You shouldn't just restrict it to the "big four".  I used to use a high-end package from one of the "big-four" (50k/pcb seat) and when I changed jobs had to learn a medium-end package from a company that wasn't in the big four (4k/pcb seat).  The new medium-end package knocked the socks off the high-end package I'd been using in terms of the number of features, ease of use, and the level of support.

James

James Head BEng CID+ MIIE MIET
Senior PCB CAD Engineer
Crowcon Detection Instruments Limited
2 Blacklands Way
Abingdon Business Park
ABINGDON
OX14 1DY
Telephone: 01235 557700 extension 289
Fax: 07092024504
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
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