The Auto Place module provides full automatic component placement under flexible user control. The placement functions will attempt to automatically place a designated collection of components into the desired location, using a designated placement grid, and considering any pre-placed components.
Locating this option
Available from: Tools menu > Auto Place > Place All option
How To Use Auto Place
The Auto Place function performs component placement automatic start point selection and subsequently applies placement optimisation using the currently selected Placement Rules.
The placement start point is calculated from a ‘gravity point’ that is determined by the enclosing rectangle of the region into which it is placing, together with the connectivity of the component to those already on the board (if any).
The Auto Place option uses the Auto Place dialog to setup up the rules before placement.
How To Use Place Selected
Place Selected is used when components are selected for individual treatment for placement.
- Make the component selections first. Select the Tools menu and Auto Place then; Place Selected. The components will be placed into the board outline.
- Click Esc to cancel the operation once completed.
This option can also be used in Latch Mode.
Achieving good placement
It is not always possible for the auto place module to place all the components in a design. Of course it may be a physical impossibility to place all the components due to the number and size of components versus the board size or shape. If there is room on the board, you may wish to try one or more of the following for some or all types of component:
- Reduce the placement grid.
- Reduce the component spacing (gap).
- Use unrestricted rotation.
- Allow mirroring of Surface Mounted components.