10 Cloud-based PCB Designing Tools for Remote Work

7th September 2023 Harshvardhan Mishra

Printed circuit board (PCB)

design is a complex and challenging process, but it is essential for the development of electronic devices. In recent years, cloud-based PCB designing tools have become increasingly popular, as they offer a number of advantages over traditional desktop software.

PCB design software is a type of computer-aided design (CAD) software that is used to design printed circuit boards (PCBs). PCBs are the essential components of electronic devices, and they are used to connect electronic components together.

PCB design software allows engineers to create schematics of PCBs, place components on the PCB, and route the traces between the components. It also allows engineers to simulate the performance of the PCB before it is manufactured.

One of the biggest advantages of cloud-based PCB designing tools is that they allow engineers to collaborate on projects in real-time, regardless of their location. This is a major advantage for remote workers, as it allows them to work together seamlessly. Cloud-based tools also typically have a lower upfront cost than desktop software, and they are often easier to use.

In this article, we will discuss the top 10 cloud-based PCB designing tools for remote work. We will compare their features, pricing, and ease of use so that you can choose the best tool for your needs.

We will also discuss the benefits of using cloud-based PCB designing tools for remote work, and how to get started with them.

Benefits of Using Cloud-based PCB Designing Tools for Remote Work

Here are some of the key ones to consider:

Collaboration: Cloud-based tools allow engineers to collaborate on projects in real-time, regardless of their location. This can save time and improve communication.
Cost: Cloud-based tools typically have a lower upfront cost than desktop software. This presents a significant benefit for small enterprises or individuals.
Ease of use: Cloud-based tools are often easier to use than desktop software. This can make it easier for engineers to get started with PCB design.
Updates: Cloud-based tools are constantly being updated with new features and bug fixes. This means that you can be sure that you are using the latest and greatest software.
Security: Cloud-based tools are often more secure than desktop software. This is because they are hosted on secure servers.

Here are 10 of the best cloud-based PCB designing tools for remote work:

Altium 365
Altium 365 is a leading cloud-based PCB designing tool that offers a comprehensive set of features for all aspects of the design process. It includes tools for schematic capture, PCB layout, routing, and simulation. Altium 365 also offers a wide range of design libraries and components, making it a powerful tool for creating complex PCBs.
Autodesk EAGLE
Autodesk EAGLE is another popular cloud-based PCB designing tool that is known for its ease of use. It offers a simplified user interface that makes it easy to get started with PCB design. Autodesk EAGLE also includes a wide range of features for schematic capture, PCB layout, and routing.
SOLIDWORKS PCB
SOLIDWORKS PCB is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that is part of the SOLIDWORKS suite of CAD software. It offers a powerful set of features for all aspects of the PCB design process, including schematic capture, PCB layout, routing, and simulation. SOLIDWORKS PCB is a good choice for engineers who need a comprehensive PCB designing tool that is integrated with other SOLIDWORKS software.
Upverter
Upverter is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that is designed for collaboration. It allows engineers to work together on projects in real-time, and it offers a number of features to facilitate collaboration, such as version control and commenting. Upverter is a good choice for teams that need to collaborate on PCB designs.
EasyEDA
EasyEDA is a free and open-source cloud-based PCB designing tool. It offers a comprehensive set of features for schematic capture, PCB layout, and routing. EasyEDA is a good choice for engineers who are looking for a free and open-source PCB designing tool.
CADLAB
CADLAB is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that is designed for education. It offers a simplified user interface that makes it easy for students to learn PCB design. CADLAB also includes a wide range of design libraries and components, making it a good choice for students who are learning PCB design.
DipTrace
DipTrace is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that offers a powerful set of features for schematic capture, PCB layout, and routing. DipTrace also includes a 3D viewer that allows engineers to visualize their PCB designs. DipTrace is a good choice for engineers who need a powerful PCB designing tool with a 3D viewer.
KiCad
KiCad is a free and open-source cloud-based PCB designing tool. It offers a comprehensive set of features for schematic capture, PCB layout, and routing. KiCad is a good choice for engineers who are looking for a free and open-source PCB designing tool with a large community of users.
CircuitMaker
CircuitMaker is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that is designed for beginners. It offers a simplified user interface that makes it easy to get started with PCB design. CircuitMaker also includes a number of tutorials and resources to help beginners learn PCB design.
ExpressPCB
ExpressPCB is a cloud-based PCB designing tool that is designed for small businesses. It offers a simplified user interface and a lower price than other cloud-based PCB designing tools. ExpressPCB is a good choice for small businesses that need a PCB designing tool that is easy to use and affordable.

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These are just a few of the many cloud-based PCB designing tools that are available.

Conclusion:

The adoption of cloud-based PCB designing tools for remote work is not just a convenience but a necessity in today’s rapidly evolving professional landscape. The advantages they offer, such as real-time collaboration, accessibility from anywhere, and enhanced security, make them indispensable for modern design teams.

Remote work is here to stay, and businesses must adapt to this new paradigm to stay competitive and efficient. Cloud-based PCB design tools empower engineers and designers to work seamlessly across geographical boundaries, enabling teams to harness diverse talent and insights regardless of location.

Furthermore, these tools provide a robust and scalable infrastructure that reduces the burden of managing hardware and software, allowing organizations to focus on innovation and accelerating time-to-market. As the world continues to navigate through various challenges, including the ongoing global health crisis, remote work tools like cloud-based PCB design software offer a strategic advantage for businesses to thrive in a dynamic environment.

In essence, embracing cloud-based PCB designing tools for remote work is not merely a choice; it is an imperative step towards achieving agility, collaboration, and success in the ever-evolving field of electronics design. Those who recognize and harness the potential of these tools will not only weather the challenges of remote work but will also emerge stronger, more innovative, and better equipped to drive progress in the world of PCB design.

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