What is an anti-pad? An anti-pad refers to the area around a plated through-hole, which voids or restricts other signal traces that should not be connected to that particular through-hole. They are often added to avoid short-circuits between neighboring holes. How do we add anti-pads in Eagle? The only way to form a layout closer…
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What are QFN Packages?
Read moreQFN (quad flat no-lead) package is an IC component best used for programmable modules and microcomputers. It is also recommended to use this package for PCB designs with size, thickness and weight considerations. It is also known as quad micro leadframe package. Using QFN Packages Pros: Size and weight– It is a thin, compact package…
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Automated vs. Manually-Created CAD Models
Read moreAre software-generated CAD models better or worse than those created manually by engineers? What are the pros and cons of each development style? In this post, we list the pros and cons of each type of model, and then share SnapEDA’s development process. Manually-Created CAD Models Manually created models are made individually based on a…
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NC Pins in Integrated Circuits
Read moreNC pins, also called unconnected or no-connect pins, are IC terminals with no internal connection and no external function. These are some of the most commonly used pin names for unconnected pins and how you’ll find them in component datasheets:* NC = No-Connect* DNC = Do Not Connect* DNU = Do Not Use What are…
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Using IEEE Symbols
Read moreWhat is IEEE? IEEE (pronounced as I, triple E) stands for Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. This is an association that develops design-based, functional standards to follow in the electronics design industry. At SnapEDA, we create symbols based on IEEE 315-1975 standard (as well as ANSI, CSA and IEC approved symbols) and our own internal…
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What is a Solder Paste?
Read moreA Solder Paste, also known as Solder Cream, is a material used for mounting and soldering components to printed circuit boards. It is used in reflow soldering commonly for surface mount devices but it can also be used for through-hole components (pin-in-paste). The paste consists of flux and powder solder. The powder solder are tiny…
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What is a Solder Mask?
Read moreA Solder Mask (solder resist) is a protective layer applied to your PCB, generally applied on the top of the copper traces, to avoid short circuits due to solder shorting or solder bridging between components. PCB solder resist also gives additional protection to the board, preventing it from corrosion or any harmful environmental agents. The process…
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Understanding Through Hole Land Patterns
Read moreWhat is a punched hole? Should I use the drilled hole diameter or the finished hole diameter? I bet you’re thinking of those questions when trying to create your PCB land pattern for a through-hole component. At SnapEDA, our engineers analyzed different through-hole land patterns to help you produce the best libraries for your designs.…
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How to use search filters for finding CAD models
Read moreSearching for a part in SnapEDA has gotten easier! With our new search filters, engineers can find the parts they’re looking for much faster. Based on popular request, you can now filter your searches by: Data availability Datasheet Symbol Footprint 3D model Simulation model Manufacturer Compliance Stock availability To start using the search filter, follow…
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Top 5 Texas Instruments Operational Amplifiers (Op-Amps)
Read moreAn operational amplifier or widely known as Op Amp is a device consisting of inverting and non-inverting inputs with an output gain voltage. From the name itself, this device is mainly used to amplify a signal and it can also be used as a voltage comparator, filter, and voltage follower (buffer). If you are choosing…

