PCB Design Component Library | Cadence

Key Takeaways

• Standardized Component Libraries – Using verified libraries with consistent symbols, footprints, and parametric data reduces errors and ensures manufacturability.

• Efficient Library Creation – OrCAD X Capture Component Information Systems (CIS) simplifies adding new components by integrating with third-party libraries like SamacSys, Ultra Librarian and SnapEDA, reducing manual entry effort.

• Centralized Library Management – OrCAD X cloud-based Workspaces ensure consistency across designs by providing a single source of truth for component data.

A PCB design component library is a collection of electronic component models that facilitate schematic capture, PCB layout, and simulation. These models include design elements such as:

• Schematic Symbols: Graphical representations of electronic components used in circuit schematics.

• PCB Footprints (Land Patterns): Layout patterns that define pad placement for soldering components onto a PCB.

• 3D Models: Visual representations used for mechanical integration and design validation.

• Simulation Models: Data for circuit simulation and performance analysis.

Types of PCB Design Component Libraries

OrCAD X PCB Design Component Library

Key elements that contribute to the streamlined OrCAD X PCB design component library include:

Cloud Workspaces and Libraries

OrCAD X integrates cloud-based Workspaces and Libraries, allowing for centralized component management. This ensures that design teams can collaborate efficiently, reducing redundancy and maintaining consistency across projects. Workspaces enable administrators to set specific file-viewing and editing privileges, ensuring that only verified components are used in designs.

Component Information Systems (CIS)

The Component Information System (CIS) in OrCAD X allows designers to integrate a part database into their CAD environment, streamlining component selection, data accuracy, and supply chain management. CIS includes several essential features:

Managing Large PCB Component Libraries in OrCAD X

Large component libraries introduce challenges in maintaining accuracy and efficiency. OrCAD X provides solutions to address these issues:

Workspaces for Team Management

Workspaces allow administrators to assign role-based privileges, ensuring that only authorized personnel can modify library files. This prevents unauthorized changes to footprints, reducing errors and ensuring consistency.

Component Explorer for Verified Footprints

Design teams can leverage footprint data from leading component vendors directly within OrCAD X, reducing the time spent creating footprints and minimizing errors in footprint design.

Live BOM for Real-Time Procurement Insights

Live BOM provides instant access to component availability, lead times, and pricing, allowing designers to select alternative components proactively when sourcing challenges arise.

How To Add PCB Design Components in OrCAD X

Adding components in OrCAD X Capture CIS is a streamlined process that allows users to efficiently build and manage a component library with cloud-based integration.

Activating Workspaces in OrCAD X Capture CIS

1. Open OrCAD X Capture CIS and create a new schematic project.

2. Select Place > Component from the menu to open Unified CIS.

3. Access component libraries from Ultra Librarian, SamacSys, SnapEDA, and cloud-based Workspaces.

4. To configure library selection:

• Right-click My Workspace and select Workspace Configuration.

• Choose Local for locally hosted CIS databases or Cloud to access cloud libraries.

• Click OK to activate the corresponding data source.

Creating a New Library Category

1. Right-click My Workspaces and select Add Category.

2. Enter a Category Name (e.g., "IC") and select the Part Type (Electrical or Mechanical).

3. Click the + icon under Properties to add standard properties.

4. Define key properties, e.g.:

• Manufacturer Part Number (Visibility: Value, Type: Numeric)

• Manufacturer Name (Visibility: Value, Type: String)

• Mounting Type (Visibility: Do Not Display, Type: String)

• Voltage Supply (Visibility: Do Not Display, Type: String)

• Operating Temperature (Visibility: Do Not Display, Type: String)

Creating a New Library Component

1. Right-click the newly created category (e.g., "IC") and select New Component.

2. Enter a Part Number (e.g., "CDN-0001").

3. Select In Development under Lifecycle.

4. Populate component attributes, e.g.:

• Operating Temperature: "-40 to +125"

• Voltage Supply: "3.3V"

• Mounting Type: "Surface Mount"

Managing a PCB design component library effectively is crucial for ensuring accuracy, consistency, and efficiency in your design workflow. Ready to enhance your PCB design process? Explore the full Cadence PCB Design and Analysis Software suite and discover how OrCAD X can elevate your library management strategy.