I’m trying to use Eagle to design a circuit, but one of the parts I’m using (a DIP relay) does not exist in their parts database. I found a tutorial showing how to design custom parts, but it’s a real PITA. What I’m wondering is if anyone knows of an Eagle package that just has a “generic DIP30” part that I can use for the design. It will fit the relay just fine and save me a lot of time.
ETA: The manufacturer does claim to have CAD files on their site, but they demand registration and jumping through all kinds of hoops and whatnot to get at them.
Farnell in the UK (Newark in the US) have a number of Eagle CAD libraries for some components, but it’s a tiny fraction of their stock. You really can’t use a PCB layout package without knowing how to design your own schematic symbols and PCB footprints, so you’re going to have to bite the bullet and learn how. If the Eagle help file is no use, try some forums.
Some simple rule:
[ul]
[li]Ensure the pin numbers on the schematic symbol match the pad numbers on the PCB footprint[/li][li]Get the pads on the correct layer. Multilayer pads appear on every copper layer.[/li][li]Get the hole size right. This is generally a little larger than the pin width.[/li][li]Double-check your pads and holes are where they should be. This involves referring to the datasheet drawing and doing some simple maths to convert to Eagle (x,y) coordinate system.[/li][li]Don’t skimp on making an accurate component outline on the silk-screen layer, or you may find that components clash when you come to build it.[/li][/ul]
I’ve used Eagle before, and it though some people like it I think it sucks industrial-strength arse. Good luck!