OrCAD X How to Replace Parts | Cadence

Key Takeaways

• Replacing parts is as easy as locating, selecting, and linking the appropriate database part in OrCAD X Capture CIS.

• For market analysis, the Live BOM tool gives users accurate market tracking for millions of components.

• SPICE supports rapid circuit simulation with replacement components.

Design changes happen. Whether they come from the engineer or are a response to component cost, availability, or lead times, there are times when designers need to replace many components in a design quickly. Exchanging individual component instances is a simple process, but more sweeping replacements will require a thorough, systematic approach that minimizes design time and errors.  OrCAD X replace part tools allow users to quickly swap components, while marketplace analysis supports rapid resolution of equivalent components in times of shortages or extended lead times.

OrCAD X Replace Parts: Step-by-Step

With Database Parts originating from the Part Manager, it’s easy to replace multiple parts at once. Launch the Part Manager from the schematic in OrCAD X Capture, and then sort by the relevant column to find the part(s) in need of replacement. Select the part(s), right-click, and select “Link Database Part” to launch the CIS Explorer and find the replacement part using the query tool. Determine the replacement part, and right-click/select “Link Database Part” to replace the selected schematic parts with the new part.

Users may have many reasons to perform part replacements:

• When prototyping, designers may use do-not-install (DNI) components. Designers will place and route these components in the layout like any other; the DNI designation indicates to the manufacturer that these are (typically) through-hole components so testing can evaluate performance with different values. After deciding upon a final value, the designer will make the appropriate changes to the schematic/board file, per the engineer’s request.

• Cost, availability, or lead times for components may negatively impact project budgets or deadlines. A suitable replacement component can drastically reduce this financial impact and keep projects moving.

• Circuit features and scope may shift during product development. Consequently, the addition or removal of components will maintain functionality while also ensuring a best-fit solution for performance.

Whatever the reason for the part replacement, designers should consider re-running PSpice simulations in cases where the replacement component is not a 1:1 equivalent. 

How Live BOM Takes Part Replacement a Step Further

Except for simulation, part replacement alone does not cover the full scope of the problem. Design teams may need to consider procurement for their new components, which can be an issue on short notice. Since Live BOM features up-to-date notices directly from manufacturers, users have complete confidence in an optimal procurement covering assembly and any component replacement for the PCBA production lot. Forward-looking design/manufacturing teams can also forecast shortages and stockpile components to avoid cost overruns or availability issues when manufacturing supply dips. Procurement has more opportunities to stay ahead of supply chain trends within the Properties panel.

Live BOM Analysis Tools
Supply Risk	Outlines availability and lead times, ensuring production can meet critical benchmarks for time-to-market deadlines.
Price	Shows rolling component costs over 30, 60, and 90-day windows.
Inventory	Displays vendors, third-party suppliers, and five-week trends.

Cadence Solutions for Schematic and Inventory Management

OrCAD X replace part tools help users rapidly course-correct designs when changes accumulate due to engineering change orders (ECOs) or market conditions. Replacing parts in a design can be an error-fraught process without careful guardrails, but the OrCAD X platform makes these changes trivial. Interested in learning more? See how Cadence PCB Design and Analysis Software is powering the future of electronic design software.