How do I translate to PCB based on an existing design?

This new option in DSPCB v12 is available to both Creator and Engineer subscriptions, and provides a simpler method to create a new design using the features of an existing PCB design.

It is very useful for situations when a family of PCBs such as creating various daughter boards (shields) are required with the same board outline, mounting holes, connector positions etc. The new PCB will also inherit a copy of the technology used along with free copper areas, text etc., of the original design.

This video illustrates the simple steps to achieve this:

As mentioned this can be applied to any PCB where you wish to replicate previously created PCB features. This video uses a specific PCB created as a “Reference Design” and is available along with instructions on how it was created, the design file is attached at the end of the articles.

Create a custom PCB part 1 - board outline

Create a custom PCB part 2 - mounting holes

Create a custom PCB part 3 - component positions

The advantage of creating a specific PCB design as above rather than using a general PCB design is that you have control over what the new design inherits which will save time not having to remove unwanted features.