This tutorial requires:
DesignSpark PCB V11.0.0Open shapes or filled solid shapes without an opening created in a mechanical CAD package such as DesignSpark Mechanical, can be imported as shapes to the silkscreen layer via the DXF import. Below is a simple example to illustrate the steps.
First create your shape as required for a logo or symbol, ensure it is to the same scale as required by the PCB.
From Export Options select 2D AutoCAD (*.DXF), this will then open a File Save window with various options, select as required.
Check that the ‘units’ are as required for your DesignSpark PCB design and select the AutoCAD format version, 2007 is suitable for most purposes as a basic DXF format.
Importing the shape in DesignSpark PCB
In DesignSpark PCB on your PCB layout tab, select File - Import from the menu bar. Select the required DXF file.
On the window that opens, select the “Import As” option, type “Shape” and select the “To Design Layer” as “Top Silkscreen”. Set any items in the “Text Items” field as “No”.
The silkscreen shape will now appear on the PCB layout, this can be selected and positioned as required.
If it's not as required, select the shape and “Properties” from the right click menu from within DesignSpark PCB, the line width (style) can be changed as can the “fill” property.
The shape can be further edited in DesignSpark Mechanical to achieve the required result as in the example below where the corners have been rounded.
Comments