The times of using drawing boards are long gone; they were replaced by graphic editors, these are special programs for drawing electrical circuits. Among them there are both paid applications and free ones (we will consider the types of licenses below). We are confident that the brief overview we have created will help you choose from a variety of software products the software that is most optimal for the task at hand. Let's start with the free versions.
Free
Before moving on to the description of the programs, we will briefly talk about free licenses, the most common of which are the following:
- Freeware– the application is not limited in functionality and can be used for personal purposes without a commercial component.
- Open Source– an “open source” product, into which you can make changes by adjusting the software to your own tasks. There may be restrictions on commercial use and paid distribution of modifications made.
- GNU GPL– a license that practically does not impose any restrictions on the user.
- Public domain– almost identical to the previous version; copyright protection laws do not apply to this type of license.
- Ad-supported– the application is fully functional and contains advertisements for other products of the developer or other companies.
- Donationware– the product is distributed free of charge, but the developer offers to make donations on a voluntary basis for the further development of the project.
Having gained an understanding of free licenses, you can move on to software distributed under such conditions.
Microsoft Visio
This is an easy-to-use, but at the same time very convenient vector graphics editor with a rich functionality. Despite the fact that the main socialization of the program is the visualization of information from MS Office applications, it can be used to view and print radio circuits.
MS releases three paid versions that differ in functionality and a free version (Viewer), which is integrated into the IE browser and allows you to view files created in the editor. Unfortunately, to edit and create new diagrams you will need to purchase a full-featured product. Note that even in the paid versions, among the basic templates there is no set for fully creating radio circuits, but it is not difficult to find and install.
Disadvantages of the free version:
- The functions of editing and creating diagrams are not available, which significantly reduces interest in this product.
- The program only works with the IE browser, which also creates a lot of inconvenience.
Compass-Electric
This software is an application to the CAD system of the Russian developer ASCON. For its operation, the installation of the KOMPAS-3D environment is required. Since this is a domestic product, it fully supports the GOST standards adopted by Russia, and, accordingly, there are no problems with localization.
The application is intended for designing any types of electrical equipment and creating sets of design documentation for them.
This is paid software, but the developer gives you 60 days to familiarize yourself with the system, during which time there are no restrictions on functionality. On the official website and on the Internet you can find a lot of video materials that allow you to familiarize yourself with the software product in detail.
In the reviews, many users note that the system has a lot of shortcomings that the developer is in no hurry to fix.
Eagle
This software is a comprehensive environment in which you can create both a schematic diagram and a printed circuit board layout for it. That is, place all the necessary elements on the board and perform tracing. Moreover, it can be performed either automatically or manually or by a combination of these two methods.
The basic set of elements does not contain models of domestic radio components, but their templates can be downloaded on the Internet. The application language is English, but localizers allow you to set the Russian language.
The application is paid, but it is free to use with the following functional limitations:
- The size of the mounting plate cannot exceed 10.0 x 8.0 cm.
- When routing, only two layers can be manipulated.
- The editor allows you to work with only one sheet.
Dip Trace
This is not a separate application, but a whole software package that includes:
- Multifunctional editor for developing circuit diagrams.
- Application for creating circuit boards.
- A 3D module that allows you to design housings for devices created in the system.
- A program for creating and editing components.
The free version of the software package, for non-commercial use, has minor restrictions:
- Circuit board no more than 4 layers.
- No more than one thousand pins from components.
The program does not provide Russian localization, but it, as well as a description of all functions of the software product, can be found on the Internet. There are also no problems with the component database; initially there are about 100 thousand of them. On thematic forums you can find component databases created by users, including those for Russian GOST standards.
1-2-3 scheme
This is a completely free application that allows you to equip Hager electrical panels with the equipment of the same name.
Program functionality:
- Selecting a housing for an electrical panel that meets the standards for the degree of protection. The selection is made from the Hager model range.
- Complete with protective and switching modular equipment from the same manufacturer. Please note that the element base contains only models certified in Russia.
- Formation of design documentation (single-line diagram, specification that meets ESKD standards, drawing of appearance).
- Creation of markers for electrical switchboard switching devices.
The program is completely localized for the Russian language, its only drawback is that the element base contains only the electrical equipment of the developer company.
Autocad Electrical
An application based on the well-known CAD system Autocad, created for designing electrical circuits and creating technical documentation for them in accordance with ESKD standards.
Initially, the database includes over two thousand components, while their conventional graphic symbols meet current Russian and European standards.
This application is paid, but you have the opportunity to get acquainted with the full functionality of the basic working version within 30 days.
Elf
This software is positioned as an automated workstation (AWS) for electrical designers. The application allows you to quickly and correctly develop almost any drawing for electrical projects linked to the floor plan.
The functionality of the application includes:
- Arrangement of UGO when designing electrical networks laid openly, in pipes or special structures.
- Automatic (from the plan) or rune calculation of the power circuit.
- Drawing up specifications in accordance with current standards.
- Possibility of expanding the element base (UGO).
The free demo version does not allow you to create or edit projects; you can only view or print them.
Kicad
This is a completely free open source software package. This software is positioned as an end-to-end design system. That is, you can develop a circuit diagram, use it to create a circuit board and prepare the documentation necessary for production.
Characteristic features of the system:
- The use of external tracers is allowed for board layout.
- The program has a built-in printed circuit board calculator; elements can be placed on it automatically or manually.
- Upon completion of the tracing, the system generates several technology files (for example, for a photoplotter, drilling machine, etc.). If desired, you can add a company logo to the PCB.
- The system can create layer-by-layer printouts in several popular formats, as well as generate a list of components used in development for order generation.
- It is possible to export drawings and other documents to pdf and dxf formats.
Note that many users note that the system interface is poorly thought out, as well as the fact that in order to master the software, you need to thoroughly study the documentation for the program.
TinyCAD
Another free and open source application that allows you to create circuit diagram drawings and has the functions of a simple vector graphics editor. The basic set contains forty different component libraries.
TinyCAD - a simple editor for circuit diagrams The program does not provide PCB tracing, but it does have the ability to export the netlist to a third-party application. Export is carried out with support for common extensions.
The application only supports English, but thanks to the intuitive menu there will be no problems with mastering it.
Fritzing
Free project development environment based on Arduino. It is possible to create printed circuit boards (the layout must be done manually, since the auto-routing function is frankly weak).
It should be noted that the application is “sharpened” for quickly creating sketches that make it possible to explain the principle of operation of the designed device. For serious work, the application has a too small base of elements and a very simplified diagram.
123D Circuits
This is a web application for developing Arduino projects, with the ability to program the device, simulate and analyze its operation. A typical set of elements contains only basic radio components and Arduino modules. If necessary, the user can create new components and add them to the database. It is noteworthy that the developed printed circuit board can be ordered directly from the online service.
In the free version of the service, you cannot create your own projects, but you can view other people’s developments that are in the public domain. For full access to all features, you must subscribe ($12 or $24 per month).
Note that due to its poor functionality, the virtual development environment is of interest only to beginners. Many of those who used the service drew attention to the fact that the simulation results differed from real indicators.
XCircuit
Free multi-platform application (GNU GPL license) for quickly creating circuit diagrams. The functional set is minimal.
The application language is English, the program does not accept Russian characters. You should also pay attention to the atypical menu, which you need to get used to. In addition, contextual hints are displayed on the status bar. The basic set of elements includes UGO of only the main radio components (the user can create his own elements and add them).
CADSTAR Express
This is a demo version of the CAD software of the same name. Functional limitations affected only the number of elements used in the development circuit (up to 50 pieces) and the number of contacts (no more than 300), which is quite sufficient for small amateur radio projects.
The program consists of a central module, which includes several applications that allow you to develop a circuit, create a board for it and prepare a package of technical documentation.
The basic set includes more than 20 thousand components; additional libraries can be downloaded from the developer’s website.
A significant drawback of the system is the lack of support for the Russian language; accordingly, all technical documentation is also presented online in English.
QElectroTech
A simple, convenient and free (FreeWare) application for developing electrical and electronic circuit drawings. The program is a regular editor; no special functions are implemented in it.
The application language is English, but there is a Russian localization for it.
Paid applications
Unlike software distributed under free licenses, commercial programs, as a rule, have much more functionality and are supported by developers. As an example, we will give several such applications.
sPlan
A simple editor program for drawing electrical circuits. The application comes with several component libraries that the user can expand as needed. You can work with several projects simultaneously by opening them in separate tabs.
Drawings made by the program are stored as vector graphics files in its own format with the “spl” extension. Conversion to standard raster image formats is allowed. It is possible to print large diagrams on a regular A4 printer.
The application is not officially released in Russian localization, but there are programs that allow you to Russify the menu and contextual hints.
In addition to the paid version, there are two free implementations: Demo and Viewer. In the first one there is no way to save and print the drawn diagram. The second provides only the function of viewing and printing files in the “spl” format.
Eplan Electric
Multi-module scalable CAD system for developing electrical projects of varying complexity and automating the process of preparing design documentation. This software package is now positioned as a corporate solution, so it will not be of interest to ordinary users, especially if you take into account the cost of the software.
Target 3001
A powerful CAD complex that allows you to develop electrical circuits, trace printed circuit boards, and simulate the operation of electronic devices. The online library of components contains more than 36 thousand different elements. This CAD is widely used in Europe for PCB routing.
The default language is English, it is possible to set the menu in German or French, there is no official Russian localization. Accordingly, all documentation is presented only in English, French or German.
The cost of the simplest basic version is about 70 euros. For this money, tracing of two layers with 400 pins will be available. The cost of the unlimited version is around 3.6 thousand euros.
Micro-Cap
An application for modeling digital, analog and mixed circuits, as well as analyzing their operation. The user can create an electrical circuit in the editor and set parameters for analysis. After this, with one click of the mouse, the system will automatically perform the necessary calculations and display the results for study.
The program allows you to establish the dependence of the parameters (ratings) of elements on temperature conditions, illumination, frequency characteristics, etc. If the circuit contains animated elements, for example, LED indicators, then their state will be displayed correctly, depending on the incoming signals. During modeling, it is possible to “connect” virtual measuring instruments to the circuit, as well as monitor the state of various components of the device.
The cost of the full-featured version is about $4.5 thousand. There is no official Russian localization of the application.
TurboCAD
This CAD platform includes many tools for designing various electrical devices. A set of special functions allows you to solve engineering and design problems of any level of complexity.
Distinctive features are fine-tuning of the interface for the user. Lots of reference books, including in Russian. Despite the lack of official support for the Russian language, there are Russifiers for the platform.
For ordinary users, purchasing a paid version of the program in order to develop electrical circuits for amateur devices will be unprofitable.
Designer Schematic
An application for creating electrical circuits using radioelements produced by Digi-Key. The main feature of this system is that the editor can use mechanical design to build circuits.
Component databases can be checked for compliance at any time and, if necessary, updated directly from the manufacturer’s website.
The system does not have its own tracer, but the netlist can be loaded into a third-party program.
It is possible to import files from popular CAD systems.
The approximate cost of the application is about $300.
In this article we will review 3 popular programs for drawing on a computer: we will consider the pros and cons of each. as well as the scope of application.
In the era of digital technology, manual drawing has become an anachronism. The practice of completing projects on a personal computer and then printing them in the appropriate format has long been popular. And with the creation of 3D printers, it became possible to bring three-dimensional models to life.
The main feature of this type of drawing is accessibility. The work can be done by both beginners learning the basics and seasoned professionals who make their living by designing.
Drawing programs
A wide range of programs is available to personal computer users. Mostly automated, which makes people's work easier and increases the productivity and quality of the original circuits. Below is a list of popular, easy to learn, functional applications.
AutoCAD
The software manufacturer is Autodesk. The application is popular among design departments, computer-aided modeling and everything related to production, installation and construction. When applying for a job in a serious enterprise, an employee will have to deal with AutoCAD. The program is available to amateurs, beginners, and professionals. The software does not stand still, constantly receiving support from developers. Updated versions are released annually with improved functionality, expanded capabilities, and an interface improved according to user comments. This careful attitude of the manufacturer led to the popularity of the software.
Functional properties
When working on a computer, the application allows you to create two-dimensional and three-dimensional projects. The latter provide unprecedented visualization, which is mastered by advanced image editors.
2D models developed in AutoCAD are unique. The output is detailed drawings, where all the nuances will be taken into account. Experts note that projects created using Autodesk digital technologies are distinguished by their quality.
Formats that AutoCAD works with
Three main ones:
- DWG is an editable binary file format that stores 3D and 2D project data.
- DXF is an open format that allows data exchange between computer-aided design systems.
- DWF is a format from Autodesk. Has an open structure. Needed for printing, viewing and editing projects.
Advantages and disadvantages
The software’s functions fully rehabilitate its high cost. Companies and private professionals part with money without regret - the software pays for itself on investment. Drawing enthusiasts and beginners prefer to work in publications with limited functionality or a free trial version, which is available online and available for direct download.
Advantages
- A large number of tools and various functions is a real Mecca for professionals and people who are passionate about design.
- The ability to integrate with Excel tables has been implemented.
- Access to cloud storage.
- Supports most operating systems, including mobile ones.
- Integration with 3D printers.
- There is the ability to work with layouts.
- Availability of a free version.
Flaws
- High cost of the complete product.
- High system requirements - not every computer can handle it.
Scope of use
It is vast and growing every year. Autodesk products are used in construction, manufacturing, medicine, clothing design - anywhere that requires excellent quality drawings. Educational institutions of various fields devote a lot of time to teaching AutoCAD.
COMPASS
Russian 3D development of the ASCON company. The uniqueness of the application lies in the implementation of automated computing technologies when working on projects. The user receives a set of utilities that will help create high-quality, original drawings.
A distinctive feature of KOMPAS is its computing core. The program contains signatures that are oriented towards the state standard in the field of drawing and design. The output is work performed strictly in accordance with GOST of a certain type.
The application allows you to draw a separate part, an entire mechanism or structure.
Functional properties
The platform supports an extensive list of formats. ASCON company works closely with design bureaus, where it uses a variety of applications. The consequence of this interaction was the possibility of integrating drawings designed by KOMPAS into third-party applications.
The finished project is a three-dimensional model. After its creation, accompanying documentation is generated automatically. This makes work easier, eliminating the need to create each document with your own hands, and eliminates design errors.
Advantages and disadvantages
KOMPAS-3D ASCON is widely used among professionals and amateurs. What is not surprising is that the application has many positive aspects.
Advantages
- Completely in Russian. This feature is important for beginners - if you don’t know any function, you can guess its presence directly.
- It is easy to learn, and the speed of creating projects is at a high level, being a leader in this indicator.
- Development and improvement does not stop for a minute. Developers take into account user wishes when improving the application.
- Connected libraries: mechanical engineering, instrument engineering, construction, KOMPAS-electrician and others.
- The range of tools is wide and will satisfy the needs of any professional.
- The program is aimed at Russian users.
Flaws
- The full version of the product is expensive - the price of the latest version is about 65 thousand rubles.
- Not weak requirements for personal computer resources.
Scope of use
COMPASS is used by professionals. But there is a less functional (cheaper) version of the product. For the personal purposes of amateur users, there is a Lite edition, where there is no ability to connect libraries, and the set of drawing tools is limited. KOMPAS is used by domestic enterprises. But in recent years, a trend has emerged according to which ASCON products are being abandoned in favor of Autodesk.
nanoCAD
Another Russian development. At its core, it is an automatic design system that is most accessible and easy to use. The application is used by beginners to master the basics of design. The automated kernel is almost identical to AutoCAD, but was created by domestic programmers from Nanosoft.
Functional properties
Developers work hard on their product, releasing updates that add new features to the existing ones. The specialization of this software is the design of two-dimensional models. Thanks to working with common formats, integration with other software is easy.
Advantages and disadvantages
nanoCAD is a young but promising product. Its main feature is its focus on a diverse range of users.
Advantages
- The original language is Russian.
- The cost of a complete edition of the product is lower compared to analogues.
- Like KOMPAS, it supports domestic state design standards.
- The program is open source, which allows you to create your own software based on it.
- There is a free version of the product.
Flaws
- Compared to other applications, a smaller set of drawing tools.
- Limited capabilities when interacting with the LISP programming language.
- The binary file format is poorly recognized.
Scope of use
In nanoCAD, works are created that comply with domestic design standards. And the free edition is well suited for inexperienced or novice users.
The presented computer-aided design systems are currently the most popular. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are leveled out depending on the personal characteristics of each person. Drawing is an individual process. A person decides for himself where it is more convenient for him to work. For this purpose, there are trial versions of the mentioned programs so that anyone can get acquainted with them, making a choice in favor of the more suitable one.
Computer drawing program - TOP 3 review
5 (100%) 1 vote.Drawing programs will help you create your projects as efficiently as possible and absolutely free. Architects and designers will be able to find solutions for designing homes and interiors, electronic circuits and engines, and much more. The software in this section will provide semi-automatic execution of projects and related documentation.
Diagram Designer - creating flowcharts and diagrams
A simple vector editor for creating diagrams, graphs, flowcharts and slide shows (presentations). The program already includes ready-made templates that you can edit, build a block diagram, and can also check spelling and build graphs for mathematical equations.
nanoCAD – basic CAD platform
Contains all the necessary basic design tools. Output documentation in DWG format. The nanoCAD 2 software is distributed absolutely free of charge and can be used for commercial purposes by both individual users and design teams.
DraftSight – free professional CAD
Free professional 2D CAD for developing documentation in dwg and dxf formats. Allows you to work both with 3D models in dwg/dxf format and perform a number of design and technological tasks that do not require the use of 3D modeling: create, edit, view, print files, etc.
T-FLEX CAD – CAD for students
CAD with the function of parametric solid 3D modeling and with a full set of tools for preparing design documentation in accordance with ESKD standards. The educational version allows students to study and understand the work and purpose of the program, use it for educational purposes, on the path to becoming an engineer.
Dia – creating flowcharts and diagrams
Cross-platform application for creating flowcharts and diagrams. In the program you can quite easily and quickly create objects of any complexity and for various purposes and applications: flowcharts of program algorithms, tree diagrams, static UML structures, network diagrams and more.
Mini CAD Viewer – free viewing of AutoCAD files
Mini CAD Viewer supports DWG and DXF formats, and drawing files can be saved as graphics files. The program allows you to move, zoom in and out. It has a "thumbnail" view that allows users to quickly search through folders.
Construction is first design, and then work on site. Drawing up a project in the 21st century is not paper work, but computer work, and many special programs have been developed for this. For objects of minimal complexity, a simple program can be used; for multi-story or multifunctional structures, there are more complex programs, but all of them can be mastered quite quickly even by novice designers. This is the so-called CAD programs for working with drawings (computer-aided design systems). The undisputed leaders are programs for creating drawings AutoCAD, Compass-3D, NanoCAD and 3-D Max due to their accessibility and versatility. Let’s look at what each of these programs can do below:
PC software package Autodesk AutoCAD
A simple program for drawings, but its capabilities can be increased by installing additional modules (plugins). It works in 2-D and 3-D dimensions of spatial parameters, that is, it can create a flat pattern or a three-dimensional image.
AutoCAD is a program for creating drawings of industrial complexity. The software can visualize diagrams and drawings and render objects, which allows you to bring the visual perception of the layout as close as possible to the real one.
The capabilities of AutoCAD CAD in 2-D and 3-D spaces mean working with objects of any degree of complexity. Outputting and saving files in DWG, DWF and DXF formats allows for full compatibility with similar software.
Advantages:
- The program is in Russian;
- Several dozen plugins allow you to build the most complex objects;
- The project can be saved in the MEGA cloud, Coole Disk, OneDrive, Yandex Disk, Mail.Ru, etc., printed on a printer or in 3-D;
- Integration into different formats;
- Installed on all OS on a computer of any generation, if it has suitable technical characteristics (amount of RAM, video card parameters, frequency, bit depth).
Flaws:
The program is paid.
COMPASS program
The drawing program's capabilities are wide - it can work with all image formats. Availability of graphic, visual and text editor. The drawing program can be used at home or in a design office, with its help construction projects can be easily implemented and visualized. The program's capabilities are updated and errors are corrected automatically. 
Advantages:
- Simple software for drawings and diagrams allows even novice draftsmen to master it;
- A voluminous database of standard projects and object blanks, a large number of diagrams, drawings, parts, structures and projects;
- A database of plugins and additional tools for building simple and complex objects;
- Menu in Russian;
- Trial version for staff training.
Flaws:
The software is paid, and in the trial version the capabilities are limited.
The program is much simpler than AutoCAD and Compass, but for working at home it has extensive functionality that can create high-quality drawings on a PC. Because of its ease of use, the program is often used as a training program. All graphics comply with CAD standards for 2-D design, the software can be dimensioned and is compatible with DWG and DXF formats, which expands its capabilities. 
Advantages:
- The paid version costs less than AutoCAD and Compass;
- The API allows you to implement your own applications and services;
- Free version, but with limited functionality.
Flaws:
Does not work in 3-D, no rendering function.
When drawing up simple drawings, graphs or sketches, the program is indispensable, but it is not suitable for developing complex objects, especially since it will not be possible to create a three-dimensional model with its help. Good software for learning, personal use and performing simple homework.
3-D MAX
The most common program among all draftsmen. Probably, the developers themselves do not know all its capabilities. Hundreds of plugins allow you to create objects of any complexity and nesting, visualize them in 3-D or 2-D space, there is a function for creating three-dimensional panoramic video, where the object can be rotated with the mouse in any direction and in any plane. 3-D MAX is a free program, but its functionality is much wider than that of the paid “AutoCAD”, “NanoCAD” and “Compass” due to free plugins and a large base of model blanks of any complexity and focus. 
Advantages:
- Autodesk 3-D MAX is a free and unlimited program;
- As a continuation of the main version, lightweight versions of 3-D MAX have been developed, when working with which even the oldest computers do not “slow down” or “freeze”;
- 3-D MAX provides the ability to create animated scenes, for example, you can create the same computer cartoons.
Flaws:
The program is difficult to learn, and even a short break in work reduces the level of training, since the software is constantly updated and improved.
The program is distributed free of charge, and in Windows 10 it is already installed by default, and you can master its capabilities quite quickly even without training lessons. The intuitive interface is designed for the lack of skills in working with similar software. Simple drawings, simple drawings and sketches - this is what 3-D Builder has to offer. 
Advantages:
- Free access to all functionality;
- Working with libraries of ready-made projects and blanks;
- Interaction with cloud storages.
Flaws:
It is impossible to develop a more or less complex project using 3-D Builder, so its use is limited to home needs.
Paint
This is the most common software, the basic version of which is installed on every computer, starting with the oldest OS. However, you can draw simple drawings, diagrams, plans of objects and sites, make drawings or sketches of drawings in it, and you can learn how to work in Paint in a few minutes. The blanks, which are stored in the computer library, make it much easier to get started without skills and basic knowledge. 
Paint
The Paint software, preinstalled in all versions of Windows OS, has extended versions and add-ons for tablets and even smartphones that allow you to create drawings with a stylus or by hand.
The program is a multi-platform system for automated creation of projects in 2D and 3D graphics. VariCAD was developed as software for design in the mechanical engineering field, as well as for drawing and calculations of mechanical components. 
The VariCAD interface is designed to make it easy and fast to develop 2D or 3D models. Tools for developing pipelines and tanks of various levels of complexity have been introduced. One-sided conversion of 3D layouts into 2D graphics without reverse conversion is provided.
The choice of one or another software depends only on the degree of complexity of the project and the need to perform a simple task using a complex program.
Good afternoon!
Nowadays there are quite a lot of drawing programs, but most have a significant drawback - they are not free and cost a lot (some are more than the average salary in the country). And for many users, the task of designing a complex three-dimensional part is not worth it - everything is much simpler: print out a finished drawing, correct it a little, make just a light sketch, sketch out an electrical circuit, etc.
In this article, I will present several free drawing programs (in the past, I had to work closely with some of them myself) that are excellent in these cases...
1) A9CAD
Interface: English
Platform: Windows 98, ME, 2000, XP, 7, 8, 10
A small program (for example, its installation distribution weighs several times less than AucoCad!), allowing you to create quite complex 2-D drawings.
A9CAD supports the most common drawing formats: DWG and DXF. The program has many standard elements: circle, line, ellipse, square, leaders and dimensions in drawings, layout drawings, etc. Perhaps the only drawback: everything is in English ( however, many words will be clear from the context - a small icon is shown opposite all words in the toolbar).
Note. By the way, on the developer’s website (http://www.a9tech.com/), among other things, there is a special converter that allows you to open drawings made in AutoCAD (versions supported: R2.5, R2.6, R9, R10, R13, R14, 2000, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2006).
2) nanoCAD
Platform: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10
Language: Russian / English
A free CAD system that can be used in a wide variety of industries. By the way, I want to warn you right away, despite the fact that the program itself is free, additional modules for it are paid (in principle, you are unlikely to need them for home use).
The program allows you to freely work with the most popular drawing formats: DWG, DXF and DWT. The structure of the arrangement of tools, sheets, etc. is very similar to the paid analogue of AutoCAD (therefore, switching from one program to another is not difficult). By the way, the program implements ready-made standard figures that can save you time when drawing.
3) DSSim-PC
Website: https://sourceforge.net/projects/dssimpc/
Windows OS type: 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000
Interface Language: English
DSSim-PC is a free program designed for drawing electrical circuits in Windows. The program, in addition to allowing you to draw a circuit, allows you to test the power of the circuit and monitor the distribution of resources.
The program has a built-in circuit control editor, linear editor, scaling, utility curve graph, TCC generator.
4) ExpressPCB
Developer website: https://www.expresspcb.com/
English language
ExpressPCB - this program is designed for computer-aided design of microcircuits. Working with the program is quite simple and consists of several steps:
- Component selection: a step in which you have to select various components in the dialog box (by the way, thanks to special keys, searching for them in the future is greatly simplified);
- Component placement: use the mouse to place the selected components on the diagram;
- Adding loops ;
- Editing: using standard commands in the program (copy, delete, paste, etc.), you need to modify your microcircuit to “perfection”;
- Order a microcircuit: in the last step you can not only find out the price of such a microcircuit, but also order it!
Developer: http://www.smartframe2d.com/
A free, simple and at the same time powerful program for graphic modeling (this is exactly what the developer claims about his program). Designed for modeling and analysis of flat frames, span beams, various building structures (including heavily loaded ones).
The program is aimed primarily at engineers who need to not only simulate a design, but also analyze it. The interface of the program is quite simple and intuitive. The only drawback is that there is no support for the Russian language...
6) FreeCAD
OS: Windows 7, 8, 10 (32 / 64 bits), Mac and Linux
This program is intended primarily for 3-D modeling of real objects of almost any size (limitations apply only to your PC :)
Every step of your simulation is controlled by the program and at any point in time you can go into history to any change you have made.
FreeCAD is a free, open-source program (some experienced programmers add extensions and scripts for it themselves). FreeCAD supports a truly huge number of graphic formats, for example some of them: SVG, DXF, OBJ, IFC, DAE, STEP, IGES, STL, etc.
7) sPlan
Language: Russian, English, German, etc.
sPlan is a simple and convenient program for drawing electronic electrical circuits. With its help, you can create high-quality blanks for printing: there are tools for arranging a diagram on a sheet, preview. sPlan also has a library (quite rich) that contains a large number of elements that may be needed. By the way, these elements can also be edited.
8) Circuit Diagram
Windows OS: 7, 8, 10
Website: http://circuitdiagram.codeplex.com/
Circuit Diagram is a free program for creating electrical circuits. The program contains all the necessary components: diodes, resistors, capacitors, transistors, etc. To enable one of these components, you need to make 3 mouse clicks (in the literal sense of the word. Probably not a single utility of this kind can boast of this)!
The program keeps a history of changes in the scheme, which means you can always change any of your actions and return to the original state of work.
You can transport the finished circuit diagram into the following formats: PNG, SVG.
PS
I remembered one joke on the topic...
A student draws a drawing at home (homework). Her father (an old-school engineer) comes up and says:
- This is not a drawing, but just a daub. Let me help you, let me do everything right?
The girl agreed. It turned out very neat. At the institute, a teacher (also with experience) looked and asked:
- How old is your dad?
- ???
- Well, he wrote the letters according to the standard of twenty years ago...
This concludes this article. Thanks in advance for any additions on the topic. Happy drafting!
