pinout
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Mtwieg,
In DesignSpark PCB there are two DRC's a real-time (referred to as online) which can be useful but is best used selectively (just a tick from menubar) to avoid constant warnings while trying to move or place something, the second is a 'complete check' that you instigate and you can simply turn on and off the features to check.
So "via-in-pad" should not present you with any issues.
For "soldermask defined pads" you can define this in the Library Manager (as far as I'm aware).
Just remembered this post which may help you.
http://www.designspark.com/eng/knowledge-item/custom-solder-mask-in-designspark-pcb
DesignSpark PCB does not have a "follow-me interactive router".
I do not like any standard autorouters and for my work (mixed signal) I believe the tracking is an essential part of the design process and I like to be aware of where I make a compromise. I am often surprised where autorouters swap layers, insert vias and the route taken, so I'm not sure that DSPCB will meet your expectations here.
DesignSpark PCB is improving at every release which is quite frequent showing excellent support, but for me its key strength is it is a powerful, unrestricted free product for commercial use. Similarly once I have time to learn DesignSpark Mechanical 3D, I think the two programs together will be a unique package.
In DesignSpark PCB there are two DRC's a real-time (referred to as online) which can be useful but is best used selectively (just a tick from menubar) to avoid constant warnings while trying to move or place something, the second is a 'complete check' that you instigate and you can simply turn on and off the features to check.
So "via-in-pad" should not present you with any issues.
For "soldermask defined pads" you can define this in the Library Manager (as far as I'm aware).
Just remembered this post which may help you.
http://www.designspark.com/eng/knowledge-item/custom-solder-mask-in-designspark-pcb
DesignSpark PCB does not have a "follow-me interactive router".
I do not like any standard autorouters and for my work (mixed signal) I believe the tracking is an essential part of the design process and I like to be aware of where I make a compromise. I am often surprised where autorouters swap layers, insert vias and the route taken, so I'm not sure that DSPCB will meet your expectations here.
DesignSpark PCB is improving at every release which is quite frequent showing excellent support, but for me its key strength is it is a powerful, unrestricted free product for commercial use. Similarly once I have time to learn DesignSpark Mechanical 3D, I think the two programs together will be a unique package.
