[time-nuts] Working with SMT parts.

[Brooke Clarke]

Hi Chris:

ExpressPCB has very easy to use free software for schematic capture (later used to check the board wiring) and software 
for board layout including making custom components if their library of stock components does not have what you need.  
The output file format is proprietary, which makes it interesting that Far Circuits can read it.

I just have not wanted to go through learning curve for Gerber files and all the associated stuff (maybe drilling, silk 
screen, solder mask) which is very easy to do with ExpressPCB.
When you start buying many circuits per board and a number of boards from the the price gets a lot lower.  When I try 
Far Circuits I expect it to drop by a small integer (1/2, 1/3 . .  1/4?)..\

-- 
Have Fun,

Brooke Clarke
http://www.PRC68.com
http://www.end2partygovernment.com/2012Issues.html
The lesser of evils is still evil.

-------- Original Message --------
> This seems totally backwards.  Typically a Gerber file is something
> you make yourself on your computer then send it in for a prototype.
> Seems odd to buy them.
>
> I checked ExpressPCB prices and they are very high.  I can get PCBs
> made quickly in the US for $3 per square inch, shipping included with
> $9 minimum order.  And  you don't buy the Gerbers.
>
> I notice ExpressPCB offers free software.  But it is totally
> non-standard and you can't use it for anything other then for their
> service.  Most people needing free PCB software use Eagle, some use
> Kicad or some others.  But Eagle seems to be kind of a universal
> standard.
>
>
>
>
> On Thu, Aug 11, 2016 at 8:55 AM, Didier Juges <shalimr9 at gmail.com> wrote:
>> I concur. I have been using ExpressPCB extensively over the last 2 years
>> with great satisfaction now that it is possible to get Gerber files from
>> them.
>> I typically use the mini board pro service (3 bare boards, 2 sided with
>> solder mask and silk screen) for prototypes and then buy the Gerbers