This module describes the things a designer should know to find solution in Layout environment. It describes the design window, the library manager, the spreadsheets, and other items. It also introduces you to the toolbar, and to general Layout concepts such as selecting and editing objects, and using pop-up menus.

The design window

The design window provides a graphical display of the printed circuit board, and is the primary window you use when designing your board. It also provides tools to facilitate the design process, such as the tools to update components or check for design rule violations. The design window appears when you open a new or existing board.

The library manager

The library manager is used to view, create, and edit footprints and footprint libraries. The library manager is split into two windows: the library manager window and the footprint editor. The windows open simultaneously, and are tiled vertically. n the library manager window, you can browse to selectthe libraries you want to modify during the current session. Once you select a library, you have access to all of the footprints in that library. Using the library manager, you can also create custom libraries, create footprints, and save new or modified footprints to the library of your choice.

The footprint editor is the primary window you use when creating and editing footprints. It provides a graphical display of the footprint and is specifically tailored for the creation and modification of individual footprints.