You can disable DPI scaling by doing the following in Windows.
- You need a shortcut link to DesignSpark PCB on the desktop, if you don't have one drag one from the start menu.
- Right click on the shortcut and go to properties.
- Go to the Compatibility Tab.
- Check "Override high DPI scaling behavior"
Note
In Windows 10 Version 1703 and later version of Windows, the text of the Disable display scaling on high DPI settings option is changed to Override high DPI scaling behavior, scaling performed by: Application.
- Select "System" from the "Scaling performed by" pull down.
- Click on OK to save the setting.
- Now launch the program and the icons should be normal size.
If you are a Windows 10 user, please update to version 1703 (Creators update) or newer for better application awareness to display scaling. In general, all users are advised to run the latest Windows build with security updates especially in light of recent exposure of Intel chip vulnerabilities.
The GUI icons in DesignSpark PCB are currently raster based which do not automatically adjust to high resolution displays. Vector based icons are being examined for a future release which will allow them to return to normal size on 4K or UHD displays.
Comments
11 comments
These instructions appear to be for a Windows version older than 10.
Changing compatibility settings under Windows 10 with a 4k display does not help.
The icons remain very small, hard to see and hit.
@Jesper, we have updated point 4 to represent the new Windows 10 wording.
Um, that made it even more confusing?? This is what I see. The setting of the "Disable display scaling..." option does not affect DesignSpark icon size.
I cannot explain the difference on your system except if it is related to a Windows 10 version. I suggest you raise a support request to see if this can be investigated further.
On Win10 systems checked the following is what is observed.
Microsoft has continued to update this function progressively with each new release, it would appear that your Windows 10 is an old version and does not support the newer options. Check to see if you are updating windows 10.
Yes, it appears that you must have the Fall Creators update installed to get this alternative in the compatibility tab.
Once you do, it works. However there is still a big issue with the grid, which does not appear to scale well. It is for all practical purposes invisible :-(
I don't have a 4k display, but find I can change the grid for the task to get the best visibility.
Try checking the Lines box and also choose a colour from the pull down menus, it may help on a 4k display.
Another thing you need to look into when doing a version that supports 4K displays is the connection lines. Drawing them 1 pixel thick makes them very hard to see, especially when dragging. I am having to guess which pad the lines end at...
Improvements for 4K displays are being discussed for a future release, however you may find the techniques illustrated here https://designspark.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360001266813-How-can-I-use-the-air-wires-most-efficiently- will help generally for the current versions.
Mine work by using the system instead of application and that fixed the problem.
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