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How to convert a board into a symbol

Allan M

 Does anybody know how to create a symbol from a simple board file? 

Let's say I have a board with a bunch of components on it, plus two connectors.  These connectors are board-to-board stackable connectors.  I want an easy way to position the connectors on my motherboard.

 So, I take a copy of this board file and delete everything on it except the board outline, the padstacks for the stackable connectors, and the pin number text for one of the connectors.  Now I want to make a symbol out of this that I can place on my motherboard, without having to calculate the offsets of each connector.  I can't figure out how to do that.  Can anybody help me?

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  • Allan M

    That actually worked.  So, I guess I came up with my own answer.  Hopefully this will help others.

    There are a couple of tricky parts - if a connector footprint is being changed from SMT to Thruhole, for example, and the origin  of the SMT part is in the centre instead of at pin 1, you need to make sure the replacement TH part also has the origin at the centre  (do this to the board design before exporting to a subdrawing).  Also, all connectors need to be on the same side.  If a connector is on the bottom, you need to rotate and mirror (again, do this before exporting).

     Finally, because the board is stacked, the symbol needs to be mirrored when placed.  So, put the refdes and outline silk on the bottom so that they appear at the top when mirrored (do this to the symbol).

     

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  • Allan M

    That actually worked.  So, I guess I came up with my own answer.  Hopefully this will help others.

    There are a couple of tricky parts - if a connector footprint is being changed from SMT to Thruhole, for example, and the origin  of the SMT part is in the centre instead of at pin 1, you need to make sure the replacement TH part also has the origin at the centre  (do this to the board design before exporting to a subdrawing).  Also, all connectors need to be on the same side.  If a connector is on the bottom, you need to rotate and mirror (again, do this before exporting).

     Finally, because the board is stacked, the symbol needs to be mirrored when placed.  So, put the refdes and outline silk on the bottom so that they appear at the top when mirrored (do this to the symbol).

     

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