RS has released a new version of DesignSpark PCB as part of its commitment to its 1.4-million-member community to continually develop and enhance its offer. The latest version of this award-winning software, DesignSpark PCB version 12, is backed by the support of Infineon Technologies AG and introduces new features for both free and paid DesignSpark subscription plans.

DesignSpark PCB has been providing students and engineers with accessible, professional-grade PCB design tools since July 2010 and has become popular for its user-friendly interface, supporting schematics capture, and free PCB layout design capabilities.

The tool makes designing circuit boards easy. In addition to current features, which include an impressive database featuring millions of PCB symbols and footprints and unlimited circuit board layers, DesignSpark PCB version 12 offers advanced new functionalities across the DesignSpark subscriptions, including pre-plot checks for correct layer selection; new edit component options useful for high-pin footprints like BGAs; an angular precision setting for design units; dual units for the measurement tool; the ability to export components, including referenced symbols, from any library; a segment mode for shape and track editing; and translate-to-PCB options designed to improve reference design conversion to PCB.

DesignSpark PCB version 12 also features the ability to save project-specific libraries; new component bin options, like sort and filter, for high-component-count designs; Design Rule Check on current view; and additional Design Rule Check options, like max. vias allowed in each net, max. stub route length allowed, and check PCB-only nets.

“We’re excited to support the launch of DesignSpark PCB v12. We are supporting the tool in recognition that it empowers engineers with user-friendly technology, enabling faster innovation and a more efficient design process,” said Markus Rick, Head of Global Account Management eCommerce Distribution Partners at Infineon.

“Having the approval of Infineon means a great deal. They play a significant role in supplying the components that PCB designers using the tool will integrate into their layouts, especially within the industrial automation and automotive industries, and their backing signifies a powerful endorsement of DesignSpark PCB’s capabilities,” said Pete Wood, DesignSpark Director at RS.