What are .PLX Files?
PLX files are ASCII library files that can be loaded into Pulsonix. They might be produced by other systems, such as neutral component Library content generators, like PCB Libraries, Ultra Librarian, Component Search Engine etc. These are Pulsonix format neutral files that can be written for all variants of Pulsonix libraries; Schematic Symbols, PCB Footprints and Part definitions.
The process below is for loading .plx files generated from the Component Search Engine but is equally applicable to other applications as well.
What to do if Library Loader does not work?
If you cannot load Search Engine files through the Library Loader for any reason (you are unable/not authorised to install it on your computer or it simply fails to run), you can still load the files that are generated using a manual mechanism available. These files have the .plx file extension.
How to load PLX Files
When using the Component Search Engine, as an alternative to using the Library Loader program/mechanism, you can import the files generated.
Once you have selected your component in the Search Engine, press the download button where a ZIP file will be downloaded (via your web browser) to your chosen local location, normally Downloads. This zip file contains the .plx file that you will require for loading.
Unlike the Library Loader mechanism, you will need to add the .plx file to your library manually. Using this manual mechanism you do not get the component on the end of your cursor for placement in the design but it is still very useable; you will simply add the file to your library then use the normal Add component feature to add it to your design.
To Add the .plx file to your library, unpack the zip file first then drag the file onto your open Library Manager dialog (Setup menu, Libraries). Drag it onto the Parts tab. The drag and drop mechanism fully operates on this dialog for these files. Choose not to use a Technology File when asked, this is not required unless you want to remap layers used in the .plx file to your own.
.plx files contain the Component, schematic symbol and PCB symbol (footprint). Dragging it onto the Parts tab will open the Save Items From Files dialog which in turn then allows you to choose the library items to import and to create the entities required for a Part.
Use the Insert Component option to add the imported component to your design.
Related Topics
Libraries | Component Search Engine | External Library Component Resources | Save Items From Files