A PCB file is a data file containing a circuit board design, and stands for 'Printed Circuit Board'. You don't need the program that was used to create the file; several Windows applications with PCB support are available, and each can open the printed circuit board model.
Optional Offer for File Magic by Solvusoft | EULA | Privacy Policy | Terms | Uninstall
- When you can’t open PCB files, try to figure out the file type. This can help you find the right program to open it. Usually, PCB files are considered Data Files. However, you can look up the file type to be sure. When you can’t open PCB files, a software developer might be able to help.
- How to view.sch files Sorry to say it's not as simple has that you need to know what software created them. There are plenty that use.sch and.pcb files like eagale layout editor protel dxp and 2004 the new altium 6.5 will open them to but onced saved with altium 6.5 then dxp or 2004 will not open the file.
- ZofzPCB is an advanced software to view GRB files. It gives you options to peel each layer of PCB design one by one, to have a detailed look at the components. This gives separate views of components, silverscreen, solderMask, copper, etc.
Do I have the right program?
If you don’t have a program installed on your computer that’s compatible with PCB files, you won’t be able to open one. See if you have one of the most common programs associated with PCB files listed below.
- P-CAD Database
- PowerPoint Application Data File
- Print Shop Deluxe Business Card
- Protel Technology Advanced PCB Design
- ExpressPCB Printed Circuit Board Layout
- CADSTAR Printed Circuit Board Design
- PC-Doctor File
- PCB Artist Printed Circuit Board file
- PADS Printed Circuit Board
- Unknown 3.0 Binary File
- PCB Layout Check Design Rule Template
- ACCEL or Protel Printed Circuit Board File
- Broderbund Print Shop Business Card
- Ivex Winboard Design File
- Unknown 4.0 Binary File
What type of file is it?
When you can’t open PCB files, try to figure out the file type. This can help you find the right program to open it. Usually, PCB files are considered Data Files. However, you can look up the file type to be sure. Start by right-clicking the file icon and clicking “Properties” (“More Info” if you’re on a Mac). Then look for the file type under “Type of File” (“Kind” on a Mac).
Can a developer help?
When you can’t open PCB files, a software developer might be able to help. The developers for the programs mentioned above are as follows:
Open Pcb File Online
Software | Developer |
---|---|
P-CAD Database | Altium Limited |
PowerPoint Application Data File | Microsoft Corporation |
Print Shop Deluxe Business Card | Unknown |
Protel Technology Advanced PCB Design | Windows Software |
ExpressPCB Printed Circuit Board Layout | ExpressPCB |
CADSTAR Printed Circuit Board Design | Quadra Solutions |
PC-Doctor File | Unknown |
PCB Artist Printed Circuit Board file | Advanced Circuits |
PADS Printed Circuit Board | Mentor Graphics Corp. |
Unknown 3.0 Binary File | Microsoft Developer |
PCB Layout Check Design Rule Template | Top Tec PCB Ltd. |
ACCEL or Protel Printed Circuit Board File | Microsoft Programmer |
Broderbund Print Shop Business Card | PC Software Company |
Ivex Winboard Design File | Microsoft Developer |
Unknown 4.0 Binary File | Windows Programmer |
Try contacting one of these developers to find out how you can open your PCB file.
Can I use a universal file viewer?
A universal file viewer is the way to go when you have PCB files that can’t be opened by any other program. Install a universal file viewer like File Magic (Download) and see if it will open your PCB file. Remember that if your file is not compatible, the universal file viewer will only open it in binary format.
Recommended Download
Optional Offer for File Magic by Solvusoft | EULA | Privacy Policy | Terms | Uninstall
See why our customers love PCB Artist - the best online PCB design software!
'I am so thrilled that my prototype boards were inexpensive, they came back working the first time, and I didn't have to fuss with figuring out how to get all the right design files together in the right format. For my next prototype, I'm going to start in PCB Artist first.'
DOWNLOADS.CNET.COM USER REVIEWProfessional-Grade Online PCB Design Software with Free Live Technical Support. PCB Artist Includes Features Such as Multi-Page Schematics and Netlist Import.
Advanced Circuits' online PCB design software is not only easy to use, it is absolutely the best free PCB layout software available! Our customers tell us one of the reasons they love doing business with us is because of our PCB design software. When it comes to designing printed circuit boards, we help you get it done right, and that saves you time and money down the line.
Components Library of Over 500,000 Parts
Search PCB Artist® Library »
View Sample Component »You will notice that on this page (in addition to all of these circuit board design tips and tools) we offer tutorials for our software, to make its use even easier and more valuable for you.
Video Tutorials | Download User's Guide | Tips & Tools
Live Tech Support (8:00am - 5:30pm MST) Call 1-800-979-4722 x.1025 or email Layouthelp@4pcb.com
PCB Artist® vs Other CAD Software
Compare PCB Artist® to the competition for printed circuit board design software
Which Software Can Open Pcb File Cabinet
PCB Artist® | A | B | C | D | E | |
Unlimited Software Version | FREE | Free | Free | Free | $1,200 | $7,000 |
Gerber Format Files FREE 1 | No | No | No | |||
Integrated Schematics/PCB2 | | No | No | No | No | No |
Symbol/Footprint/Part Creation wizard | | No | No | No | No | No |
Components/BOM/Positions CSV Export | | No | No | No | No | No |
Design Rule Check & Report | | No | No | No | No | No |
Component Autoplace | | No | No | No | No | Yes |
Context Sensitive Help Files (F1 key) | | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Individual Colored Nets Options | | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Ratsnest Connections Optimization | | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Design Status Reports | | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Moved Component Tracks Stay Connected | | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Powerplanes/Copper Pours | | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Modify Nets Commands/Reports | | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Integrity Check & Cross Probe | | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Controlled AutoRoute | | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Adjustable Design Rule Check/Navigation | | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Library Manager | | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
PCB Artist® runs on Windows 7 through Windows 10 operatings systems. Linux and MAC OS are not currently supported, though users have had success using emulators. A Pentium processor faster than 1.8Ghz and with at least 512mb of RAM is recommended. PCB Artist® does not require particularly 'high-powered' hardware to achieve good performance, a regular off-the-shelf PC is sufficient. A complete product installation requires at least 1.26GB of hard drive space. Internet access is recommended. A wheel mouse is suggested. Click Here for PCB History.
Comments are closed.