Losing solder mask layers Ultiboard 14 Student Edition

[David22JRA]

Hello Arkosh

Have you tried to use only one layer then verify if the solder mask still there? 

Regards

[Arkosh]

I have. I know it's there because I can change layer names, and I can't change, for example, "Silkscreen Top" to solder mask, as it is not a unique name

[Christien]

I think the student version does not support solder masks, the education version does though. For some reason the masks appear when first creating the file but disappear when reopening. I don't think has to do with the two layer limit, I think that limit is for autorouting only.

[Arkosh]

Well that's quite annoying. Thank you!

[Christien]

Yes, extremely annoying! When I made a board I just left the file open for days and then exported the Gerbers when i was done to send to the board house..

[RScott2015]

I am also experienceing this issue

It has nothing to do with student edition limits

I have used ultiboard several times with sodler mask and 2 layer boards. 

This is something new and is also screwing me over 

What is the solution to this National instruments 

[RScott2015]

So i spent my entire day on the phone with NI. A company i have given tons of money to.

for many many versions of their software. A company that develops software for in the hopes that future engineers will continue to use when they hit the workforce

I have built 2 layer boards with solder mask on many occasion. Now after building 6 boards for a senior design project NI tells me the student version does not support solder mask. Regardless of the fact that i have produced many boards prior to this without issue.

Building a board without solder mask is completely useless. Its NOT a pcb at that point. 

Its just a bunch of copper traces all over the place.

Well guess what NI! I will no longer be using your product after this. To sell a pcb design software that will not allow solder mask because they want more money is disgusting. The software is no longer useful and is void. I should have my funds returned to me. 

I will be DITCHING all my NI SOFTWARE in favor or Orcad or eagle. 

If this is how NI treats their customers i will not be one anymore. 

This is pure capitalistic greed and the number one reason the world is screwed up.

NO MORE NI

I will also be making a you tube video about this.

Search for it!