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3D STEP
Librarian (FPX)
The PCB Footprint Expert is a powerful CAD library development tool powered by our own proprietary CAD LEAPTM Technology (Libraries Enhanced with Automated Preferences). It is packed with very powerful advanced library management features that cuts footprint creation costs by as much as 99% per part.
Librarian Tools
You can easily save every component dimension entered, for each part built! There are multiple uses for this feature, but the most important is the ability to store all physical and logical device data to create a comprehensive part library management system. This allows the user to search for library data previously created, eliminating duplication of effort. The library data can also be used to "Batch Create" an entire library with specific custom rules (see Default & User Preferences on the right).
FPX Files (Component Data)
Save your work, search/retrieve it later, modify data (component and preferences), and rebuild part(s)! The idea is that once you key in a part, you never have to enter it again - regardless how many permutations you will need of the same part!
The FPX files can contain customized columns/data that are specific to your requiremetns! Add columns and build your content for easy retrieval.
Organize your FPX library data files by component family, package lead type, component mfr. or keep all parts in one file.
Portability
Having all the library parts you ever created at your fingertips increases productivity and reduces errors and duplication of effort.
When you need to copy/move parts from one FPX data file to another, it is a snap!
The PCB Footprint Expert lets you easily organize your component information so that it is saved in a logical manner that allows you to quickly retrieve it later.
3D Models
Easily create 3D STEP models from the Footprint Expert for dozens of component families by just entering the component dimensional data. You even get to select color preferences for various aspects of the components! The 3D STEP output is an additional cost to the Footprint (CAD output) modules. Contact us or a distributor for multiple license discounts!
Single Part or Mass Edit
Do you need to find one part and edit it? Or mass-edit all parts that contain a specific string? No problem! The Search/Replace feature will easily apply your required changes to any of parts library you specify. We also included a handy Undo/Redo feature so you can maintain your sanity.
Categorize Components
you can sort by component category types at the click of your mouse to filter out components you want to omit from your search.
Your component data is only best organized by your unique requirements - this is why we empowered you with flexibility to categorize your components as you need them! By project? Component type? Customer? It's your call!
Output FPX Data to CAD Software
With a few clicks, you can translate any FPX part (or multiple parts) you selected, into the CAD format of your choice!
By having the Default and User Preferences applied, your parts will come out consistent and based on customer requirements - each time!
View Footprint or Datasheet
Once you find the part of interest, easily view your the footprint and quality control it!
You can also modify component dimensions, change feature colors, hide/show layers, link to the component manufacturer's online datasheet (online or on your PC or network). You can also view the footprint and superimposed component, perform solder joint analysis for min/max package tolerances, and more!
Default & User Preferences
The PCB Footprint Expert separates static stable data (component dimensions) from the ever changing data (library design rules). The program stores component dimensions in a file called FPX and the Rules in a file called DAT. When the component dimensions are mated with the rules, a PCB footprint is auto-generated. Therefore a user can have a single database of component dimensions and pair them with any number of various rule files to batch create customized libraries for different applications for a variety of applications.
The Footprint Expert offers complete control of all the settings you can imagine to create a highly personalized library; or you can use default settings that are defined by the IPC-7351. There is no limit on the number of preference files you can create. You can create one or as many "DAT" preference files as needed to produce multiple, customized libraries that will keep you and each of your customers happy.
Preference Configuration Overview
User Preferences
Default Preferences