I use free vias in orcad layout to connect different layers. I place the vias and I give them a net name. But, somehow the vias losses their net after some time! I suddenly have many vias without any nets!
I´m not experienced with OrCAD.
However, at some CAD design tools ( Protel, for instance ), whenever you update design ( SCH->PCB ), all components not related in schematic, loses net atributes.
You must check configuration options.
At Protel, is possible to avoid that condition.
I do have experience with OrCAD Layout. The thread's name describes the problem as clearly as it is - this is a strange problem indeed. If just a couple of free vias involved you couldn't face any trouble at all but if more free vias are used (to stich two polygons on top/bottom layers) then some amount (not all free vias at the same time) accidentally may become unconnected. If they can be simply re-connected to appropriate net you may hope that will not happen again.
I am also new to Orcad. I m using 16.0 version.
For one of my regulator IC, I need some thermal via. I tried to add a via and ground pore near to it, but was not successful. Can you please give me the steps to add a free via, (other than on tracks) for this purpose ?