DesignSpark PCB Reviews

Summary: 4/5 Stars. I use Altium when I have 20 times more design time available or robust circuit design requiring simulation or computational circuit analysis. i have also used KiCAD 15 years ago. I understand KiCAD has come along way but I've never felt the need to revert back to, or try another peer level EDA. I may reconsider if I have a great need to implement a multiuser team environment for single projects, but that's what Altium is for if one works in a professional engineering/manufacturing environment. At the level of quick prototyping, documentation, and concept development, in many cases of final product design, I rate this product 4/5 stars and hope development continues to integrate some of the high end tools used by EDA powerhouses, it's time to knock them off the pedestal.

Positive: DS PCB came from EasyPC, an already established EDA development company. The product was commercialized and rapidly improved over time, primarily targeting hobbyists and small businesses. The transition to RS Components as a "freeware" version and "PRO" offering (<$500 USD perpetual license) is seamless, as are integration features with Designspark Mech and Electrical packages. Exporting 3D files and importing into other RS Component applications is what I like most. DS PCB has EDA power for low to mid range development applications. If computational/algorithmic power is needed (high end signal analysis, simulation, thermal FSA) using 3rd party software is an option. 16 layer, blind vias, enhanced DRC, onboard signal analysis calculators also come with the package. The UI and menu organization has been simplified, easy steps to create parts and libraries, or importing from a global components database exists, the navigation of the product is easy to remember and use. Bugs, design improvements, fixes are seamless to the use, since this product is commercialized, a team of developers/programmers maintain this product regularly.

Negative: Autorouting for any EDA (I also use Altium) is a bear and not as computationally smart as I would like. Not too many option s for quick key short cuts for various menu items, but not an issue if one is more visually connected to their work. No integration to SPICE simulation programs. No integration to computational FSA tools. Lack of multi user collaboration tools.