How can I create a PCB symbol using the wizard?

The wizard is very flexible allowing you to create many component footprints. There are standard options available as the starting point which can then be customised at each step through the wizard.

Standard footprint to start from are:

Each footprint provided can be used when creating a symbol in many different forms, the "CAN" for example when configured with two pads can be any radial two lead capacitor or LED. Similarly with three or more pads will be used for transistor, IC's, dual LED's etc.

Using the "CAN" as an example we can configure this at each step through the wizard as you also can also do for every footprint. The final footprint can also be edited further in the editor to move and customise details. The following illustrates how to create a 3pin inductor core.

Launch the Library Manager, select the "PCB Symbols" tab, select the destination "Library" and click the "Wizard" button

Step through each screen entering the required basic parameters, firstly select your preferred or default technology file.

Next select the "kind of footprint" and your preferred "Origin" and "Component Name" positions. The defaults are normally acceptable but can be repositioned to your preferences.

 

Now we have the basic footprint and can configure it. Type in the number of pads, select a pad shape, pad width, hole diameter and preferred pin number details.

The silkscreen is now selected for component size on your PCB and also whether a tab is required for transistors and integrated circuits, this is not required for our inductor footprint.

The placement shape and position is next defined if required.

Finally the footprint name and library are selected for where it will be saved when finished.

If the "Edit the footprint now" is selected the footprint can be finally customised to edit any feature such as pad positions, reference position or you may add new items such as a "pin one" orientation dot on the silkscreen.

Here is an example of some changes in the editor illustrating that the "kind of footprint" selected at the start of the wizard can be highly customised.

Your footprint symbol is now ready for combining with a schematic symbol to form a component usable in your designs.

See also: How can I create my own schematic symbol?