How to Install OrCAD X | Cadence
Key Takeaways
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Learn how to download and install the trial version of OrCAD X.
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Understand the process of creating a Cadence ID and authenticating the software.
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Get tips for troubleshooting installation issues with Cadence support resources.

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:
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Free Trial: Ideal for those who want to explore the features before committing.
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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.
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
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Open your preferred web browser.
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Search for OrCAD X trial.
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Click on the first result to access the OrCAD X trial webpage.
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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.
Step 2: Creating a Cadence ID
If you don’t have a Cadence account:
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Log in to the Cadence Online Shop.
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Create a Cadence ID by providing the following information:
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Email address
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First name
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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.
Step 1: Visit the Official OrCAD X Purchase Page
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Open your preferred web browser.
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Search for "OrCAD X Buy" or navigate directly to Buy OrCAD X | Cadence.
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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
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Click the "Buy Now" or "Add to Cart" button for your chosen edition.
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Review your cart to ensure you’ve selected the correct product.
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Proceed to checkout.

After creating an account, you’ll receive information in your email.
Step 3: Confirming Your Order
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After logging in, the shop webpage will confirm that it has received your order.
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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
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Click the download link provided in the confirmation email.
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The link will download a small executable file. This download should only take a few minutes.
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Locate the downloaded executable on your system.

Clicking the link in the email will proceed to download an executable.
Step 5: Running the Installer
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Run the executable as an administrator (if you have administrative rights).
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This will initiate the installation process.
Installing OrCAD X
Step 6: Authentication
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Authenticate your Cadence ID.
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This step registers the product and creates the necessary license.

Step 7: Accepting the License Agreement
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Review the license agreement.
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Accept the terms to proceed.
Step 8: User Selection
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Specify which user account on your system will run the application.
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Use the recommended suggestion provided during this step.
Step 9: Downloading the Full Product Installation
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The installer will download the full product in the background.
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Depending on your internet speed, this process may take 10 to 15 minutes.
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You can continue using your system while the download completes.
Step 10: Finalizing the Installation
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Once the installation is complete, navigate to your Start menu.
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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.
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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