Fritzing

[SXRguyinMA]

This is awesome. A SUPER easy-to-use program to draw up diagrams for your Arduino projects. It's as easy as using MS Paint!

Download for free here: http://fritzing.org/

You can also convert your sketch into a PCB layout or standard schematic. You can export it as a .jpg, .png, or even a .pdf! You can also upload your schematic and project to the Fritzing website and share your project and code with others!

it took me less than 20 mins to draw this up, upload it to the website and share my project!

http://fritzing.org/projects/arduino-temperature-based-servo-control/

[Oneslowz28]

Dude that's pretty cool. I see us using this a lot for explaining arduino how-to post here. +rep

Oh and I am making this a sticky. Congrats

[SXRguyinMA]

thanks!!

[Mach]

Very cool SXR! Do you know if they have the complete layouts for the pro-minis?

[Oneslowz28]

I only see the Duemilanove layout but it has the option to create custom boards and parts.

Edit: Looks like the core team is working on creating a Pro Mini part. http://fritzing.org/about/roadmap/parts-plan/

[SXRguyinMA]

yea Mach you can create your own parts, or look at the list CJ posted. they're working on a lot of models for future versions!

looking @ the site, it looks like they'll have a sketch-to-pcb system soon! that'd be a WAY easy way to make your own pcb and have it made!

oh and another cool feature - you can print your sketch (or any sketch) and it's sized to fit a breadboard!
http://fritzing.org/news/paper-templates-for-your-breadboard-prototypes/

:EDIT:
here's what's in the latest release:
http://fritzing.org/news/support-for-further-microcontrollers-wiring-propeller-you-name-it/

:EDIT2:
here's how to make your own custom parts in Fritzing
http://fritzing.org/learning/tutorials/creating-custom-parts/

[Mach]

I need to make a shield for barsarkar-gang but have been putting off doing it in Corel Draw. This could be a better alternative.

[Oneslowz28]

If you want to get your shield made it would be better to design it in cadsoft eagle and it will export all the cad and cam files you will need to send to the pcb fabhouse.

[Mach]

I could but I was thinking of etching it myself.

[x88x]

Wow, this is actually pretty sweet software. Does it take care of any repositioning/etc of components for going to a PCB?

[SXRguyinMA]

I don't think so. I think you have to position the components manually. it's just drag and drop though, can't be too hard lol

[Konrad]

Fritzing's very cool and actually kinda fun. And OPEN SOURCE ... I'll magnanimously give you a +rep hit (even though it won't do much lol).

But, heh, woe be to ye who designs PCBs by autorouter.