Problem in importing DXF files in Ultiboard 11.0 education version

[gbaguma]

Hey Guys,

Am using Ultiboard 11.0, the Education version. Am trying to import a DXF file designed in solidworks for my PCB. The DXF file

also has a Through holes for a molex connector which has already been mapped out in solidworks and actually fits. The problem is,

how can i create an  actual THT footprint of this connector using these holes which are already in the board outline. Also am wondering what

the problem could be because when i import the file as a board outline while in the footprint edit mode, the outline does not allow to be

selected or even modified. Could it be a limitation of the education edition of the circuit design suite?

[Miguel_V · Accepted solution]

Hello,

First of all take a quick lok at this, it's a KB on importing dxf files.

http://www.ni.com/white-paper/13722/en

If this is all basic for you then, can I get more details on this issue? The DXF file and your working ultiboard file would be great to start seeing what I can do to help you. There's alot of things you have to take care of when importing DXF files (take into account layers, connections, etc) and sometimes there arises compatibility issues, but there are no limitations with the educational version regarding dxf file import/export.

Kind Regards,

[_user32]

I also wanted to note that the DXF import was greatly improved in Ultiboard v12.   If DXF information is widely used for designs, I would consider looking at the newer v12 capabilities to assist your efforts.

The import tool now gives you the ability to map any DXF layer into any Ultiboard layer which improves the overall flexibility of importing a variety of DXF types and mapping the mechanical DXF information correctly into the PCB.

For example, with a single DXF file (Autocad or Solidworks, etc...), you can choose to map mechanical information into one of the mechanical Ultiboard CAD layers, specific copper information into one of the copper layers (like a specially designed antennae or copper plane), and you can also choose to omit information that is not needed in Ultiboard (such as overall drawing/drafting information that is extraneous to the PCB itself, etc...).

- Pat