Designing a PCB with the DEX PCB Designer > Getting Started > Running the DEX PCB Designer for the First Time

DEX is a comprehensive and intuitive electronic design automation software for creating circuit boards. It includes schematic capture, PCB layout, and 3D visualization, allowing for a seamless transition between these stages of your electronic design project.

If you're running DEX for the first time, here is a step-by-step guide to help you start smoothly:

Installation

First, ensure you've properly installed DEX on your computer, following all guidelines provided in the software package or on the website. This step usually involves downloading the installer from the official website and following the prompts until installation is complete.

Opening the Program

Once installed, locate DEX icon on your desktop or in your computer's list of installed programs, and open it. You'll likely be greeted with a welcome screen.

Setting Up Your Workspace

The welcome screen or initial interface might offer a range of options such as opening a recent project, starting a new project, or accessing learning resources. As a first-time user, you may want to set up your workspace. This setup could involve:

•Choosing a comfortable theme or color scheme for the workspace.

•Adjusting units (Imperial or metric system) as per your preference or standards.

•Setting up grids and alignments based on your working style or project requirements.

Starting a New Project

Select the option to create a new project. You'll be prompted to provide details like the project's name, saving location, and perhaps initial parameters like board size or technology specifications. Fill these in as per your project's requirements.

Familiarizing Yourself with the Interface

Take a moment to explore DEX interface, including:

•Toolbars: These contain icons for various tools you'll need during design.

•Sidebars/Panels: These might include part libraries, layer selectors, or property settings.

•Workspace: The central area where your schematic or PCB layout will be displayed and edited.

•Status Bar: Located at the bottom, showing information about the current tool or action.

Creating a Schematic

Start by drafting a simple schematic. This process involves:

•Placing components from the library onto your workspace.

•Wiring components together to create circuits.

•Assigning properties to components, like values for resistors or labels for connectors.

Transitioning to PCB Layout

Once your schematic is complete, you can transition to designing the physical PCB:

•DEX will often allow you to 'convert' or 'import' your schematic into a PCB layout.

•Components will appear as physical footprints, and you'll need to place them within the dimensions of your PCB.

•Routes (wires) from the schematic become traces that you'll need to route manually or using an auto-router.

3D Visualization and Checking

Utilize DEX's 3D visualization features to inspect your design in a three-dimensional space for any potential errors, fitment issues, or conflicts not visible in the 2D layout.

Saving Your Work

Regularly save your project to avoid losing work. DEX will have a standard file format for saving projects, which you'll want to familiarize yourself with.

Seeking Further Guidance

Check out any available tutorials, FAQs, or community forums provided by DEX for additional support. These resources can be invaluable as you encounter more complex tasks or troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Remember, becoming proficient with a new software like DEX takes time and practice. Don't hesitate to use support resources, and keep experimenting with small, simple designs until you're comfortable with the software's functionalities and quirks.

This video show how to run DEX for the first time user.