcb layout for primarily digital and analog,
> with minor rf design.  Have used several tools in the past, but like
> to here from others what the think of Orcad and Cadstar.  Concerns are
> library mgmt along with eco updates (fwd/bak annotation), and
> interface to a thermal package (probably BetaSoft).  Simulation at the
> front end would be nice but not a major concern.  Our designs are
> normally low production prototype, with several iterations, and need
> to produce quality documentation.
>
> Would like to here your opinions,
>
> Thanks
>
> Tom Kropski
> Sierra Technologies, Inc
> 716-631-6355

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