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How to Install OrCAD X | Cadence

Key Takeaways

  • Learn how to download and install the trial version of OrCAD X.

  • Understand the process of creating a Cadence ID and authenticating the software.

  • Get tips for troubleshooting installation issues with Cadence support resources.

Options for how to install OrCAD X
Options for how to install OrCAD X

Welcome to this step-by-step guide on how to install OrCAD X. For those looking to learn more about OrCAD X through a trial, or directly purchase the software, this guide will walk you through the process. Let’s get started. You have two options to get started with OrCAD X:

  • Free Trial: Ideal for those who want to explore the features before committing.

  • Direct Purchase: Skip the trial and purchase the full version.

Quick Summary on How to Install OrCAD X 

Step

Action

Details

1. Search for Trial

Search "OrCAD X trial" in a web browser.

First result directs you to the OrCAD X Trial webpage.

2. Request Trial

Request a free trial on the webpage.

Redirects to the Cadence Online Shop with the trial in your cart.

3. Create Cadence ID

Create an account if new to Cadence.

Provide email, first name, and last name.

4. Order Confirmation

Check order confirmation page.

You’ll receive an email with product details and a download link.

5. Download Executable

Click the link in the email to download.

Small installer file downloads in minutes.

6. Run Installer

Locate and run the installer as an administrator.

Launch the installation process.

7.Authenticate

Log in with Cadence ID during installation.

Registers the product and generates a license.

8. License Agreement

Accept the license agreement.

Required to proceed.

9. Set User Permissions

Choose the recommended user account.

Specifies who can use the application.

10. Complete Installation

Wait for the background download to finish.

Takes 10–15 minutes depending on your internet speed.

11. Access OrCAD X

Open the Start Menu and locate Cadence OrCAD X and Allegro X 24.1 Program Group.

Access all installed OrCAD X products from the program group.

Cadence online shop screenshot with the trial for OrCAD X in the cart.

Cadence online shop screenshot with the trial for OrCAD X in the cart.

Detailed Instructions on How to Install the OrCAD X Trial

For those looking for how to install OrCAD X with a free trial, follow these steps:

Step 1: Accessing the OrCAD X Trial

  1. Open your preferred web browser.

  2. Search for OrCAD X trial.

  3. Click on the first result to access the OrCAD X trial webpage.

  4. On the trial webpage, request a free trial. This action will direct you to the Cadence Online Shop, where a trial version of Cadence OrCAD X will be added to your cart.

Window for creating a CadenceID needed for log-in.

Window for creating a CadenceID needed for log-in.

Step 2: Creating a Cadence ID

If you don’t have a Cadence account:

  1. Log in to the Cadence Online Shop.

  2. Create a Cadence ID by providing the following information:

  • Email address

  • First name

  • Last name

This process is similar to creating an account for other online purchases.

How to Install OrCAD X and Purchase (No Trial)

If you’ve already decided to skip the trial and purchase the full version of OrCAD X, the process of how to install OrCAD X in this scenario is also straightforward. 

Options for buying OrCAD X.

Options for buying OrCAD X.

Step 1: Visit the Official OrCAD X Purchase Page

  1. Open your preferred web browser.

  2. Search for "OrCAD X Buy" or navigate directly to Buy OrCAD X | Cadence.

  3. On the product page, you’ll find options to purchase the full version of OrCAD X. Select the edition that best suits your needs (e.g., OrCAD X Standard, Professional).

Step 2: Add to Cart and Check Out

  1. Click the "Buy Now" or "Add to Cart" button for your chosen edition.

  2. Review your cart to ensure you’ve selected the correct product.

  3. Proceed to checkout.

After creating an account, you’ll receive information in your email.

After creating an account, you’ll receive information in your email.

Step 3: Confirming Your Order

  1. After logging in, the shop webpage will confirm that it has received your order.

  2. Check your email for a confirmation message. This email will include details about the product and a link to download it.

Downloading the OrCAD X Installer

Step 4: Downloading the Executable

  1. Click the download link provided in the confirmation email.

  2. The link will download a small executable file. This download should only take a few minutes.

  3. Locate the downloaded executable on your system.

Clicking the link in the email will proceed to download an executable.

Clicking the link in the email will proceed to download an executable.

Step 5: Running the Installer

  1. Run the executable as an administrator (if you have administrative rights).

  2. This will initiate the installation process.

 

Installing OrCAD X

Step 6: Authentication

  1. Authenticate your Cadence ID.

  2. This step registers the product and creates the necessary license.

License agreement window.
License agreement window.

Step 7: Accepting the License Agreement

  1. Review the license agreement.

  2. Accept the terms to proceed.

Step 8: User Selection

  1. Specify which user account on your system will run the application.

  2. Use the recommended suggestion provided during this step.

Step 9: Downloading the Full Product Installation

  1. The installer will download the full product in the background.

  2. Depending on your internet speed, this process may take 10 to 15 minutes.

  3. You can continue using your system while the download completes.

Step 10: Finalizing the Installation

  1. Once the installation is complete, navigate to your Start menu.

  2. Under the CADENCE Program Group, locate the Cadence OrCAD X and Allegro X 24.1 Program Group, where all OrCAD X products will be listed.

Cadence PCB program group with all the OrCAD X programs installed.

Cadence PCB program group with all the OrCAD X programs installed.

You now know how to install OrCAD X. If you encounter any issues during installation, refer to the Cadence support resources for assistance. To learn more about OrCAD X and other PCB design solutions, visit our PCB Design and Analysis Software page and explore the OrCAD X platform.

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