How do I use the SnapMagic library integration in DSPCB?

The SnapMagic (formerly known as SnapEDA) library hosts millions of CAD models for common and specialised electronic components. They work with manufacturers and their user community to verify the quality of the CAD models. DesignSpark has worked with SnapMagic to develop an integration which allows DSPCB users (with Creator or Engineer subscriptions) to easily search for a part within DSPCB, add it to local library and immediately use in any project.

Here is a short demo:

The steps illustrated are:

1. Access the integration by the component search bar. This is dockable bar, which can be shown or hidden through View menu -> Dockable bars. This window can be dragged and pinned to any corner of your DSPCB program window.

2. Login with your SnapMagic account. Create account here if you don’t have one:  https://www.snapeda.com/account/signup/?next=/designspark/

3. Start by searching for a manufacturer keyword or Manufacturer part number. You can fully type it in or only enter a partial description and allow the search engine to predict what you are looking for.

4. The most relevant part will be at the top of your results. Click on Preview to load the symbol and footprint and verify this is the one you are looking for.

5. If you are happy with it, click on ‘Add to Library’ so the model is added to your local custom library for SnapMagic downloads. Then click-and-drag the model from the preview to your design window.

6. In newer versions of DSPCB (> v11.0.1), clicking ‘Add to Design’ will both add the model to your active design (schematic or PCB layout) and add it to the local library for SnapMagic downloads.

In options (under part preview), you can change the preference whether you want ‘Add to Design’ to automatically add the chose model to your local library.

7. You can also access the product datasheet by clicking the relevant icon next to the result.

Note: if you have not used the integration for some time, you may be automatically logged out of your SnapMagic account. If you see an error like ‘token expired’ or have trouble loading the search results, click on ‘Sign out’ and then click ‘Log in’ again with your SnapMagic account.