Do your parts primarily use or Surface-Mount (SMD) technology?
settings, adjusting the X, Y, and Z offsets to align the model with the pads. 3. Generating Key Reports
Set up your working grid system by navigating to . A tighter grid allows precise component grouping, while a broader grid aids trace routing. Defining the Board Outline
(search “OrCAD 16.6 tutorial”)
Before finishing, you must verify the board is manufacturable. orcad 16.6 tutorial
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution in 16.6 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Corrupted cache or font | Run C:\Cadence\SPB_16.6\tools\bin\cdsdoc.exe -refresh . | | PCB Editor won't import netlist | Wrong path or missing .NET file | Regenerate netlist from Capture. Ensure no spaces in file path. | | Dynamic copper pour doesn't connect | Shapes not set to "Smooth" | Shape > Global Dynamic Params > Update to Smooth . | | Via-in-pad DRC error | Missing tenting setting | Setup > Constraints > Physical > Set vias to "Tented" . | | OrCAD 16.6 runs very slow | OpenGL issues | Setup > User Preferences > Display > disable "opengl" . |
Every component in the schematic must have a corresponding physical footprint in the PCB editor. Select all components in the schematic. Select .
Before starting your first project, it's essential to get OrCAD 16.6 up and running correctly. Note that OrCAD 16.6 was primarily developed for Windows 7 and XP systems. While it can run on Windows 10 or 11, you may need to enable compatibility mode to avoid operational issues.
The ground pins will now automatically connect to the copper pour via thermal spokes. Do your parts primarily use or Surface-Mount (SMD)
Enter the exact name of the footprint from the Allegro library (e.g., RES400 , SOIC8 ). Save changes and close the properties spreadsheet. Generating the Netlist
: He navigated to the Libraries and started placing components—a linear regulator, some capacitors, and a simple connector.
Tip: Place components with functional relationships close together (e.g., bypass capacitors near IC power pins). 7. Routing the Board Routing connects the components with copper traces.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. Generating Key Reports Set up your working grid
Tutorials for OrCAD 16.6 typically break down into these core areas:
By default, your workspace might look empty. You need to attach OrCAD's default component libraries to search for parts.
: Once the design is complete, generate "Gerber" files and "NC Drill" files via the Export menu for fabrication. Useful Shortcut Keys Action Zoom In I or Ctrl + Mouse Scroll Zoom Out O or Ctrl + Mouse Scroll Place Wire W Rotate Part R