AlignComponents | Altium Designer 22 Technical Documentation

The following pre-packaged resources, derived from this base command, are available:

Applied Parameters: None

Summary

This command is used to access the Align Objects dialog, which provides controls for quickly aligning the set of currently selected design objects as required.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor in the following way:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the Align Objects dialog will open. Use the dialog to set options for both the Vertical and/or Horizontal alignment of the selected objects, as required, then click OK to effect alignment.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.
Enabling both Horizontal and Vertical options at the same time may result in a conflict with the selected objects becoming stacked on top of one another.
Using the Space equally options can result in the moving objects being off-grid.

Access Align Objects Dialog (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: None

Summary

This command is used to access the Align Objects dialog, which provides controls for quickly aligning the set of currently selected design objects as required.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor in the following way:

Locating and using the Align command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you wish to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the Align Objects dialog will open. Use the dialog to set options for both the vertical and/or horizontal alignment of the selected objects, as required, then click OK to effect alignment.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.
Enabling both Horizontal and Vertical options at the same time may result in a conflict with the selected objects becoming stacked on top of one another.
Using the Space equally options can result in the moving objects being off-grid.

Align Left

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Left

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Left command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+L keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Left (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Left

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Left command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+L keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Right

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Right command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+R keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Right

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Right command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+R keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Top

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Top command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+T keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Top

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Top command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+T keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Bottom

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Bottom command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+B keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

First, ensure that all objects you wish to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move - locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=Bottom

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Bottom command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+B keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Left (Maintain Spacing)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=LeftSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Left (maintain spacing) command from the main menus.
Using the Alt+Shift+L keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you wish to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left. An object will be moved left as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Left (Maintain Spacing) (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=LeftSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Left (maintain spacing) command on the Active Bar.
Using the Alt+Shift+L keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you wish to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left. An object will be moved left as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right (Maintain Spacing)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=RightSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges, while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Right (maintain spacing) command from the main menus.
Using the Alt+Shift+R keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right. An object will be moved right as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right (Maintain Spacing) (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=RightSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Right (maintain spacing) command on the Active Bar.
Using the Alt+Shift+R keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right. An object will be moved right as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top (Maintain Spacing)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=TopSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges, while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Top (maintain spacing) command from the main menus.
Using the Alt+Shift+I keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up. An object will be moved up as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top (Maintain Spacing) (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=TopSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges, while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Top (maintain spacing) command on the Active Bar.
Using the Alt+Shift+I keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up. An object will be moved up as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom (Maintain Spacing)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=BottomSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Bottom (maintain spacing) command from the main menus.
Using the Alt+Shift+N keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down. An object will be moved down as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom (Maintain Spacing) (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=BottomSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Bottom (maintain spacing) command on the Active Bar.
Using the Alt+Shift+N keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down. An object will be moved down as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Horizontal Centers

Applied Parameters: Alignment=CenterHorizontal

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single column, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Horizontal Centers command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Horizontal Centers (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=CenterHorizontal

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single column, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Horizontal Centers command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Vertical Centers

Applied Parameters: Alignment=CenterVertical

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single row, aligned by their vertical centers.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align Vertical Centers command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their vertical centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Vertical Centers (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=CenterVertical

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single row, aligned by their vertical centers.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align Vertical Centers command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their vertical centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Horizontally

Applied Parameters: Alignment=SpreadHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to make the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Distribute Horizontally command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+H keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most and right-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The vertical position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Horizontally (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=SpreadHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to make the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Distribute Horizontally command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+H keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most and right-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The vertical position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Horizontal Spacing

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ExpandHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to increase the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Increase Horizontal Spacing command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved right. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Horizontal Spacing (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ExpandHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to increase the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Increase Horizontal Spacing command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved right. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Horizontal Spacing

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ContractHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Decrease Horizontal Spacing command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved left. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is decreased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Horizontal Spacing (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ContractHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Decrease Horizontal Spacing command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved left. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is decreased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Vertically

Applied Parameters: Alignment=SpreadVertical

Summary

This command allows you to make the vertical spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Distribute Vertically command from the main menus.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+V keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top-most and bottom-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The horizontal position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Vertically (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=SpreadVertical

Summary

This command allows you to make the vertical spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Distribute Vertically command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+V keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top-most and bottom-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The horizontal position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Vertical Spacing

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ExpandVertical

Summary

This command allows you to increase the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Increase Vertical Spacing command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved up. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Vertical Spacing (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ExpandVertical

Summary

This command allows you to increase the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Increase Vertical Spacing command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved up. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Vertical Spacing

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ContractVertical

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Decrease Vertical Spacing command from the main menus.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved down. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Vertical Spacing (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=ContractVertical

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Decrease Vertical Spacing command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved down. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Move All Component Origins to Grid

Applied Parameters: Alignment=MoveAllComponentsOriginToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move the reference point of all components onto the current Snap Grid.

Note that components whose pads are currently off-grid are not moved.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Move All Components Origin To Grid command from the main menus.

Use

After launching the command, all components in the workspace whose pads are on-grid will be moved so that their reference points are aligned to the current snap grid. By default, a report - Move Component(s) Origin To Grid - <PCBDocumentName>.html - will automatically be generated and opened as the active document detailing which components have and have not been moved.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.
Configure which format of report(s) to generate and show from the PCB Editor - Reports page of the Preferences dialog.
The applicable snap grid can be set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

Move All Component Origins to Grid (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=MoveAllComponentsOriginToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move the reference point of all components onto the current Snap Grid.

Note that components whose pads are currently off-grid are not moved.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Move All Components Origin To Grid command () on the Active Bar.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

After launching the command, all components in the workspace whose pads are on-grid will be moved so that their reference points are aligned to the current snap grid. By default, a report - Move Component(s) Origin To Grid - <PCBDocumentName>.html - will automatically be generated and opened as the active document detailing which components have and have not been moved.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.
Configure which format of report(s) to generate and show from the PCB Editor - Reports page of the Preferences dialog.
The applicable snap grid can be set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

Align Left (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=Left

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Left command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+L keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=Right

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Right command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+R keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=Top

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Top command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+T keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=Bottom

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Bottom command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+B keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Left - Maintain Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=LeftSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their left edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Left (maintain spacing) command from the context menu.
Using the Alt+Shift+L keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left edge of the left-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved left. An object will be moved left as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Right - Maintain Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=RightSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their right edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Right (maintain spacing) command from the context menu.
Using the Alt+Shift+R keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the right edge of the right-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved right. An object will be moved right as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Top - Maintain Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=TopSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their top edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Top (maintain spacing) command from the context menu.
Using the Alt+Shift+I keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top edge of the top-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved up. An object will be moved up as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Bottom - Maintain Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=BottomSideBySide

Summary

This command enables you to align selected design objects by their bottom edges while maintaining adequate spacing in observance with applicable design rules.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Bottom (maintain spacing) command from the context menu.
Using the Alt+Shift+N keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom edge of the bottom-most object is used as a reference and all other objects in the selection will be moved down. An object will be moved down as close to the reference object as the applicable clearance rule allows:

For alignment of components only, the Component Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of non-component objects only, the Clearance rule is observed.
For alignment of components and non-component objects, the Clearance rule is observed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Horizontal Centers (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=CenterHorizontal

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single column, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Horizontal Centers command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their horizontal centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align Vertical Centers (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=CenterVertical

Summary

This command enables you to place selected objects in a single row, aligned by their vertical centers.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align Vertical Centers command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the cursor will change to a cross-hair and you will be prompted to select one of the objects in the selection; click on it. This becomes the reference object. All other objects in the selection will be moved in relation to this reference object, aligned by their vertical centers.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Horizontally (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=SpreadHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to make the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Distribute Horizontally command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+H keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most and right-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The vertical position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Horizontal Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=ExpandHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to increase the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Increase Horizontal Spacing command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved right. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Horizontal Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=ContractHorizontal

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the horizontal spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Decrease Horizontal Spacing command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the left-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved left. Movement is such that the horizontal distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is decreased by the amount specified in the Step X field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Distribute Vertically (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=SpreadVertical

Summary

This command allows you to make the vertical spacing of a selection of objects equal.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Distribute Vertically command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+V keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the top-most and bottom-most objects in the selection will remain fixed in their positions with all other objects spaced equally between them. The horizontal position of the objects is not changed.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Increase Vertical Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=ExpandVertical

Summary

This command allows you to increase the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Increase Vertical Spacing command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved up. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is increased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Decrease Vertical Spacing (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=ContractVertical

Summary

This command allows you to decrease the vertical spacing of a selection of objects.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Decrease Vertical Spacing command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the spacing command are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the bottom-most object will remain fixed while the other objects in the selection will be moved down. Movement is such that the vertical distance between the reference points of consecutive objects is decreased by the amount specified in the Step Y field for the default Global Board Snap Grid.

Tips

The command will only move selected objects that are free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.

Access Align Objects Dialog (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick

Summary

This command is used to access the Align Objects dialog, which provides controls for quickly aligning the set of currently selected design objects as required.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align command from the context menu.

Use

Ensure that all objects you want to involve in the alignment are selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the Align Objects dialog will open. Use the dialog to set options for both the vertical and/or horizontal alignment of the selected objects, as required, then click OK to effect alignment.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move, will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.
Enabling both Horizontal and Vertical options at the same time may result in a conflict, with the selected objects becoming stacked on top of one another.
Using the Space equally options can result in the moving objects being off-grid.

Align to Grid

Applied Parameters: Alignment=MoveComponentsToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move selected components to the nearest point on the applicable and modified snap grid.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Choosing the Edit » Align » Align To Grid command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+D keyboard shortcut.

In the PCB Editor, the command can also be accessed by clicking the

button on the Alignment Tools drop-down (

) of the Utilities toolbar.

Use

Ensure that all components you want to move are selected. Also, make sure the applicable snap grid has been set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

After launching the command, the reference points for each of the selected components will be moved to the nearest point on the applicable snap grid.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move, will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align to Grid (from Active Bar)

Applied Parameters: Alignment=MoveComponentsToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move selected components to the nearest point on the applicable and modified snap grid.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Locating and using the Align To Grid command () on the Active Bar.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+D keyboard shortcut.

If the command has been recently used from the Active Bar, it will become the active/visible button. Where other commands are available, this is indicated by a triangle at the bottom-right corner of the button. Click and hold on the active button to access a menu of all associated commands for that grouping.

Use

Ensure that all components you want to move are selected. Also, make sure the applicable snap grid has been set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

After launching the command, the reference points for each of the selected components will be moved to the nearest point on the applicable snap grid.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move, will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.

Align to Grid (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=MoveComponentsToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move selected components to the nearest point on the applicable and modified snap grid.

Access

This command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over an object in a group of selected objects then choosing the Align » Align To Grid command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+D keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that all components you want to move to the new grid are selected. Also, make sure the applicable snap grid has been set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

After launching the command, the reference points for each of the selected components will be moved to the nearest point on the applicable snap grid.

Tips

Only selected objects that are free to move, will be moved. Locked objects will not be moved.

Move Component Origin to Grid (Context Sensitive)

Applied Parameters: LaunchMode=RightClick|Alignment=MoveComponentOriginToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move the reference point of the selected component (currently under the cursor) onto the current Snap Grid.

Note that a component whose pads are currently off-grid will not be moved.

Access

With the required component to be moved selected, this command can be accessed from the PCB Editor and PCB Library Editor by:

Right-clicking over the component then choosing the Component Actions » Move Component Origin To Grid command from the context menu.
Using the Shift+Ctrl+G keyboard shortcut.

Use

Ensure that the component to be moved is selected in the main design workspace.

After launching the command, the component, provided its pads are on-grid, will be moved so that its reference point is aligned to the current snap grid. By default, a report - Move Component(s) Origin To Grid - <PCBDocumentName>.html - will automatically be generated and opened as the active document detailing the result of the operation.

Tips

The command will only move a selected object that is free to move. Locked objects will not be moved.
Configure which format of report(s) to generate and show from the PCB Editor - Reports page of the Preferences dialog.
The applicable snap grid can be set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

Move Rooms to Grid

Applied Parameters: Alignment=MoveRoomsToGrid

Summary

This command is used to move selected rooms to the nearest point on the applicable and modified snap grid.

Access

This command is accessed from the PCB Editor by choosing the Design » Rooms » Move Rooms To Grid command from the main menus.

Use

Ensure that all rooms you want to move are selected in the main design workspace. Also, make sure the applicable snap grid has been set up as required through the Grid Manager section of the Properties panel.

After launching the command, a confirmation dialog will open asking whether you want to move objects with the selected rooms. Click Yes to move the room(s) and all constituent objects to the nearest point on the applicable snap grid. Click No to move the rooms only.

Tips

Selected components that have been locked will be moved if you have chosen to include room objects in the move.